With summer in full swing, Chicago turns up the energy with a packed calendar of unforgettable experiences. From high-flying thrills over Lake Michigan to live music, triathlons, foodie pop-ups, and family-friendly festivals, August is your last chance to soak up the city at its vibrant best!
Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley Opens New Downtown Location July 31
Just in time for the peak of summer, Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley is back and bigger than ever with the grand opening of its stunning new downtown Chicago location on July 31. Now located at 339 N. Dearborn Street, directly across from the House of Blues, this 13,000-square-foot space brings bold Southern comfort food, handcrafted cocktails, and a vibrant upscale vibe to the heart of the city.
From fried lobster tails and shrimp & grits to creative waffle pairings and signature drinks made with Black-owned spirits, every detail is designed to impress. Whether you’re planning a stylish date night, brunch with friends, or a lively dinner downtown, Kitchen + Kocktails offers an experience that’s as flavorful as it is unforgettable. With expanded space, extended hours, and its signature commitment to community, this elevated soul food hotspot is set to be Chicago’s go-to dining destination all August long and beyond.
August 2nd: Roseland Community Hospital’s Back to School Health Fair: Support and Supplies for Families
The Roseland Community Hospital Foundation invites families to its Annual Back to School Health Fair on Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 12 PM to 3 PM at the Roseland Community Hospital Parking Lot, located at 45 W. 111th St., Chicago, IL 60643. This exciting event will feature a backpack giveaway with free book bags and school supplies, along with school physicals, vaccinations, dental exams, and a variety of community resources. Attendees can also enjoy entertainment, fun games, and live music by DJ Reese.
August 2nd: Sonny Acres Farm Hosts 2nd Annual Corn & Craft Beer Fest
Sonny Acres Farm in West Chicago opens its beloved Fall Festival starting September 20, offering free admission and parking for families to enjoy festive seasonal fun through October. On Saturday, August 2, Sonny Acres Farm will host the 2nd Annual Corn & Craft Beer Fest, inviting guests of all ages to enjoy a full day of sipping, snacking, and summer fun. From 12 PM to 4 PM, attendees can sample craft beers from local brewers, while the Makers Market, open from 11 AM to 5 PM, features handmade goods from talented local artisans. Throughout the day, families can explore classic farm amusements, visit the self-feed zoo, and enjoy delicious food from the Outdoor Grill and Greenhouse Bar, including corn favorites like elote, chascas, corn dogs, and kettle corn. Tickets are $20 for 20 beer tastings for guests 21 and over with valid ID, and $25 for kids’ wristbands offering unlimited access to attractions for ages 12 and under. Admission and parking are free.
August 7th: John Vincent Brings Soulful Vibes to Carnivale’s Rumba Lounge
Carnivale’s Rumba Lounge brings summer vibes with themed nights all week—Tacos & Tequila Tuesdays, Rhythm & Rum Wednesdays, and Samba beats every Thursday and Friday. On August 7, John Vincent hits the stage with his soulful sound. Looking ahead, Carnivale celebrates 20 years of bold flavor and vibrant culture with its Anniversary Party on September 10. Tickets are $20 and include small bites, two adult beverages, and entertainment inspired by Latin American traditions, with festivities beginning at 5:30 PM. It’s the ultimate celebration in the heart of Chicago.
August 15th: Experience Chicago’s Air & Water Show Like Never Before on Lake Michigan Cruises
City Cruises invites guests to experience Chicago’s legendary Air & Water Show from the best seats in the city, aboard a series of unforgettable cruises on Lake Michigan. On August 15th, guests can enjoy the Early Air & Water Show Preview with either the Signature Lunch Cruise or the Premier Lunch Cruise, both offering front-row views of the practice rounds, chef-prepared buffet meals, mimosas or cocktails, lively DJ entertainment, dancing, and games on open-air decks. On August 16th and 17th, City Cruises presents a variety of brunch options during the main event, including the Signature Brunch Cruise and the Premier Buffet Brunch Cruise in the afternoon, as well as a morning Signature Brunch Cruise. Each cruise features unobstructed views of the aerial spectacle, delicious dining, and vibrant onboard entertainment. Whether guests prefer a relaxed brunch or a lively afternoon celebration, City Cruises delivers a one-of-a-kind way to enjoy Chicago’s most thrilling summer tradition.
