Local calendar
60 upcoming events near Chicago. Each card links back to the source, so you can check the details before you go.
Worth a look
Source linked
Food festivals
Chicago, IL
The big summer food festival in Grant Park, with dozens of local restaurants, music, and neighborhood pop-up events earlier in the season. Free to enter, you pay for food.
Theater & film
2 PM
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor meeting room. · Chicago, IL
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor meeting room.
Image courtesy of: teachbesideme.com Come and join us at the Chicago Bee Library with facilitator eMadeline Morgan starting on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, from 2pm to 3pm! Every Tuesday! Whether you’ve never touched a chess piece or you’ve loved the game for years, this hour is for you! We’ll learn together, practice together, and enjoy thoughtful play in a friendly, welcoming space. Chess is more than a game — it’s a way to slow down, think creatively, and connect with others. During the Hour Yo...
Community & civic
1 PM
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab · Chicago, IL
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab
Interested in learning more about how to use the computer or need a refresher? We are now offering one-on-one basic computer skills development through the online resource Chicago Digital Learn. If you prefer to use your own laptop, feel free to bring it. Book a 1-on-1 appointment, or just drop by the desk on the 2nd floor with any tech-related questions. For computer assistance, please call or stop by the branch. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistan...
Classes & arts
6 PM
Logan Square · Community Room · Chicago, IL
Logan Square · Community Room
Do you knit, crochet, embroider or do another needlecraft? Join Logan Square's Thursday Knitting Circle. Show us your work and learn from others in the group. No experience required. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.
Classes & arts
2 PM
Scottsdale · Chicago, IL
Scottsdale
Let’s spend the afternoon chatting, creating and connecting with other creators in our community! Join us for a conversation over tea and coffee with others while creating your own masterpiece. Bring your own craft project or use supplies from our cart to create something new. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 bus...
Music & concerts
Daytime through evening
Millennium Park, Loop · Chicago, IL
Millennium Park, Loop
Take in a weekend of free gospel performances downtown celebrating Chicago's rich gospel tradition.
Community & civic
2 PM
Rogers Park · 1st Floor Reading Area · Chicago, IL
Rogers Park · 1st Floor Reading Area
Join the Rogers Park Branch Mystery Group! Check back for this month's title. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.
Community & civic
11 AM
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab · Chicago, IL
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab
Interested in learning more about how to use the computer or need a refresher? We are now offering one-on-one basic computer skills development through the online resource Chicago Digital Learn. If you prefer to use your own laptop, feel free to bring it. Book a 1-on-1 appointment, or just drop by the desk on the 2nd floor with any tech-related questions. For computer assistance, please call or stop by the branch. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistan...
Community & civic
6:15 PM
Manning · Chicago, IL
Manning
A space to stretch your creative writing muscles in a supportive environment. Open to all adults regardless of skill level. A writing warm-up and prompts will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own writing to work on during our session. Feel free to bring your own notebook, laptop, and reusable mug. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Re...
Community & civic
12 PM
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab · Chicago, IL
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab
Interested in learning more about how to use the computer or need a refresher? We are now offering one-on-one basic computer skills development through the online resource Chicago Digital Learn. If you prefer to use your own laptop, feel free to bring it. Book a 1-on-1 appointment, or just drop by the desk on the 2nd floor with any tech-related questions. For computer assistance, please call or stop by the branch. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistan...
Theater & film
6 PM
South Chicago · Chicago, IL
South Chicago
Join us for a fun-filled evening to play our favorite game and for a chance to win cool prizes. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.
Community & civic
1 PM
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab · Chicago, IL
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab
Interested in learning more about how to use the computer or need a refresher? We are now offering one-on-one basic computer skills development through the online resource Chicago Digital Learn. If you prefer to use your own laptop, feel free to bring it. Book a 1-on-1 appointment, or just drop by the desk on the 2nd floor with any tech-related questions. For computer assistance, please call or stop by the branch. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistan...
Classes & arts
6 PM
Logan Square · Community Room · Chicago, IL
Logan Square · Community Room
Do you knit, crochet, embroider or do another needlecraft? Join Logan Square's Thursday Knitting Circle. Show us your work and learn from others in the group. No experience required. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.
Community & civic
6:15 PM
Manning · Chicago, IL
Manning
A space to stretch your creative writing muscles in a supportive environment. Open to all adults regardless of skill level. A writing warm-up and prompts will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own writing to work on during our session. Feel free to bring your own notebook, laptop, and reusable mug. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Re...
Theater & film
2 PM
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor meeting room. · Chicago, IL
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor meeting room.
