The end of summer? Already, really? Worry not. While Labor Day weekend is speedily approaching there is a fabulous array of activities and specials happening in the city that are seriously worth checking out. Music festivals, parties and once-a-year outdoor events are set to make this Labor Day weekend a memorable one.
See Also: The Ultimate River North Guide
View this post on Instagram
Union Park / Website
Dates: Friday, Sept. 1- Sunday, Sept. 3
Let loose to buzzy mixes from some of the most significant artists in dance music at this three-day music festival. Enjoy art and well-loved local cuisine as you travel between the festival’s four immersive stages. Tickets can be purchased here.
View this post on Instagram
Navy Pier / Website
Date: Monday, Sept. 4, 1:20 p.m.
Jam out to the very best bands from the Bitter Jester Music Festival’s highly competitive contest. Throughout June, up-and-coming vocalists and bands performed for panels of judges in hopes of claiming coveted concert gigs. This event is free.
View this post on Instagram
Millennium Park / Website
Dates: Thursday, Aug. 31 - Sunday, Sept. 3
Join the Jazz Institute of Chicago for a truly wonderful (and free) lineup of world-class jazz performances, featuring nationally and internationally-acclaimed musicians and Chicago jazz stars alike.
View this post on Instagram
Butler Field in Grant Park / Website
Date: Sunday, Sept. 3
Grab your bike and embark on a gorgeous ride with spanning views of the lake and the city skyline. The course is 30 miles, but participants can ride as much or as little as they want. It’s a special occasion for bikes to dominate Lake Shore Drive and the event also serves as a fundraiser for the Active Transportation Alliance, a nonprofit dedicated to improving walking, biking and public transportation in Chicago.
View this post on Instagram
7000 South Harlem Ave., Bridgeview / Website
Dates: Friday, Sept. 1 - Sunday, Sept. 3
Lose yourself in the immersive world of the North Coast Festival. With six stages to dance at, awesome art to experience, and headliners including Marshmello and DJ Snake, it’s sure to be a memorable festival. Tickets can be purchased here.
View this post on Instagram
600 E. Grand Ave. / Website
Date: Sunday, Sept. 3
Live the luxe life this Labor Day at an exclusive cocktail party aboard a two-story, four-deck yacht as you cruise around Lake Michigan to the tunes of Chi-town’s top DJs. Check-in begins at 8:45 p.m. and the yacht ride will run from 9 p.m. to midnight—perfect for those ready to take full advantage of their Labor Day Monday off. Tickets can be purchased here.
Photography by: Niklas Toelle / Getty Images
