Memorial Day in Chicago? Expect fireworks, festivals, and unforgettable fun!
Searching for the best things to do on Memorial Day this year in Chicago?
Need a little help planning for the long weekend?
Don’t worry - We got you!
Memorial Day Weekend 2024 in Chicago
Chicago buzzes with excitement as Memorial Day Weekend marks the city's jump into summer.
From skyline-grazing fireworks to vibrant neighborhood festivals, and relaxing kayak tours at sunset, the city has it all.
Here’s how to make your long weekend unforgettable with Chicago's Memorial best, from waterfront dining to rooftop bars with a view.
See the Memorial Day Fireworks
One of the best family-friendly Memorial Day attractions in Chicago.
Kick off your summer with Chicago's most iconic Memorial Day tradition - the Navy Pier fireworks.
In fact, the Navy Pier kicks off its summer fireworks season with the Memorial Day event.
Other Navy Pier attractions to check out
Centennial Wheel: Get sweeping views of Chicago's skyline as you go up and down on our famous Ferris Wheel. Website.
Offshore Rooftop: Enjoy cocktails, sliders, and stunning lake views at the world's largest rooftop bar. Website.
Chicago Children's Museum: Got kids (including babies & toddlers)? Take them to the Children's Museum. It’s got everything from fire trucks to dinosaurs and even a climbing area. Website.
Chicago Shakespeare Theater: Discover your inner thespian. The Theater hosts both classic and contemporary performances. Website.
Pro tip: Starting 2024, the Navy Pier offers an annual pass/passport with exclusive deals and perks.
Website: Visit the Navy Pier website
Date & Time: Saturday, May 25th, 2024 (Tentative).
Location: Plan your route on Google Maps
Nearest Subway Stations:
Grand Station (Red Line)
Lake Station (Red Line)
State/Lake Station (Loop Elevated Lines)
Attend the Chicago Memorial Day Parade
Head to downtown Chicago for the Memorial Day Parade - our tribute to military personnel who died while serving.
It will begin with a wreath laying ceremony at Daley Plaza at 11 AM.
Then the parade will march down State Street from Lake to Van Buren.
Pro tip (best spots to catch the action): Arrive at Daley Plaza in time for the wreath laying ceremony. Then head for the intersection of State and Madison (via Washington and State) - that's the best spot to watch the march.
Website: Visit the City of Chicago website
Date & Time: Saturday, May 25th, 2024. Begins at 11 AM.
Location: Plan your route on Google Maps (Daley Plaza)
Nearest Subway Stations:
Washington/Wells Station (Brown, Orange, Pink, Purple Lines)
Clark/Lake Station (Blue, Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple Lines)
Washington Station (Blue Line)
Lake Station (Red Line)
Other Memorial Day Parades and events in Chicago suburbs
Naperville: Naperville's Memorial Day includes multiple events ending with the Parade and an Observance Ceremony at noon. Website.
Evanston: The Evanston American Legion Post 42 hosts a community ceremony in Fountain Square. It features singing and speeches by veterans and elected officials. Website.
Arlington Heights: The parade marches downtown to Memorial Park for a remembrance ceremony. 2024 will be their 105th parade. Website.
Beverly/Morgan Park: Their Memorial Day begins with the BAPA Ridge Run, followed by a parade to Ridge Park for a wreath-laying ceremony and community performances. Website.
Visit a museum
A museum visit on Memorial Day is a great way to start summer in Chicago.
There’s something for the entire family, from interactive displays to workshops that bring history to life.
Many museums offer free or special entry rates for veterans and active military members.
The Pritzker Military Museum & Library
This Pritzker Military Museum & Library has over 35,000 books, posters, and other exhibits showcasing America’s military past.
Highlights include training comics from WWII & Korea, files on early ambulances, rifles, and medals.
You can request a docent-led tour or check it out by yourself.
The National Veterans Art Museum
Want a different take on people who've been in the armed forces?
Visit the National Veterans Art Museum on Memorial Day.
With 2,500+ permanent pieces and frequent temporary exhibits, this is a great venue to understand our veterans' creative and emotional side.
Other Chicago museums to visit over the Memorial Day holiday Weekend
Field Museum of Natural History: The Field Museum is packed with wonders like Sue the T. Rex and ancient Egyptian mummies. Website.
Tip: Kids will find it particularly fascinating, making it a perfect Memorial Day stop for families.
Museum of Science and Industry: Explore a coal mine, navigate through a mirror maze, and see how storms are formed. Website.
Tip: The U-505 (WWII German submarine) exhibit should be a must-visit on Memorial Day.
Chicago History Museum: Watch Chicago’s stories come to life. From the Great Fire to the civil rights movement. Website.
Tip: Blues buffs will be thrilled with its exhibits on Chicago's Blues culture.
The Art Institute of Chicago: The Art Institute boasts a variety of exhibits from Impressionist Art to an Arms and Armor collection. Website.
Tip: Not interested in art? Ask where their paperweight exhibit is (they have a collection of 1400 paperweights; I’m not kidding).
Attend a summer festival
I bet you’re tired of hearing this, but the Memorial Day holiday Weekend kicks off Chicago’s festival season.
Here are the best ways to celebrate festival fever in the Windy City!
Belmont-Sheffield Music Fest: Local bands, great food, and unique artisans light up The Belmont-Sheffield Music Fest in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood.
Randolph Street Market: The Randolph Street Market typically celebrates its anniversary on Memorial Day. It also hosts an indoor/outdoor festival marking the beginning of summer in Chicago.
Sueños Music Festival: Reggaeton and Latin beats echo across Grant Park at the Sueños Music Festival. Big names like Rauw Alejandro & Peso Pluma share the lineup with fresh talent.
Mole De Mayo: Mole de Mayo sees local restaurants and chefs compete for "Best Mole" and "People's Choice" awards. Plus music, dancing, and merchandise from local merchants and artisans.
It takes place in Pilsen from Friday, May 24th to Sunday, May 26th, 2024.
Mayfestiversary: Yet another Memorial Day Weekend festival in Chicago for you to choose from! Mayfestiversary is kind of our spring party with music, food, and a host of family-friendly activities.
Hit the beach
Put the “long” in “long weekend” with swimming, beach volleyball, or just chilling with a cold one!
Just like festival season, Memorial Day also kicks off beach season in Chicago.
Gather your family, friends, or partner.
Pack your best swimsuit, and enjoy a day of sand, sun, and spray on Memorial Day.
Enjoy the energy at all-time favorites like North Avenue Beach & Oak Street Beach. Or go for more laid-back and relaxed surroundings at Montrose and Hollywood Beaches.
Dine outdoors
The Memorial Day holiday is ideal for indulging in quality outdoor dining in Chicago.
Picture this: wine in hand on a waterfront patio or a craft cocktail on a rooftop with stunning views.
In the mood for a Lake Michigan view as you dine? Choose from the various restaurants that line our beaches.
Don't forget the Riverwalk, dotted with spots perfect for dining with a view.
Or take your partner on a stroll through any Chicago neighborhood. You’re sure to discover a tucked-away café that you fall in love with instantly.
Catch some baseball
Memorial Day baseball - home runs & hot dogs!
Here's to a true summer tradition - Spend Memorial Day cheering your favorite baseball team!
Prepare for a day of power swings, stellar catches, mascots fooling around...and, of course, fireworks :)
This Memorial Day in Chicago (2024), the White Sox face the Baltimore Orioles and Toronto Blue Jays at Guaranteed Rate Field.
PS: Do you think you'll catch any foul balls out there?
Website: Visit the Guaranteed Rate Field website
Location: Plan your route on Google Maps
Nearest Subway Stations:
Sox-35th Station (CTA Red Line)
35th-Bronzeville-IIT Station (CTA Green Line)
35th Street "Lou" Jones/Bronzeville Station (Metra Rock Island District Line)
Bike around Chicago
Jumpstart your summer fitness routine with a Memorial Day bike ride through Chicago.
Rent a bike from Wheel Fun Rentals in Humboldt Park and race around the park’s picturesque paths.
Or, grab a Divvy bike and head down the 606, cutting through some of Chicago’s most hip and eclectic neighborhoods.
Continue your ride along the stunning Lakefront Trail, soaking in the holiday vibes.
Connect with nature at Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park is perfect for a Memorial Day family picnic amidst nature.
Feed the birds, watch fisherfolk try their luck at the fishing piers, and try your hand at various sports.
Head to Lincoln Park Zoo to marvel at everything from polar bears and seals to apes, and red wolves.
Finish your getaway at the Lincoln Park Conservatory, offering views from green ferns to exotic orchids.
More must-visit parks this Memorial Day Weekend in Chicago
Garfield Park Conservatory: Enter a world of plant wonders with rare and exotic plants from around the globe. Website.
Jackson Park: Don't miss the beauty of spring in full swing, especially the serene Garden of the Phoenix (formerly Osaka Garden). Website.
Lurie Garden: Join seasonal tours to explore this urban oasis's stunning landscape design and plant diversity. Website.
Hop on a boat tour
Memorial Day is the perfect occasion to bond with your loved ones in Chicago.
Start with a family-friendly river cruise, exploring the city's architectural marvels.
Or enjoy a romantic evening sail on the lake as the stars come out.
Top options include the Chicago Architecture River Cruise, Seadog Cruises’ speedboat tour, and City Cruises’ Chicago River dinner cruise.
Kayak down the Chicago River
Time to give those muscles a workout!
