Chicago summer festivals

Top Chicago Summer Festivals 2025

Every weekend during the summer, Chicago comes alive with festivals, ranging from neighborhood celebrations to huge events that spotlight the city’s ethnic and cultural diversity. We’ve combed through the listings and found these 11 festivals. Admission to all, except for the Windy City Smokeout, is free, although some have a suggested donation. Maifest  Spring’s counterpart… Read more »

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picnic chicago

Picnic Spots in Chicago

With warmer weather returning to Chicago, it’s time to take advantage of the city’s blooming gardens and parks. Grab some food to go and check out these green community spaces for the perfect place to picnic. Maggie Daley Park From Millennium Park, take the BP Bridge across Columbus Dr. to Maggie Daley Park. There, you’ll… Read more »

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mother's day brunch

Where to Get Mother’s Day Brunch in Chicago

Sunday, May 11, 2025 is Mother’s Day, and Chicago has no shortage of opportunities for brunches and other mom-honoring activities. Toast to the special women in your life with a Mother’s Day brunch at these restaurants and venues. Lirica Lirica has crafted indulgent specials in honor of mom thanks to executive chef Ricky Amaya. The… Read more »

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Uvae

Uvae: A Wine Bar for Everybody

Wine bars can intimidate novices by giving off an air of pretension. But Uvae Kitchen & Wine Bar counters that with an inclusive and accessible approach for all. For sure, the corner restaurant is intimate and sparsely lit, but the atmosphere is casual and inviting, with exposed brick and plush light blue seat backs along… Read more »

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healthy eating in chicago

Healthy Eating in Chicago

Because of our deep-dish pizza, hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches, Chicago doesn’t have the greatest reputation for healthy eating. But the reality is that health-conscious people, including vegetarians and vegans, can find delicious meals all over the city. Below are our favorites. Beatrix Craft Your Plate: With four restaurants throughout downtown, Beatrix has an… Read more »

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cinco de mayo chicago

Where to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Chicago 2025

Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1962 against overwhelming odds. May 5 was celebrated a year later in Mexico and Los Angeles, where the U.S. and Mexican flags flew alongside each other at a parade. Although it has since declined in popularity in Mexico,… Read more »

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outdoor dining chicago

Outdoor Dining in Chicago: Inviting Rooftops, Patios and Pergolas

Even with its famously temperamental weather, outdoor dining in Chicago doesn’t have to be complicated. These restaurants offer dinner — and brunch, and lunch, and drinks — with a scenic view of the city’s natural and man-made beauty. OFFSHORE ROOFTOP Spectacular Vista: The world’s largest rooftop bar at more than 52,000 sq. ft., Navy Pier’s… Read more »

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