Summer might be almost over but the fun and festivities around Chicago are always going strong. From food festivals and live music, to performance art and community bonding — there’s always a new way to enjoy our great city. Check out our lineup of the best things to do in Chicago and the suburbs this September.
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All Month
Movies at the Parks
The beautiful Chicago Parks system is in full use this summer with a number of outdoor events all over the city. But none bring in a more steady crowd than the Movies in the Parks series, a part of the city’s larger Night Out in the Parks initiative. Enjoy family-friendly movies that range from newer releases to kid favorites, all while reclining on the lawn of your local park — now through October. Head over to the Chicago Park District online for dates, locations and movie lineups.
007 Science: Inventing the World of James Bond
Through October 27, The Museum of Science and Industry wants to welcome guests to the first-ever “official exhibition to focus on the science and technology behind the world’s longest-running movie franchise” — 007 Science: Inventing the World of James Bond. From iconic cars and gadgets to props from the James Bond film series, this exhibit has it all. Go behind the scenes to learn how the production team pulled off the marvel that is the James Bond series. All exhibit logistics and tickets can be found online at 007 Science: Inventing the World of James Bond.
5700 South Lake Shore Dr.
ART on the MART
Until September 11, you can catch two ART on the MART installations from artists Cory Arcangel and Yinka Ilori. Arcangel’s work is a “sly homage to the Chicago-based band Earth, Wind & Fire, [using] footage of water, wind, and fire shot in Chicago, Illinois and Stavanger, Norway.” While Ilori’s project is a “dreamlike piece [that] recreates the artist’s experience of a Pentecostal church ritual, in which he traveled seventy miles from London to Margate.” Visit the ART on the MART website for viewing details.
Chicago a cappella Presents “Lamentations”
Experience this evocative collaboration with Ballet 5:8, as original choreography brings contemporary movement to Thomas Tallis’ “Lamentations of Jeremiah.” Running from September 27 through October 6, visit Chicago a cappella online for show times and more info.
Bouncy Games
This 10,000-square-foot inflatable indoor obstacle course is one of the largest in the country and you can experience it now in Chicago! With sky-high slides and challenging obstacle courses, Bouncy Games is a fun summer activity for all ages. Visit Bouncy Games online for more information.
September 1: Chicago Jazz Festival
All throughout Chicago, the city is flowing over with talented musicians. Countless outdoor festivals cater to a plethora of genres, but few do justice to jazz music like the Chicago Jazz Festival held at Millennium Park and the Chicago Cultural Center every summer. This multi-day fest kicked off at the end of August, but real fans know the event continues into September, too. If you fancy jazz music and want to feel one with your community, there is no better place than the Chicago Jazz Festival — visit their website for entry details.
September 1: Anime Magic! 2024
Anime Magic! returns for 2024 — bigger and better! Fan-run event with classic con activities & unique surprises, fun for veterans and first-timers. Visit Anime Magic! 2024 online for details about this unique event.
September 1: Bike the Drive
Among many things, Chicago is a city that supports an influx of bicyclists, especially in the summer months. To support that is the annual Bike the Drive event — where riders can cruise along DuSable Lake Shore Drive, an extraordinarily rare opportunity. Riders are encouraged to bike as much or as little as they please along the 30-mile course, all in support of raising funds for Active Transportation Alliance. Ride over to Bike the Drive online for more information and to save your spot.
September 1: ARC Music Festival 2024
House music was born in Chicago, so it’s no wonder the ARC Music Festival — held at Union Park and dedicated strictly to that genre — is returning for its fifth year just as strong as before. Dance to your heart’s content to some of your favorite local and international DJs all while you take in the final days of this Chicago summer. Though the fest kicks off at the end of August, you can still grab tickets and more programming information on the ARC Music Festival website.
1501 W. Randolph St.
September 1: Illinois Mycological Association Display & Sale
Don’t let the name fool you, the Illinois Mycological Association Display & Sale at the Chicago Botanic Garden is nothing more than a wholesome way to peruse, purchase and learn about the many varieties of mushrooms that exist. If you fancy some fungi, you’ll want to stop by Burnstein Hall to view the “50 to 100 varieties of mushrooms foraged from area forests in the days prior to the show.” Sound up your alley? Visit the Chicago Botanic Garden for entry details.
1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe
September 6-8: Taste of Chicago
While neighborhoods across the city have had their own pop-up Tastes throughout the summer, none compare to the mother of all foodie festivals, Taste of Chicago — held annually in Grant Park. Since 1980, Chicagoans have been flocking to this fest to sample an array of the best dishes in the city from countless vendors. Summer isn’t over yet, so hit the park to grab a bite and bring a friend or the family while you’re at it. Taste of Chicago online has all the details you need.
