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These Are The Top Summer Music Festivals In Chicago
Chicago’s summer is a symphony of lovely festivals catering to various musical tastes. From June to September, the city becomes a stage for some of the most exceptional musical performances. Whether you’re into country, blues, rock, or electronic music, these events promise an unforgettable experience for attendees, which is why we’ve curated a guide to the most exceptional Chicago music festivals. Get ready for an indelible experience at the eleventh edition of Windy City Smokeout! This premier outdoor country music and BBQ festival returns to Chicago’s iconic United Center venue. Headline performances will feature Carrie Underwood, Cody Johnson, Parker McCollum, Thomas Rhett, and more. The full 2024 BBQ Windy City Smokeout lineup includes Bub City, Blues Hog, Green Street Smoked Meats, Hogapalooza, Hoodoo Brown BBQ, Hurtado Barbecue, Joe’s Kansas City BBQ, Little Miss BBQ, Lexington Betty’s Smokehouse, Meat Mitch, Operation BBQ Relief, Panther City BBQ, Pappy’s Smokehouse, Salt Lick BBQ, Smoque BBQ, Soul & Smoke, Sugarfire Smokehouse, and Ubons BBQ, Wright’s Barbecue. When: July 11-14, 2024
Chicago Has Begun Phasing Out The Tipped Minimum Wage
As of this week, Chicago is the largest city to independently phase out subminimum wages for tipped workers in the entire United States. The Minimum Wage Ordinance which was passed in October 2023 went into effect yesterday, July 1st, increasing the tipped minimum wage and standard minimum wage while also making positive changes for paid time off entitlements. From here on out, all tipped hospitality workers will see their minimum wage grow by 8% every year on the first day of July for the next five years. It is a move that will affect over 60,000 service industry employees said Mayor Brandon Johnson who called Chicago “the most pro-worker city in the country.” According to Chicago.gov, the base pay for tipped minimum wage has increased to $11.02 per hour from $9.48 per hour. It will continue to rise annually until it matches the standard wage which yesterday increased from $15.80 per hour to $16.20 per hour for all businesses with more than four employees.
Chicago Named Second Best City In The United States
While recent reports from the Census Bureau suggest that Chicago could be on its way to losing its place as the third-largest city in the country, we’re still very much the Second City in terms of reputation. Resonance Consultancy, an international consulting group behind worldsbestcities.com, recently released its ranking of America’s 100 Best Cities, placing Chicago at #2 as the second-best city in the country. Claiming to be “building the most comprehensive city rankings on the planet”, Resonance’s annual lists rank cities by using “a combination of statistical performance and qualitative evaluations by locals and visitors.” These 31 performance and perceptions metrics are used to determine three key factors: “Livability, Lovability, and Prosperity” to define each city’s score.
The Best Things To Do In Wicker Park, Chicago
Wicker Park, Chicago, is a beloved oasis in the summertime. The quaint neighborhood and serene atmosphere offer a respite from the hustle and bustle of downtown Chicago. Whether you’re interested in exploring picturesque outdoor farmers’ markets, scenic trails, or the patio scene, Wicker Park’s charm has something for everyone. Planning the perfect itinerary for a day in Wicker Park can be quite challenging, so we have taken the liberty of creating one for you. Below, you’ll find a detailed Saturday agenda that encompasses a wide variety of our favorite activities in Wicker Park. Starting with a visit to a Michelin-starred...
Hawksmoor, The Beloved London Steakhouse, Opens In Chicago Tonight
One of London’s most popular restaurants, Hawksmoor, will officially launch its brand-new restaurant in Chicago. Located in the three-story landmark location at 500 N LaSalle Drive in River North, you can make reservations starting Thursday, June 27. Hawksmoor is renowned as one of the best steakhouses globally, named #1 steakhouse in the world by the World’s Best Steak Restaurants in 2022. This global recognition places Hawksmoor in a prestigious dining community, and now you can officially take part in Chicago. Hawksmoor was first opened in 2006 by childhood friends Will Beckett and Huw Gott in London. Almost twenty years later, it has made a name for itself as a world-class dining destination. Its rigorous ingredients and employment ethics standards have earned it recognition as one of few restaurants worldwide with a B Corp Certification. The menu centers around steaks from ethically reared cattle and sustainably sourced seafood alongside one of the country’s most progressive cocktail programs.
