Memorial Day weekend in Chicago: Parades, parties, and patio vibes to kick off summer

Chicago doesn’t tiptoe into summer, it cannonballs in. Memorial Day weekend is when the city shakes off its jacket, cranks up the music, and turns every block into a reason to celebrate. From lakefront cocktails to late-night dance floors and neighborhood fests bursting with energy, the long weekend is your official permission slip to have fun.

Here’s a roundup of things to do from Friday, May 23, through Monday, May 26:

Parade and festivals

Chicago Memorial Day Parade and Wreath-Laying Ceremony

Downtown Chicago | Saturday, May 24

Start the weekend with solemn gratitude. Chicago’s official Memorial Day Parade will step off on Saturday with a wreath-laying ceremony to honor those who served. Expect marching bands, military groups and crowds gathering to pay tribute downtown.

Suenos Music Festival

Grant Park

Chicago’s signature reggaeton festival returns, bringing Latin powerhouses to the heart of the city. This two-day celebration draws thousands to dance under the skyline with unforgettable sets from top Latin artists.

Belmont-Sheffield Music Fest

Lakeview

Tribute bands, local artisans, and plenty of beer and wine vendors take over Lakeview’s lakefront corridor. This lively neighborhood fest is a Memorial Day weekend staple.

Mayfestiversary

Begyle Brewing & Dovetail Brewery

Celebrate the season with music, food trucks, and some of Chicago’s best local brews in the Ravenswood corridor.

Randolph Street Market

West Loop

Vintage lovers and treasure hunters should head to this European-style outdoor market, where antiques, art, fashion, and decor take center stage.

Navy Pier Fireworks

Saturday, May 24 | 10 p.m.

The city’s iconic summer fireworks series kicks off on Memorial Day weekend. Bring a blanket and claim a spot along the lakefront for a dazzling display over Lake Michigan.

Dining and drinks by the lake

Aura on the Lake

Kathy Osterman Beach, Edgewater | May 23–26

New to Chicago’s lakefront: Aura on the Lake, a breezy beachfront dining concept opening Memorial Day weekend. Guests can enjoy lobster sliders, beachy cocktails, and live music — with a dog-friendly twist. A band plays Friday evening and a DJ spins on Sunday.

Neighborhood bars and patio parties

The Grillroom Chophouse & Wine Bar

Loop | Friday, May 23, 3–6 p.m.

Start the weekend early with a happy hour on Monroe Street. Expect $10 wines, oysters, and a limited-time Spring Smashburger on the patio.

aliveOne

Lincoln Park | Monday, May 26, 8 p.m.

Post-barbecue plans? Head to aliveOne for $4 beers, free music trivia and pool, plus summer cocktails like the Spicy Bee’s Knees.

Central Park Bar

Avondale | Monday, May 26, 4 p.m.

This 3,500-square-foot backyard bar opens with half-price happy hour and mezcal-fueled cocktails. Don’t miss the porch swings and fire pit.

Cody’s Public House

West Lakeview | Monday, May 26, 11 a.m.

Celebrate gameday and compete in a High Noon Musical Chairs Tournament. With free hot dogs, $25 buckets, and 16 TVs, it’s the ultimate Cubs pregame spot.

Easy Bar

Wicker Park | Monday, May 26, 8 p.m.

A casual nightcap destination with $10 margaritas and a laid-back sidewalk patio.

Estelle’s

Wicker Park | Monday, May 26, 10 p.m.

Looking for a late-night burger? Get yours half-off with a drink purchase and try seasonal cocktails like the Star Jammer hard seltzer.

Remedy

Logan Square | Sunday & Monday, 10 p.m.

Spin into the weekend with New Wave beats Sunday and $5 drafts Monday. Remedy stays open until 4 a.m. or later.

The Getaway

Lincoln Square | Monday, May 26, 8 p.m.

Toast the season on the sidewalk patio with tropical-inspired cocktails like the Pineapple Express and Necia.

The Graystone Tavern

Wrigleyville | Monday, May 26

Just steps from Wrigley Field, this game day hub offers drink buckets, TV screens, and outdoor games for pre- and post-Cubs game fun.

Whether you're looking to pay your respects, soak up sun on a patio, or party into the night, Chicago is ready to deliver a memorable Memorial Day weekend.