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America250

Illinois250 Chicago events

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In 2026, the United States will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence with a nationwide celebration.

Throughout the year, Chicago will be honoring this milestone and the history of our great city with exciting Illinois250 exhibits, concerts, performances, and more.

Experience Chicago history

Located in the heart of America, Chicago’s is one of the country’s largest and most influential cities. Learn more about the city’s fascinating history and our unique cultural contributions.

DuSable Museum of African American History

Black History Month

Did you know that the Black History Month tradition originated in Chicago?

Come discover the city’s rich legacy of Black history and culture, from the nation’s oldest independent Black history museum to our thriving Black-owned businesses.

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Clayton Hauck for Choose Chicago

Chicago History Museum

The Chicago History Museum explores the fascinating stories, people, and events that have shaped our great city, from the Great Chicago Fire to the World’s Fair and beyond.

The museums will be celebrating Illinois 250 throughout the year with art installations, unique artifacts, updated exhibits, and more.

 

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Hotel Florence_front entrance_Photo by Eric Allix Rogers_Courtesy of Historic Pullman Foundation

Pullman National Historic Park

Step back in time in to the 1880s in Pullman, one of the first planned industrial communities in the United States. Located on Chicago’s South Side, Pullman was named a National Monument by President Barack Obama.

Stroll through the park to admire everything from an elegant hotel to executive mansions and workers cottages. Stop at the Visitors Center for interesting exhibits and artifacts, then head to the A. Philip Randolph Pullman Porter Museum to learn more about Pullman’s role in the labor movement.

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Route 66 start sign in Chicago

Route 66

Situated in the heart of the country, Chicago is where you’ll find the official starting point of the ultimate American road trip — Route 66.

Known as “The Mother Road”, this iconic stretch of Americana begins in downtown Chicago and stretches more than 2,400 miles to the Pacific Coast. In 2026, Chicago will be marking Route 66’s 100th anniversary with celebrations throughout the year. Explore local landmarks along the route and start planning your trip.

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(c) Field Museum photo by Jay Young – Native Truths Exhibition 1

Indigenous Chicago

Chicago is home to one of the largest urban Native American communities in the United States, with about 65,000 Native American residents and some 175 different tribes.

Today, Chicago’s Native American history is honored in our museums, monuments, and public art. The city is also home to a thriving community of Indigenous Chicagoans sharing contemporary perspectives on traditional art, culture, and cuisine.

Explore some of the city’s Native American-owned businesses, plus art galleries, cultural centers, and events celebrating Chicago’s Indigenous communities.

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Explore history in Chicago’s neighborhoods

Dive into Chicago’s vibrant neighborhoods with The 77, an award-winning neighborhood travel series.


Bronzeville
Bronzeville has a long history as a hub for the African American creative community. That living legacy continues today, intertwined with the neighborhood’s many art galleries, classic eateries, and authentic character.

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Uptown
The cultural corridor known as Asia on Argyle has evolved into a hub for Southeast Asian cuisine — and a source of pride for the area’s international residents.

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Pullman and Roseland

Home to Chicago’s only National Historical Park, these neighborhoods have played a key role in the labor rights movement. Today, community-led initiatives are shifting the narrative of these deeply historic neighborhoods.

Watch video

Featured Illinois250 events

Celebrate Illinois250 and dive into Chicago history at these upcoming events and celebrations. And don’t miss Illinois250 events throughout the year.

International Jazz Day 2026
Apr30

International Jazz Day 2026

UNESCO has announced that the 15th annual International Jazz Day will take place in a city known for its incredible contributions to the history and…

Thursday, April 30th
12:00 a.m.11:30 p.m.
CSO America 250: A Musical Journey
Jun2

CSO America 250: A Musical Journey

In June 2026, Symphony Center marks America’s 250th anniversary with performances that honor the nation’s rich and evolving cultural landscape. From concerts with the Chicago…

Tuesday, June 2nd
8:00 p.m.9:00 p.m.
CSO America 250: A Musical Journey
Jun3

CSO America 250: A Musical Journey

In June 2026, Symphony Center marks America’s 250th anniversary with performances that honor the nation’s rich and evolving cultural landscape. From concerts with the Chicago…

Wednesday, June 3rd
8:00 p.m.9:00 p.m.
CSO America 250: A Musical Journey
Jun4

CSO America 250: A Musical Journey

In June 2026, Symphony Center marks America’s 250th anniversary with performances that honor the nation’s rich and evolving cultural landscape. From concerts with the Chicago…

Thursday, June 4th
8:00 p.m.9:00 p.m.
CSO America 250: A Musical Journey
Jun5

CSO America 250: A Musical Journey

In June 2026, Symphony Center marks America’s 250th anniversary with performances that honor the nation’s rich and evolving cultural landscape. From concerts with the Chicago…

Friday, June 5th
8:00 p.m.9:00 p.m.

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