Significant Street Closures For The NASCAR Chicago Street Race Will Begin Today
NASCAR is just one week away, which means there will be significant traffic until the race is over—so please, Chicagoans, plan your travels accordingly. If you are planning a date, heading to the club, or grabbing dinner with friends, call that Uber 15 minutes earlier or maybe just take the L. Street closures begin today, Thursday, June 27, at 7 p.m. in preparation for the NASCAR Chicago Street Race 4th of July weekend on July 6–7, 2024. Chicago is hosting the NASCAR Cup Series and NASCAR Xfinity Series street races for the second year. Inhabitants and visitors are advised to be aware of the traffic impacts and safety measures in place. The City of Chicago and NASCAR officials are working diligently to minimize the impacts of street closures, parking restrictions, reroutes, and traffic as the course and viewing structures are set up and taken down. Even with the NASCAR street closures, all businesses and residences will remain accessible throughout the race weekend. Thursday, June 27 – Beginning at 7 p.m. Closure of Jackson Dr. between Michigan Ave. and Columbus Dr.
The Chicago Hit Show ‘The Bear’ Is Back: Everything You Need to Know
The highly anticipated FX series The Bear will make its much-awaited Hulu debut tonight. We are here to bring you up to date on all that you may have missed. Season two of The Bear underwent a remarkable transformation, evolving from a fast-paced and tension-filled dramedy set in a Chicago beef spot to a reflective journey of Carmy and co trying to open a Michelin Star restaurant. As we gear up for season three, we are set to re-enter the captivating world of their kitchen. In 2022, the FX series’s inaugural season debuted on Hulu to an overwhelmingly positive response from both critics and viewers, quickly gaining widespread acclaim. The show received numerous award nominations and clinched 10 Emmys in January. What made the series particularly captivating was its vivid portrayal of Chicago’s dynamic and diverse food scene, offering a compelling narrative intertwined with the city’s culinary culture. In season two, Carmy (Jeremy Allen White) and his team attempt to open a new restaurant, the Bear, just 12 weeks after the closing of his late brother’s sandwich shop, the Original Beef of Chicagoland. According to an interview with Jeremy Allen White, Season 3 will take place in a functioning kitchen atmosphere.
A New Restaurant That Pays Homage To World Classics Just Opened In Lincoln Park
As you step into Americano, you will be greeted by rich, plush velvet green walls. The ceilings are beautifully adorned with trailing ivy and lively greenery, which collectively contribute to an ambiance that feels like a never-ending outdoor experience. Americano, the latest restaurant from the esteemed Adolfo Garcia, will have you gallivanting straight to Lincoln Park. This upscale neighborhood eatery, with its accessible yet elevated take on global cuisine, is already creating a stir. The menu, inspired by a diverse range of flavors and culinary traditions from around the world, is a testament to the culinary adventures of a world traveler, seamlessly blending international tastes with beloved American classics. At Americano, they have curated an eclectic selection of dishes that mirrors a worldly gastronomic journey. Their menu highlights global flavors and pays homage to classic American fare, ensuring a delightful dining experience for all. There’s something to satisfy every palate, from burgers and wings to deviled eggs with caviar, variably dressed oysters, and a delectable crudo selection.
Explore 40+ Animatronic Dinosaurs & Enjoy 10,000 Sq. Ft. Of Fun At The Bouncy Games In Chicago
To mark the end of this long school year, I organized a Dinos Alive and the Bouncy Games in Chicago: a visit to two fantastic experiences at the Exhibition Hub Art Center, located at 2367 Logan Blvd in the Logan Square neighborhood. These experiences are only in town for a limited time—here’s why you don’t want to miss out! We started with Dinos Alive, and recommend that you do too, to conserve your little ones’ energy for the 10,000-square-foot Bouncy Games. The dinosaur exhibit features over 40 lifelike, animatronic dinosaurs, wowing dino fans from Washington D.C. to Los Angeles. In Chicago, my kids were thrilled by the unique lighting and nature sounds, especially while spotting favorites like T-rex, Stegosaurus, and Spinosaurus. Climbing atop the Carnotaurus and exploring the VR experience were definite highlights. Grab tickets here! Next, you’ll want to dive into the massive Bouncy Games for non-stop fun just like we did! With activities for both kids and adults, it’s perfect for family enjoyment. Explore 10,000 sq. ft. of inflatables, including obstacle courses, tunnels, climbing walls, and tall slides. A post shared by Secret Chicago (@secret.chicago)
Sabrina Carpenter Is Coming To Chicago This October
Pop star Sabrina Carpenter, known for her hit songs “Espresso” and “Please Please Please,” has excitedly revealed the tour dates for her highly anticipated ‘Short n’ Sweet Tour’ across North America. The multi-city tour includes 29 concerts across the continent, and fans in Chicago are in for a treat as it’s one of the stops. Taking to her Instagram, Sabrina expressed her eagerness, saying, “I can’t wait to be singing with you all 💋:’)”. This announcement has sparked a wave of excitement among her fanbase, and the anticipation is building for what promises to be an unforgettable, harmonious experience. Her performance is scheduled to take place in Chicago at the United Center on October 13, 2024. Sabrina announced on her Instagram, “Make sure you head to @TeamSabrina for sign-up info and first access to the Team Sabrina presale, which starts Tuesday, June 25, at 10 a.m. local.” If you miss out on the Sabrina presale, there are numerous others, so head to the United Center for more information.
