Chicago’s South Loop Summer Festivals and Events It’s summer in Chicago! The streets will be bustling with events and activities. People will venture to the vibrant South Loop neighborhood to take in some of the city’s festivities.
The South Loop was Chicago’s first Gold Coast city during the Gilded Age. It has experienced a rebirth in the last few decades, making it a prime destination for restaurants, businesses, and activities. Read on to discover 11 Chicago South Loop events that you can enjoy the Summer of 2024.
1. South Loop Walking Tour
When: June 1, 2PM
Where: Meet at Henry Park in Dearborn Park I, directly south of the Dearborn Park Train Station, end up at Spoke & Bird, located at 205 E 18th St.
What: Be a tourist in your neighborhood as you stroll south through various beautiful South Loop Parks and end up at the treasured Spoke & Bird Café. One of the parks you will be visiting is Chicago’s Women’s Park & Gardens. The 2.5-acre garden features a 25,000-square-foot Field House, landscaped grounds, an ornamental fountain, a statue honoring Jane Addams, and a “Celebrating Significant Chicago Women” art display. Find out about movies, concerts, festivals, and other events the park may be hosting this summer or throughout the year.
Chicago Greeter Neighborhood Pop-Up Walks are hosted in various Chicago neighborhoods all summer long. They are completely free and last 2-4 hours. Make reservations on the Choose Chicago website.
2. Chicago Blues Festival
When: June 6-9
Where: June 6 at Ramova Theatre, located at 3520 S Halsted and June 7-9 Millennium Park
What: This annual event celebrates Chicago’s deep blues culture. It will kick off at the historic Ramova Theater. On June 7th, the event moves to Millennium Park, where three stages will be set up to showcase over 35 performances and 250 artists. The event will cap off with a performance by the legendary Buddy Guy as part of his “Damn Right Farewell” tour. Admission for night one is free with RSVP. Entry is first come first served due to venue capacity limits. The additional nights are completely free.
3. Grant Park Music Series
When: June 12 – August 17
Where: Jay Pritzker Pavilion and various unique locations.
What: The Grant Park Music Festival is another one of the festivals not to be missed. This 10-week event includes classical music performances that occur in various locations with most taking place at South Loop’s own Jay Pritzker Pavilion. The events are free, but you must visit the website to reserve a seat in advance.
4. Sundays on State
When: June 16 and July 14, 11 AM – 6 PM
Where: State Street
What: This award-winning event occurs on South Loop’s most iconic street. The street closes to traffic for an interactive block party that integrates art, culture, food, drinks, and shopping. Bring the whole family to join in the fun.
5. South Loop Farmer’s Market
When: Thursdays from June 13-Oct 3, 4-8 PM
Where: Roosevelt Collection Shops & Printer’s Row
What: The South Loop Farmer’s Market is a longtime destination for fresh produce and unique events. During the summer, the community hosts a Night Market at the Roosevelt Collection Shops. You can also visit a Saturday Market at nearby Printer’s Row.
6. Family Friend Play Date
When: Sunday, June 30, 4-6 PM
Where: My Gym South Loop, 1133 S. Wabash Ave.
What: Families can book a half-hour time slot between 4-6 PM to connect with other families and enjoy all the gym has to offer. Bring grippy socks for your kids. You can sign up by creating an account on www.FamillyFriend.app. Visit this link for more information.
7. Summer Film Series
When: Tuesdays from July 16 – August 20
Where: Jay Pritzker Pavilion
What: Bring a lawn chair or blanket and a picnic blanket and head down to the Great Lawn at Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Several blockbuster hits will be showing on the 40-foot LED screen. Admission is free. Check out the Choose Chicago website to find out what movies are featured this year.
8. Chicago Food Truck Festival
When: July 20 & 21, 10 AM to 7 PM
Where: 2300 S. Indiana Ave.
What: Chicago foodies rejoice. The Chicago Food Truck Festival is the perfect opportunity to sample gourmet foods representing various cultures and is presented in fun food truck fashion. Go to the website to purchase a free ticket or opt for a VIP ticket which includes free drinks.
9. Lollapalooza
When: Aug. 1-4
Where: Grant Park in the Loop at the northern corner of the South Loop
What: Lollapalooza may be the first of the modern music festivals. Founded in 1991, this year’s event will feature close to 200 musical performances with headlines like The Killers, and Blink-182. SZA, and Hozier. Visit the website to purchase, one, two, three, and four-day passes.
10. Family Friend Block Party
When: August 25, 1-3 PM
Where: 1169 South Plymouth Ct.
What: This event is the perfect way to send oa the summer. Families can enjoy a day of food, music, and games. You will meet new friends and make lasting memories.
11. Chicago Gourmet
When: Sept. 26-29
Where: Harris Theater Rooftop- Millennium Park
What: This end-of-summer blast will give food enthusiasts a final chance to enjoy all the culinary options Chicago has to offer. It kicks off with Tacos and Tequila, showcasing gourmet tacos and agave spirits. Night two is the Hamburger Hop with top chefs serving the best hamburgers in town. On the third night, guests can sample drinks from the top mixologists and acclaimed chefs. Shake it off on Sunday with a family-style brunch on the Navy Pier Lakefront.
Enjoy the Wonderful South Loop and Near By Summer Events
Chicago summers are packed with excitement, and I can put you right in the middle of it. I will help you find a South Loop Chicago home perfectly suited to your lifestyle. Together we will explore the neighborhood’s apartments, condos, townhomes, and single-family homes until you find the ideal residence. Which of these Chicago South Loop events are on your bucket list this Summer?