Image courtesy of: teachbesideme.com Come and join us at the Chicago Bee Library with facilitator eMadeline Morgan starting on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, from 2pm to 3pm! Every Tuesday! Whether you’ve never touched a chess piece or you’ve loved the game for years, this hour is for you! We’ll learn together, practice together, and enjoy thoughtful play in a friendly, welcoming space. Chess is more than a game — it’s a way to slow down, think creatively, and connect with others. During the Hour Yo...
Theater & film
12 PM
Harold Washington Library Center · 3rd floor, 3N6 · Chicago, IL
Harold Washington Library Center · 3rd floor, 3N6
Welcome senior adults! Join us for a series of in-person events full of fun and relaxation. Come make new friends and reunite with old acquaintances, as we play some rounds of classic party games. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event. Photo: Chicago Public Library Staff
Classes & arts
10 AM
Chicago Public Library · Chicago, IL
Chicago Public Library
Are you interested in cultivating your creativity through writing? Write and share a poem, story, essay or memoir with writer Donna Pecore at the Budlong Woods Branch Writing Workshop. Open to all adults, no experience necessary. Share your work Supportive environment Friendly group critique and advice Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests mu...
Community & civic
Chicago, IL
A free August show over the lakefront near North Avenue Beach, with military and civilian aircraft. One of the biggest free events of the year.
Theater & film
2 PM
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor meeting room. · Chicago, IL
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor meeting room.
Image courtesy of: teachbesideme.com Come and join us at the Chicago Bee Library with facilitator eMadeline Morgan starting on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, from 2pm to 3pm! Every Tuesday! Whether you’ve never touched a chess piece or you’ve loved the game for years, this hour is for you! We’ll learn together, practice together, and enjoy thoughtful play in a friendly, welcoming space. Chess is more than a game — it’s a way to slow down, think creatively, and connect with others. During the Hour Yo...
Lifelong learning
6:30 PM
Austin-Irving · Chicago, IL
Austin-Irving
Join the Austin-Irving branch for a discussion of The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James McBride. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.
Community & civic
12 PM
Woodson Regional · Second Floor Adult Area · Chicago, IL
Woodson Regional · Second Floor Adult Area
Join us to learn more about the organizations that serve the Washington Heights and neighboring Communities. The Community Resource Fair takes place on the 3rd Wednesday of the month. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.
Community & civic
2 PM
Rogers Park · 1st Floor Reading Area · Chicago, IL
Rogers Park · 1st Floor Reading Area
Join the Rogers Park Branch Mystery Group! Check back for this month's title. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.
Community & civic
1:30 PM
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab · Chicago, IL
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab
Need some relaxation and social interaction with like-minded people?! Enjoy coloring? Come yourself or bring a friend(s). Join us every Tuesday from 1:30--2:30pm for adult coloring and light snacks at the Chicago Bee Library. For Adults 18 and up! Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.
Community & civic
6 PM
Sulzer Regional · Large Meeting Room, 1st Floor · Chicago, IL
Sulzer Regional · Large Meeting Room, 1st Floor
Menopause is a natural transition that is often misunderstood, under-discussed, and filled with conflicting information. This monthly series brings together experts, advocates, and real women’s experiences to shed light on every stage of the journey. From hormones to mental health, relationships to research, each session offers practical tools, evidence-based insight, and space for honest conversation. Together, we’ll replace confusion with clarity, and empower each other to navigate menopaus...
Community & civic
12 PM
Woodson Regional · Study Room 2 · Chicago, IL
Woodson Regional · Study Room 2
On the first Thursday of each month, come to the library to get assistance with the following topics from The Village Legal & Community Project: • Parenting time • Housing • Power of attorney • Landlord-tenant • Debt collection These are a few of the subjects you can discuss with a lawyer without cost. Please bring the required paperwork with you. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipub...
Theater & film
12 PM
Harold Washington Library Center · 3rd floor, 3N6 · Chicago, IL
Harold Washington Library Center · 3rd floor, 3N6
Welcome senior adults! Join us for a series of in-person events full of fun and relaxation. Come make new friends and reunite with old acquaintances, as we play some rounds of classic party games. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event. Photo: Chicago Public Library Staff
Community & civic
12 PM
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab · Chicago, IL
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab
Interested in learning more about how to use the computer or need a refresher? We are now offering one-on-one basic computer skills development through the online resource Chicago Digital Learn. If you prefer to use your own laptop, feel free to bring it. Book a 1-on-1 appointment, or just drop by the desk on the 2nd floor with any tech-related questions. For computer assistance, please call or stop by the branch. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistan...
Community & civic
11 AM
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab · Chicago, IL
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab
Interested in learning more about how to use the computer or need a refresher? We are now offering one-on-one basic computer skills development through the online resource Chicago Digital Learn. If you prefer to use your own laptop, feel free to bring it. Book a 1-on-1 appointment, or just drop by the desk on the 2nd floor with any tech-related questions. For computer assistance, please call or stop by the branch. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistan...
