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Former Bears punter Bob Parsons dies at 72

Former Bears punter/tight end Bob Parsons, whose NFL record of 114 punts set in 1981 still stands, died last Friday at 72.

Parsons, a fifth-round draft pick out of Penn State, played for the Bears from 1972-83 — he was a tight end from 1972-77 and the Bears’ full-time punter from 1974-83. He played in 167 consecutive games — a franchise record at the time –before he was cut by Mike Ditka with two games left in the 1983 season after Ditka was miffed that Parsons had contacted the USFL’s Chicago Blitz about a coaching job.

Parsons, who lived in Lake Zurich in retirement, led the NFL in punts in 1975 (93), 1981 (114) and 1982 (58 in a strike-shortened season), when he averaged a career-best 41.2 yards per punt. The record for most punts in a season was tied by Chad Stanley of the expansion Houston Texans in 2002. Parsons led the NFL in punts inside the 20 in 1979 (26) and 1981 (31).

His 884 career punts is still the franchise record. His 81-yard punt against the Patriots in 1982 was the second-longest in franchise history at the time and still is third today.

Parsons was a back-up quarterback at Penn State who converted to tight end as a senior. He completed 7-of-13 passes for 131 yards on fake punts in his career, including 6-of-6 in 1976-77.

His 32-yard pass to Steve Schubert against the Buccaneers in 1977 led to Walter Payton’s three-yard touchdown that clinched a 10-0 victory during the Bears’ glorious mad dash to their first playoff berth since 1963. He also had a 22-yard pass to Doug Buffone in the Bears’ 42-6 victory over the Cardinals in the 1979 finale that clinched a playoff berth.

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Blackhawks notebook: Anders Sorensen named Rockford IceHogs’ permanent coach

Anders Sorensen coaches hockey. But sometimes he feels like he’s coaching golf.

“What I’m here for is helping these players,” he said. “We’re here to serve them. I jokingly sometimes tell those guys, ‘We’re your caddies. We’re telling you to hit the 7-iron. If you want to hit the 8-iron, that’s up to you.'”

That intense focus on development — sometimes above winning –is the reality of being a minor-league coach, especially one in an ultra-rebuilding organization like the Blackhawks.

But after steadily working his way up, Sorensen –who was on Tuesday officially named the Rockford IceHogs’ new coach, after spending most of last season with an interim tag –has embraced that reality.

The 47-year-old native of Sweden spent five years as a Hawks development coach and another three as an IceHogs assistant before finally taking over last November, when the Hawks fired Jeremy Colliton and moved former IceHogs coach Derek King up to the NHL.

From that point on, with Sorensen in charge, the extremely inexperienced IceHogs went 35-26-5, made the AHL playoffs and advanced to the second round before succumbing to a stacked Chicago Wolves team.

“It has been a long road, for sure, but it has been good, too, because…I’ve learned in a lot of different areas of the organization,” Sorensen said.

“The biggest thing is how long it can take for some players to develop into full-time NHL players. That’s something that [the Hawks have] stressed and they’re willing to look at now. At the end of the day, every player’s going to be different. I don’t think you can draw a line over, ‘OK, we’re going to use this guy one [year] in Rockford, and then he’s coming up.’ They have different development paths, all the different players.”

Hawks management told Sorensen shortly after the season they wanted to keep him as head coach, but it took some time to work out his contract. Assistant coach Jared Nightingale will also stay but the rest of Sorensen’s staff isn’t formalized yet.

Sorensen said he’ll meet soon with new Hawks coach Luke Richardson to talk about aligning systems and strategies between the two affiliates.

Scotty Bowman departs

Scotty Bowman, ex-general manager Stan Bowman’s father and the winningest coach in NHL history, won’t remain a Hawks senior advisor moving forward after all.

Despite initial indications otherwise from the team, Bowman tweeted Tuesday he resigned from the Hawks on July 1 because he “decided it was time to move on.” He added he’d still “like to stay involved” in the NHL. The 88-year-old hockey icon currently lives in the Tampa Bay area.

Colton Dach in weird spot

If Kirby Dach’s trade to the Canadiens just three years into his NHL career was shocking for Kirby, it was even stranger for his younger brother, Colton.

Just last summer, the Dach family celebrated Colton being drafted into the same Hawks organization where Kirby already played. Their father, Dale, said last month he couldn’t “even describe the feeling” of pride.

Now, the dream of the Dach brothers playing together in the NHL has disappeared –yet Colton still remains with the Hawks, powering ahead. He has been noticeable during development camp this week.

“As a family, we were a little shellshocked the first few minutes [after the trade],” Colton said Tuesday. “We let it sink in and slowly realized what was really going down.

“It’s kind of upsetting. You think you’re going to play your career with your brother and everything like that. But it’s a new path for me, so I’m excited.”

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Duncan Keith retires; Blackhawks ‘wanted to be great every single night,’ he says

They called them “hot stoves,” pals Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook did, and what that meant wasn’t complicated at all. Imagine a pair of inseparable defensemen up late swapping hockey stories, and you pretty much have it. But one night, on the road before a game in Edmonton, they sat in somebody’s hotel room — it could’ve been teammate Patrick Sharp’s because he was there, too — and BSed until about 6 a.m.

Let’s just say the ensuing game was a disaster.

“So my advice to you prospects would be to make sure to get your sleep at night before a game,” Keith, a Hall of Fame-bound Blackhawks great, joked Tuesday as he announced his retirement.

But there was no sleeping on Keith throughout his 17-year NHL career and his 16 seasons with the Blackhawks, because he was always ready to go with the very best of them. He roared in as a rookie in 2005 and led the Hawks in ice time, as he would season after season, and playoff run after playoff run, until it was nothing less than automatic. He excelled at both ends of the rink, playing with speed and skill but also toughness and an edge. He blocked shots, spit teeth — seven of them at once in perhaps his signature moment, in the 2010 Western Conference finals — and always came back for more.

And did he ever shine alongside Seabrook — for over 1,000 games, more than any other NHL blue-line pairing ever.

“A lot of great teammates from my time in Chicago, too many great players to name them all,” Keith said from Rogers Place in Edmonton, where he played his final season. “But when I think of those teammates and the special bonds and memories we created, the one guy who sticks out is Brent.”

Four days before his 39th birthday — and one year to the day after the Hawks traded him to the Oilers in part so he could be closer to son Colton — Keith sat with his boy, 9, beside him, and other family members, several from Edmonton, in attendance. Keith grew up in Fort Frances, Ontario, just across the river from International Falls, Minnesota, but he plans to remain in the Edmonton area, where he and brother Cameron can coach their children in hockey together.

“There’s still some part of me that knows I could still play,” Keith said, “but I think that’s kind of how I wanted to go out, knowing I still had some game left in me and I’m still relatively healthy.”

