Want to know what’s happening this weekend in Chicago? Look no further. There’s a whole calendar of exciting events, exhibits, and activities taking place all over the city this month in Chicago.
This weekend in Chicago is jam-packed with neighborhood festivals, artisan markets, jaw-dropping art exhibits, riveting live theatre, family-friendly fun, exciting cultural events, and so much more.
Check out just a few of the top things to do this weekend in Chicago, Sept. 19 – 21, 2025.
Chicago Live!
The Largest Free Performing Arts Festival in the Midwest returns this September! Navy Pier’s free two-day Chicago Live! performing arts festival returns for the fifth…
Riot Fest
Enjoy the annual festival and carnival in Douglass Park featuring headlining performances from Blink 182, Alkaline Trio, Weird Al Yankovic, and more.
Chicago Architecture Biennial
Explore cutting-edge projects and ideas from global contributors at North America’s largest architecture and design festival. All events are free and open to the public.
Día de Muertos: A Celebration of Remembrance
The Day of the Dead is one of Mexico’s most extraordinary traditions, which celebrates the lives of those who have passed away. The National Museum of Mexican Art in Pilsen is holding their 39th annual exhibit dedicated to Day of the Dead customs and traditions.
Chicago Exhibition Weekend
Fifty galleries and cultural spaces across the city unite to spotlight Chicago’s thriving arts scene with special programs and exhibitions.
Reeling Film Festival
Reeling is thrilled to invite audiences to enjoy in-person theater screenings at the following venues: Landmark’s Century Centre Cinema, 2828 N Clark St Chicago Filmmakers,…
Rhinoceros Theater Festival
Now in its 36th year, Rhinoceros Theater Festival is Chicago’s longest-running fringe theatre event. Choose from dozens of shows hosted at intimate Chicago venues.
Ashland Avenue
“You gotta start living your life right now. Because someday you’ll wake up and it’s over.” Pete’s TV and Video has served Chicagoland for 40+…
Illinois Holocaust Museum presents Experience360
Illinois Holocaust Museum presents Experience360 provides a panoramic view through history and truth, inviting visitors of all backgrounds to witness stories of survival, ask questions, and reflect…
Mr. Wolf
12 years ago, Theresa was stolen from her parents. Now a precocious 15-year-old, she has been rescued and returned to a family that had nearly…
Living in the Shade: Open Space and Public Housing
This exhibition at the National Public Housing Museum explores the role of open space—large lawns and tenant gardens, paved paths and play spaces, shady seating…
The Messi Experience Chicago
The Messi Experience is an immersive and interactive multimedia exhibition inspired by the life and career of Lionel Messi. As part of its world tour,…
Big Bus Tours’ Sunset Live Tour
Big Bus Tours, the global leader in open-top bus sightseeing, invites visitors to experience the enhanced Sunset Live Tour in Chicago. Available May 8 through…
Explore our events calendar for more Chicago events and happenings.
Please note that all events are subject to change.