By Daniela Johnson
Labor Day weekend is right around the corner. Do you have your plans locked in? Whether you want to go hard or take it easy, there’s something for everyone happening here in the Windy City during the unofficial last weekend of the summer. Here are just a few Labor Day weekend events happening in Chicago.
Free Summer Fireworks at Navy Pier
Labor Day is your last chance to catch a (free!) fireworks show at Navy Pier. This is a summer tradition in Chicago. If you haven’t made it yet this season, plan to attend the final show, or you’ll have to wait until next year.
For more information, visit: navypier.org/explore/fireworks/
African Festival of the Arts
From August 31-September 3, the Northeast section of Washington Square Park will be transformed into a simulated African village for the 29th Annual African Festival of the Arts. Attendees will experience African music, fabrics, food, and more throughout the four-day festival. This is an amazing way to explore African culture while celebrating the end of the summer season.
For more information, visit: aihusa.org/african-fesitval-of-the-arts
Labor Day Weekend at Arlington Race Park
Arlington Race Park will be celebrating Labor Day weekend with various events, including the final Miller Lite Party in the Park on Friday, featuring the band Local Favorite. Saturday’s events include the final LOOP Baggo tournament of the season. Sunday is “Family Day,” where attendees will have the chance to experience interactive games and soccer-themed activities with the Chicago Fire soccer team. Monday will be the final “Family Day” of the season and will feature a full “smorgasboard” of turf races.
For more information, visit: arlingtonpark.com/visit/special-events/labor-day-weekend
Chicago Jazz Festival 2018
The 40th Annual Chicago Jazz Festival is taking place August 30-September 3 at the Cultural Center in Millennium Park. This free festival is open to the public and will feature some of Chicago’s top jazz musicians alongside some of the world’s most incredible acts all weekend long. This is a Labor Day weekend tradition for many Chicagoans, and should not be missed.
For more information, visit:
cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/chicago_jazz_festival.html
North Coast Music Festival 2018
Celebrate “Summer’s last stand” at North Coast Music Festival, happening August 31 to September 2 at Union Park. This year’s lineup includes Miguel, DJ Snake, and Jamiroquai, plus many more artists and performers.
For more information, visit: www.northcoastfestival.com/