33 Things to Do in Chicago This Weekend

From concerts and sporting events to festivals and comedy shows, the Windy City has plenty to offer April 17-19.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 6:43pm

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A vibrant, silkscreen-style illustration featuring a repeated pattern of a Chicago-style hot dog in bright, neon colors and bold black outlines, conceptually representing the energy and variety of events happening across the city.Chicago's diverse culinary and entertainment offerings come alive in a bold, pop art-inspired celebration of the city's weekend festivities.Chicago Today

Chicago has a packed lineup of events this weekend, April 17-19, including concerts by artists like LANY and The Isley Brothers, sporting events featuring the Cubs and Wolves, and festivals celebrating independent music venues, vegan food, and vintage fashion.

Why it matters

As the weather warms up, Chicago residents and visitors are eager to get out and enjoy the city's vibrant arts, music, sports, and food scenes after a long winter. This comprehensive event guide helps locals and tourists alike plan their weekend activities across the diverse cultural offerings in neighborhoods throughout the city.

The details

The weekend's highlights include the return of CIVL Fest, a 10-day celebration of Chicago's independent music and performing arts venues, as well as the Eataly all-access food and drink event, the Fit 4 Me Fitness Festival in Lincoln Park, the debut of the Pickwick Vintage Show at the Chicago Athletic Association, and Another Vegan Market in Logan Square. Music fans can catch concerts by acts like LANY, Pradabagshawty, Pat Metheny, and The Isley Brothers, while sports enthusiasts can attend Cubs and Wolves games. Comedy and theater lovers also have options, with shows from Hamilton, Stuff You Should Know Live, and more.

  • The CIVL Fest runs from April 16-25.
  • The Eataly event takes place on April 17 from 7-11 p.m.
  • The Fit 4 Me Fitness Festival is on April 18 from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • The Pickwick Vintage Show is on April 19 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Another Vegan Market is on April 19 from noon to 4 p.m.

The players

LANY

An American indie pop band performing at Credit Union 1 Arena on April 17.

The Isley Brothers

An American R&B vocal group performing at Horseshoe Casino on April 17.

Chicago Cubs

The city's Major League Baseball team playing a series against the New York Mets on April 17-19.

Chicago Wolves

The city's American Hockey League team playing the Milwaukee Admirals on April 18-19.

Justine Baker

The FOX Chicago reporter who compiled this weekend event guide.

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What they’re saying

“Whether you're looking for live music, a ball game or something to do around the city, Chicago has a lineup of events this weekend.”

— Justine Baker, FOX32 Chicago Reporter

The takeaway

This weekend's diverse array of concerts, sporting events, festivals, and other activities showcases the vibrant cultural scene that makes Chicago a premier destination for entertainment and recreation. From indie music to professional sports, there's something for everyone to enjoy in the Windy City.