SUN/1
L.A.T.E. Ride
Twenty-five-mile ride through Chicago’s neighborhoods and lakefront. Buckingham Fountain Plaza. 1am (Sunday morning). Free.
Second City’s Old Town Neighborhood Tour
Sundays and Tuesdays through Oct 28. This walking tour highlights the architecture, history and development of Old Town as well as various Second City alumni haunts and the stories that go with them. Tour begins at the Second City Theatre, 1616 North Wells, (312)337-3992. 1pm. $15.
MON/2
Family Fun Festival
Through Sep. 2. Pop into the Family Fun Tent to entertain kids of all ages, with music lessons from the Old Town School of Folk Music each day at 10am, a daily reading circle at 11am and concerts at 1pm, plus crafts and educational activities throughout the day. Chase Promenade North, Millennium Park near Michigan and Randolph. 10am-3pm. Free.
Butterflies & Blooms
Through Sep. 3. The Chicago Botanic Garden’s outdoor butterfly garden where visitors can see hundreds of butterflies native to South America, Asia, North America and Africa as well as native species from Illinois. Lawn of the Learning Campus, Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook, Glencoe, (847)835-5440. 10am-5pm. $5 for adults; $3 for children.
Carillon Concert Series: Joey Brink
Mondays through Sep. 3. Free outdoor music at the Chicago Botanic Garden all summer. Browse the garden or have dinner while you listen. 1000 Lake Cook, Glencoe, (847)835-5440. 7pm. Free.
Downtown Sound: Joan of Arc + Daniel Knox
Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park near the corner of Michigan and Randolph, (312)742-1168. 6:30pm. Free.
TUE/3
Rush Hour Concerts: Quintet Attacca
Through Aug 28. A summer of classical music in the historic St. James Cathedral featuring over sixty nationally and internationally acclaimed artists. 65 East Huron. 5:15pm-6:30pm. Free.
Music on the Esplanade: Callaloo
Free outdoor music at the Chicago Botanic Garden all summer, with a different genre every week. Browse the garden or have dinner while you listen. 1000 Lake Cook, Glencoe, (847)835-5440. 6pm-8pm. Free.
Streeterville Farmer’s Market
Through October 30. European-style outdoor market. Museum of Contemporary Art Plaza, 220 East Chicago. 7am-3pm. Free.
Get Up and Go! Neighborhood Conversation and Tour: Chicago River
Through Aug 28. These informal lunchtime programs start with a discussion about all there is to eat, see and do in Chicago’s unique neighborhoods. Tour departs from the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 East Randolph. 12:15pm. For more information visit explorechicago.org.
Summer Studios: From Flat to Fantastic
Through Aug. 28. Interactive and creative projects based on themes from the exhibition “Rashid Johnson: Message to Our Folks” and “Skyscraper: Art and Architecture Against Gravity.” Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 East Chicago. 11am-2pm in the plaza and 5pm-8pm during Tuesdays on the Terrace. Free.
Tuesdays on the Terrace: Joshua Abrams
Live jazz on the MCA’s garden lawn. Lawn chairs available for rental for $5. Hotdogs and burgers from the grill, and locally grown cuisine from the MCA Farmer’s Market. Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 East Chicago. 5:30pm-8pm, (312)397-4034 for dinner reservations. $24 dinner buffet. Tables are limited.
Second City’s Old Town Neighborhood Tour
Sundays and Tuesdays through Oct 28. This walking tour highlights the architecture, history and development of Old Town as well as various Second City alumni haunts and the stories that go with them. Tour begins at the Second City Theatre, 1616 North Wells, (312)337-3992. 1pm. $15.
WED/4
Fireworks Dinner Cruises
Wednesdays and Saturdays through Labor Day. Catch the fireworks from Navy Pier while drifting across the lake on one of three cruise ships, each providing dinner, entertainment and a great view. Times and prices vary by ship. Reservations required. Odyssey: (866)305-2469, odyssey.com. Spirit of Chicago: (866)273-2469, spiritofchicago.com. Mystic Blue: (877)299-7783, mysticbluecruises.com. Seadog Cruises: (888)636-7737, seadogcruises.com $25-$96.
Riverfront Theater: Spirit of the Dance
Through July 15. International world champion dancers perform Irish, Tango, Flamenco and Salsa dances. 650 West Chicago, (888)556-9484. Wednesday and Thursday 7:30pm; Saturday 2pm, 5pm and 8pm; Sunday 2pm and 5pm. $35-$90. For more information visit riverfronttheater.com.