Community & civic
2:30 PM
Sulzer Regional · Small Meeting Room · Chicago, IL
Sulzer Regional · Small Meeting Room
Comic Book Roundtable is a meet-up group for adult fans with new topics every month. This month we'll be talking about the Green Lanterns! This event is for adults ages 18 and up. Please contact us if you have any questions or suggestions for future topics! Example Titles: The Green Lantern Vol. 1, Intergalactic Lawman by Grant Morrison Far Sector by N. K. Jemisin Blackest Night by Geoff Johns Digital copies are also available with a library card on Hoopla Accessibility Need sign language int...
Community & civic
12:30 PM
Wrightwood-Ashburn · Chicago, IL
Wrightwood-Ashburn
Join us as we partner with Envision Unlimited, a local organization that empowers adults with disabilities. Every second Monday of the month, we will learn how to create small decorative rugs. All supplies will be provided, and you will be able to take your completed rug home with you . No registration required. This program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency through federal funds provided by the National Endowment for the Arts. Accessibility Need sign lan...
Community & civic
12 PM
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab · Chicago, IL
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab
Interested in learning more about how to use the computer or need a refresher? We are now offering one-on-one basic computer skills development through the online resource Chicago Digital Learn. If you prefer to use your own laptop, feel free to bring it. Book a 1-on-1 appointment, or just drop by the desk on the 2nd floor with any tech-related questions. For computer assistance, please call or stop by the branch. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistan...
Community & civic
12 PM
Woodson Regional · Second Floor Adult Area · Chicago, IL
Woodson Regional · Second Floor Adult Area
Join us to learn more about the organizations that serve the Washington Heights and neighboring Communities. The Community Resource Fair takes place on the 3rd Wednesday of the month. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event.
Community & civic
1 PM
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab · Chicago, IL
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab
Interested in learning more about how to use the computer or need a refresher? We are now offering one-on-one basic computer skills development through the online resource Chicago Digital Learn. If you prefer to use your own laptop, feel free to bring it. Book a 1-on-1 appointment, or just drop by the desk on the 2nd floor with any tech-related questions. For computer assistance, please call or stop by the branch. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistan...
Community & civic
12 PM
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab · Chicago, IL
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab
Interested in learning more about how to use the computer or need a refresher? We are now offering one-on-one basic computer skills development through the online resource Chicago Digital Learn. If you prefer to use your own laptop, feel free to bring it. Book a 1-on-1 appointment, or just drop by the desk on the 2nd floor with any tech-related questions. For computer assistance, please call or stop by the branch. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistan...
Community & civic
11 AM
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab · Chicago, IL
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab
Interested in learning more about how to use the computer or need a refresher? We are now offering one-on-one basic computer skills development through the online resource Chicago Digital Learn. If you prefer to use your own laptop, feel free to bring it. Book a 1-on-1 appointment, or just drop by the desk on the 2nd floor with any tech-related questions. For computer assistance, please call or stop by the branch. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistan...
Community & civic
12 PM
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab · Chicago, IL
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab
Interested in learning more about how to use the computer or need a refresher? We are now offering one-on-one basic computer skills development through the online resource Chicago Digital Learn. If you prefer to use your own laptop, feel free to bring it. Book a 1-on-1 appointment, or just drop by the desk on the 2nd floor with any tech-related questions. For computer assistance, please call or stop by the branch. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistan...
Community & civic
1 PM
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab · Chicago, IL
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab
Interested in learning more about how to use the computer or need a refresher? We are now offering one-on-one basic computer skills development through the online resource Chicago Digital Learn. If you prefer to use your own laptop, feel free to bring it. Book a 1-on-1 appointment, or just drop by the desk on the 2nd floor with any tech-related questions. For computer assistance, please call or stop by the branch. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistan...
Community & civic
12 PM
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab · Chicago, IL
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab
Interested in learning more about how to use the computer or need a refresher? We are now offering one-on-one basic computer skills development through the online resource Chicago Digital Learn. If you prefer to use your own laptop, feel free to bring it. Book a 1-on-1 appointment, or just drop by the desk on the 2nd floor with any tech-related questions. For computer assistance, please call or stop by the branch. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistan...
Community & civic
11 AM
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab · Chicago, IL
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab
Interested in learning more about how to use the computer or need a refresher? We are now offering one-on-one basic computer skills development through the online resource Chicago Digital Learn. If you prefer to use your own laptop, feel free to bring it. Book a 1-on-1 appointment, or just drop by the desk on the 2nd floor with any tech-related questions. For computer assistance, please call or stop by the branch. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistan...