September 7: ENAZ’s 6th Annual Fall Fashion + Fundraising Event
Levin-Folio partners with ENAZ at the 6th Annual Fall Fashion + Fundraising event on Saturday, September 7 from 10AM-5PM at all ENAZ locations (Highland Park, Northfield, Lake Forest) and online. ENAZ will donate 10% of all sales, with Team Levin-Folio matching 10% to North Shore’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s fundraiser.
September 7: PAWS Chicago 5k
Ready. Set. Bark! Bring your furry friend over to Montrose Harbor for the animal-friendly 25th Annual PAWS Chicago 5k. The race is in support of making Chicago a no-kill city and helping homeless pets get a second chance. After the run, participants — both human and canine — are welcome to share in the lineup of fun for the afternoon, including: giveaways, an interactive dog agility course, raffles and a whole lot more! Specifics about the race and registration are available on the PAWS Chicago website.
Montrose Harbor, Grove 16
September 7-8: Printers Row Lit Fest
A long-standing, end-of-summer tradition in the South Loop is the Printers Row Lit Fest, this year celebrating its 39th anniversary. Endless tents and tables of literary finds sprawl across five blocks in addition to stages which will feature readings from authors, discussions, programming for kids and more. This family- and community-friendly series is free, and encourages people to come and go as they please. Visit Printers Row Lit Fest to learn more about this year’s programming and check out highlights from previous years in Better’s past coverage of the fest as a proud media sponsor.
From Dearborn St. to Ida B. Wells Dr.
September 7-8: Thirsty Ears Festival
Access Contemporary Music’s Thirsty Ears Festival is Chicago’s only classical music street festival. And this month, for two days, their fest will feature stellar ensembles and soloists performing music from Beethoven to Shostakovich to Reich and everything in between on the main stage. There will also be beer and wine, vendor booths, kid-friendly activities and food trucks. Check out Thirsty Ears Festival online for all the information you need.
Wilson street between Hermitage and Ravenswood
September 7-8: Lakeview Taco Fest
Back for its 11th flavor-filled year in 2024, Lakeview Taco Fest is a celebration of delicious tortilla-wrapped delicacies, seasonal beers, and the start of cooler evenings. “This fall fest is a wildly popular fixture to the Windy City’s food scene, … with more than 10 local eateries challenging themselves to make the tastiest tacos.” While there enjoy live music and wrestling, kids’ activities, and vote for Chicago’s “Best Taco.” Head over to Lakeview Taco Fest for more information.
3500 N. Southport Ave.
September 8: 2024 Walk to End Alzheimer’s – North Shore
Every year, Chicagoland residents participate in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s event — this time located on the North Shore. The event annually raises up to or exceeding $1 million to accelerate global research, increase early detection and maximize quality care and support for those living with Alzheimer’s. Want to join a team, register alone, or support the Walk to End Alzheimer’s cause? Visit the Alzheimer’s Association online.
September 13: Norwood Park Fall Fest
Unsure when to make that transition from summer to fall? Let the Norwood Park Fall Fest help you, with a weekend they describe as a “fall-themed haven” for delicious local food; tasty beer and beverages; live music with a range of genres; a children’s area; and tons of merchandise booths with local goods. Whether or not you’re ready for autumn, come share in this community fun! There is a $7 recommended donation for entry; this is a family-friendly event. More information is available on the Fall Fest site.
Northwest Highway (between Raven & Newark) and Centennial Park, Norwood
September 14: Decades
The Lot in Highland Park is “turning back the clock and bringing the ultimate musical throwback experience … with their newest food and music festival.” The program will feature fantastic headlining entertainers performing hits from the ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s. Sound like a good time? Visit The Lot online for details about Decades.
September 14-15: 19th Annual Lakeview East Festival of The Arts
All over the city there are art and music festivals, but can you ever really get enough? Head on over to the Lakeview East and check out over 120 juried artists who will be displaying world-class art in a number of mediums, like painting, sculpture, jewelry, photography and more. Additionally, there will be multiple stages with live music, kids activities and, of course, food booths. More information can be found on the Lakeview East Festival Of The Arts website.