August 23-24: Chicago Triathlon By Supertri Returns
Summer is heating up, and so is the race!
Supertri, the global leader in short course triathlon, is gearing up for the return of the 2025 Chicago Triathlon By Supertri on August 23 and 24—just in time to cap off an unforgettable summer. This unique course begins in Lake Michigan, winds through city streets, and finishes in the heart of Grant Park. Known for its accessibility—from first-timers to seasoned veterans, kids to grandparents, age-group competitors to paratriathletes—the Chicago Triathlon By Supertri offers an experience for everyone. On a mission to become the world’s largest triathlon, it grew to 7.5K participants last year and is on trend to grow again in 2025.
For those wanting to spectate, Supertri League is also returning to Chicago on August 23rd with the world’s fastest triathletes racing it out for the title.
August 26th: Mendocino Farms Brings California-Inspired Fast Casual Dining To The Midwest With First-Ever Chicago Location In River North
Mendocino Farms, the uber popular California-born fast-casual restaurant chain known for its gourmet sandwiches, creative salads, and chef-driven catering, is bringing its signature “Eat Happy” experience to Chicago’s River North neighborhood at 508 N. Clark St. opening its doors on Tuesday, August 26. The brand is known for presenting bold, fresh flavor combinations made with high-quality ingredients—including farm-fresh produce, humanely raised meats, and cage-free eggs—paired with the its signature warm, welcoming hospitality. Patrons will have the opportunity to enjoy a wholesome lunch during the workweek, savor a post-workout pick-me-up, or take home a fresh, flavorful meal. In honor of the grand opening, guests will enjoy a free entrée offer with meal purchase when creating a MyMendo account.
August 27th: Catch Me If You Can at Marriott Theatre: A Swinging 1960s Musical Adventure
Marriott Theatre, Chicagoland’s longest-running musical theatre, presents Catch Me If You Can, the delightfully entertaining musical comedy based on the true story about chasing your dreams and not getting caught. Directed by Jeff Award winner Jessica Fisch (Marriott Theatre: Beautiful: The Carole King Musical), with Choreography by Deidre Goodwin (Marriott Theatre: Beehive: The 60’s Musical) and Music Direction by Jeff Award winner Ryan T. Nelson, Catch Me If You Can previews August 27, opens Wednesday, September 3 at 7pm, and runs through October 19.
Jet-set to the 1960s where charming con man Frank Abagnale Jr. posed as an airline pilot, a lawyer and a doctor — and then escaped police custody, all before he turned 22. When Frank’s lies catch the attention of an FBI agent, he is pursued across the globe to pay for his crimes. Created by a Tony Award-winning dream team: book by Terrence McNally (The Full Monty, Ragtime) and a swinging score by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman (Hairspray, Some Like it Hot, Smash).
Every Monday this Month: Wonderverse Oakbrook: Dive Into Iconic VR Adventures and Arcade Fun with Monday Madness
Wonderverse at Oakbrook Center is Chicago’s ultimate immersive entertainment playground, bringing iconic Sony worlds like Ghostbusters, Jumanji, Uncharted, Bad Boys, and Zombieland to life across 45,000 square feet of nonstop fun. From the Ghostbusters VR Academy and Uncharted escape rooms to Jumanji VR, Zombieland bumper cars, racing simulators, and the massive Pacific Playland arcade, Wonderverse offers something for every kind of thrill-seeker. Guests can also enjoy elevated comfort food at The Commissary, sip franchise-inspired cocktails at The Commissary Bar, or discover hidden surprises inside The Ghost Trap speakeasy.
Now, Mondays just got even better with Monday Madness at Wonderverse. Every Monday, guests can enjoy 50% off all experiences — no code, no strings attached. That includes arcade games, VR adventures, escape rooms, the Respawn Game Lounge, and even retail. Whether you’re chasing ghosts, cracking puzzles, or just indulging in pure nostalgia, Wonderverse delivers big excitement at half the price to start your week right.
All Month Long: Raging Waves Waterpark: Illinois’ Largest Splash Destination Makes August Unforgettable
Cool off in the most epic way this August at Raging Waves, Illinois’ largest outdoor waterpark located just outside Chicago in Yorkville. With over 58 acres of summer fun, the park features 32 heart-pounding water slides, a massive wave pool, a relaxing lazy river, and splash-tastic areas perfect for younger guests.