Community & civic
12 PM
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab · Chicago, IL
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab
Interested in learning more about how to use the computer or need a refresher? We are now offering one-on-one basic computer skills development through the online resource Chicago Digital Learn. If you prefer to use your own laptop, feel free to bring it. Book a 1-on-1 appointment, or just drop by the desk on the 2nd floor with any tech-related questions. For computer assistance, please call or stop by the branch. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistan...
Community & civic
1 PM
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab · Chicago, IL
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab
Interested in learning more about how to use the computer or need a refresher? We are now offering one-on-one basic computer skills development through the online resource Chicago Digital Learn. If you prefer to use your own laptop, feel free to bring it. Book a 1-on-1 appointment, or just drop by the desk on the 2nd floor with any tech-related questions. For computer assistance, please call or stop by the branch. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistan...
Community & civic
12 PM
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab · Chicago, IL
Chicago Bee · 2nd floor computer lab
Interested in learning more about how to use the computer or need a refresher? We are now offering one-on-one basic computer skills development through the online resource Chicago Digital Learn. If you prefer to use your own laptop, feel free to bring it. Book a 1-on-1 appointment, or just drop by the desk on the 2nd floor with any tech-related questions. For computer assistance, please call or stop by the branch. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistan...
Theater & film
Evenings and matinees
Goodman Theatre, Loop · Chicago, IL
Goodman Theatre, Loop
Take in a show at the Tony Award winning Goodman, with productions running through the year downtown.
Classes & arts
Chicago, IL
A German-style holiday market downtown at Daley Plaza from late November through Christmas Eve, with food, gluhwein, and craft vendors. A second location runs in the suburbs.
Dance & fitness
Daytime
Renaissance Court, Chicago Cultural Center · Chicago, IL
Renaissance Court, Chicago Cultural Center
Practice slow, flowing tai chi movements for balance and calm at the downtown senior center.
Classes & arts
10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Renaissance Court, Chicago Cultural Center · Chicago, IL
Renaissance Court, Chicago Cultural Center
Develop your oil painting skills in a weekly studio class for older adults.
Music & concerts
Chicago, IL
Free concerts at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion through the summer, from classical to world music, most weeknights. Bring a blanket and sit on the lawn.
Food festivals
9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Chicago, IL
A historic open-air market the city runs on Sundays, known for Mexican street food, vendors, and live music. Decades of history on the Near West Side.
Community & civic
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Field Museum, Museum Campus · Chicago, IL
Field Museum, Museum Campus
Explore the Field Museum's exhibitions for free on Wednesdays if you are an Illinois resident.
Markets
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Near West Side, Chicago · Chicago, IL
Near West Side, Chicago
Hunt for crafts and antiques and eat global street food at Chicago's century-old free Sunday market.
Lifelong learning
12:30 p.m.
Renaissance Court, Chicago Cultural Center · Chicago, IL
Renaissance Court, Chicago Cultural Center
Get one-on-one help tracing your family history in a free genealogy session for seniors.
Community & civic
5 to 8 p.m.
Art Institute of Chicago, Loop · Chicago, IL
Art Institute of Chicago, Loop
Visit one of the world's great art museums for free on Thursday evenings as an Illinois resident.
Dance & fitness
11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
Renaissance Court, Chicago Cultural Center · Chicago, IL
Renaissance Court, Chicago Cultural Center
Ease into gentle Hatha and chair yoga sessions designed for seniors downtown.
Senior programs
Varies
Various locations, Chicago · Chicago, IL
Various locations, Chicago
Stay active and meet people through regular outings organized for adults 50 and older.
Lifelong learning
Varies
Chicago Public Library branches · Chicago, IL
Chicago Public Library branches
Join one of hundreds of free book club meetings happening across the library system each month.
Classes & arts
Daytime
Renaissance Court, Chicago Cultural Center · Chicago, IL
Renaissance Court, Chicago Cultural Center
Make textile art or craft your own jewelry in hands-on weekly sessions for seniors.
Pickleball & rec
Varies by location
Park District courts citywide · Chicago, IL
Park District courts citywide
Find dozens of public pickleball courts across the city for open play close to home.
Classes & arts
Afternoon and evening
Pottery Studio 1, Lakeview · Chicago, IL
Pottery Studio 1, Lakeview
Try the pottery wheel for an evening with no commitment in this drop-in beginner class.
Markets
8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
1817 N Clark St, Lincoln Park · Chicago, IL
1817 N Clark St, Lincoln Park
Shop the city's flagship farmers market for the best local produce and prepared foods from the Midwest.
Outdoors & nature
Varies
Chicago-area trails · Chicago, IL
Chicago-area trails
Join fellow over-50 hikers for regular walks on wooded trails around the Chicago area.
