Swing Into Spring: A Guide to Chicago’s Upcoming Events

Time to smell the flowers, Chicago

Clouds parting in the sky, the warm sun shining through, flowers blooming, and a nice, cool breeze coming off the lake… Spring is almost here, and with it comes a variety of events.

Dust off your shorts and get ready to check them out.

Advertisement
Macy’s Flower Show

March 20-April 3
Macy’s on State
Price: Free

What better way to start off spring than a flower show? This year’s theme is “America the Beautiful,” and landscapes from across the country will be on display in Chicago for a two-week period. The vivid, contrasting colors are sure to catch your eye, and they probably smell nice too.

Advertisement
Chicago Beer Festival

March 26
The Field Museum
Price: $45-$55

A beer festival in a world-class museum? Count us in. Grab hold of 40 taste vouchers and go to town on dozens of local and domestic beers. This one starts at 7 pm, so grab dinner in the area beforehand and make it into a night to remember.

Advertisement
Shamrock Shuffle

April 3
Grant Park
Price: $50

Grab your green garb and lace up your sneakers for this St. Paddy’s themed 8K. The loop begins and ends at Grant Park, taking you right thought the heart of the city.

Advertisement
Baconfest

April 30 – May 1
UIC Forum
Price: $100, $200 for VIP

Of all the food events in Chicago, Baconfest might be our favorite. For the most part, it’s exactly what you think it is… but better. Chefs will be on hand with exotic and traditional bacon flavored dishes, and each day brings a different twist.

Advertisement
18th Annual Chicago Kids and Kites Festival

May 7
Cricket Hill
Price: Free

This City of Chicago sponsored event makes for some quality family fun. Kids can decorate their own free kites (provided in a kite kit) and fly them at their leisure.

Advertisement
Bike the Drive

May 29
Columbus and Jackson
Prices Vary

For one day each year, Lake Shore Drive shuts down to accommodate bikes of all shapes and sizes. It starts at 5:30 am, but the one-of-a-kind experience and post-party make it well worth the early alarm.

Advertisement
Spring Awakening Music Festival 

June 10 – 12
Jackson Park
Prices Vary

EDM fans rejoice, as Spring Awakening is back for another year. The lineup has yet to be released, but expect big names to headline.