Article
June in Chicago: 10 Fun Things to Do This Summer (2025)
May 27, 2025
summer starts here—discover the best of Chicago this June
share this
Related Articles
Related Articles

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.