Welcome, listeners, to “Things to do in Chicago!” It’s Friday, August 29, 2025—the start of Labor Day Weekend in the Windy City. The summer sun is shining, temperatures are comfortably in the mid-70s, and the air quality is excellent. Chicago feels alive and festive, with a weekend packed full of music, art, and cultural celebrations.

Today, Chicago buzzes with events that cater to every taste. Kicking off the festivities is the Taste of Polonia Festival in Jefferson Park, starting at 5:00 p.m. This four-day event is perfect for families and foodies alike, with nonstop live music, dance performances, authentic Polish cuisine, a casino, kids’ activities, and more. It’s the largest Polish festival in the country and a tradition you won’t want to miss[1].

If you’re craving art and local flair, head to Wicker Park and Bucktown for the “First Fridays” Art Walk, which opens its doors from 6 to 8 p.m. tonight. Wander through neighborhood galleries, enjoy free entry to all exhibitions, meet local artists, and even view student artwork—all while sipping complimentary drinks and sampling bites at select locations[7].

For music lovers, tonight is electrifying: My Chemical Romance lights up Soldier Field at 7 p.m. Fans can expect an epic celebration of “The Black Parade,” so grab your tickets and prepare for a night to remember. Soldier Field is CTA-accessible, and parking lots open at 3 p.m. for early birds[4].

Lakefront enthusiasts, don’t miss Navy Pier’s Live on the Lake! Starting at 4:30 p.m., this free concert series brings Chicago’s top bands to the Beer Garden all weekend. Soak up summer with friends, music, and beautiful Lake Michigan views[10].

Protest energy is also palpable across Chicago and its suburbs, with anti-Trump demonstrations planned downtown at the Haymarket Memorial and outside Trump International Hotel[2]. If heading into the heart of the city, plan for possible traffic detours and crowds.

Now for some quick local news and city updates: The Chicago Board of Education has just approved a balanced CPS budget for the upcoming year—a positive step for local schools[5]. Public transit remains your friend this weekend, with the CTA and Metra running expanded holiday service. Keep your eyes peeled for the upcoming Mexican Independence Day parade, which promises a vibrant celebration soon[8].

Looking for must-do activities today? Swing by Lincoln Park Zoo to see lions, gorillas, and penguins—admission is free and perfect for families[3]. Visit the Art Institute to view world-class masterpieces, and crown your evening with a stroll through Millennium Park for selfies at “The Bean.” For lakeside fun, sunbathe or play volleyball at North Avenue Beach, or simply lose yourself among the open-air concerts and food stalls along the lakefront[6][9].

Local tip: Skip the Mag Mile chains and snack on a classic Chicago-style hot dog from a neighborhood stand, or grab deep-dish pizza at a family-owned pizzeria. And if you’re navigating the city, remember the CTA’s Ventra app is your best friend for real-time updates and contactless ticketing.

Before you go, here’s a sneak peek: This weekend brings more Taste of Polonia fun and a slew of outdoor events. Soon, the city will celebrate Mexican Independence Day with a vibrant parade and music—so don’t miss tomorrow’s show for your guide!

That’s a wrap for today’s “Things to do in Chicago.” Enjoy the city, explore new corners, and tune in again for more ways to make your Windy City adventures unforgettable!

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI