Fourth of July fireworks in Chicago are a hallmark of summer. Independence Day is on a Thursday this year; some spots will have their Fourth of July fireworks on July 3rd or July 5th—and some places have fireworks displays even earlier. Those late to the party can also see post-4th fireworks at Navy Pier on July 6th. New this year is a drone light show at Northwest Fourth Fest in Hoffman Estates—a great way to see the sky light up without the big booms. 

From the beaches to the parks to the lake, these are the best places to view fireworks in Chicago for the Fourth of July weekend. In addition to seeing some super sparklers, consider celebrating the holiday with one of these Fourth of July activities that aren't fireworks.

Free summer concerts in Chicago mean families can enjoy being outside and listening to everything from local children's musicians to cover bands and other acts. The Chicago Park District hosts free summer concerts almost daily in different parks throughout the city, or families can hear music at Navy Pier, Harper Court, or Gallagher Way. Suburban families don't have to hit the city limits to get in on the action—many suburban park districts host free weekly outdoor concerts and shows near Chicago for kids of all ages.

The shows on this list are family-friendly, but check the artists in advance to ensure your child(ren) will be interested enough in the music to sit through a whole set. Consider sitting farther back or bringing earplugs for sound-sensitive kids.

Here are some great free concerts in Chicago this summer, and don't forget to check out our Ultimate Chicago Kids Summer Vacation Guide for more fun things to do.

Looking for the best things to do in June 2024 in Chicago? We have a list of festivals, outdoor movies, and more things to do with kids.

Two words come to mind when looking for things to do in June in Chicago—summer festivals. They come in all colors and flavors here and dozens are happening in different neighborhoods this month. Families can choose internationally themed fests in Lincoln Square, Lincoln Park, Andersonville, Wheaton, or Chinatown.

Having free things to do in Chicago will keep kids busy and happy throughout the summer without taxing your wallet. And you might be surprised at just how many family-friendly summer events in Chicago cost absolutely nothing. Of course, the city's playgrounds and splash pads are always free, but it's in the summertime that free things to do in Chicago really ramp up. 

As you can see from this bursting-at-the-seams list, there's almost something fun and free to do every single day of the summer—so there's no excuse for anyone to be bored. Outdoor movies, summer festivals, street fairs, concerts and performances, public art, cultural celebrations, and picnics–and you can leave your wallet at home for all of it! (In theory, at least. There's always ice cream to buy...)

Looking for more? Our list of 100 Things to Do With Chicago Kids Before They Grow Up will do the trick, and find all the summer fun in our Ultimate Chicago Kids Summer Vacation Guide.

Summer festivals in and near Chicago stretch across over three months of fun, and there's such a head-spinning number of fantastic fetes with so many different themes, cultures, and neighborhoods, it's easy to find a fair or festival near Chicago for everyone in the family. Foodies of all ages will enjoy Taste of Chicago Rogers Park, kids will love getting creative at Mess Fest at the Du Page Children's Museum in Naperville, and we can't even begin to count all the free music festivals happening this summer.

So while your local playground or pool may beckon and your backyard grill may look lonely, you’ve got to sample a street fair or two this summer. Bookmark this list and get your calendar (and comfy shoes) ready. Check out the Chicago Summer Fun Guide for even more great kid and family activities and outings.

Free outdoor movies in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs scream summertime. Where else can you enjoy treats, green spaces, and staying up past bedtime? In Chicago, you can see a movie at a landmark destination like Navy Pier or Millennium Park, or enjoy a night out under the stars in your favorite neighborhood or suburban park. 

Want to see a movie in your car? Check out one of our favorite drive-in destinations. Have kids that aren't big enough to stay up past dark on a long summer night? Try out this list of favorite toddler playgrounds or water parks for little ones that are just as good during the day.

Pack your blanket or chair, bag of popcorn, and beverage of choice, and head out to one of the more than 30 locations we've found to see an outdoor movie in Chicago this summer!