Keith mentioned teammates Marian Hossa, Niklas Hjalmarsson, Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews, Corey Crawford, Dustin Byfuglien, Andrew Ladd, Kris Versteeg, Brian Campbell and Sharp. He thanked Dale Tallon, who drafted him, and Joel Quenneville, who coached the Hawks to Stanley Cup titles in 2010, 2013 and 2015.

“The list goes on and on,” he said. “We wanted to be great every single night.”

He also thanked Hawks fans, who can have fun debating whether Keith is the best Hawks defenseman since Chris Chelios, since Doug Wilson, since Pierre Pilote or since the very first Hawks puck dropped in 1926.

“They really guided us and helped us,” he said, “cheered us through the ups and downs.”

Rarely has it been more down for the Hawks and their fans than it is now. What the heck happened? Pieces of an elite puzzle were lost. Front-office missteps were made. Seabrook, Keith and other long-timers got older and lost a step. The pandemic arrived. The tremendous shame of a 2010 sexual-assault scandal and coverup in the organization stained a championship era. Now, the more-unrecognizable-by-the-hour Hawks are in the early stages of a full-blown rebuild. Any chance No. 7 overall draft pick Kevin Korchinski is the next Keith? No, that wasn’t a serious question.

Juxtaposed with all that, though, Keith’s excellence on the ice impresses even more than it did in real time. He won Norris Trophies in 2010 and 2014 and the Conn Smythe in 2015. He was a two-time Olympic gold medalist and was selected to the NHL’s 2010s all-decade team, along with Drew Doughty, Sidney Crosby, Alex Ovechkin, Marc-Andre Fleury and teammate Kane. Only Stan Mikita played more games as a Hawk. Only Wilson scored more points as a Hawks defenseman.

Keith finishes with 646 career points, 625 of them with the team that selected him in the second round out of Michigan State in 2002.

For the record, he called Oilers teammates Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl “the two best players in the world” and said if Kane or Toews were mulling a possible trade to Edmonton, he’d give the Oilers “a glowing recommendation.”

Things sure have changed. But once upon a time …

“We were a group of young players back in Chicago,” Keith said. “We all cared. We were passionate.”

And when it came to stopping the other guy, let’s tell it like it is: No. 2 was No. 1.

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Blackhawks needs, targets in NHL free agent market

The Blackhawks’ chaotic July of player movement isn’t finished yet.

With only 33 (out of a maximum 50) contracts currently on the books –and only two restricted free agents, Philipp Kurashev and Caleb Jones, to sign eventually –the Hawks need to accumulate more players to fill out their organizational depth chart.

That could lead to general manager Kyle Davidson to be somewhat active when the NHL’s unrestricted free agency market opens Wednesday.

One thing the Hawks absolutely need is a second goaltender to support Petr Mrazek, although UFA-to-be Kevin Lankinen could still be re-signed. They might not have many better options.

League-wide, the goalie market has shifted way out of balance, with many teams searching for goaltending help but few quality goalies available. The Maple Leafs, Capitals and Oilers are all desperate. Nonetheless, lower-tier UFAs like Martin Jones, Thomas Greiss or Dustin Tokarski might fit the Hawks’ hole.

The Hawks also likely need to acquire a few veteran forwards to simply field a full roster.

They currently employ only three forwards making more than $1.2 million (Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews and Tyler Johnson), only eight who have played in 50 career NHL games (those three plus Sam Lafferty, Taylor Raddysh, Boris Katchouk, Jujhar Khaira and MacKenzie Entwistle) and only 16 total. Starting the season with those numbers would be irresponsible, regardless of the tanking objective.

There are tons of UFA forwards that could be considered, ranging from familiar face Mattias Janmark to reclamation project Ondrej Kase to dozens more, but the Hawks will likely make their decisions after gauging the market. They’ll want to pick up scraps on the cheap rather than barge into bidding wars. Eventually, they could try to flip their short-term signings for draft picks at the 2023 trade deadline.

The hottest-burning question, however, is whether Kane and Toews will approach Davidson requesting to be traded, now that they’ve seen the intense degree of rebuilding occurring around them.

So far, the two longtime stars and their representation have stayed mum, and Davidson has argued the case that their continued presence brings value in leadership and mentorship. But it would be understandable if they did decide they wanted out.

If Davidson is to have any reasonable chance of moving their $10.5 million cap hits, he’d need to do it soon, before other teams commit virtually all their already-limited cap space to free agents.

Conversely, the Hawks may consider taking on other teams’ bad contracts if they can receive an asset for doing so.

The Flyers are desperately trying to move out former star forward James van Riemsdyk, who has one year left at $7 million, to make a run at current star UFA Johnny Gaudreau. The Hawks are one of few teams in a position to help, and it sounds like they’re looking into it.

Even beyond Philadelphia, the contract-dump market is teeming with possibilities. The Penguins need to dump a defenseman — most likely Marcus Pettersson, with three years left at $4 million. The Bruins probably need to move one of defenseman Matt Grzelcyk (two years left at $3.7 million), defenseman Mike Reilly (two years left at $3 million) or forward Craig Smith (one year left at $3.1 million).

Contracts that are probably too long for the Hawks’ liking, but might still be in play elsewhere, are Sergei Bobrovsky’s with the Panthers (four years left at $10 million) and William Karlsson’s with the Golden Knights (five years left at $5.9 million). When it comes to Vegas, perhaps no-longer-needed backup goalie Laurent Broissoit (one year left at $2.3 million) could fit both the Hawks and Knights’ needs.

The Hawks could even look into reacquiring Brent Seabrook’s contract (two years left on long-term injured reserve at $6.9 million) from the Lightning, funny as that circumstance would be.

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Chicago Bears hopeful trade for ex-Patriots WR N’Keal Harry can benefit both

Former first round pick wide receiver N’Keal Harry lands in Chicago via trade with a chance to revitalize his career.

Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles made a modest trade for wide receiver N’Keal Harry from the New England Patriots for a 2024 seventh-round pick.  Harry has struggled since his arrival in the NFL mustering only 57 catches for 598 yards and four touchdowns in his career.  The trade isn’t much of an upgrade for the Bears’ receiving core but it gives Harry a much-needed fresh start.

Ian Rapoport

@RapSheet

At long last, the #Patriots trade former first-rounder N’Keal Harry and it’s the #Bears as his landing spot for a 2024 7th rounder, per me and @MikeGarafolo. A solid upside move for Chicago, while New England moves on with a strong group itself.

4:58 PM · Jul 12, 2022

The question is what can Harry do with the change of scenery?  Hopefully begin to realize his potential on a roster that is going to need someone of Harry’s size and talent to elevate the WR production.  Harry has the type of work ethic to turn things around.  Coming out of Arizona State he showed maturity and growth to be a success in the NFL.

