Will Mendelson

Rainbow-clad revelers flooded Boystown this weekend to celebrate Pride Fest, the kickoff to a week of celebrations in the neighborhood that end next Sunday with the Pride Parade. Cover bands, drag queens and Debbie Gibson all took to the stage for a wekend of entertainment and plenty of drinks.  RECOMMENDED: Take a look at our guide to all things Gay Pride

Boystown residents are proud to live in a vibrant community filled with everything from neat, offbeat shops to theaters, gay bars and some seriously good restaurants. See what some Boystown residents love about their community, and take note so you'll know what to check out. RECOMMENDED: Our complete guide to Boystown

1. Your next favorite find is at the Logan Square Arts FestivalYou're guaranteed to find something special at the Logan Square Arts Festival. Come out for the fest's first day, peruse pieces from local art vendors, enjoy cocktails, and hear live music by local musicians. (Logan Square Monument, 3200 W Logan Blvd, 5pm. Free, $5 suggested donation.) 2. Chill out with Christopher OwensRelax after a long week with the frontman of now-defunct indie band Girls. Christopher Owens performs catchy, lush tunes about relationships and spirituality from his newest album. (Schubas, 3159 N Southport Ave, 9pm. $20.) 3. Dance your feet off at Super CutzBurn, baby, burn at this monthly dance fever celebration hosted by DJ Joe Bryl. From funk and Latin boogaloo to house and reggae beats, you're guaranteed to work up a sweat and dance the night away. (Maria's Packaged Goods & Community Bar, 960 W 31st St, 8pm. Free.)

Fourth of July is right around the corner, which means one thing: fireworks. And while there are many places to see them in Chicago, we've gathered a few truly spectacular ways to experience the main event.  See fireworks from high in the sky Feeling adventurous? Chicago Helicopter Experience lets you jet around the Chicago skyline while you watch as fireworks light up the sky all around you. Trying to impress that special someone? This should really do the trick. (Tickets $300). Catch a wave while you catch the fireworks Set sail and watch the fireworks from Lake Michigan on a Spirit Cruises tour. The Fourth of July special features views of the Chicago skyline and Navy Pier fireworks, along with a DJ and dancing, a buffet and open bar. (Tickets $159.90) Taking the kids along? Wendella Boats offers a family-friendly fireworks cruise on Lake Michigan with a narrated tour. (Tickets $34-$45).  Eat, drink and watch Some of the city's best rooftop bars downtown offer both stunning views and food and drink specials. The Signature Room at the John Hancock has access to some of the best views of Chicago's fireworks and specialty Fourth of July fireworks. Grab a spot at Rebar at Trump and try the Firecracker cocktail, a strawberry concoction that screams, "USA!" The swanky Godfrey Hotel's IO Urban Roofscape also offers amazing views from its lounge. Cite at the top of Lake Point Tower also provides 360-degree views of the fireworks. Start making your plans accordingly. 

Wrigley Field is set to put on its very first fireworks show on July 4, after the Cubs take on the Miami Marlins. If you're heading to the game, get there early—the first 10,000 fans to arrive will get a Cubs camo cap.  To mark the holiday, 100 members of the Illinois USO will also display a large American flag during the pregame, while the Cubbies themselves will don patriotic uniforms for the event. After the Cubs play their hearts out, fireworks will light up the sky to the delight of fans young and old. The game starts at 6:15pm.

1. Get Footloose at Chase ParkEverybody cut loose! Pack a blanket, grab your friends and catch the classic film under the stars tonight. (Chase Park, 4701 N Ashland Ave, 8:30pm. Free.) 2. See the very funny Cristela Alonzo liveStill mourning the cancellation of Cristela's hilarious ABC sitcom? Fear not because tonight you can see her in person. No doubt she'll even poke fun at her sitcom's cancellation and bring all the laughs. (Zanies, 1548 N Wells St, 8pm. $30.) 3. Show your pride at the Lakefront Pride PartyKick off your Gay Pride weekend at this annual lakefront party. Bring your beads and boas to the party that also features a 5K race. The outdoor lakefront bash benefits the Center on Halsted and will have go-go boys and drinks on-hand. DJs Adam LeBlanc and Matthew Harvat of Sixteen Candles will provide fun dance beats. (Diversey Harbor, 2601 N Cannon Dr, music 6pm-10pm; race kicks off at 7:30pm. Free.)

Now's your chance to have Fido or Spot featured in a Guinness World Record. On Saturday, bring your furry friend to the Stadium Green at Soldier Field for Woofstock, a free music fest for both you and your pet that will aim to break the Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of pets. (Yes, this is a thing). The current record, 4,616 pets, has held steady since 2007. Presented by Animal Planet, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and Paws Chicago, the fest also brings comedian Eugene Mirman, who hilariously voices Gene Belcher on Bob's Burgers. As for the music, it'll also have you wagging your tail. Clap Your Hands Say Yeah headlines, sharing the stage with JC Brooks & The Uptown Sound and The Suffers. Even everyone's favorite celebrity Internet cat, Lil Bub, will be there.  Tickets are free, and the fest goes from noon to 5pm on Saturday.

1. See Ingrid Michaelson perform liveIt's hard not to fall in love with the relaxing, catchy tunes of Ingrid Michaelson. Sing along with her songs you already know, and also catch Jukebox the Ghost, a rock/pop trio making waves for its fun melodies. (Chicago Theatre, 175 N State St, 7:30pm. $29.50-$39.50.) 2. Head to Northerly Island for the Teens In the Park FestGet ready for a lot of teen spirit. Chance the Rapper curates a fun-filled fest of live music, interactive tents, breakdancing, fashion design, jewelry making and digital media. Adults are also welcome to join in on the fun. (Northerly Island, 1400 S Linn White Dr, 4:30pm. Free.) 3. Experience the Art Institute's new "David Hartt: Interval" exhibitThe Art Institute of Chicago's cool new exhibit features photos and films from Canadian artist David Hartt. He explores two isolated locales: Whitehorse in the Canadian Yukon, and Sakhalin Island, a Russian territory. (Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S Michigan Ave, 10:30am-5pm. General admission.)