Rent a kayak from Urban Kayaks and paddle down the Chicago River - whether by yourself or with your fitness enthusiast friends.
Get up-close views of the Riverwalk and of Chicago's most famous buildings.
You can also join professionally led tours, including sunset tours, fireworks paddles, and more.
Catch up on your shopping with Memorial Day sales
Along with so many other things, Memorial Day in Chicago is also a wonderful time for some retail therapy.
Hit The Magnificent Mile for big-name brands like Nordstrom, Nike, and Apple.
Or scour our city’s neighborhoods for unique finds in boutiques and mom-and-pop stores.
Kick off summer with a fresh look by scoring great deals citywide.
Test your sleuthing skills at Fox in a Box Escape Rooms (that’s us)
Looking for a unique and memorable Memorial Day adventure in Chicago? Gather your team and head for our Dearborn Station escape room!
The Bank: Can you make off with the loot without triggering the alarms?
The Prison: Break out of a maximum-security cell before time runs out.
The Bunker: Stop a rogue spy’s destructive plan.
Zodiac Killer: Outwit a psychopath in this intense scenario. 18+ only.
And then celebrate with pizza at Lou Malnati’s (South Loop), Chicago dogs at Devil Dawg on State, and chocolate cake shake (Portillo's on Canal and Taylor).
Website: Visit the home page
Location: Plan your route on Google Maps
Nearest Subway Stations:
LaSalle/Van Buren (Brown, Orange, Purple, and Pink Lines)
Harold Washington Library-State/Van Buren (Brown, Orange, Purple, and Pink Lines)
Resources for planning your Memorial Day outing in Chicago
Choose Chicago: Your go-to guide for the latest on events, dining, and accommodations in the city. Website.
City of Chicago website: Official updates on city-wide celebrations, including parades and public events. Website.
OEMC App: Stay informed with real-time emergency alerts, weather advisories, and city-wide updates. Website.
Chicago Park District: Find the best parks for picnics, fireworks viewing, and outdoor activities. Website.
Divvy: Rent a bike to explore the city’s lakefront and neighborhoods at your own pace. Website.
SpotHero: Book parking in advance and avoid the hassle of finding a spot during busy events. Website.
Ventra App: Load your “L” card and plan your public transit routes easily. Website.
The CTA Website: Get real-time updates on buses and trains, ensuring you’re never late to the festivities. Website.
Chicago CityPASS: A budget-friendly way to visit multiple attractions with one ticket. Website.
Go Chicago Pass: Access to over 25+ attractions, making it easy to fill your weekend with fun. Website.
Memorial Day weekend 2024 in Chicago - Frequently asked questions
What day is Memorial Day this year?
As always, Memorial Day falls on the final Monday in May - which falls on May 27th this year (2024).
And the “long weekend” for Memorial Day begins on Saturday, May 25th, and ends on Monday, May 27th.
What kind of weather should be expected for Memorial Day in Chicago?
Expect the start of true summer vibes around Memorial Day in Chicago.
Typically, it’s pleasantly warm - the perfect climate for outdoor activities
Remember, Chicago's weather can be unpredictable, so pack a light jacket just in case.
And don't forget sunscreen for those sunny day adventures!
What time are the Memorial Day fireworks?
The Memorial Day fireworks at the Navy Pier start at 10 PM.
Can you see fireworks from Millennium Park?
Yes, you can see the fireworks from Millennium Park. The Great Lawn offers a pretty good view
Are there any Memorial Day music concerts in Chicago?
Absolutely! Chicago's Memorial Day weekend is jam-packed with music events that cater to all tastes.
Take your pick - the Belmont-Sheffield Music Festival, and the Sueños Music Festival, among others!
Are there any street closures on Memorial Day in Chicago?
Navy Pier: Given the major fireworks show at the Navy Pier, you could face closures or restrictions near it, especially in the evening.
Lake Shore Drive: Lake Shore Drive might not close. However, exits or nearby streets could be. Especially if there are events along the lakefront.
Closures near beaches: Streets near popular beaches like North Avenue Beach and Montrose Beach could be temporarily closed.
Localized neighborhood closures: Many Chicago neighborhoods like Lakeview, Lincoln Park, and Wicker Park host their own Memorial Day events. Those could trigger localized closures.
Sueños Chicago: Last year (2023), streets like Columbus Drive and Balbo Drive were partially closed for the Sueños Music Festival.
Ready to have a great Memorial Day Weekend in Chicago?
Gear up for an unforgettable Memorial Day Weekend in Chicago!
We've carefully selected a mix of the city's finest offerings – spectacular fireworks, lively festivals, heartfelt parades, and engaging escape room challenges.
Whether it's a day out with your significant other, a fun expedition with friends, or a family bonding experience, there's something for everyone.
Time to get your plans rolling!
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