Grant Park Music Festival: Independence Celebration
This musical celebration on the meaning of America features many beloved favorites as well as a few surprises. Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park near Michigan and Randolph. 6:30pm. Location and time are tentative. Free.
Theater on the Lake: “Opus”
Through July 8. A world-class string quartet is in the midst of a clash of wills between the two leaders of the group: the artistic genius and the business guru. One stays and the other is ousted and replaced by a young woman, fresh out of school, and the evolution of the ensemble takes several unexpected turns en route to a riveting conclusion in this performance from Redtwist Theatre. 2401 North Lake Shore, (312)742-7994. Wednesday-Saturday 7:30 pm, Sunday 6:30pm. $17.50.
African Caribbean Festival of Life
July 4-8. More than thirty reggae, soul and gospel entertainers perform at this festival of food, music, arts and crafts. Washington Park, 55th and S. Cottage Grove, (312)427-0266. July 5-6, 3-10pm. July 4, 7, 8, Noon-10pm. General admission $10, $15 after 5pm.
THU/5
Loops and Variations: A Winged Victory for the Sullen and ACME
Through July 12 Millennium Park’s new concert series is a mix of new music and electronica. Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park near Michigan and Randolph, (312)742-1168. 6:30pm. Free.
Hot Summer Nights: Bossa Tres
Bossa Tres brings the authentic taste of Brazil to live musical performances. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook, Glencoe, (847)835-5440. 6pm-8pm. Free.
FRI/6
Chicago Tribune North Michigan Avenue Art Festival
July 6-8. Local and national artists. Pioneer Court on Michigan next to the Tribune Tower, alongside the Chicago River, (954)472-3755. 10am-5pm. Free.
Grant Park Music Festival: Sleepers and Dreamers
July 6-7. The Festival continues its celebration of the Grant Park Chorus’ 50th anniversary with a second world-premiere commission by Sebastian Currier that explores the world of sleep. This program features the works of Brahms, Strauss, Currier and Vaughan Williams. Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park near Michigan and Randolph. 6:30pm; Saturday 7:30pm. Free.
SAT/7
Fireworks Dinner Cruises
Wednesdays and Saturdays through Labor Day. Catch the fireworks from Navy Pier while drifting across the lake on one of three cruise ships, each providing dinner, entertainment and a great view. Times and prices vary by ship. Reservations required. Odyssey: (866)305-2469, odyssey.com. Spirit of Chicago: (866)273-2469, spiritofchicago.com. Mystic Blue: (877)299-7783, mysticbluecruises.com. Seadog Cruises: (888)636-7737, seadogcruises.com $25-$96.
Riverfront Theater: Spirit of the Dance
Through July 15. International world champion dancers perform Irish, Tango, Flamenco and Salsa dances. 650 West Chicago, (888)556-9484. Wednesday and Thursday 7:30pm; Saturday 2pm, 5pm and 8pm; Sunday 2pm and 5pm. $35-$90. For more information visit riverfronttheater.com.
Saturday Morning Workout
July 7-28. Four forty-five-minute-long classes. The Great Lawn of the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park near the corner of Michigan and Randolph, (312)742-1168. Tai Chi at 7am, Yoga at 8am, Pilates at 9am, Zumba at 10am. Free.
SUN/8
Vintage Bazaar
Over 150 vendors will be at this modern pop-up market offering a wide variety of vintage, farm, floral items along with great food. Aragon Ballroom, 1106 West Lawrence. 12-5pm. $5.
Second City’s Old Town Neighborhood Tour
Sundays and Tuesdays through Oct 28. This walking tour highlights the architecture, history and development of Old Town as well as various Second City alumni haunts and the stories that go with them. Tour begins at the Second City Theatre, 1616 North Wells, (312)337-3992. 1pm. $15.
MON/9
Carillon Concert Series: Stephen Burton
Through Sept 3. Free outdoor music at the Chicago Botanic Garden all summer. Browse the garden or have dinner while you listen. 1000 Lake Cook, Glencoe, (847)835-5440. 7pm. Free.
Downtown Sound: The Sadies + James Vincent McMorrow
Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park near the corner of Michigan and Randolph, (312)742-1168. 6:30pm. Free.