Harry’s biggest weakness may be a mental issue with never being the type of person to fit into Boston or with the Patriots culture.  Going from Arizona to Boston is a huge culture shock and can really wear down on a player.  There’s no way to speculate on precisely why Harry has failed in New England

What N’Keal Harry was at Arizona State was a highly productive receiver.  He posted consecutive seasons of 1,000 yards receiving with 8 and 9 touchdowns respectively as a true sophomore and junior.  He was a five-star recruit coming out of high school and made an immediate impact at Arizona State.  Harry showed speed and agility he was able to go up and high point the ball and come down with it.

What Harry has struggled with in the NFL has been gaining separation in his route running.  As a result he hasn’t received many targets or much opportunity to get better with experience.  He did show short area quickness and excellent after the catch ability at ASU, enough that it should translate to the NFL level.

Harry has all of the tools, he’s not slow, he has excellent size and athleticism.  But he needs to shake out the mental block put it all together and become the receiver he’s capable of becoming.

If N’Keal Harry does finally put it all together he could become a surprise addition to the Bears that could absolutely change the depth chart in Chicago. Harry has a chance and now he just to do everything in his power to help himself and the Bears.

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Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson Goes Scorched Earth. Are Toews and Kane Next?

Who is next to go for the Chicago Blackhawks as new GM Kyle Davidson continues to make changes?

When the Blackhawks promoted Kyle Davidson as their official General Manager in March, he said they were committed to a rebuild. That wasn’t just lip service.

From the time he was an Interim-GM to the present, Davidson has executed the following moves:

Fired Coach Jeremy CollitonTraded Malcolm Subban (future considerations)Traded Alex Nylander for Sam Lafferty

And now for the recent seismic shifts:

Traded fan-favorite Brandon Hagel and two fourth-round picks (2022, 2024) to Tampa for two first-round picks (2023, 2024) and forwards Boris Katchouk and Taylor Raddysh.Traded star-forward Alex Debrincat to Ottawa for the 7th (Kevin Korchinski) and 39th (Paul Ludwinski) overall picks in the 2022 NHL Draft; and a third-round pick in 2024.Traded the Hawks’ former third-overall pick in Kirby Dach to Montreal for the 13th (Frank Nazar) and 66th (Gavin Hayes) overall picks in the 2022 NHL Draft.

In addition to trading Debrincat and Dach, the Blackhawks did not offer qualifying offers to restricted free agents Dominik Kubalik and Dylan Strome. In addition, Henrik Borgstrom was put on waivers.

If you look closely, there is a pattern here. Davidson’s first few moves where no-brainers, undoing the horrific mistakes of the previous regime (Colliton, Nylander, Subban). Then you see a more aggressive approach once Davidson’s “Interim” title is removed – an approach that marks not only a rebuilding strategy, but a shifting of pieces a GM normally would retain for a rebuild.

Debrincat, Dach, and Borgstrom are all very young players. Debrincat is already an established NHL top-six scorer; and although Dach and Borgstrom have struggled, they are even younger and still have size, skill, and upside. Even Strome and Kubalik are not “ancient” players – they are both in their mid-twenties – but to Davidson, they are remnants of a failed rebuild. Davidson’s goal is not just to rebuild; it’s to start completely from scratch.

So what’s next for the Blackhawks?

At this point, it’s not a question of “if” Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews are traded, it’s “when.” Both players will be entering the last year of their contracts. They are all that remains of the Cup Era of Blackhawks hockey; an era from which Davidson, and the majority of Blackhawks fans, are ready to move on.

Although his 10.5 million price tag may deter certain teams with cap trouble, Patrick Kane should command plenty of interest. There are already multiple rumors floating around Kane, which include the Colorado Avalanche and New York Rangers. New York makes sense, being close to Kane’s hometown of Buffalo and with a Cup-contending roster which includes his old line-mate in Artemi Panarin.

Unlike Kane, Toews may be harder to move, both in terms of demand and a worthwhile return. His game has diminished over the years, but he is still a solid two-way center who can play special teams; and who is dominant at the dot.

He’d put a Cup-contending team over the top as a third-line center and is still a second-line center on a deep top-six, but will the demand be as high for Toews as it will be at the trade deadline next year? Probably not, but Davidson may not have a choice but to move him this off-season, even if the return is low.

Otherwise, the Hawks could be stuck with an extremely disgruntled franchise Hall-of-Famer for his final season, which wouldn’t be good for either party.

If by some miracle Kane is not moved before the season begins, he most certainly will be by the trade deadline. The only reason for him to stay was to cement his franchise legacy statistically, but that will be all but impossible for him to improve upon next season, particularly without Debrincat.

Is Jonathan Toews future with the Blackhawks?

Toews may stick around – not by choice necessarily, but rather, a lack of interest from Cup-contending teams he’d want to go to; or a lack of return for Davidson.

Only Toews’ no-movement clause will pose a problem in moving him. Eating salary for either player will pose no problem for the Blackhawks, as they will be well below the cap for the next few years, let alone next year. Both Toews and Kane are well aware by now that the organization’s sole focus is a tear down; and there is zero reason why either one of them would want to stick around for that, understandably.

Without Toews and Kane, the Blackhawks’ resurgence – and the three Stanley Cups that followed – would have never happened. Although players like Duncan Keith, Brent Seabrook, Patrick Sharp, Dustin Byfuglien, and Corey Crawford were already in the system, that era truly started with them. Although sad, it’s fitting that Toews and Kane are the last two left. The era truly began with them, and it will end with them. The only question now is when.

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Summer in the city: youth edition

Ah, summer vacation: the time of year when Chicago’s youth are free from the confines of school—but aren’t allowed to be in Millennium Park after six at night on weekends (or anywhere in public after 10 PM) without an adult present. What’s a teen to do during the lazy hazy days of summer? 

FREE TIME | OUTDOOR SPOTS | STREET FAIRS | CHICAGO TRADITIONS | MUSEUMS AFTER DARK | OUTDOOR MOVIES | BUDGET-FRIENDLY | FROZEN DESSERTS | PAID GIGS | FREE CAMPS & ACTIVITIES | FREE MEALS | VOLUNTEER

Do You Know Where Your Children Are? (aka the new curfew policy)

As of May, anyone under 18 must be with a “responsible adult” over age 21 to visit Millennium Park after 6 PM Thursdays through Sundays. An adult who is at least 21 years old can accompany no more than four people under 18, according to the policy—although there are exceptions for ticketed events (such as concerts or sporting events). Park visitors should be ready to present government-issued identification cards upon request. The complete rules are readable at the City’s website. 

The city also recently changed its general curfew policy, making the curfew for children aged 12–17 one hour earlier: 10 PM daily. The curfew for minors under 12 stays the same: 8:30 PM Sunday through Thursday and 9 PM Friday through Saturday.

Free Time

Here are some ways to cure those summertime blues.

Pools

The Chicago Park District has opened some public pools (but not all) this summer, so check the Park District’s website for open hours before you head out. Clean swimwear is required and street clothes and street shoes are not allowed on the pool deck.

