Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) unveiled Chicago’s 2026 lineup of festivals and events, kicking off in May and running through the holiday season. From the return of beloved staples like the Chicago Blues Festival, Taste of Chicago, and the Chicago Air and Water Show, to citywide programs, including Chicago SummerDance, Farmers Markets, and free outdoor concerts and films in Millennium Park, Chicago’s cultural calendar is once again set to energize residents and visitors alike.
2026 Event Calendar
• Chicago Farmers Markets (Citywide markets including Daley Plaza)— May through October; Division Street Farmers Market opens Saturday, May 16, and Daley Plaza Farmers Market opens Thursday, May 21. ChicagoFarmersMarkets.us
• Millennium Park Summer Workouts (Great Lawn) — Saturdays, May 16 – September 5. MillenniumPark.org
• Millennium Park Summer Film Series (Jay Pritzker Pavilion) — Tuesdays, July 1 – August 19. MillenniumPark.org
• Taste of Chicago (Grant Park) — Wednesday through Sunday, July 8–12. TasteofChicago.us
• Chicago Air and Water Show (North Avenue Beach) — Saturday and Sunday, August 15 – 16 (rehearsal Friday, August 14). ChicagoAirandWaterShow.us
All dates and event details are subject to change. For updates and full programming information throughout the season, visit Chicago.gov/DCASE
Photo Credit: Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE)
