Photo by Vasilis Karkalas on Unsplash
As the weather warms, the sun sets later, and the scent of blooming flowers perfumes the air, it feels like summer is finally here. From festivals and performances to markets and exhibitions, Chicago offers a variety of ways to take advantage of the pleasant weather and enjoy the city to its fullest. To celebrate summer’s long-awaited arrival, here are a few summer kick-off events taking place this month.
Navy Pier is sparking up the summer season with the return of its annual fireworks show. The spectacular aerial display will take place twice a week on Wednesdays at 9 p.m. and Saturdays at 10 p.m., beginning Memorial Day weekend and concluding on Labor Day. You can see the show along Navy Pier, or enjoy a more secluded viewing experience in the outdoor terrace pool perched on the 47th floor of The St. Regis Chicago Residences.
For Memorial Day weekend, consider attending the Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony & Parade on May 25. The ceremony will begin with the wreath laying at the Eternal Flame in Daley Plaza at 11am, followed by a parade down State Street. This Chicago tradition honors those who have died serving in the U.S. Armed Forces and dates all the way back to 1870.
The city’s beloved farmers markets are making their return this month. Starting May 23, you can stop by the Daley Plaza Farmers Market to pick up ingredients for your farm-to-table salads, charcuterie spreads, and barbecues this season. The market offers all the flavors of summer including fresh produce, sweet pastries, decadent cheeses, prepared foods, and more.
The Millennium Park Summer Workouts series is coming back to the backyard of The St. Regis Chicago Residences. Beginning May 18, workout classes will take place on the Great Lawn in Millennium Park every Saturday through the end of August. Enjoy a restorative start to your weekend with a morning Pilates, yoga, cardio kickboxing, or Zumba class amidst the sunshine, fresh air, and botanical scenery of the park.
For one weekend only, Wrigley Field is putting a pause on baseball to offer a unique and memorable experience for golf enthusiasts. The stadium will be transformed into a golf course from May 10-13 to allow participants to hit tee shots from the upper deck down to the greens on the field below. Afterwards, guests can visit the clubhouse for music, food, and other refreshments. Book your tee time here while limited spots remain.
In the heart of the Lakeshore East neighborhood, residents of The St. Regis Chicago can enjoy access to an array of quintessential summer activities. With fine dining atop rooftop patios, cultural institutions, and the green oasis of Millennium Park just blocks away, there is something for everyone. To learn more about the offerings in the area, visit our Neighborhood page.