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Music discovery has officially gone social. Common Sound, a fast-growing music community app, is changing how fans connect with artists, concerts, and each other by turning shared playlists into real-world experiences. Instead of scrolling alone, Common Sound helps users find people who love the same music, discover live shows, and spark conversations around the sounds they care about most.
Insider773 has partnered with PulseCheck to launch a new house music event series, beginning with Telemetry Vol. 1 at Everything Bar on January 30 from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. The event marks the debut of a collaborative nightlife concept designed to highlight Chicago’s evolving house music scene.
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THINGS TO DO IN CHICAGO
WINTER 2026
What is it? The Family Guy Drunken Clam Experience is a limited-time, 21+ immersive bar pop-up taking over Everything Bar in Chicago from January 22 through April 19, 2026 . Inspired by the iconic bar from Family Guy, the experience transforms the venue with themed décor, recognizable set pieces from the show, and specialty cocktails. Guests receive a 90-minute entry window, with tickets including a themed drink, and select Friday and Saturday nights featuring late-night DJ sessions with Y2K and ’90s throwback music.
Chicago’s nightlife is heating up this weekend with Polar Pulse , a free house music event happening Friday, December 13th , from 11 PM to 2 AM at Everything Bar in West Town (1601 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60622). Presented by Insider773 and Pulse Check , the event promises nonstop beats, crisp winter vibes, and immersive lighting that will keep the crowd moving all night.
10 fun things to do in Chicago this Labor Day Weekend 2025
What is it? The Grant Park Music Festival is a free, 10-week outdoor classical music series held every summer in Chicago’s Millennium Park, primarily at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Running from June 11 to August 16, 2025 , the festival features performances by the acclaimed Grant Park Orchestra and Chorus , along with world-renowned guest artists and conductors. With concerts happening most Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, the season includes standout pieces like Carmina Burana, Rhapsody in Blue, Boléro, and performances by violinist Joshua Bell . Seating on the Great Lawn and in parts of the Seating Bowl is free and first-come, while membership options are available for reserved seating.
What is it? Windy City Smokeout 2025 is a four-day outdoor festival happening July 10–13 outside the United Center in Chicago. It combines top country music performances with award-winning BBQ from renowned pitmasters across the country. Headliners include Bailey Zimmerman, Old Dominion, Kane Brown, and Jon Pardi, along with a stacked lineup of rising stars and a special Sunday brunch performance. The event is family-friendly, ADA-accessible, and offers multiple ticket tiers including General Admission, VIP, and Platinum. Food, drinks, live music, and good vibes take over Lot C for one of Chicago’s biggest summer parties.
Dates : Saturday, June 21 & Sunday, June 22, 2025
Location: St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 2701 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago
Beyond Wonderland Chicago returns June 7–8, 2025, at Huntington Bank Pavilion on Northerly Island, featuring headliners like Illenium, Marshmello, Afrojack, SLANDER, and MEDUZA across four immersive stages . The festival runs from 2 PM to 11 PM daily, with no re-entry allowed . Tickets are still available: 2-day GA passes are $209.98, GA+ (with expedited entry and premium restrooms) are $279.98, and VIP passes (with exclusive viewing areas and lounges) are $369.98 . Attendees must be 18+ (21+ for alcohol and VIP), and clear bags are required for entry .
Sueños Music Festival 2025 takes place May 24–25 in Chicago's Grant Park, featuring Latin music stars like Shakira, Don Omar, Peso Pluma, and Grupo Frontera across two stages. With over 30 artists, expanded festival grounds, and ticket options ranging from GA to VIP, it's one of the largest Latin music events in the U.S. Passes are nearly sold out and available on the official Sueños website.
ART on THE MART is the world’s largest permanent digital art projection, lighting up the 2.5-acre façade of Chicago’s THE MART with contemporary artwork. The Spring 2025 program runs Thursdays through Sundays, 8:30–9:00 PM, from April 25 to July 6, best viewed from the Chicago Riverwalk. Featuring immersive visuals and audio, it showcases works from both global and local artists.