April is my favorite month in Chicago because it’s packed with some of the best events of the year.
If you’re into art, music, film, or just love a good cultural moment—April is your month.
From curated live music festivals to one-of-a-kind shopping experiences, this is the time to dive into everything Chicago offers.
With this guide to the best April events in Chicago for 2025, you’ll have no issue making the most out of spring this month in the city.
The Best Things to Do in Chicago This April
Use the navigation below to dive into top events, recurring favorites, and my handpicked recommendations for what to do this month. Keep an eye out—events will change, and I sneak in a few extra surprises along the way, just because!
Top Events: Must-attend highlights of the month
Recurring Activities: Regular events worth adding to your calendar
The Curated List: Personal recommendations for unique Chicago experiences
Top April Events in Chicago
Experience the most exciting Chicago April events in Chicago for 2025. From the curated spring festivals highlighting arts, culture, and music to Easter events and activities that the whole family can enjoy.
Chicago Humanities Festival
April 1st – June 13th | Various Locations
One of the most anticipated spring festivals in Chicago 2025, this series of thought-provoking conversations and performances brings together leading authors, activists, and artists. Engage in discussions on art, politics, and culture while experiencing Chicago’s intellectual and creative scene.
The 41st Annual Chicago Latino Film Festival
April 3rd – 14th | Various Locations
The Chicago Latino Film Festival returns with nearly 100 films from Latin America, the Caribbean, Spain, Portugal, and the U.S. This festival highlights emerging filmmakers, critically acclaimed international hits, and hidden gems that have yet to secure major distribution. Expect a diverse mix of narratives, documentaries, and short films showcasing Latinx voices and stories.
Cubs Home Opener
April 4th | Wrigley Field
Baseball ball is back at the iconic Wrigley Field this month. Watch the Chicago Cubs take on the San Diego Padres on Saturday, April 4th at Wrigley Field for the 2025 season opening day. If you’re a baseball fan or just looking for something fun to that this weekend, check out this Chicago event.
C2E2 (Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo)
April 11th – 13th | McCormick Place
Fans of pop culture, comic enthusiasts, collectors, cosplayer lovers, and more come together each spring for C2E2. This entertainment convention and expo features panels, interactive content, celebrities, and more for a weekend of memorable experiences. From comics to gaming, this is one of the top things to do in Chicago this spring.
Easter Brunch and Egg Hunts in Chicago
April 20th | Various Locations
Wondering where to dine during Easter? Celebrate with festive activities, family-friendly egg hunts, and delicious brunch specials across the city. Whether you’re indoors or outdoors, these are great events to enjoy this April in Chicago for kids of all ages.
- Tanta Chicago Easter Peruvian Specials
- Offshore Easter Bounce Brunch & Day Party
- Lirica Easter Brunch Buffet
- Easter Brunch Prix Fixe Menu at Uvae
- Easter Celebration at Michael Jordan’s Steakhouse
- World Famous Gospel Brunch at House of Blues Chicago
- Spring Egg-Stravaganza at the Lincoln Park Zoo
- Easter Egg Hunt at Gallagher Way
- Family-style pre fix meal at Heritage Restaurant & Caviar Bar
EXPO Chicago
April 24th – 27th | Navy Pier
EXPO Chicago is the biggest contemporary art event in Chicago. This internationally acclaimed art fair features galleries, installations, and artist talks, at Navy Pier, along with city-wide events highlighting the local community. This cultural highlight is perfect for art lovers seeking unique things to do this month in Chicago.
Mubi Fest
April 26th – 27th | Music Box Theater & The Salt Shed
Mubi is a global celebration of cinema, live music, and thought-provoking discussions. The festival stops in Chicago and will showcase a curated selection of new and classic films, with a focus on international and independent cinema.
One of a Kind Show
April 25th – 27th | Merchandise Mart
One of a Kind Spring Show + Sale® at THE MART in April 2025 will feature over 350 artists showcasing handmade goods, live music, workshops, and a gourmet market. Attendees of this spring event in Chicago can shop directly from artists and enjoy a fun weekend filled with unique finds and experiences.
9th Annual Chicago Rum Festival
April 26th | Logan Square Auditorium
Rum lovers and industry professionals gather for this boutique-style event celebrating premium rum from around the world during this event in Chicago. Attendees will experience tastings, educational seminars, and exclusive access to some of the finest craft rums available. Hosted by The RumLab, the festival continues to showcase the importance of rum culture and its growing influence in the U.S. market.
Mexico in a Bottle Chicago 2025
April 27th | Bridgeport Art Center
Chicago’s biggest celebration of agave spirits is back! This immersive experience showcases mezcal, tequila, Mexican whiskey, rum, and more, alongside authentic food, art, and live music. Attendees will get the chance to meet producers, learn about the heritage of these spirits, and sample some of the finest small-batch creations from across Mexico.
Looking for Chicago events and things to do in Chicago this weekend? Check out the events calendar.
Recurring Fun Things to Do and Experience in April
Looking for fun activities and things to do in Chicago in April? Explore this list of ongoing events and experiences happening all month long.
- Architecture Boat Tour: Experience Chicago’s stunning skyline on a Chicago boat tour, perfect outdoor activity for warm weather.
- Enjoy Dinner and a Show with Teatro ZinZanni. This mesmerizing circus-meets-cabaret experience with world-class entertainment and a multi-course dinner.
- Candle-Making Class on the Magnificent Mile: Design a custom candle while enjoying a chic atmosphere.