TUE/10
Get Up and Go! Neighborhood Conversation and Tour: Millennium Park
Through Aug 28. These informal lunchtime programs start with a discussion about all there is to eat, see and do in Chicago’s unique neighborhoods. Tour departs from the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 East Randolph. 12:15pm. For more information visit explorechicago.org.
Rush Hour Concerts: Männerstimmen Basel
Through Aug 28. A summer of classical music in the historic St. James Cathedral featuring over 60 nationally and internationally acclaimed artists. 65 East Huron. 5:15pm-6:30pm. Free.
Music on the Esplanade: Fernandez + Kimball
Free outdoor music at the Chicago Botanic Garden all summer, with a different genre every week. Browse the garden or have dinner while you listen. 1000 Lake Cook, Glencoe, (847)835-5440. 6pm-8pm. Free.
Streeterville Farmer’s Market
Through October 30. European-style outdoor market. Museum of Contemporary Art Plaza, 220 East Chicago. 7am-3pm. Free.
Summer Studios: Seeing City Sounds
Through Aug 28. Interactive and creative projects based on themes from the exhibition “Rashid Johnson: Message to Our Folks” and “Skyscraper: Art and Architecture Against Gravity.” Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 East Chicago. 11am-2pm in the plaza and 5pm-8pm during Tuesdays on the Terrace. Free.
Tuesdays on the Terrace: Miyumi Project
Live jazz on the MCA’s garden lawn. Lawn chairs available for rental for $5. Hotdogs and burgers from the grill, and locally grown cuisine from the MCA Farmer’s Market. Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 East Chicago. 5:30pm-8pm, (312)397-4034 for dinner reservations. $24 dinner buffet.
Second City’s Old Town Neighborhood Tour
Sundays and Tuesdays through Oct 28. This walking tour highlights the architecture, history and development of Old Town as well as various Second City alumni haunts and the stories that go with them. Tour begins at the Second City Theatre, 1616 North Wells, (312)337-3992. 1pm. $15.
WED/11
International Summer Screenings Program: “The Wolberg Family”
Cinema/Chicago and the Chicago Cultural Center present their eighth annual summer screenings series featuring twenty-two films from around the world. Chicago Cultural Center, 77 East Randolph, 2nd floor, (312)683-0121. 6:30pm. Free.
Grant Park Music Festival: Frozen Planet in Concert
After performing Planet Earth Live! in 2010, composer-conductor George Fenton returns with Frozen Planet, the “ultimate polar expedition” that brings images of the Arctic and Antarctic from the BBC/Discovery Channel series. Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park near Michigan and Randolph. 8:30pm. Free.
Taste of Chicago
July 11-July 15. Sample food along the lakefront while enjoying music at the world’s largest outdoor food festival. Grant Park, Michigan and Congress. 11am-8:30pm. Free.
Theater on the Lake: “TJ & Dave”
July 11-July 15. TJ Jagodowski and Dave Pasquesi walk out on stage without characters, dialog or plot. Described by The New York Times as “Second City-seasoned masters of long form improv,” TJ and Dave only ask that you trust them that this is all made up. 2401 North Lake Shore, (312)742-7994. Wednesday-Saturday 7:30 pm, Sunday 6:30pm. $17.50.
Fireworks Dinner Cruises
Wednesdays and Saturdays through Labor Day. Catch the fireworks from Navy Pier while drifting across the lake on one of three cruise ships, each providing dinner, entertainment and a great view. Times and prices vary by ship. Reservations required. Odyssey: (866)305-2469, odyssey.com. Spirit of Chicago: (866)273-2469, spiritofchicago.com. Mystic Blue: (877)299-7783, mysticbluecruises.com. Seadog Cruises: (888)636-7737, seadogcruises.com $25-$96.
THU/12
Hot Summer Nights: Botanic Gardens’ 40th Anniversary
Hits from the Garden’s opening year in 1972 will be performed by guitarist and bandleader Dave Ivaz & his Dave Ivaz Music ensemble. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook, Glencoe, (847)835-5440. 6pm-8pm. Free.
Loops and Variations: Third Coast Percussion
Through July 12. Millennium Park’s new concert series is a mix of new music and electronica. Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park near Michigan and Randolph, (312)742-1168. 6:30pm. Free.
