The best Memorial Day weekend events in Chicago
Celebrate the start of summer in Chicago with these events.
After two years of truncated celebrations, Memorial Day 2022 is bringing a full weekend of festivities back to Chicago—including the annual wreath-laying ceremony and downtown parade, which will return for the first time since 2019 to honor those who died serving in the U.S. armed forces. Looking for even more ways to spend the long weekend? Break out a blanket for lunch at the best picnic spots in Chicago, meet friends for drinks at stunning rooftop bars, brave the chilly Lake Michigan water for opening weekend at Chicago beaches or catch some of the first summer street festivals of the season (including Mole de Mayo, Belmont-Sheffield Music Festival and the new, reggaeton-focused Sueños Music Festival in Millennium Park). Plus, don't miss Navy Pier's free holiday fireworks show, which will light up the skies at 10pm on Saturday.
When is Memorial Day 2022?
This year, Memorial Day falls on Monday, May 30, but Memorial Day weekend runs from Saturday, May 28 through Monday, May 30.
Where is the Memorial Day Parade?
The city's Memorial Day commemorations kick off at 11am with the wreath laying ceremony at Richard J. Daley Center Plaza (50 W Washington St). At noon, the parade along State Street will step off at State Street and Lake Street and continue to Van Buren Street.
Where can I see Memorial Day fireworks in Chicago?
Navy Pier's summer fireworks season kicks off at 10pm on Saturday, May 28. The popular tourist attraction will host weekly fireworks displays through Labor Day, with shows on Wednesdays at 9pm and Saturdays at 10pm.
