American flag against Chicago skyline
Photograph: Shutterstock
Photograph: Shutterstock

The best Memorial Day weekend events in Chicago for 2024

Scroll through our picks for the best things to do over your three-day weekend.

Jeffy Mai
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Memorial Day weekend is here, marking the unofficial start to summer in Chicago with outdoor music festivals, fireworks displays and the annual parade downtown. There's time to fit in a little bit of everything this weekend: Pay your respects during the wreath-laying ceremony and parade in the Loop, see Navy Pier's free fireworks show, grab a meal at your neighborhood outdoor restaurant and hit the best Chicago beaches after they open on Friday (or refer to our longer roundup of weekend events for even more options). Looking for things to do in Chicago on Memorial Day? Read on and start planning your three-day weekend. 

RECOMMENDED: Memorial Day weekend 2024 in Chicago

Things to do over Memorial Day weekend in Chicago

  • Drinking

Closed since 2022, North Avenue Beach restaurant and bar Castaways reopens Memorial Day Weekend after undergoing a massive $3 million renovation. The 22,000-square-foot, two-level space will now feature revamped dining decks, bar areas, patio space, multiple cabanas available for rent and private events, and an area reserved for patrons 21 years and older.

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Want to know what's even better than a frozen cocktail on a hot day? A frozen cocktail on a rooftop on a hot day. Cool off all Memorial Day weekend long with drinks at these sky-high watering holes—just be prepared to make a reservation or brave a wait for walk-ins. 

  • Things to do

Chicago's public beaches officially open for the season on Friday, May 24, at which point visitors are permitted to swim daily from 11am to 7pm. Slather yourself in sunscreen and keep an eye out for beaches with fun amenities like kayak rentals, concessions and picnic areas—and might we suggest dinner and drinks at a waterfront restaurant after your swim?

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  • Things to do
  • Walks and tours

Not brave enough to take a dip in Lake Michigan yet? Get out on the water with one of the city's best boat tours, from mesmerizing architecture tours along the Chicago River to wind-whipping speedboat cruises on the lake. You can even rent a small electric boat and be your own captain for a day, if you're feeling adventurous. 

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