Plan out your week in Chicago with the city’s best concerts, culture, cuisine and more.
Monday
“John Singer Sargent and Chicago's Gilded Age” at the Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute displays 100 works by one of the most sought-after portrait artists at the turn of the 20th century.
Navy Pier Water Flicks Summer Film Series at Polk Bros Park
Catch a free screening of the recent animated film Sing at Navy Pier's weekly summer movie series.
Tuesday
Waitress at Cadillac Palace Theatre
It's opening night for the Chicago staging of this Broadway sleeper hit about a small-town diner waitress who can bake the hell out of a pie but finds her life choices less than filling—featuring a score penned by pop singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles.
Millennium Park Summer Film Series at Pritzker Pavilion
See John Cusack star as a Chicago record store owner and music-obsessive in the classic comedy High Fidelity during at week's free movie screening in Millennium Park.
Wednesday
Fourth of July Fireworks at Navy Pier
Your neighbors are probably planning an unofficial fireworks display for the Fourth, but if you want to see the biggest show in the city, find a sightline of Navy Pier and sit back to see the aerial sparks beginning at 9:30pm.
Fourth of July Celebration at Chicago History Museum
Get up early on the Fourth of July to hear patriotic tunes from the Americana Concert Band and a reading of the Declaration of Independence. The free festivities begin at 10am—admission to the museum is free for Illinois residents.
Thursday
Janelle Monáe at Chicago Theatre
Sci-fi soul diva Janelle Monáe returns to outer space on her new album, Dirty Computer, armed with songs that reckon with her pansexual awakening.
Chicago SummerDance at Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park
Strap on your dancing shoes and learn traditional Palestinian moves at this free event.
Friday
Radiohead at United Center
Thom Yorke and company kick off their latest North American tour in Chicago—prepare for deep cuts from the band's experimental rock catalog and a killer light show.
West Fest at Chicago Ave between Wood St and Damen Ave
Folk-rocker Kevin Morby and local rapper Joey Purp top the lineup at this street fest, joined by Chicago acts like Ohmme, Varsity and oddCouple.
Saturday
Chosen Few DJs Music Festival at Jackson Park
Local house music legends the Chosen Few DJs throw their annual picnic and concerts, with support from the Basement Boys, remix artist Ralphi Rosario and local singer Sheree Hicks.
“Counterparts” at Vertical Gallery
Self-taught street artist Pizza in the Rain, fine artist Joseph Renda Jr. and multimedia creator Crop take the spotlight in Vertical's showcase of rising Chicago talents.
Sunday
Live in Lincoln Park at Stockton Dr and LaSalle Dr
Reggae act Michael Franti and Phish bassist Mike Gordon headline this new jam, reggae and roots rock festival in Lincoln Park.
Anime Midwest at Hyatt Regency O’Hare
Love anime and manga? You'll find famous voice actors, tons of Japanese merch and plenty of creative cosplayers at the final day of this three-day celebration of Japanese culture.