Rolling out has the ultimate guide to summertime Chi vibes. We’re talking all things theater, museums, and those can’t-miss music festivals. From the timeless tunes of Mamma Mia at the James M. Nederlander Theatre to the spellbinding Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, we’re setting the stage for memories. Dive into history at the Field Museum or get futuristic at the Museum of Science and Industry. And you know we’re turning up at Lollapalooza and vibing out at The Chosen Few Picnic. This summer, join the celebration.
Theater
Death Becomes Her (April 30 – June 2, 2024): Visit the Cadillac Palace Theatre to experience the stage adaptation of the cult classic film with this dark comedy brought vividly to life.
Mamma Mia (April 30 – May 19, 2024) at James M. Nederlander Theatre: Sing along to the timeless hits of ABBA in this infectious musical set against the backdrop of a sun-soaked Greek island.
Cody Fry with the CSO (May 13, 2024) Visit the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, composer and arranger Cody Fry brings his “unique blend of pop and cinematic classical music” (WUNC) to a collaboration with the CSO.
Back to the Future: The Musical (August 13 – September 1, 2024) at Cadillac Palace Theatre: Join Marty McFly on a thrilling ride through time in this musical adaptation of the beloved sci-fi film.
Rigoletto (Sept. 14 – Oct. 6, 2024): Visit the Lyric Opera. Giuseppe Verdi brings astounding intensity to the court jester Rigoletto, tragically obsessed with avenging his daughter Gilda’s dishonor. Music Director Enrique Mazzola conducts an outstanding cast including returning baritone Igor Golovatenko and Mane Galoyan and Javier Camarena in their Lyric debuts.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child (Sept. 10, 2024 – Feb. 1, 2025) at James M. Nederlander Theatre: Dive into the magic with the first-ever touring production of this spellbinding continuation of the Harry Potter story.
Some Like It Hot (Oct. 22 – Nov. 3, 2024) at Cadillac Palace Theatre: Laugh out loud with this Tony Award-winning musical comedy set in the Prohibition era.
A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical (Nov. 12-24, 2024) at Cadillac Palace Theatre: Celebrate the illustrious career of Neil Diamond with this spectacular musical journey.
Museums
Museum of Science and Industry: 007 Science: Inventing the World of James Bond (Now through Oct.27, 2024) Explore the iconic cars, gadgets and props of the James Bond film series. 007 Science: Inventing the World of James Bond is the first-ever official exhibition to focus on the science and technology behind the world’s longest-running movie franchise.
Field Museum: Unseen Oceans (March 15, 2024 – Jan. 5, 2025): Embark on a journey from the oceans’ white-capped waves to their inky depths as you discover the latest ocean science in an immersive new exhibition that will make a splash with the whole family.
Museum of Contemporary Art (April 6, 2024 – Sept. 22, 2024): “Nicole Eisenman: What Happened” Engage with Nicole Eisenman’s provocative works that question societal norms and challenge conventional expectations.
Chicago summer music festivals
Lollapalooza (Aug. 1-4, 2024): This iconic music festival features an eclectic mix of music from around the world, set in the scenic Grant Park.
Chicago Blues Festival (June 6 – June 9, 2024): Experience the largest free blues festival globally, showcasing the depth and diversity of blues music.
Pitchfork Music Festival (July 19 – July 21, 2024): Known for its diverse lineup, this festival caters to fans of rock, hip-hop, and electronic music.
Chicago Jazz Festival (Aug. 9 – Sept. 1, 2024): Enjoy a series of free concerts celebrating jazz’s rich history and its modern interpretations.
The Chosen Few Picnic (July 13, 2024): Gather in Jackson Park for this legendary house music festival, a true celebration of Chicago’s deep roots in the genre.