Along Broadway, Belmont to Hawthorne
September 14-15: Ravenswood ArtWalk (RAW)
In its 22nd year, the Ravenswood ArtWalk (RAW) will be honoring its theme — “Tour of Arts and Industry” — with a weekend-long celebration of the local creative community. Guests can expect to see open studios and galleries; live performances; a pop-up beer garden; and an outdoor arts market with 60+ local makers; live music and dance; food vendors; and more. This family-friendly event is the perfect chance to take in a bit of the culture you may not otherwise have the chance to. Get all info at Ravenswood ArtWalk online.
Ravenswood Industrial Corridor, Lawrence to Irving Park Rd
September 15: Run for the Parks: 5K Run, Walk or Roll!
Chicago proudly supports its beloved park system, and if you want to be a part of that support too, then check out the upcoming Run for the Parks! 5K. The race — which is sponsored by Chicago Parks Foundation and encourages running, walking or rolling — will take place along the picturesque Lakefront Trail. All are welcome, secure your spot on the Run for the Parks! site.
Burnham Park at 31st Street Beach
September 15-20: “The Creation” from Music of the Baroque
The creation of the world as told in the Book of Genesis springs to life through vivid musical pictures. Dame Jane Glover leads the Music of the Baroque Chorus, Orchestra, and international opera stars Joélle Harvey, Aaron Sheehan, and Brandon Cedel in Haydn’s timeless work of towering imagination and genius. With three different ways to catch this performance, you better visit the Music of the Baroque website for details and tickets.
September 18: After School Matters Gala 2024
Join After School Matters as Chicago’s leaders come together for an evening of teen showcases, fabulous food and drinks, and networking to celebrate our youth. Check out the ASM website for details on the gala and how to support their cause.
167 Events, 167 N Green St.
September 19: Jack’s Pumpkin Patch Pop-Up
Old- For many Chicagoans, fall means sweet treats, ciders, autumn-colored photo-ops and picking the perfect pumpkin. And luckily for us, Jack’s Pumpkin Patch Pop-Up is the annual opportunity to do all of that and more. On Goose Island, the seasonal festivities kick-off September 19 when Jack’s opens its doors to millennials looking for fun, parents seeking a family night out and anyone else who loves this season. Whether you plan on winding through the corn maze, having an inspired co*cktail or just enjoying the fall air, you’ll want to head over to Jack’s Pumpkin Patch Pop-Up to grab your tickets first.
1265 West Le Moyne
September 20-22: Riot Fest
Since 2015, Riot Fest has been rocking stages in Douglass Park with some of rock music’s grittiest, alternative, fan-loved bands. This year’s line-up boasts names like Fall Out Boy, Slayer and many other classics of the genre. While dedicated fans may have already nabbed their tickets, there are still daily and weekend passes available to one of Chicago’s newer, favorite concert series. Additional information and tickets can be found on the Riot Fest website.
1401 S. Sacramento Dr.
September 21-29: Chicago Gourmet
If you, like many other Chicagoans, love the diverse, delicious food our city has to offer then you need to grab your ticket for Chicago Gourmet this month. The multi-day event at various locations features a lineup of curated chefs and their expertly-crafted bites — including, Tacos & Tequila; Somm Sessions; Hamburger Hop; Grand Cru; Rise & Shine Gourmet; and more. This event is 21+ and recommended as an outing for friends or couples, but not for kids. Get your ticket while you still can at Chicago Gourmet.
September 27: North Shore Art League’s 100th Anniversary Gala
Join North Shore Art League for their 100th Anniversary Gala at 6pm. This fun-filled event will take place in their historic, light-filled studio on the second floor of the Community House, Winnetka. Live art, live music, libations, hors d’oeuvres, and desserts are included in your ticket price. Head over to the North Shore Art League website for more.
September 28: AIDS Run & Walk Chicago
Since it began in 2001, nearly 25,000 participants have come together for the AIDS Run & Walk Chicago, raising millions of dollars to battle the HIV epidemic. While raising awareness and funds for AIDS Foundation Chicago and partners — with proceeds directly benefiting programs and services that improve people’s lives — the race is also an excellent way to get out and spend time with the community. AIDS Run & Walk Chicago online has all the race details you need as well as virtual registration. Your support could make a difference for countless people near and far!
Soldier Field, 1410 Special Olympics Dr.
September 28-29: Hyde Park Jazz Festival 2024
Well-loved by jazz heads from near and far, the 18th annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival is back for another music-packed year. With over 30 acts ready to take the stage, attendees who range from jazz lovers to newbies of the genre will find something to love. More information on this celebration of all things jazz can be found on the festival website.
Venues across Hyde Park
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Margaret Smith is a Chicago-based writer and editor with a passion for socio-political storytelling about their community. They are a graduate of Columbia College Chicago.
