With many festivals, concerts, and athletic events this weekend, the City of Chicago is advising residents and visitors to be aware of street closures,  additional crowds, increased traffic and to plan accordingly.  The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) is reminding residents and visitors of security measures in place and stresses the importance of always being aware of your surroundings and to report suspicious activity to on-site event security or by calling 9-1-1. A few of this week’s festivals include:

Bud Billiken Parade
Saturday, August 8, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

The 97th annual Bud Billiken Parade is a beloved Chicago tradition that has brought together generations of families through a shared commitment to education, youth, and community. Held at the close of summer, the parade celebrates students as they prepare to begin a new school year with excitement, inspiration, and pride. The parade begins at 39th Street and Martin Luther King Drive and goes to 51st Street and ends at Washington Park. For more information, please visit: Bud Billiken Parade.

Special Olympics Illinois Duck Derby 
Thursday, August 6, 1:00 p.m.

The Chicago Ducky Derby is a signature fundraising event that benefits Special Olympics Illinois. For more information, please visit: Special Olympics Illinois Duck Derby.

Northalsted Market Days
Friday, August 7, 4:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m., Saturday, August 8 and Sunday, August 9, 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Located on Halsted Street from Belmont to Addison, Northalsted Market Days® is an annual street festival celebrating community in Chicago’s landmark Northalsted/Lakeview neighborhood. The half mile long summer festival features all-day lineups of live music on 4 stages, 250+ vendors, food and drink, dance exhibitions, and more.