I love Chicago in July! There’s truly no better time to be in the city when there are so many incredible events happening all around town.
The weather is finally steady, the lakefront is alive with energy, and some of my favorite summer events and festivals take place this month.
Whether it’s grabbing a spot for the fireworks on the 4th of July, dancing at a free neighborhood block party, or catching a headliner at Lollapalooza, Chicago’s July events are what make this time of year so iconic.
If you’re visiting Chicago for the first time or are a longtime local looking to plan your month, this guide rounds up the best things to do in Chicago in July 2025.
The Best Things to Do in Chicago This July
Use the navigation below to explore must-attend July events, recurring summer experiences, and curated picks. Bookmark this guide—new updates and hidden gems may be added throughout the month.
Top Events: Must-attend events of the month.
Recurring Activities: Regular events worth adding to your calendar.
The Curated List: Personal recommendations for unique Chicago experiences.
Top July Events & Festivals in Chicago
Discover the biggest summer festivals and street fairs happening throughout the city.
July Chicago Street Festivals
July | Various Locations
July is full of exciting summer street and neighborhood festivals. Highlights include:
July 10 – 13, 2025: Windy City Smokeout
July 11 – 13, 2025: African/Caribbean International Festival Of Life
July 11 – 13, 2025: Square Roots Craft Brew and Music Festival
July 12, 2025: Chicago Gospel Music Festival
July 12, 2025: Passport Vibes
July 12, 2025: Chosen Few Picnic & Festival
July 12 – 13, 2025: Southport Art & Music Fest
July 18 – 19, 2025: Taste of River North
July 18 – 20, 2025: Roscoe Village Burger Fest
July 18-20: Tacos y Tamales Festival
July 18 – 20, 2025: West Fest
July 18-20: Colombian Fest
July 19: Volleywood
July 19: Jarvis Square Music & Art Festival
July 19 – 20, 2025: Ravenswood On Tap
July 25: Summer Wine Fest
July 25 – 26, 2025: Taste of Lincoln Avenue
July 25-27: Wicker Park Fest
July 26 – 27, 2025: Chinatown Summer Fair
July 31 – August 3, 2025: Fiesta Del Sol
4th of July Celebrations in Chicago
July 4th | Various Locations
Celebrate Independence Day in Chicago with a full day of holiday activities that highlight the city’s skyline, lakefront, and amazing neighborhoods. Many events are free and accessible, with lakefront beaches, rooftop bars, and boat cruises offering the perfect spot to watch the evening fireworks show light up the city.
NASCAR Chicago Street Race
July 5–6, 2025 | Grant Park
Start your engines for the NASCAR Chicago Street Race, a high-speed summer event that brings professional stock car racing to the heart of downtown. This two-day experience transforms Grant Park into a thrilling racetrack as drivers compete on a custom 12-turn course through iconic city streets. Expect grandstand views, live music, and a variety of fan-friendly experiences that make this one of the most unique sporting events of the year.
Chicago Sky vs. Indiana Fever
July 27, 2025 | United Center
For the first time in WNBA history, the Chicago Sky will play at the United Center, hosting the Indiana Fever in one of the most anticipated matchups of the season. This historic game features a lineup of standout players including Angel Reese, Kamilla Cardoso, and Caitlin Clark. Witness the rise of women’s basketball in a major league arena filled with Chicago pride, energy, and history in the making.
Chicago Baseball: Crosstown Classic
July 25–27, 2025 | Wrigley Field & Guaranteed Rate Field
Cheer on Chicago’s biggest baseball rivalry as the Cubs face off against the White Sox in the Crosstown Classic. This multi-day showdown unites North Side and South Side fans for a beloved summer tradition. Whether you’re watching from the bleachers at Wrigley or behind home plate at Guaranteed Rate, expect big plays, bold rivalries, and classic Chicago ballpark energy.
Lollapalooza
July 31 – August 3, 2025 | Grant Park
Lollapalooza returns to Chicago with four days of non-stop music, food, and cultural energy. Featuring over 170 artists across eight stages, the festival draws crowds from around the world to experience some of the biggest names in music. Enjoy skyline views, curated food vendors, immersive art installations, and unforgettable moments at one of the city’s signature summer festivals.
Chicago SummerDance
July – September 2025 | Various Locations
Dance under the stars at Chicago SummerDance, a beloved free event series featuring live music and dance lessons in parks across the city. From salsa and swing to line dancing and bachata, each event invites participants of all skill levels to learn a new style and enjoy vibrant community celebrations. Expect themed nights, cultural showcases, and family-friendly activities throughout the summer.
Millennium Park Summer Film Series
July – September 2025 | Various Locations
Looking for one the best free things to do this summer in Chicago? Watch free outdoor movies all summer long at the iconic Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy a mix of classic and contemporary films shown on a state-of-the-art 40-foot LED screen. A must for anyone looking for free things to do in Chicago in July
Millennium Park Summer Music Series
July – August | Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park
This free concert series brings a diverse lineup of local and national artists to one of Chicago’s most iconic outdoor venues. Held on select evenings, the Millennium Park Summer Music Series features a diverse range of music, from jazz and indie rock to global rhythms and experimental sounds. Bring a blanket, pack a picnic, and enjoy warm nights filled with live music in the heart of downtown.