Natasha Bedingfield Is Headlining A Free Show At Pride Fest Tomorrow
As we continue to celebrate Pride Month, Chicago is gearing up to host an exciting two-day street festival featuring an impressive lineup of performers—including Natasha Bedingfield—a variety of delectable food vendors, and an array of unique merchandise. Chicago comes alive with a multitude of street festivals during the summer, but the Pride Fest weekend stands out as a vibrant celebration not to be missed. This event is a dedicated tribute to the LGBTQ+ community, featuring an array of kaleidoscopic performances and activities that showcase and honor its rich culture. The headlining performances include Natasha Bedingfield, JoJo Siwa, and Bob the Drag Queen. Furthermore, the festivities will continue with the renowned Pride Parade, scheduled to kick off from the same vibrant neighborhood the following weekend, June 30. The Pride Fest is free; however, there is a $15 suggested donation.
A River North Taco Crawl: Try Three Of Chicago’s Hottest Taco Spots
Get ready for an incredible and mouth-watering Taco Tuesday experience on June 25 with the River North Taco Tuesday Crawl! This exciting event will take you to three of Chicago’s most popular taco spots: XOCO, Bodega Taqueria y Tequila, and Mercadito. At each stop, you can indulge in a wide variety of savory tacos, including traditional and innovative flavors. In addition to the delicious tacos, be sure to save room for the delectable churros and refreshing cocktails that will be offered throughout the crawl. It’s a fantastic way to explore the vibrant taco scene in River North and enjoy a fun and flavorful evening out. Date: Tuesday, June 25, 2024 Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Famous New York Pizzeria Prince Street Pizza Is Branching Out To Chicago
Chicago’s famed food scene is home to an array of top pizza joints and different types of pizza ranging from Spacca Napoli Pizzeria and its Neapolitan-style thin-crust pizzas which recently saw it named one of the 100 best pizzerias in the world to Pequod’s Pizza and its famed Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. Now one of New York’s most famous pizza joints is branching out to the Windy City this year. Prince Street Pizza which first opened on Manhattan’s Prince Street in 2012 is coming to Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood. Hoping to open some time this fall, the popular pizza spot will...
A Chicago Suburb Was Just Ranked The Safest And Most Affordable City In The United States
Just a few months on from Naperville being named top of a list of ‘Best Cities to Live in America’ another Chicago suburb has received similar recognition by being awarded the accolade of “the safest and most affordable” city in the country. In a study carried out by GOBankingRates, cities across the country were analyzed with crime metrics, median income, cost of living, and other factors taken out to determine a list of the 50 Safest and Most Affordable US Cities To Live In. Coming out on top was the Northwest Chicago suburb of Elgin. According to GOBankingRates, the study was conducted based on the costs of living and crime rate averages. Factored by crimes per 1,000 people, cities were ranked from lowest to highest based on the average crime rates and costs of living compared to the national average.
‘The Late Show With Stephen Colbert’ Is Coming To Chicago In August And You Can Get Free Tickets
Chicago’s summer schedule is already full of exciting annual events ranging from the Chicago Air & Water Show to a variety of festivals little and large, but this year looks to be extra special with numerous events announcing themselves. Along with the first-ever live HOT ONES™ Show taking place in Chicago this summer, “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” is hitting the road for the first time ever and coming to Chicago’s Auditorium Theatre. Several shows will be broadcast during the Democratic National Convention from August 19th through August 22nd and free tickets are up for grabs! “From August 19-22, 2024, Stephen Colbert will bring the signature satire and comedy of THE LATE SHOW to Chicago. This special week of THE LATE SHOW with STEPHEN COLBERT, the #1 show in late night, will feature an eclectic mix of guests from the worlds of politics, entertainment and more”, read the announcement.