- Deep Dish Cooking Class at Pizzeria Uno: Learn to craft Chicago’s iconic deep-dish pizza.
- Chicago Crime & Mob Bus Tour: Step into the city’s darker history and discover infamous crime spots.
- The Escape Game Chicago: Solve puzzles in immersive escape rooms in downtown Chicago.
- Take a jewelry class: Create your custom piece at a Black woman-owned jewelry studio in the West Loop which offers hands-on workshops.
- Skydeck Chicago & Navy Pier Ferris Wheel: Marvel at the city’s skyline from these landmarks at wallet-friendly prices.
- Interactive Museums: Dive into vibrant creativity at the Museum of Ice Cream or the colorful Color Factory.
- Museum Free Days: Take advantage of free or discounted admission at museums.
The Curated List of Chicago Events in April
Here’s The Haute Seeker’s curated list of the best events, activities, and coolest events to check out this month in during the month of April.
Wildcard Experiments in Circus
What: A night of thrilling circus performances featuring solo, partner, and group acts on the ground and in the air led by students from the
When: April 4, 2025
Link for more information: Wild Card Circus
DJ Diesel AKA Shaq at the Salt Shed
What: NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal, aka DJ Diesel, is bringing an electrifying DJ set to Chicago for an unforgettable night of music and energy.
When: April 4, 2025
Link for more information: DJ Diesel AKA Shaq
Vintage on the Avenue at The Shops at North Bridge
What: A three-day vintage shopping experience at The Shops at North Bridge, featuring top local vendors and high-end fashion finds.
When: April 4-6, 2025
Link for more information: Vintage on the Avenue
Chicago on Tap Fest 2025
What: A beer festival at Theater on the Lake with unlimited tastings from local breweries, live music, and games
When: April 10, 2025
Link for more information: Chicago on Tap Fest 2025
Chicago Tea Festival
What: A celebration of tea culture with tastings, workshops, and presentations exploring the world of tea.
When: April 12-13, 2025
Link for more information: Chicago Tea Festival
Munch March Dessert & Appetizer Crawl
What: A food crawl along Montrose Avenue featuring sweet and savory bites, drinks, and local business exploration. This event is 21+ and will be held rain or shine.
When: April 17, 2025
Link for more information: Munch March Dessert & Appetizer Crawl
We Them Ones Tour
What: Get your laugh on with this comedy event this April in Chicago. This comedy tour is hosted by Mike Epps, featuring Kountry Wayne, Lil Duvall, Tony Roberts, Karlous Miller, HaHa Davis, and Bubba Dubb.
When: April 19, 2025
Link for more information: We Them Ones Tour
The Thalia Sunday Skate
What: A skate night at Thalia Hall presented by Inspired By Favor, hosted by Chicago’s SmoothGoddess. BYOS (Bring Your Own Skates).
When: April 20, 2025
Link for more information: The Thalia Sunday Skate
Miss Congeniality Bar Crawl 2025
What: A themed bar crawl celebrating Miss Congeniality on “The Perfect Date” (April 25), featuring a pageant-style contest and fundraising for the PRCC-Trans Empowerment Center.
When: April 25, 2025
Link for more information: Miss Congeniality Bar Crawl
Miller Lite Chicago Bears Draft Party
What: Celebrate the NFL Draft with exclusive access to the United Club, player experiences, locker room tours, and live draft analysis.
When: April 24, 2025
Link for more information: Miller Lite Chicago Bears Draft Party
2025 Chicagoland Indie Bookstore Day Crawl
What: Visit independent bookstores across Chicagoland, earn discounts, and collect stamps for a chance to win exclusive bookstore swag.
When: April 26, 2025
Link for more information: 2025 Chicagoland Indie Bookstore Day Crawl
Modern Vintage Chicago
What: A one-day vintage fashion and furnishings market featuring 75 top dealers with curated selections of clothing, accessories, and décor at the Ravenswood Event Center.
When: April 27, 2025
Link for more information: Modern Vintage Chicago
Things to Know About April in Chicago
What’s the weather like in Chicago during April?
April in Chicago is unpredictable—spring is officially here, but winter may not be ready to let go just yet. Expect fluctuating temperatures, with average highs in the upper 50s°F (around 14°C) and lows dipping into the 40s°F (around 4°C). Rain showers are common, so packing an umbrella or rain jacket is a smart move. And while unlikely, a late-season snowfall isn’t out of the question—Chicago weather likes to keep us on our toes!
Is April a good time to visit Chicago?
Is April a good time to visit Chicago?
Definitely! April is a fantastic time to explore Chicago. If you’re an art or culture lover, this is the perfect time of year to visit, with film festivals, museum exhibitions, and live performances in full swing. It’s also a great time to experience the outdoors as patios begin to reopen and flowers start to bloom.
How should I dress in Chicago in April?
How should I dress in Chicago in April?
Layering is key! While some days may feel like spring, others will remind you that winter wasn’t that long ago. A light to mid-weight jacket is ideal, along with a sweater or hoodie for cooler mornings and evenings. Water-resistant shoes and an umbrella can help you navigate those inevitable April showers. And if the temperature does take an unexpected dip, don’t be surprised if you need a hat and gloves one last time!
What to Look Forward to in April
April in Chicago is all about finding your vibe and making the most of the season. With so many incredible events happening all month long, especially during that jam-packed final weekend, it’s worth planning to hit the ones that excite you most. Pace yourself, soak it all in, and consider this just the warm-up for an unforgettable spring and summer in the city!