Beaches

Chicago’s lakefront beaches are officially open through Labor Day (Mon 9/5). Lifeguards are on duty from 11 AM to 7 PM daily. Check to make sure the beach is open before you go; the Park District’s updates their website daily with swimming conditions. Some favorites:

Oak Street Beach

1000 N. DuSable Lake Shore Drive

Known for: the view of the skyline

Rainbow Beach

2873 E. 75th 

Known for: its dunes and community gardens 

Kathy Osterman Beach (aka Ardmore Beach or Hollywood Beach)

5800 N. DuSable Lake Shore Drive

Known for: being LGBTQ+ friendly

Skate Parks

Chicago Park District skate parks offer options for both new and advanced skateboarders. Here are a few.

Burnham 31st Street Skate Park

Just south of 31st at DuSable Lake Shore DriveDaily 6 AM–11 PM

Grant Skate Park

Southwest corner of Grant Park, near Ninth and Columbus Daily 6 AM–9 PM

Wilson Skate Park

Wilson and DuSable Lake Shore DriveDaily 6 AM–11 PM

Biking

Here are some scenic options, whether you just want to take a quick ride or are in the mood for an all-day trek. 

Bloomingdale Trail (aka the 606)

1600 to 3700 W. BloomingdaleDaily, 6 AM-11 PM

This 2.7-mile elevated trail runs along Bloomingdale from Ashland to Ridgeway. The 606 is open to both cyclists and walkers, so take a ride early in the morning if you want to avoid foot traffic. 

Lakefront Trail

Runs from 71st on the south to Ardmore on the north

The South Shore portion is usually less crowded. Check out the Park District’s website for a full access map and safety guidelines.

Major Taylor Trail

Starts at Dan Ryan Woods near 81st and goes south through West Pullman, Beverly, and Morgan Park, ending near 134th and Halsted in the Whistler Woods Forest Preserve, just across the Little Calumet River 

Note: the portion between 95th and 105th are on the street (and not a separate off-street path).

The Garden Dirt Jumps

3400 N. Rockwell, in (Richard) Clark ParkOpen daily, 6 AM–11 PM 

If you’ve got a BMX or mountain bike, this set of dirt jumps offers terrain for all ages and skill levels. Pro tip: You can get to the dirt jumps from the south or north by using the bike trail along the western edge of Clark Park, on the east side of the Chicago River. 

Outdoor Spots

Chicago Riverwalk

Along the Chicago River and Wacker, between Lake and DuSable Lake Shore DriveDaily, 6 AM–11 PM

The riverwalk offers great people watching as well as art installations and live music. You can see Art on theMART from Wacker Drive between Wells and Franklin streets each night at 7:30 and 8 PM. It’s the largest permanent digital art projection in the world, and the screening content changes every three months or so.

Chess Tables

The Park District maintains free chess boards in the form of outdoor tables in five district locations from the north side to Pilsen; check their website for details. 

Lincoln Park Zoo

2400 N. CannonMon-Fri 8 AM–5 PM; weekends 8 AM–7 PM

Check out the new lion cub, born March 15. His name is Pilipili, which means “pepper” in Swahili. 

Millennium Park

201 E. RandolphMost park spaces open daily, 6 AM-11 PM

Even though the city has imposed a curfew at Millennium Park, there’s plenty to do before nightfall. You can splash in the Crown Fountain or visit the Lurie Garden, the Boeing Galleries, the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, and of course Cloud Gate (aka The Bean). The park also offers summer workouts and concerts. Pro tip: Millennium Park added security checkpoints and metal detectors in May.

Street Fairs & Music Festivals

Sure, there’s Lolla. But did you know there are also multiple street festivals every weekend, all across the city—and they’re free? (They might ask you for an entrance fee, but it’s a suggested donation. If you can’t spare a buck or two, you can still walk in.) Editor’s note: check out Reader senior writer Leor Galil’s article “The ‘new normal’ hangs over another summer of live music” for more insight and music festival listings.

Sundays on State

State from Lake south to MonroeSun 7/24, Sun 8/7, Sun 8/21, and Sun 9/4, 11 AM-6 PM

Last summer the city banned vehicle traffic on State Street on select Sundays to encourage people to come downtown on the weekend. This year Sundays on State returns, promising more art, music, and entertainment. 

Chinatown Summer Fair

Wentworth from Cermak to 24th Pl.Sat 7/30, noon-10 PM; Sun 7/31, 10 AM-7 PM

The fair opens with a lion dance procession and kung fu demonstrations. It also features a K-pop dance competition, a breakdance battle, and a headlining performance by hip-hop artist Kween Widda K.

Northalsted Market Days

Halsted from Belmont to AddisonSat 8/6-Sun 8/7, 11 AM-10 PM

This year marks the 40th annual Market Days festival, where you can find DJs, dancing, live music, arts, and crafts in what organizers call “America’s first gay village.” 

LatiNxt Music Festival

Navy Pier’s Lake Stage, Beer Garden, and Wave Wall; 600 E. GrandSat 8/6, 2-11:30 PM; Sun 8/7, 2-8 PM

Navy Pier’s fourth annual music festival showcases music from the Latin American diaspora as well as the emerging Chicago Latine music scene.

Sandbox Symphony

Oakwood Beach (41st St. and S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive)Sat 8/13, 2-10 PM

An interactive festival including live music, art exhibitions, yoga, meditation, movement, and dance

Chalk Howard Street

East of the Howard Red Line station, between Paulina and AshlandSat 8/27, 11 AM-8 PM

This festival is dedicated to all things chalk: 2D and 3D chalk artists, interactive art, and colorful street art. 

Fiesta Boricua

Division and CaliforniaSat-Sun 9/3-9/4

This annual Puerto Rican festival offers performances, artisan and food vendors, and a carnival, and showcases a different municipality of Puerto Rico each year. 

Bulls Fest

In the parking lots around the United Center (1901 W. Madison), and along Madison between Wood and DamenSat-Sun 9/3-9/4 

This two-day event will include free music and activities, as well as a basketball tournament for ages eight and up that requires participants to pay and preregister. 

Chicago Traditions

Bud Billiken Parade and Family Festival

The parade route generally kicks off in Bronzeville, travels along King Drive and ends in Washington Park (51st and King Drive). This year’s route and festival location will be announced on the festival website. Sat 8/13

The post-parade festival includes Zumba, free school supplies, and health and hiring fairs.

Chicago Air and Water Show

North Avenue Beach and along the lakefront (visible from Fullerton to Oak Street beaches)Sat 8/20-Sun 8/21, 10 AM–2 PM

Chicago Jazz Festival 

Millennium Park (201 E. Randolph) and venues citywideThu 9/1-Sun 9/4

This Chicago music festival has taken place for more than 40 years, with the first unofficial gathering in 1974, just a few weeks after composer and bandleader Duke Ellington died. 

Museums

If you’re looking to get out of the heat, lots of museums offer free or discounted admission to Chicagoans—especially those under 18. 