5 Things You Should Know Before Attending A Candlelight Concert In Chicago
Each Candlelight concert provides a unique experience. However, there are some things they have in common – beautiful venues, skilled musicians and the enchanting glow of thousands of candles. If you have your tickets already and are excitedly awaiting the event, here are five crucial tips to ensure you make the most of it. Wear whatever makes you feel comfortable but smart-casual is what most people opt for. Some people take the opportunity to dress up fancy and why not embrace the theme? Going to a Fleetwood Mac tribute? Why not don your favorite flares? And a Taylor Swift tribute obviously calls for glitter! Chair-based dancing is more than okay but maybe don’t stand up and start making shapes in other people’s way. It’s all about letting other people enjoy the show too. Remember that some people wear hearing aids and it might be a bit overwhelming if you’re belting out tunes. Basically, read the room and be the polite Chicago people that we’re sure you always are.
Audition For The Next Season Of Love Island At This Chicago Pop-Up
Get ready, islanders: Peacock’s Love Island USA is bringing the Love Island villa to Old Town this weekend to celebrate the new season. Along with a mobile villa, you’ll be able to meet Love Island USA Season 5’s Carsten Bergersen and Taylor Smith. If you’re a Love Island fan, this is your chance to step into the villa and film an audition tape for the next season. Experience the thrill of creating your own “hot new bombshell” video as you strut your best islander walk, get your makeup done, and show off your charm. However, that’s not all: Makeup enthusiasts, you’re in for a delight. Within the Pop-Up Villa, Maybelline has joined forces with Peacock to bring a co-branded makeup room to life. Professional artists will offer touch-ups onsite with the brand’s newest launches, including Sunkisser Liquid Blush and Bronzer and Firework Mascara. Admission to the Love Island Villa Pop-Up is free and open to all Islander fans. RSVP is not required for the pop-up. However, entry is based on a first-come, first-served basis. All giveaways are only available while supplies last.
The Top 5 Chicago Galas And Fundraisers To Add To Your Social Calendar Right Now
Chicago is gearing up for an incredible summer packed with glamorous and impactful galas and fundraisers. Whether you’re eager to mingle with the city’s elite, support important causes, or enjoy unforgettable entertainment, these top events promise to be highlights on your social calendar. Keep scrolling to discover our top 5 Chicago galas and fundraisers you won’t want to miss this summer! One of the hottest tickets in town this summer is Chicago Fire FC’s White Party on Thursday, June 20th at West Town’s Morgan Manufacturing. This event benefits the Chicago Fire Foundation, which has been supporting disadvantaged youth in the local community since 1998, contributing over $2 million to date. Enjoy music, dancing, a premium open bar, and food from some of Chicago’s hottest restaurants. Don your most stylish white attire and celebrate with Chicago’s elite, members of the Chicago Fire First Team, and alumni. When: Thursday, June 20th, from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. 📍West Town’s Morgan Manufacturing, 401 N. Morgan St., Chicago, IL 60642
Watch Black Panther With Music Performed By A Live Chamber Orchestra
*This event has been postponed and will now take place on Saturday, January 18, 2025.* While the Chicago area boasts a variety of incredible cinematic experiences ranging from recent releases at drive-in theaters to [/trackLink] to iconic classics vintage art houses, there can be very few as unique as Chicago Philharmonic’s Auditorium Philms Concert Series. The popular concert series sees a range of award-winning movies shown at the Auditorium Theatre while a live orchestra brings the soundtracks to life before your eyes and ears. After an electric sold-out debut in 2022, Black Panther in Concert returns to the schedule with 70 Chicago Philharmonic musicians along with revered Senegalese tama drummer, Massamba Diop, set to perform Phil Ludwig Göransson’s Oscar® and Grammy®-winning score.
The Bean Will Reopen At The End Of The Month According To City Officials
One of Chicago’s most famous landmarks is coming back having been closed for almost a year. The Bean, officially known as Cloud Gate, went under construction back in August of 2023 for “necessary maintenance” which included replacing pavers and revamping the surrounding Grainger Plaza in order to “enhance the nearly 20-year-old Park’s appearance, visitor experience, and position as the #1 attraction in the Midwest.” There have been chain link fences and tarps surrounding the Bean ever since, impeding any photographs or views of the Bean while construction work was underway. That work was originally intended to be finished in time for an April reopening but that was then pushed back to a spring opening. Now, with work nearly complete, it was this week announced that the $23 million sculpture by Anish Kapoor will open to the public once again after over 10 months of closure.
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Secret Chicago tracks down the best things to do in the city, from quirky restaurants and hidden bars to the best exhibitions, shows and nightlife in Chicago.
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