Riverfront Theater: Spirit of the Dance
Through July 15. International world champion dancers perform Irish, Tango, Flamenco and Salsa dances. 650 W. Chicago, (888)556-9484. Wednesday and Thursday 7:30pm; Saturday 2pm, 5pm and 8pm; Sunday 2pm and 5pm. $35-$90. For more information visit riverfronttheater.com
FRI/13
Pitchfork Music Festival
July 13-15. The lineup for this three-day festival includes Feist, Godspeed You! Black Emperor, and Vampire Weekend. Union Park, 1501 West Randolph. Single-day tickets $45, three-day pass sold out. For more information visit pitchforkmusicfestival.com.
Grant Park Music Festival: Perfectly Frank—From Broadway to Hollywood
July 13-14. This concert highlights the work of one of the great classic Broadway composers, Frank Loesser, whose much loved works include Guys and Dolls (1950), The Most Happy Fella (1956), and How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying (1961). Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park near Michigan and Randolph. 8pm. Free.
SAT/14
International Summer Screenings Program: “The Wolberg Family”
Cinema/Chicago and the Chicago Cultural Center present their eighth annual summer screenings series featuring twenty-two films from around the world. Chicago Cultural Center, 77 East Randolph, 2nd floor, (312)683-0121. 2pm. Free.
Fireworks Dinner Cruises
Wednesdays and Saturdays through Labor Day. Catch the fireworks from Navy Pier while drifting across the lake on one of three cruise ships, each providing dinner, entertainment and a great view. Times and prices vary by ship. Reservations required. Odyssey: (866)305-2469, odyssey.com. Spirit of Chicago: (866)273-2469, spiritofchicago.com. Mystic Blue: (877)299-7783, mysticbluecruises.com. Seadog Cruises: (888)636-7737, seadogcruises.com $25-$96.
Saturday Morning Workout
Through July 28. Four forty-five-minute-long classes. The Great Lawn of the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park near the corner of Michigan and Randolph, (312)742-1168. Tai Chi at 7am, Yoga at 8am, Pilates at 9am, Zumba at 10am. Free.
Skokie Art Guild 51st Annual Art Fair
July 14-15. Skokie Art Guild hosts this arts festival with original art. 5211 West Oakton, Skokie (next to the library), 10am-5pm. Free admission and parking.
SUN/15
Riverfront Theater: Spirit of the Dance
Through July 15. International world champion dancers perform Irish, Tango, Flamenco and Salsa dances. 650 West Chicago, (888)556-9484. Wednesday and Thursday 7:30pm; Saturday 2pm, 5pm and 8pm; Sunday 2pm and 5pm. $35-$90. For more information visit riverfronttheater.com.
Second City’s Old Town Neighborhood Tour
Sundays and Tuesdays through Oct 28. This walking tour highlights the architecture, history and development of Old Town as well as various Second City alumni haunts and the stories that go with them. Tour begins at the Second City Theatre, 1616 North Wells, (312)337-3992. 1pm. $15.
MON/16
Carillon Concert Series: Anna Kasprzycka
Through Sept 3. Free outdoor music at the Chicago Botanic Garden all summer. Browse the garden or have dinner while you listen. 1000 Lake Cook, Glencoe, (847)835-5440. 7pm. Free.
Downtown Sound: Charles Bradley and his Extraordinaires + Abigail Washbourn
Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park near the corner of Michigan and Randolph, (312)742-1168. 6:30pm. Free.
TUE/17
Get Up and Go! Neighborhood Conversation and Tour: Beverly
Through Aug 28. These informal lunchtime programs start with a discussion about all there is to eat, see and do in Chicago’s unique neighborhoods. Tour departs from the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 East Randolph. 12:15pm. For more information contact explorechicago.org.
Rush Hour Concerts: Euclid Quartet and Lincoln String Quartet
Through Aug 28. A summer of classical music in the historic St. James Cathedral featuring over sixty nationally and internationally acclaimed artists. 65 East Huron. 5:15pm-6:30pm. Free.
Sixth Annual Chicago Sidewalk Sale
July 17-18. Forty Chicago designers and independent boutiques will be showcasing everything from hats and handbags to shirts and shoes. Daley Plaza, 50 West Washington. 9am-3pm. Free.
Music on the Esplanade: The Special Consensus
Free outdoor music at the Chicago Botanic Garden all summer, with a different genre every week. Browse the garden or have dinner while you listen. 1000 Lake Cook, Glencoe, (847)835-5440. 6pm-8pm. Free.