Maxwell Street Market
July – October | West Maxwell Street &, S Halsted St
On select Sundays, enjoy this free event in Chicago. The Maxwell Street Market will open and include an eclectic mix of foods and finds. This year’s edition will also feature live entertainment and programming from cultural partners, and will incorporate nearby businesses and restaurants, including several “Maxwell Street originals” with longstanding ties to the neighborhood.
Chicago Farmers Markets
July – October | Various Locations
Now through the fall, you can find fresh fruit, vegetables, flowers, baked goods, and more at various neighborhood farmers’ markets in the city of Chicago.
Summer Saturday Fireworks at Navy Pier
July – August | Navy Pier
If you’re looking for free things to do in July in Chicago, nothing beats watching the summer fireworks at Navy Pier. This outdoor event is perfect for groups of all ages to enjoy.
Looking for Chicago events and things to do in Chicago this weekend? Check out the events calendar.
Ongoing Chicago Events to Experience in July
Looking for things to do in Chicago in July that are available all month long? Here’s a round-up of ongoing attractions and seasonal experiences to check out this month.
- Architecture Boat Tour: Experience Chicago’s stunning skyline on a Chicago boat tour, a perfect outdoor activity for warm weather.
- Flyover in Chicago: Marvel at Chicago’s skyline and lakefront from a thrilling 30-minute immersive ride. Located at Navy Pier.
- Chicago Crime & Mob Bus Tour: Step into the city’s darker history and discover infamous crime spots.
- 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck Admission: Tower above Chicago from the 94th floor of 875 N. Michigan Avenue, enjoying panoramic views, grab a cocktail at CloudBar, or try the exhilarating TILT experience.
- Interactive Museums: Capture Insta-worthy photos in interactive museums like 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 July
Here’s The Haute Seeker’s curated list of the best events, activities, and coolest events to check out during July.
Jeff Goldblum at The Chicago Theatre
What: Actor and jazz pianist Jeff Goldblum brings his signature charisma and swinging jazz ensemble to The Chicago Theatre for a one-night performance. The Mildred Snitzer Orchestra plays American standards with charm, spontaneity, and Goldblum’s unique storytelling flair.
When: July 2, 2025
Link for more information: Jeff Goldblum at The Chicago Theatre
Late Wednesday: Copitas de Sol Preview
What: The National Museum of Mexican Art stays open late for a 21+ agave spirits tasting and a guided gallery tour of Into the Hourglass: Paño Arte. Includes cocktails, art, and evening vibes.
When: July 2, 2025
Link for more information: Late Wednesday
Argyle Night Market
What: The Argyle Night Market is Chicago’s only free weekly summer street festival. Located in Uptown’s Asia on Argyle district, the market features 30+ food, retail, and cultural vendors. Opening night features performances from CircEsteem and international hip-hop artist Substantial.
When: Every Thursday, July 3 – August 28, 2025
Link for more information: Argyle Night Market
Keyshia Cole: The Way It Is 20th Anniversary Tour
What: R&B icon Keyshia Cole celebrates the 20th anniversary of her debut album with a live concert featuring Tink, Jeremih, and Elijah Blake. A night of nostalgic hits and vocal fire.
When: July 5, 2025
Link for more information: The Way It Is Tour
Bronzeville Summer Nights
What: Bronzeville Summer Nights is perfect for those looking for unique things to do this July in Chicago. Celebrating culture, commerce, and community with local art, live music, and pop-up shopping in the heart of Bronzeville.
When: July 11, 2025
Link for more information: Bronzeville Summer Nights
BLVCKSCENE Chicago Boat Weekend
What: This elite summer boating experience blends culture, connection, and celebration on the waters of Lake Michigan.
When: July 11–13, 2025
Link for more information: Blvckscene Weekend
Retrograde Fashion Show
What: A multidimensional fashion and storytelling experience curated by Raven Smith. Retrograde blends nostalgic design with modern creativity, showcasing Chicago’s most daring emerging designers.
When: July 12, 2025
Link for more information: Retrograde Fashion Show
Chicago Got Sole
What: The largest sneaker and streetwear convention in the Midwest returns to Navy Pier with 300+ vendors, celeb guests, giveaways, and exclusive drops.
When: July 12, 2025
Link for more information: Chicago Got Sole
Rooted: Ancestral Knowledge & Ecological Futures
What: A summit centering Indigenous and Black ecological wisdom, featuring hands-on workshops, storytelling, and community healing. Hosted by the American Indian Center of Chicago.
When: July 19, 2025
Link for more information: Rooted Summit
July in Chicago: What to Expect (and Wear)
What’s the weather like in Chicago during July?
July is peak summer in Chicago. Expect warm, sunny days with average highs in the mid-to-upper 80s°F. It’s perfect weather for beach days, outdoor dining, and late-night neighborhood strolls.
Is July a good time to visit Chicago?
Is July a good time to visit Chicago?
Absolutely. July offers the widest range of festivals, free outdoor concerts, cultural events, and summer-only attractions. It’s the heart of festival season and one of the best times of year to experience the city.
What should I wear in Chicago in July?
What should I wear in Chicago in July?
Light layers are best. Think shorts, summer dresses, breathable fabrics, and comfortable shoes for walking. A light jacket or sweater may be helpful for evenings or lakefront breezes.
What to Look Forward to in July
If is the kickoff, July is the main event. Expect even more summer festivals, lakefront fun, fireworks, and food-focused happenings as the season heats up. You won’t want to miss a minute.