New for this season, guests can enjoy an enhanced experience with a stadium-sized LED screen above the wave pool, upgraded food and beverage options, expanded cabana areas, and live entertainment that adds extra energy to your day in the sun. Whether you’re racing down the Aussie Mat Dash, floating through the lazy river, or just soaking up rays in a private cabana, Raging Waves is the ultimate destination to make the most of August and savor every last splash of summer.
All Month Long: The LaSalle Chicago, Autograph Collection, Unveils August Programming: A Celebration of Flavor, Sound, and Wellness
Marriott’s boutique luxury hotel in Chicago’s Loop, The LaSalle Chicago, Autograph Collection, continues its commitment to intentional, elevated living with a vibrant lineup of August experiences designed to awaken the senses and restore balance. Guests are invited to savor every moment through curated culinary offerings, live music, and wellness-inspired activations.
Throughout August, Grill on 21 becomes a hub of culinary exploration, featuring a series of seasonal spirit tastings and food specials. Enhancing the dining experience is a thoughtfully curated lineup of live music performances, transforming Grill on 21 into a vibrant yet intimate listening room.
Guests can also enjoy the daily social hour from 4:00 to 6:00 PM, featuring the wine of the month in an elegant tasting experience that perfectly complements the refined ambiance of Grill on 21.
All Month Long: Bally’s Chicago Unveils Floating Stage For New Live Entertainment Series
Bally’s Chicago is turning up the heat this summer with the launch of its brand-new live entertainment stage, a bold and innovative addition to the casino floor that promises to elevate the guest experience, literally. To celebrate the launch, Bally’s Chicago is kicking off a live music series featuring some of Chicago’s most beloved local bands. Performances will take place every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 8PM to 11PM.
Elevated on a custom-built scaffolding structure, the new stage appears to float in the heart of the casino, offering 360-degree visibility from all three floors. Outfitted with a state-of-the-art audio and lighting system integrated throughout the venue, this elevated platform is set to become the centerpiece of Bally’s Chicago entertainment offerings.
Bally’s Chicago’s new elevated stage will feature a dynamic rotation of local favorites including The Grady Experience, The Messengers, 28 Days, Crawford’s Daughter, Michael Walters Band, Robby Celestin Band, iPop, Feel Good Party Band, The Divas, The Reckoning, and more. Guests can enjoy a vibrant mix of rock, pop, R&B, country and party anthems, all from a stunning performance space visible across three floors of the casino.
In addition to live entertainment, guests can indulge in classic late-night bites such as burgers, nachos, pizza and other late-night favorites. Guests can complement their meal with signature cocktails and $5 Miller Lights all day long.
Every Monday this Month: Jet’s Pizza Kicks Off Back-to-School with Free Detroit-Style Pizzas Every Monday in August
Jet’s Pizza, known for its iconic Detroit-style deep dish and commitment to quality ingredients, is celebrating back-to-school season with a tasty giveaway. Every Monday in August, students can grab a FREE 4-corner, 1-topping Detroit-style pizza from 10AM to 6PM. Just use code BACK2 when you walk in to pick up your order (limit one per order, pickup only). Available from August 3–26, it’s the perfect way to kick off the school week—Jet’s style!
All Month Long: Weekday Highlights at The Chicago Firehouse, August Edition
The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant is offering a series of weekly promotions throughout August that are perfect for both casual diners and regular guests. Every Monday, guests can enjoy a $17 burger and beer special, making it an ideal way to start the week. Tuesdays feature Double Points, allowing diners enrolled in the Firehouse rewards program to earn twice the loyalty points with their visit. On Wednesdays, the restaurant hosts Wine-Down Wednesday, offering half-price bottles of wine all evening, excluding reserve selections. In addition to these daily promotions, happy hour is available Monday through Friday from 4:30 to 5:30 PM. During this hour, patrons can take advantage of $5 bar bites such as oysters on the half shell, lobster bisque, smoked-gouda arancini, and hand-cut fries. House beer and wine are also available for $5, and all cocktails and spirits priced under $25 are offered at 50% off. These specials provide excellent value and a great reason to visit the South Loop landmark throughout the week.