Streeterville Farmer’s Market
Through October 30. European-style outdoor market. Museum of Contemporary Art Plaza, 220 East Chicago. 7am-3pm. Free.
Summer Studios: Change What You See
Through Aug 28. Interactive and creative projects based on themes from the exhibition “Rashid Johnson: Message to Our Folks” and “Skyscraper: Art and Architecture Against Gravity.” Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 East Chicago. 11am-2pm in the plaza and 5pm-8pm during Tuesdays on the Terrace. Free.
Tuesdays on the Terrace: Isaiah Spencer
Live jazz on the MCA’s garden lawn. Lawn chairs available for rental for $5. Hotdogs and burgers from the grill, and locally grown cuisine from the MCA Farmer’s Market. Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 East Chicago. 5:30pm-8pm, (312)397-4034 for dinner reservations. $24 dinner buffet.
Second City’s Old Town Neighborhood Tour
Sundays and Tuesdays through Oct 28. This walking tour highlights the architecture, history and development of Old Town as well as various Second City alumni haunts and the stories that go with them. Tour begins at the Second City Theatre, 1616 North Wells, (312)337-3992. 1pm. $15.
WED/18
Riverfront Theater: La Soiree
July 18-Aug 5. An evening of cabaret, new burlesque, circus sideshow and contemporary variety. 650 West Chicago, (888)556-9484. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 8pm; Friday 6pm and 9pm. Saturday 6pm and 9pm; Sunday 8pm. Adults only. $50-$110. For more information visit riverfronttheater.com.
International Summer Screenings Program: “Laddaland Soi-lát-daa-laen”
Cinema/Chicago and the Chicago Cultural Center present their eighth annual summer screenings series featuring twenty-two films from around the world. Chicago Cultural Center, 77 East Randolph, 2nd floor, (312)683-0121. 6:30pm. Free.
Theater on the Lake: “Farragut North”
July 18-July 22. Stephen Bellamy is a wunderkind press secretary who has built a career that men twice his age envy. During a tight presidential primary race, his meteoric rise falls prey to backroom politics in this performance from Stage Left. 2401 North Lake Shore, (312)742-7994. Wednesday-Saturday 7:30 pm, Sunday 6:30pm. $17.50.
Grant Park Music Festival: Rachmaninov’s Symphonic Dances
Instilled with Armenian spirit, Khachaturian’s violin concerto is presented with Rachmaninov’s masterwork, originally composed for two pianos. Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park near Michigan and Randolph. 6:30pm. Free.
Fireworks Dinner Cruises
Wednesdays and Saturdays through Labor Day. Catch the fireworks from Navy Pier while drifting across the lake on one of three cruise ships, each providing dinner, entertainment and a great view. Times and prices vary by ship. Reservations required. Odyssey: (866)305-2469, odyssey.com. Spirit of Chicago: (866)273-2469, spiritofchicago.com. Mystic Blue: (877)299-7783, mysticbluecruises.com. Seadog Cruises: (888)636-7737, seadogcruises.com $25-$96.
THU/19
Made in Chicago: World Class Jazz
Blowin’ in from Chicago featuring Edward Wilkerson Jr. And Ari Brown. Millennium Park, near Michigan and Randolph, (312)742-1168. 6:30pm. Free.
Hot Summer Nights: Latin Jazz
Grupo Cha Cha is a Latin band that will fill the air with tropical sounds of Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Brazil to get you on your feet. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook, Glencoe, (847)835-5440. 6pm-8pm. Free.
Chicago SummerDance Festival
Thursdays-Sundays, Jul 19-Sept 16. Dance lessons led by professional instructors followed by live music and dancing. Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park, 601 South Michigan, (312)742-4007. 6pm-9:30pm; Sunday 4pm-7pm. Free.
FRI/20
Taste of River North
July 20-22. River North cuisine, art, music, shopping and music. Ward Park, 630 North Kingsbury (Kingsbury and Erie), (312)633-2600. 5pm-10pm. Pricing not finalized.
Square Roots Chicago
July 20-22. Folk Music festival. Welles Park in Lincoln Square, between Montrose and Wilson, 4400 North Lincoln, (773)728-3890. Friday 5-10pm. Saturday and Sunday, noon-10pm. $10 suggested donation for adults, $5 suggested donation for seniors and children.