Adler Planetarium

1300 S. DuSable Lake Shore DriveWednesday nights (4-10 PM) are free for Illinois residents with proof of residency.

Art Institute of Chicago

111 S. MichiganFree for Chicago residents under age 18 every day 

Chicago History Museum

1601 N. ClarkFree for any Illinois resident under age 18 

The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center

740 E. 56th Pl.Free admission on Wednesdays 

Field Museum

1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore DriveFree for Illinois residents August 23, 24, 30, 31 and September 6, 7; discounts available daily for students with valid ID

Museum of Contemporary Art

220 E. ChicagoFree every Tuesday for all Illinois residents; free every day for those under age 18

National Museum of Mexican Art

1852 W. 19th St.Free admission daily 

National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture

3015 W. DivisionFree admission year round

Chicago Cultural Center

78 E. WashingtonDaily, 10 AM-5 PMAdmission is always free 

Busy Beaver Button Museum

3407 W. Armitage 

Logan Square’s Busy Beaver Button Company turns artwork into custom buttons. The adjacent museum is always free—plus it accepts button donations. Editor’s note: the museum is currently closed to the public during the pandemic; check their website for updates.

After Dark

Night Out in the Parks

The Chicago Park District hosts music events across the city; some end before sunset.

Tue 7/12, 7–8 PM

Africa in the Caribbean

Kedvale Park, 4134 W. Hirsch

Music, dance, and stories about the influence of African culture on the island of Puerto Rico

Wed 7/13, Thu 8/11, and Thu 9/8, sunset–10 PM

The Chicago Full Moon Jams at Foster Beach

Foster Beach, 5100 N. Simonds 

Fire performers and drummers under a full moon

Thu 7/14, 7–8:30 PM

Kombilesa Mi with Azania Drum Core

Hamilton Park, 513 W. 72nd 

The Old Town School of Folk Music’s Chicago Future Folk Project includes performances from Afro-Colombian hip-hop artist Kombilesa Mi and Chicago-based djembe orchestra Azania Drum Core.

Fri 7/15, and Fri 8/19

6–9 PM (sign-up at 5:45 PM)

Wicker MIC

Wicker Park, 1425 N. Damen 

Musicians, comedians, poets, and actors can sign up to perform at this open mic. 

Thu 8/4, 6–7:30 PM

School of Rock Chicago

Merrimac Park, 6343 W. Irving Park 

School of Rock’s performers range in age from eight to 18. 

Sat Aug. 6, 2–6 PM

We Are Hip Hop Festival

Dvorak Park, 1119 W. Cullerton

This festival showcases hip-hop culture while highlighting Chicago MCs, street artists, and breakers. 

Outdoor Movies

You can find free movies all across the city on pretty much any day of the week. Some are geared toward little kids, but you can also find some rated PG-13. Movies start at sunset, so an adult will need to accompany anyone under 18 after 10 PM. 

Movies in the Parks

Tue 7/12

Drumline

Daniel Burnham Park, north of Oakwood Beach at 39th and the lake 

Fri 7/22

King Richard

Austin Town Hall Park, 5610 W. Lake 

Thu 8/18

La La Land

Wicker Park, 1425 N. Damen

Gallagher Way

3635 N. Clark (just outside Wrigley Field)Every other Wednesday, gates open at 6 PM

Gallagher Way hosts free movies every other Wednesday night, in conjunction with the Music Box Theatre. Gates open at 6 PM and guests are allowed to bring carry-out food (there are several restaurants within the Gallagher Way complex). There are beverages, candy, popcorn, and ice cream available for purchase. Movies begin at 7:30 PM. 

Wed 7/20

School of Rock

Wed 7/27

Pitch Perfect

Wed 8/3

Grease

Wed 8/17

Encanto

Wed 8/31

Almost Famous

Wed 9/14

Selena

Wed 9/21

Bohemian Rhapsody

Budget-friendly ideas

Here are a few activities that are easy on the wallet.

Attractions

Chicago Water Taxi

On the Chicago Riverwalk, along Wacker between Clark and LaSalleSat-Sun, 10:45 AM–6:45 PMCost: $10 for an all day pass, $6 for one ride between any two Chicago Water Taxi locations

This service takes passengers on the Chicago River between several locations, including Chinatown and Michigan Avenue. 

Chicago White Sox Family Sundays

Guaranteed Rate Field, 333 W. 35thSun 7/24, 7/31, 8/14, 8/28, 9/4Cost: starting at $10/ticket 

Pro tip: on steamy days you can cool off using the outdoor shower on the Main Level, near Section 161. 

Mini Golf at Maggie Daley Park

337 W. Randolph (golf course is located at the south end of the BP Bridge)

Mon–Thu and Sun 10 AM–8 PM (last ticket sold at 7 PM); Fri–Sat 10 AM–9 PM (last ticket sold at 8 PM)General admission: $12 

Note: If you’re under 18, you have to be accompanied by an adult 21 years old or over after 6 PM, Thu–Sun. While you’re there, check out the 60-foot hopscotch drawing. 

Frozen Desserts

Original Rainbow Cone 

9233 S. Western (see website for other locations including Navy Pier and the mobile truck)

Known for: slicing and stacking five flavors into a cup or cone

Margie’s Candies

1960 N. Western and 1813 W. Montrose

Known for: ice cream creations and other confections

Black Dog Gelato

859 N. Damen (see website for other north side locations)

Known for: “Chicago-style” gelato

The Freeze

2815 W. Armitage 

Known for: soft-serve ice cream 

La Michoacana Premium

1855 S. Blue Island 

Known for: its paletas

Jobs and Other Paid Gigs

My CHI. My Future.

The city is promoting an app and website they’ve created to help Chicagoans ages 13 to 19 find jobs, activities, and classes. You can filter by interest, type of activity, and location. Here are just a few of the paying gigs you can find via MCMF:

After School Matters 

The After School Matters program allows teens to apply for internships, apprenticeships, and classes. 

After School Matters summer programs run July 5–August 13 and will take place at locations across the city. Some programs include remote options. Chicago teens who are 14 or 15 can apply for programs that offer a stipend. Chicago teens who are 16 or older can choose between an advanced apprenticeship or an internship, both of which pay $15/hour.

Chicago Housing Authority

The CHA is offering paid summer work opportunities for ages 13 and up. 

Chicago Park District 

Lifeguards. At last glance, the Chicago Park District was still looking for lifeguards — and they’re offering a signing bonus of $600. Seasonal jobs. The park district is also hiring for other seasonal jobs, such as recreation leaders. 

Code + Create 2022 Paid Summer Programming Series

Through 8/12

Everyone Can Code Chicago is offering teens age 16 and up a six-week program in which participants can earn $15/hour. 

Yollocalli Arts Reach

Through 8/12

This youth initiative from the National Museum of Mexican Art allows teens to take a class or participate in an internship while earning a stipend. 

