Ladies and gentleman, start your engines. The weekend is here. After much fanfare, the first ever NASCAR Chicago Street Race takes over downtown. But as usual, it isn’t the only game or party or concert in town.
Once again, your city delivers this holiday weekend with some legendary performances, festivals and a shot of Black pride. Expect fireworks too.
Without further adieu, here are 11 fun things to do in Chicago THIS July 4 holiday weekend:
Syleena Johnson at the City Winery (June 29-30)
The Grammy-nominated, powerhouse vocalist returns home to perform at City Winery Chicago. One thing you’re gonna get from Johnson is a true shot of soul, straight from the gut. That voice of hers just does something to us, too.
Anita Baker at the United Center (June 30)
A landmark Summer concert featuring one of the most distinctive voices in R&B. Anita Baker is truly in a class all by herself, and you can witness living greatness at the UC.
Santana: 1,001 Rainbows Tour at Ravinia (June 30)
Led by inimitable frontman Carlos Santana, this pioneering group has been rocking out for over five decades with its dynamic blend of Afro-Latin-blues-rock fusion. Catch them outside at Ravinia.
2023 Pride South Side Festival (July 1)
This free celebration of Black and Brown people living their truth commences at the Dusable Museum. Come out and show out your pride.
Lil’ Louis at the The Riviera Theatre (July 1)
People throw around the word“legend” all the time, but that honorific certainly applies to this man, a founding father of House. The House producer and DJ is back at the crib to perform for one night only. Better secure your ticket for this one.
Terisa Griffin at the City Winery (July 1)
This multi-talented Chicago-based singer will do what she always does — snatch the edges of any stage she graces with her gospel and soul infused R&B.
Unfollow Me Tour with Erykah Badu and yasiin bey (July 1)
The analog girl in a digital world is back at the United Center with Hip-hop artist yassin bey, fka Mos Def. Expect that ethereal, otherworldly soulful goodness from these two critically-acclaimed artists.
NASCAR Chicago Street Race (July 1-2)
NASCAR takes over Chicago to host a racing event on a 2.140 mile street circuit. This race has the whole city buzzing, and it hasn’t even started yet.
Pier 31 Restaurant (June 30, July 1-4)
Seven days a week, all summer long, Pier 31 Restaurant and the adjoining 31st Street Beach will be central headquarters for live entertainment. To reiterate, there will be live entertainment every single day, including this weekend through the holiday. So breeze through.
30th Anniversary African/Caribbean International Festival of Life (IFOL) (July 1-4)
The very best reggae and soul music will be featured at this long-running, family-friendly event taking place in Washington Park. Featured performers include Heatwave, Capleton and Roody Roodboy! Bring your appetite as well because vendors are going to be serving up Grade A jerk, seafood and vegan dishes. We can’t think of a better family outing event than this one.
Party Noire Presents: Black Pride at The Promontory (July 4)
The organizers of this Black Pride celebration urge you to come to The Promontory and prepare to leave it all out on the dance floor with all your “unshakeable pride.”
About Post Author
