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

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 performingDisney 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.

Savor July in Chicago and Go Cubbies!