Grant Park Music Festival: Rossini’s Stabat Mater
July 20-21. Christopher Bell leads the orchestra and chorus in Rossini’s solemn, late work and British composer Kenneth Leighton’s hymn about the quest for truth and unity. Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park near Michigan and Randolph. 6:30pm; Saturday 7:30pm. Free.
SAT/21
Tour de Fat: Chicago
A bicycle celebration and parade visiting thirteen United States cities. The Ride begins at 10am at Palmer Square, but be there early to register. Stay and enjoy the fun after the ride with music and theatrics by Los Amigos Invisibles, The Cleverly’s, Mucca Pazza, The Moth-True Stories Told Live, Yo-Yo People, Sssnakenstein. Palmer Square, near the corner of North Kedzie and West Palmer. 9am-4pm. Free.
The Field Museum: Crown Family Playlab
Join artist Ian Sherwin in the art studio to create your own extreme mammal. Add claws, teeth, horns, antlers or tusks to your creature to make it EXTREME! Stick around for a story-time reading of the book “Actual Size” by Steve Jenkins. 1400 South Lake Shore, (312)665-7102. 11am-2pm. $15 adults; $10 children. For more information visit fieldmuseum.org.
Sheffield Garden Walk & Festival
July 21-22. The garden celebrates its forty-fourth year of live music featuring Gomez, Cowboy Mouth and School of Rock. On offer are guided architectural tours, activities for the kids and food from Robinson’s Ribs, Quang Noodle and McGee’s. Webster and Sheffield, (773)929-9255. 12pm-5:30pm. $7; $10 after 3pm. For more information visit sheffieldgardenwalk.com.
International Summer Screenings Program: “Laddaland Soi-lát-daa-laen”
Cinema/Chicago and the Chicago Cultural Center present their eighth annual summer screenings series featuring twenty-two films from around the world. Chicago Cultural Center, 77 East Randolph, 2nd floor, (312)683-0121. 2pm. Free.
Saturday Morning Workout
Through July 28. Four forty-five-minute-long classes. The Great Lawn of the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park near the corner of Michigan and Randolph, (312)742-1168. Tai Chi at 7am, Yoga at 8am, Pilates at 9am, Zumba at 10am. Free.
Fireworks Dinner Cruises
Wednesdays and Saturdays through Labor Day. Catch the fireworks from Navy Pier while drifting across the lake on one of three cruise ships, each providing dinner, entertainment and a great view. Times and prices vary by ship. Reservations required. Odyssey: (866)305-2469, odyssey.com. Spirit of Chicago: (866)273-2469, spiritofchicago.com. Mystic Blue: (877)299-7783, mysticbluecruises.com. Seadog Cruises: (888)636-7737, seadogcruises.com $25-$96.
SUN/22
Lurie Garden Family Workshop: Stories and Songs
Teacher and singer/songwriter Shana Harvey will lead you and your child in an interactive singalong with folk songs from all over the world. The Lurie Garden, 201 East Randolph, south end of the Lurie Garden boardwalk, (312)742-1168. 11am-noon. Pre-registration required. Free.
Rock N’ Roll Half Marathon
Journey on. Looped course with start and finish in Grant Park. Live bands every mile with a free finish line festival.Go to competitor.com to register.
Second City’s Old Town Neighborhood Tour
Sundays and Tuesdays through Oct 28. This walking tour highlights the architecture, history and development of Old Town as well as various Second City alumni haunts and the stories that go with them. Tour begins at the Second City Theatre, 1616 North Wells, (312)337-3992. 1pm. $15.
MON/23
Carillon Concert Series: Robert Grogan
Through Sept 3. Free outdoor music at the Chicago Botanic Garden all summer. Browse the garden or have dinner while you listen. 1000 Lake Cook, Glencoe, (847)835-5440. 7pm. Free.
Downtown Sound: Ana Tijoux + Sidi Toure
Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park near the corner of Michigan and Randolph, (312)742-1168. 6:30pm. Free.
TUE/24
Get Up and Go! Neighborhood Conversation and Tour: Logan Square
Through Aug 28. These informal lunchtime programs start with a discussion about all there is to eat, see and do in Chicago’s unique neighborhoods. Tour departs from the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 East Randolph. 12:15pm. For more information contact explorechicago.org.
