Chicago has long been known for its vivbrant Jazz scene. The beautiful summer weather provides the perfect atmosphere to experience the city's most talented musicians live! Make it a date with a picnic in the park or a visit to a world-class museum and its sure to be an unforgettable experience. All of the following events are FREE and open to the public!
Museum of Contemporary Art’s Tuesday on the Terrace SerieS
When: every Tuesday, June–September, from 5:30–8:00 pm
Where: Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Pro Tip: Arrive early and visit the museum too! Tuesdays are always FREE for Illinois residents. Free tours of the museum are also offered daily. Find the list of exhibitions currently on display here.
Chicago Jazz Philharmonic Millennium Park Series
When:
June 14, 2018, 6:30pm - "Chicago Immigrant Stories" (World Premiere)
July 16, 2018, 6:30pm - "Hope in Action: Celebrating Nelson Mandela's Centennial"
August 29, 2018, 6:30pm - "Chicago Legends and Lions" - opening the 40th Annual Chicago Jazz Festival
Where: Millennium Park, 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602
Pro Tip: Bring a blanket or lawn chairs and food for a picnic!
Dusable Museum 2018 Sounds of History Jazz Series
When:
July 18, 2018 - “Sax in the City” featuring Ray Silkman, Audley Reid & Isaiah Collier
August 15, 2018 - “A Tribute to the Ladies of Jazz & Blues”
Where: DuSable Museum of African American History, 740 E 56th Pl, Chicago, IL 60637
Pro Tip: Definitely bring your lawn chairs and snacks; come early to claim your spot!
Art Institute Thursday Night Jazz in McKinlock Court
When: every Thursday in June and July, 5:00–8:00pm
Where: Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603 (Museum Cafe)
Pro Tip: Visit the museum exhibits too! Admission to the Art Institute is free to Illinois residents every Thursday from 5:00 to 8:00pm
Navy Pier: WATER COLORS PRESENTED BY CIBC
When: every Friday July 6 - August 24, 6:30pm
Where: Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611 (Lake Stage in Polk Bros Park)
JazzCity2018: Celebrating Von Freeman’s 95th: 12th Annual Latin Jazz Festival
When: July 13 - 15, 2018, 7:00pm
Where:
Humboldt Park Boathouse, 1301 N. Sacramento Blvd, Chicago, IL 60622
Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
40th Annual Chicago Jazz Festival
When: August 24 - September 2, 2018
Where:
Millennium Park, 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 6060
Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602
Other venues across the city listed here
Jazzin at the Shedd
When:
September 5, 12, 19, 26, October 3, 10; 5:00 - 9:00pm - Free for all Illinois residents with valid ID!
Other dates available throughout the summer, but NOT FREE. See the full Jazzin at the Shedd schedule here
Where: Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
Pro Tip: Admission to the aquarium is also FREE for Illinois residents on these September and October dates.