Free Camps and Activities

CTE Summer Camps 2022

The Chicago Public Schools are offering career and technical education (CTE) camps across the city at various high schools. You can sign up for one or multiple camps. Here are just a few:

7/6–7/22

Architecture

Simeon Career Academy, 8147 S. Vincennes

7/11–7/29

Broadcast Technology

Clemente Community Academy, 1147 N. Western

7/18–7/29

Culinary Arts

Benito Juarez Community Academy, 1450 W. Cermak

Chicago Public Library Activities

You can find something to do at a library almost any day of the week. Here are just a few options.

Learn the basics of DSLR camera operation using a library-issued camera. This intro to acting class covers character development, improvisational games, and storytelling.Learn how to use craft and art tools like a vinyl cutter and 3D printer

New Life Centers Summer Youth Program

The organization New Life Centers offers a free program for students from seventh grade through high school for residents of Austin, Humboldt Park, and Garfield Park.

Sports and recreation (rock climbing, kayaking, paintball, BMX biking)Job trainingFinancial literacy classes

Free Meals

LunchStop Summer Meals Program

Through 8/12, Mon-Fri, 10 AM–noon

Chicago Public Schools provides free breakfast and lunch to any Chicago children between one and 18 years old at any school where summer programs take place. ID is not required to pick up meals. Go to the CPS website to see a full list of all LunchStop pickup sites.

Volunteer Opportunities

Here are a few organizations that are seeking young volunteers.

Cards for Hospitalized Kids

CFHK distributes cards to hospitalized children across the country, including in Illinois. Volunteers can help in a couple of ways: either helping with card sorting and distribution at its Chicago facility or making cards for hospitalized children at home.

Chicago Area Runners Association

CARA welcomes anyone age 14 or older to volunteer for its ‘Go Run events. Volunteers help with setup, check-in, registration, and on the course. 

7/9

Warren Park, 6601 N. Western

7/16

Humboldt Park, 1440 N. Humboldt 

7/23

Jackson Park, 6401 S. Stony Island 

Chicago Cares

Chicago Cares offers a range of volunteer opportunities throughout the city, both in person and virtually. Many are onetime commitments for a few hours. Here are just a few options:

Cook a meal with elementary-school students in East Garfield Park.Learn how to repair bikes in North Lawndale. Help maintain the Kilbourn Organic Greenhouse in Avondale.

Greater Chicago Food Depository

The GCFD welcomes youth volunteers to help repack food donations for individual and family recipients. This can include assembling boxes, checking expiration dates, and labeling products. Volunteers who are 16 and older can volunteer without an adult. 

Did you know? The Reader is nonprofit. The Reader is member supported. You can help keep the Reader free for everyone—and get exclusive rewards—when you become a member. The Reader Revolution membership program is a sustainable way for you to support local, independent media.

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Summer in the city: youth edition Read More »

Listen to The Ben Joravsky ShowBen Joravskyon July 12, 2022 at 7:05 pm

Reader senior writer Ben Joravsky riffs on the day’s stories with his celebrated humor, insight, and honesty, and interviews politicians, activists, journalists and other political know-it-alls. Presented by the Chicago Reader, the show is available by 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays at chicagoreader.com/joravsky—or wherever you get your podcasts. Don’t miss Oh, What a Week!–the Friday feature in which Ben & producer Dennis (aka, Dr. D.) review the week’s top stories. Also, bonus interviews drop on Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays. 

Chicago Reader podcasts are recorded on Shure microphones. Learn more at Shure.com.

With support from our sponsors

Chicago Reader senior writer Ben Joravsky discusses the day’s stories with his celebrated humor, insight, and honesty on The Ben Joravsky Show.


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Looks like Elon Musk believes in free speech for everyone except his SpaceX employees.

by Ben Joravsky
June 28, 2022June 28, 2022


Not a dream

The casino may actually be worse for Chicago than the dreaded parking meter deal.

by Ben Joravsky
June 15, 2022June 23, 2022

Did you know? The Reader is nonprofit. The Reader is member supported. You can help keep the Reader free for everyone—and get exclusive rewards—when you become a member. The Reader Revolution membership program is a sustainable way for you to support local, independent media.

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Listen to The Ben Joravsky ShowBen Joravskyon July 12, 2022 at 7:05 pm Read More »

Summer in the city: youth editionKirsten Lamberton July 12, 2022 at 9:08 pm

Ah, summer vacation: the time of year when Chicago’s youth are free from the confines of school—but aren’t allowed to be in Millennium Park after six at night on weekends (or anywhere in public after 10 PM) without an adult present. What’s a teen to do during the lazy hazy days of summer? 

FREE TIME | OUTDOOR SPOTS | STREET FAIRS | CHICAGO TRADITIONS | MUSEUMS AFTER DARK | OUTDOOR MOVIES | BUDGET-FRIENDLY | FROZEN DESSERTS | PAID GIGS | FREE CAMPS & ACTIVITIES | FREE MEALS | VOLUNTEER

Do You Know Where Your Children Are? (aka the new curfew policy)

As of May, anyone under 18 must be with a “responsible adult” over age 21 to visit Millennium Park after 6 PM Thursdays through Sundays. An adult who is at least 21 years old can accompany no more than four people under 18, according to the policy—although there are exceptions for ticketed events (such as concerts or sporting events). Park visitors should be ready to present government-issued identification cards upon request. The complete rules are readable at the City’s website. 

The city also recently changed its general curfew policy, making the curfew for children aged 12–17 one hour earlier: 10 PM daily. The curfew for minors under 12 stays the same: 8:30 PM Sunday through Thursday and 9 PM Friday through Saturday.

Free Time

Here are some ways to cure those summertime blues.

Pools

The Chicago Park District has opened some public pools (but not all) this summer, so check the Park District’s website for open hours before you head out. Clean swimwear is required and street clothes and street shoes are not allowed on the pool deck.

Beaches

Chicago’s lakefront beaches are officially open through Labor Day (Mon 9/5). Lifeguards are on duty from 11 AM to 7 PM daily. Check to make sure the beach is open before you go; the Park District’s updates their website daily with swimming conditions. Some favorites:

Oak Street Beach

1000 N. DuSable Lake Shore Drive

Known for: the view of the skyline

Rainbow Beach

2873 E. 75th 

Known for: its dunes and community gardens 

Kathy Osterman Beach (aka Ardmore Beach or Hollywood Beach)

5800 N. DuSable Lake Shore Drive

Known for: being LGBTQ+ friendly

Skate Parks

Chicago Park District skate parks offer options for both new and advanced skateboarders. Here are a few.

Burnham 31st Street Skate Park

Just south of 31st at DuSable Lake Shore DriveDaily 6 AM–11 PM

Grant Skate Park

Southwest corner of Grant Park, near Ninth and Columbus Daily 6 AM–9 PM

Wilson Skate Park

Wilson and DuSable Lake Shore DriveDaily 6 AM–11 PM

Biking

Here are some scenic options, whether you just want to take a quick ride or are in the mood for an all-day trek. 