Rush Hour Concerts: Kuang-Hao Huang
Through Aug 28. A summer of classical music in the historic St. James Cathedral featuring over sixty nationally and internationally acclaimed artists. 65 East Huron. 5:15pm-6:30pm. Free.
Music on the Esplanade: Midwest Young Artists Jazz Combo
Free outdoor music at the Chicago Botanic Garden all summer, with a different genre every week. Browse the garden or have dinner while you listen. 1000 Lake Cook, Glencoe, (847)835-5440. 6pm-8pm. Free.
Streeterville Farmer’s Market
Through October 30. European-style outdoor market. Museum of Contemporary Art Plaza, 220 East Chicago. 7am-3pm. Free.
Summer Studios: City Reflections
Through Aug 28. Interactive and creative projects based on themes from the exhibition “Rashid Johnson: Message to Our Folks” and “Skyscraper: Art and Architecture Against Gravity.” Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 East Chicago. 11am-2pm in the plaza and 5pm-8pm during Tuesdays on the Terrace. Free.
Tuesdays on the Terrace: Yvonne Gage
Live jazz on the MCA’s garden lawn. Lawn chairs available for rental for $5. Hotdogs and burgers from the grill, and locally grown cuisine from the MCA Farmer’s Market. Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 East Chicago. 5:30pm-8pm, (312)397-4034 for dinner reservations. $24 dinner buffet.
Second City’s Old Town Neighborhood Tour
Sundays and Tuesdays through Oct 28. This walking tour highlights the architecture, history and development of Old Town as well as various Second City alumni haunts and the stories that go with them. Tour begins at the Second City Theatre, 1616 North Wells, (312)337-3992. 1pm. $15.
WED/25
International Summer Screenings Program: “Reconciliation: Mandela’s Miracle”
Cinema/Chicago and the Chicago Cultural Center present their eighth annual summer screenings series featuring twenty-two films from around the world. Chicago Cultural Center, 77 East Randolph, 2nd floor, (312)683-0121. 6:30pm. Free.
Grant Park Music Festival: Dorman’s Frozen in Time
Commissioned for percussionist Martin Grubinger, Frozen in Time takes a journey through time and across the globe. Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park near Michigan and Randolph. 6:30pm; Saturday 7:30pm. Free.
Theater on the Lake: “Hit the Wall”
July 25-July 29. Tempers and temperatures start to rise in the summer of ’69 when a routine police raid on an underground Greenwich Village hotspot erupts into a full-scale riot, the impetus of the modern gay rights movement. Follow ten unlikely revolutionaries as they take to the streets and assert their rights in this performance from The Inconvenience. 2401 North Lake Shore, (312)742-7994. Wednesday-Saturday 7:30 pm, Sunday 6:30pm. $17.50.
Fireworks Dinner Cruises
Wednesdays and Saturdays through Labor Day. Catch the fireworks from Navy Pier while drifting across the lake on one of three cruise ships, each providing dinner, entertainment and a great view. Times and prices vary by ship. Reservations required. Odyssey: (866)305-2469, odyssey.com. Spirit of Chicago: (866)273-2469, spiritofchicago.com. Mystic Blue: (877)299-7783, mysticbluecruises.com. Seadog Cruises: (888)636-7737, seadogcruises.com $25-$96.
THU/26
Made in Chicago: World Class Jazz
Erwin Helfer: A Life in Boogie and Blues. Millennium Park, near Michigan and Randolph, (312)742-1168. 6:30pm. Free.
Hot Summer Nights: Bêabá do Samba
Bêabá do Samba is a band specializing in the sounds of Brazil. Playing a diverse repertoire of traditional samba, pagode, and bossa nova, the group is composed of some of Chicago’s finest samba and jazz musicians. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook, Glencoe, (847)835-5440. 6pm-8pm. Free.
Chicago SummerDance Festival
Thursdays-Sundays, through Sept 16. Dance lessons led by professional instructors followed by live music and dancing. Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park, 601 South Michigan, (312)742-4007. 6pm-9:30pm; Sunday 4pm-7pm. Free.
FRI/27
Grant Park Music Festival: Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony
July 27-28. With its famous opening gesture and uplifting emotional message, Beethoven’s Fifth is the archetypal example of the form. Also featured on the program are two works inspired by Egypt. Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park near Michigan and Randolph. 6:30pm; Saturday 7:30pm. Free.