1. Rock out with Bad ReligionNearly four decades in, punk rock icons Bad Religion are still at it. Tonight, see the band that always puts on one hell of a show. You'll be talking about it for years. (Metro, 3730 N Clark St, 7:30pm. $31.) 2. Explore the "Secret Lives of Objects"The Chicago History Museum's new exhibit features items pulled deep from the museum's vaults, from a revolver used in a raid on Harpers Ferry to Charlie Chaplin's cane. Uncover their fascinating stories and prepare to be amazed. (Chicago History Museum, 1601 N Clark St, 9:30am-4:30pm. General admission.) 3. Laugh with Chicago Underground ComedyCheck out this lineup of up-and-coming comedians, and prepare to laugh your face off at this decade-old comedy showcase in the heart of Roscoe Village. (Beat Kitchen, 2100 W Belmont Ave, 9:30pm. $5.)

1. Rev up for Girls on the RunEnjoy unlimited beer from Revolution Brewing, plus appetizers and a raffle. Even better, proceeds benefit Girls on the Run, a national nonprofit that encourages girls to get out there, feel good about themselves and go for a run. (Revolution Brewing, 2323 N Milwaukee Ave, 6:30pm. $50-$60.) 2. Take in a free concert at Downtown Sound: Active ChildWhat's better than a free concert after a long Monday? Unwind with Active Child and his dreamy electronic sounds. Chicago bassist Matt Ulery opens the show with chamber ensemble Eighth Blackbird. (Millennium Park, Pritzker Pavilion, 6:30pm. Free.) 3. Watch a movie in the park at Fulton RiverTonight, catch Gravity under the stars. Seeing Sandra Bullock and George Clooney try to survive in space never gets old. (Fulton River Park, 601 W Kinzie St, 8:30pm. Free.)

1. Groove to the beat with Ryan HemsworthJust like the song said, you gotta get down on Friday. So tonight, check out DJ Ryan Hemsworth, who always puts on a good show and start your weekend off right with some sick beats. (The MID, 306 N Halsted St, 9pm. $13.) 2. Relax with a glass of wine and Wanda JacksonYou worked hard this week, and you deserve a glass of wine. While you sip, watch the Queen of Rockabilly, Ms. Wanda Jackson herself, perform at what is sure to be a good show. (City Winery, 1200 W Randolph St, 7:30pm. $26–$32.) 3. Catch The Goonies 30th anniversary screeningHey you guuuuuuuuuys! It's somehow been 30 years since the classic film's release, and admit it: You still know every line. Celebrate the film's 30th birthday with a special screening and some brews. (Vic Theatre, 3145 N Sheffield Ave, 9pm. $5.)

1. See funny guy Judd Apatow at a reading Judd Apatow talks about his new book and brings all the funny during a special appearance in Chicago. Admission also includes a copy of his book. (Art Institute of Chicago, Rubloff Auditorium, 12:30pm. $32-$38.) 2. Get down with the Geto Boys Bushwick Bill and Scarface are back. Check out the rap act as the duo performs songs from a new record as well as early '90s hits. (Thalia Hall, 1807 S Allport St, 8:30pm. $22–$28.) 3. Make the beginning of summer sweet The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum hosts its annual Summer Solstice celebration, featuring giant bug sculptures and a honey tasting. Enjoy a honey tasting and take in some giant bug sculptures at this Summer Solstice celebration. (The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N Cannon Dr, 9am-5pm. Free.)  

In case you haven't bought dad a nice gift for Father's Day, don't forget, you only have until Sunday. And while you're at it, you're going to want to show dad a good time in Chicago, because he deserves it. In need of some ideas? No sweat. Start by treating dad to a delicious brunch or barbecue and then use our guide guaranteed to remind your dad just how special he is. Rock out with dad Don't always agree with your father's taste in music? Both my father and I are huge fans of Damien Rice and Iron + Wine, and what better way to relax on Father's Day Sunday than catching some cool vibes from these two? In the mood for something more rocking? Take dad to a Michael Franti & Spearhead show, and jam out to sunny, funky tunes. Get your artistic side on  Feeling cultured? Take dad to a cool exhibit like the "Spreading Devotion: Japanese and European Religious Prints" exhibit at the Art Institute. Featuring rare Japanese prints, the exhibit's last day is Father's Day. And while you're there, be sure to also check out the "Ireland: Crossroads of Art and Design" exhibit, with more than 300 items showcasing Ireland's rich history. Sunday is also the last day for the exhibit, so see it while you can. Get funky at a street fest Your dad is cool, so show him a cool time at one of Chicago's many street festivals. Bring him to the Taste of Randolph Street, featuring six blocks of food, drinks, live music and just an all-around good time. Unwind in the park Now that summer is officially her

You've probably been wearing your Blackhawks gear all week in celebration, so after you stop by Thursday's rally at Soldier Field, check out the Shedd Aquarium nearby for a very special day. The Aquarium is offering all fans dressed in gear a buy one Total Experience Pass, get one free. That means that besides getting to see the new baby dolphin, you'll get to experience everything Shedd has to offer with the pass, including the new amphibians exhibit. The pass is $39.95 for adults and $30.95 for children 3 to 11, and again, when you buy one, you get the other free. For more information, call 312-939-2438.