Bloomingdale Trail (aka the 606)

1600 to 3700 W. BloomingdaleDaily, 6 AM-11 PM

This 2.7-mile elevated trail runs along Bloomingdale from Ashland to Ridgeway. The 606 is open to both cyclists and walkers, so take a ride early in the morning if you want to avoid foot traffic. 

Lakefront Trail

Runs from 71st on the south to Ardmore on the north

The South Shore portion is usually less crowded. Check out the Park District’s website for a full access map and safety guidelines.

Major Taylor Trail

Starts at Dan Ryan Woods near 81st and goes south through West Pullman, Beverly, and Morgan Park, ending near 134th and Halsted in the Whistler Woods Forest Preserve, just across the Little Calumet River 

Note: the portion between 95th and 105th are on the street (and not a separate off-street path).

The Garden Dirt Jumps

3400 N. Rockwell, in (Richard) Clark ParkOpen daily, 6 AM–11 PM 

If you’ve got a BMX or mountain bike, this set of dirt jumps offers terrain for all ages and skill levels. Pro tip: You can get to the dirt jumps from the south or north by using the bike trail along the western edge of Clark Park, on the east side of the Chicago River. 

Outdoor Spots

Chicago Riverwalk

Along the Chicago River and Wacker, between Lake and DuSable Lake Shore DriveDaily, 6 AM–11 PM

The riverwalk offers great people watching as well as art installations and live music. You can see Art on theMART from Wacker Drive between Wells and Franklin streets each night at 7:30 and 8 PM. It’s the largest permanent digital art projection in the world, and the screening content changes every three months or so.

Chess Tables

The Park District maintains free chess boards in the form of outdoor tables in five district locations from the north side to Pilsen; check their website for details. 

Lincoln Park Zoo

2400 N. CannonMon-Fri 8 AM–5 PM; weekends 8 AM–7 PM

Check out the new lion cub, born March 15. His name is Pilipili, which means “pepper” in Swahili. 

Millennium Park

201 E. RandolphMost park spaces open daily, 6 AM-11 PM

Even though the city has imposed a curfew at Millennium Park, there’s plenty to do before nightfall. You can splash in the Crown Fountain or visit the Lurie Garden, the Boeing Galleries, the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, and of course Cloud Gate (aka The Bean). The park also offers summer workouts and concerts. Pro tip: Millennium Park added security checkpoints and metal detectors in May.

Street Fairs & Music Festivals

Sure, there’s Lolla. But did you know there are also multiple street festivals every weekend, all across the city—and they’re free? (They might ask you for an entrance fee, but it’s a suggested donation. If you can’t spare a buck or two, you can still walk in.) Editor’s note: check out Reader senior writer Leor Galil’s article “The ‘new normal’ hangs over another summer of live music” for more insight and music festival listings.

Sundays on State

State from Lake south to MonroeSun 7/24, Sun 8/7, Sun 8/21, and Sun 9/4, 11 AM-6 PM

Last summer the city banned vehicle traffic on State Street on select Sundays to encourage people to come downtown on the weekend. This year Sundays on State returns, promising more art, music, and entertainment. 

Chinatown Summer Fair

Wentworth from Cermak to 24th Pl.Sat 7/30, noon-10 PM; Sun 7/31, 10 AM-7 PM

The fair opens with a lion dance procession and kung fu demonstrations. It also features a K-pop dance competition, a breakdance battle, and a headlining performance by hip-hop artist Kween Widda K.

Northalsted Market Days

Halsted from Belmont to AddisonSat 8/6-Sun 8/7, 11 AM-10 PM

This year marks the 40th annual Market Days festival, where you can find DJs, dancing, live music, arts, and crafts in what organizers call “America’s first gay village.” 

LatiNxt Music Festival

Navy Pier’s Lake Stage, Beer Garden, and Wave Wall; 600 E. GrandSat 8/6, 2-11:30 PM; Sun 8/7, 2-8 PM

Navy Pier’s fourth annual music festival showcases music from the Latin American diaspora as well as the emerging Chicago Latine music scene.

Sandbox Symphony

Oakwood Beach (41st St. and S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive)Sat 8/13, 2-10 PM

An interactive festival including live music, art exhibitions, yoga, meditation, movement, and dance

Chalk Howard Street

East of the Howard Red Line station, between Paulina and AshlandSat 8/27, 11 AM-8 PM

This festival is dedicated to all things chalk: 2D and 3D chalk artists, interactive art, and colorful street art. 

Fiesta Boricua

Division and CaliforniaSat-Sun 9/3-9/4

This annual Puerto Rican festival offers performances, artisan and food vendors, and a carnival, and showcases a different municipality of Puerto Rico each year. 

Bulls Fest

In the parking lots around the United Center (1901 W. Madison), and along Madison between Wood and DamenSat-Sun 9/3-9/4 

This two-day event will include free music and activities, as well as a basketball tournament for ages eight and up that requires participants to pay and preregister. 

Chicago Traditions

Bud Billiken Parade and Family Festival

The parade route generally kicks off in Bronzeville, travels along King Drive and ends in Washington Park (51st and King Drive). This year’s route and festival location will be announced on the festival website. Sat 8/13

The post-parade festival includes Zumba, free school supplies, and health and hiring fairs.

Chicago Air and Water Show

North Avenue Beach and along the lakefront (visible from Fullerton to Oak Street beaches)Sat 8/20-Sun 8/21, 10 AM–2 PM

Chicago Jazz Festival 

Millennium Park (201 E. Randolph) and venues citywideThu 9/1-Sun 9/4

This Chicago music festival has taken place for more than 40 years, with the first unofficial gathering in 1974, just a few weeks after composer and bandleader Duke Ellington died. 

Museums

If you’re looking to get out of the heat, lots of museums offer free or discounted admission to Chicagoans—especially those under 18. 

Adler Planetarium

1300 S. DuSable Lake Shore DriveWednesday nights (4-10 PM) are free for Illinois residents with proof of residency.

Art Institute of Chicago

111 S. MichiganFree for Chicago residents under age 18 every day 

Chicago History Museum

1601 N. ClarkFree for any Illinois resident under age 18 

The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center

740 E. 56th Pl.Free admission on Wednesdays 

Field Museum

1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore DriveFree for Illinois residents August 23, 24, 30, 31 and September 6, 7; discounts available daily for students with valid ID

Museum of Contemporary Art

220 E. ChicagoFree every Tuesday for all Illinois residents; free every day for those under age 18

National Museum of Mexican Art

1852 W. 19th St.Free admission daily 

National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture

3015 W. DivisionFree admission year round

Chicago Cultural Center

78 E. WashingtonDaily, 10 AM-5 PMAdmission is always free 

Busy Beaver Button Museum

3407 W. Armitage 

Logan Square’s Busy Beaver Button Company turns artwork into custom buttons. The adjacent museum is always free—plus it accepts button donations. Editor’s note: the museum is currently closed to the public during the pandemic; check their website for updates.