SAT/28
Wicker Park Fest
July 28-29. Street festival featuring local food, drink, and live performances. Milwaukee between North and Wood, (773)384-2672. Noon-10pm. $5 suggested donation.
Chicago Scene Boat Party 2012
Chicago’s “Play Pen” on Lake Michigan, between Ohio Street Beach and Chicago Avenue, (312)593-1180. Noon-6pm. Free, but you need a boat to ride on.
International Summer Screenings Program: “Reconciliation: Mandela’s Miracle”
Cinema/Chicago and the Chicago Cultural Center present their eighth annual summer screenings series featuring twenty-two films from around the world. Chicago Cultural Center, 77 East Randolph, 2nd floor, (312)683-0121. 2pm. Free.
Saturday Morning Workout
Through July 28. Four forty-five-minute-long classes. The Great Lawn of the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park near the corner of Michigan and Randolph, (312)742-1168. Tai Chi at 7am, Yoga at 8am, Pilates at 9am, Zumba at 10am. Free.
Fireworks Dinner Cruises
Wednesdays and Saturdays through Labor Day. Catch the fireworks from Navy Pier while drifting across the lake on one of three cruise ships, each providing dinner, entertainment and a great view. Times and prices vary by ship. Reservations required. Odyssey: (866)305-2469, odyssey.com. Spirit of Chicago: (866)273-2469, spiritofchicago.com. Mystic Blue: (877)299-7783, mysticbluecruises.com. Seadog Cruises: (888)636-7737, seadogcruises.com $25-$96.
SUN/29
Second City’s Old Town Neighborhood Tour
Sundays and Tuesdays through Oct 28. This walking tour highlights the architecture, history and development of Old Town as well as various Second City alumni haunts and the stories that go with them. Tour begins at the Second City Theatre, 1616 North Wells, (312)337-3992. 1pm. $15.
MON/30
Carillon Concert Series: Gordon Slater
Through Sept 3. Free outdoor music at the Chicago Botanic Garden all summer. Browse the garden or have dinner while you listen. 1000 Lake Cook, Glencoe, (847)835-5440. 7pm. Free.
Downtown Sound: SMOD + M.A.K.U. Soundsystem
Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park near the corner of Michigan and Randolph, (312)742-1168. 6:30pm. Free.
TUES/31
Music on the Esplanade: Morry Sochat & The Special 20’s
Free outdoor music at the Chicago Botanic Garden all summer, with a different genre every week. Browse the garden or have dinner while you listen. 1000 Lake Cook, Glencoe, (847)835-5440. 6pm-8pm. Free.
Streeterville Farmer’s Market
Through October 30. European-style outdoor market. Museum of Contemporary Art Plaza, 220 East Chicago. 7am-3pm. Free.
Rush Hour Concerts: Members of the Ryan Opera Center at Lyric Opera of Chicago
Through Aug 28. A summer of classical music in the historic St. James Cathedral featuring over sixty nationally and internationally acclaimed artists. 65 East Huron. 5:15pm-6:30pm. Free.
Summer Studios: Capture Your Stories
Through Aug 28. Interactive and creative projects based on themes from the exhibition “Rashid Johnson: Message to Our Folks” and “Skyscraper: Art and Architecture Against Gravity.” Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 East Chicago. 11am-2pm in the plaza and 5pm-8pm during Tuesdays on the Terrace. Free.
Tuesdays on the Terrace: Art Hoyle
Live jazz on the MCA’s garden lawn. Lawn chairs available for rental for $5. Hotdogs and burgers from the grill, and locally grown cuisine from the MCA Farmer’s Market. Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 East Chicago. 5:30pm-8pm, (312)397-4034 for dinner reservations. $24 dinner buffet.
Second City’s Old Town Neighborhood Tour
Sundays and Tuesdays through Oct 28. This walking tour highlights the architecture, history and development of Old Town as well as various Second City alumni haunts and the stories that go with them. Tour begins at the Second City Theatre, 1616 North Wells, (312)337-3992. 1pm. $15.
Get Up and Go! Neighborhood Conversation and Tour: Back of the Yards
Through Aug 28. These informal lunchtime programs start with a discussion about all there is to eat, see and do in Chicago’s unique neighborhoods. Tour departs from the Chicago Cultural Center, 77 East Randolph. 12:15pm. For more information contact explorechicago.org.
(Compiled by Tamara Dolson)
