Summer in the City - July Events That Make Chicago a Hot Destination

As Chicago begins to heat up, the weekends and evenings begin to fill up with events happening throughout the city and suburbs. July is chocked full with food, music and cultural extravaganzas of all flavors. We want to share some of our favorites.

Movies in the Parks. Arguably, there is no better way to spend a pleasant summer evening than by enjoying an outdoor movie in a neighborhood park - and it's free! Take the kids and a picnic dinner to these family-friendly, classic flicks. Smurfs 2 (PG) is playing on Wednesday, July 16, at Skinner Park (1331 W. Monroe St.). See Sixteen Candles (PG-13) on Monday, July 21, at Fulton River Park (343 N. DesPlaines St.). And Star Trek: Into Darkness (PG-13) is scheduled for Thursday, July 24, at Mary Bartelme Park (115 S. Sangamon St.).


July would not be complete of course without the Taste of Chicago. The Taste is a summer tradition in the City of Broad Shoulders, and it's being held this year July 8th through the 12th. Featuring the Bud Light Stage, food trucks, pop-up restaurants and much gustatory goodness, it's a real challenge to sample all that the Taste has to offer in just one day.


If you are looking for something a bit outside of the city, Ravinia Festival in Highland Park showcases an outstanding and eclectic mix of music all summer long. Pack some snacks and bring the whole family for a July 12th date with the world renowned Chicago Symphony Orchestra, which will be performing Disney Fantasia and Fantasia 2000. $25 for the lawn or $50 for a seat in the pavilion...prices that are hard to beat for a great evening under the stars.

And of course we can’t forget Chicago’s most famous summer music event: Lollapalooza. This year Lollapalooza will take place July 31st through August 2nd at Grant Park. Acts like Paul McCartney, Sam Smith, Tove Lo, Metallica, Florence + the Machine and many more will be performing.

Last but certainly not least among our Chicago-in-July favorites are such classic destinations as Navy Pier and a Cubs game at historic Wrigley Field. Here a Chicago-style hot dog and a cold beer go hand-in-hand, naturally.

Enjoy July in Chicago and Go Cubbies! Freshly brewed entertainment news in www.38today.com