Break out the shorts and sandals: We’re planning to spend the month outside in Chicago between festivals, parades, and alfresco dining 😎 Here’s your guide to June in the city.
Seek Out Pride Celebrations
The Pride Parade in Northalsted will be smaller this year due to safety concerns. But you don’t have to wait until June 30 to celebrate. Hot Potato Hearts is hosting queer-only dating events this month. The Queer Fam Pride Jam will have family-friendly fun this weekend. The Fire and Sky are having themed nights.
Have Fun in the Water
Outdoor Park District pools are set to open June 17, but call and check at your location since the lifeguard shortage has pushed back the opening date in recent years. Adults and kids can learn how to swim at a park near them. If you’re swimming or boating in Lake Michigan, review these safety tips.
Do Something Special for Dad
If your dad or dad-like figure’s love language is quality time, take him out! Play a round of golf, treat him to the Crosstown Classic in Wrigleyville next week, or grab dinner.
How to Observe Juneteenth
Commemorate the emancipation of enslaved people with food, music, and more at a Morgan Park festival June 15 and at the DuSable Museum in Washington Park June 19. Do you have the holiday off? You can donate your PTO to Free Root Operation, a local violence prevention group.
Who else is trying to dine outside like at Pizzeria Portofino in the Loop? (Abel Uribe / Chicago Tribune / Getty)
Alfresco Dining (Kinda) Returns
Pandemic-era outdoor dining isn’t completely gone: Dine Out on Broadway returns in Lakeview next weekend while Clark Street’s outdoor dining has partially returned in River North. There are always patios and rooftops, a debate that has long divided Chicagoans.
Make Your Summertime Chi Bucket List
Summer is only just starting, and we want to hear what’s on YOUR bucket list. Are you trying to have Rainbow Cone for the first time like City Cast marketing director Caroline Patton? What about a starry night walk in Palos Preserves like executive producer Simone Alicea?
Stay tuned for when we talk festivals in a couple of weeks!