After Dark

Night Out in the Parks

The Chicago Park District hosts music events across the city; some end before sunset.

Tue 7/12, 7–8 PM

Africa in the Caribbean

Kedvale Park, 4134 W. Hirsch

Music, dance, and stories about the influence of African culture on the island of Puerto Rico

Wed 7/13, Thu 8/11, and Thu 9/8, sunset–10 PM

The Chicago Full Moon Jams at Foster Beach

Foster Beach, 5100 N. Simonds 

Fire performers and drummers under a full moon

Thu 7/14, 7–8:30 PM

Kombilesa Mi with Azania Drum Core

Hamilton Park, 513 W. 72nd 

The Old Town School of Folk Music’s Chicago Future Folk Project includes performances from Afro-Colombian hip-hop artist Kombilesa Mi and Chicago-based djembe orchestra Azania Drum Core.

Fri 7/15, and Fri 8/19

6–9 PM (sign-up at 5:45 PM)

Wicker MIC

Wicker Park, 1425 N. Damen 

Musicians, comedians, poets, and actors can sign up to perform at this open mic. 

Thu 8/4, 6–7:30 PM

School of Rock Chicago

Merrimac Park, 6343 W. Irving Park 

School of Rock’s performers range in age from eight to 18. 

Sat Aug. 6, 2–6 PM

We Are Hip Hop Festival

Dvorak Park, 1119 W. Cullerton

This festival showcases hip-hop culture while highlighting Chicago MCs, street artists, and breakers. 

Outdoor Movies

You can find free movies all across the city on pretty much any day of the week. Some are geared toward little kids, but you can also find some rated PG-13. Movies start at sunset, so an adult will need to accompany anyone under 18 after 10 PM. 

Movies in the Parks

Tue 7/12

Drumline

Daniel Burnham Park, north of Oakwood Beach at 39th and the lake 

Fri 7/22

King Richard

Austin Town Hall Park, 5610 W. Lake 

Thu 8/18

La La Land

Wicker Park, 1425 N. Damen

Gallagher Way

3635 N. Clark (just outside Wrigley Field)Every other Wednesday, gates open at 6 PM

Gallagher Way hosts free movies every other Wednesday night, in conjunction with the Music Box Theatre. Gates open at 6 PM and guests are allowed to bring carry-out food (there are several restaurants within the Gallagher Way complex). There are beverages, candy, popcorn, and ice cream available for purchase. Movies begin at 7:30 PM. 

Wed 7/20

School of Rock

Wed 7/27

Pitch Perfect

Wed 8/3

Grease

Wed 8/17

Encanto

Wed 8/31

Almost Famous

Wed 9/14

Selena

Wed 9/21

Bohemian Rhapsody

Budget-friendly ideas

Here are a few activities that are easy on the wallet.

Attractions

Chicago Water Taxi

On the Chicago Riverwalk, along Wacker between Clark and LaSalleSat-Sun, 10:45 AM–6:45 PMCost: $10 for an all day pass, $6 for one ride between any two Chicago Water Taxi locations

This service takes passengers on the Chicago River between several locations, including Chinatown and Michigan Avenue. 

Chicago White Sox Family Sundays

Guaranteed Rate Field, 333 W. 35thSun 7/24, 7/31, 8/14, 8/28, 9/4Cost: starting at $10/ticket 

Pro tip: on steamy days you can cool off using the outdoor shower on the Main Level, near Section 161. 

Mini Golf at Maggie Daley Park

337 W. Randolph (golf course is located at the south end of the BP Bridge)

Mon–Thu and Sun 10 AM–8 PM (last ticket sold at 7 PM); Fri–Sat 10 AM–9 PM (last ticket sold at 8 PM)General admission: $12 

Note: If you’re under 18, you have to be accompanied by an adult 21 years old or over after 6 PM, Thu–Sun. While you’re there, check out the 60-foot hopscotch drawing. 

Frozen Desserts

Original Rainbow Cone 

9233 S. Western (see website for other locations including Navy Pier and the mobile truck)

Known for: slicing and stacking five flavors into a cup or cone

Margie’s Candies

1960 N. Western and 1813 W. Montrose

Known for: ice cream creations and other confections

Black Dog Gelato

859 N. Damen (see website for other north side locations)

Known for: “Chicago-style” gelato

The Freeze

2815 W. Armitage 

Known for: soft-serve ice cream 

La Michoacana Premium

1855 S. Blue Island 

Known for: its paletas

Jobs and Other Paid Gigs

My CHI. My Future.

The city is promoting an app and website they’ve created to help Chicagoans ages 13 to 19 find jobs, activities, and classes. You can filter by interest, type of activity, and location. Here are just a few of the paying gigs you can find via MCMF:

After School Matters 

The After School Matters program allows teens to apply for internships, apprenticeships, and classes. 

After School Matters summer programs run July 5–August 13 and will take place at locations across the city. Some programs include remote options. Chicago teens who are 14 or 15 can apply for programs that offer a stipend. Chicago teens who are 16 or older can choose between an advanced apprenticeship or an internship, both of which pay $15/hour.

Chicago Housing Authority

The CHA is offering paid summer work opportunities for ages 13 and up. 

Chicago Park District 

Lifeguards. At last glance, the Chicago Park District was still looking for lifeguards — and they’re offering a signing bonus of $600. Seasonal jobs. The park district is also hiring for other seasonal jobs, such as recreation leaders. 

Code + Create 2022 Paid Summer Programming Series

Through 8/12

Everyone Can Code Chicago is offering teens age 16 and up a six-week program in which participants can earn $15/hour. 

Yollocalli Arts Reach

Through 8/12

This youth initiative from the National Museum of Mexican Art allows teens to take a class or participate in an internship while earning a stipend. 

Free Camps and Activities

CTE Summer Camps 2022

The Chicago Public Schools are offering career and technical education (CTE) camps across the city at various high schools. You can sign up for one or multiple camps. Here are just a few:

7/6–7/22

Architecture

Simeon Career Academy, 8147 S. Vincennes

7/11–7/29

Broadcast Technology

Clemente Community Academy, 1147 N. Western

7/18–7/29

Culinary Arts

Benito Juarez Community Academy, 1450 W. Cermak

Chicago Public Library Activities

You can find something to do at a library almost any day of the week. Here are just a few options.

Learn the basics of DSLR camera operation using a library-issued camera. This intro to acting class covers character development, improvisational games, and storytelling.Learn how to use craft and art tools like a vinyl cutter and 3D printer

New Life Centers Summer Youth Program

The organization New Life Centers offers a free program for students from seventh grade through high school for residents of Austin, Humboldt Park, and Garfield Park.

Sports and recreation (rock climbing, kayaking, paintball, BMX biking)Job trainingFinancial literacy classes

Free Meals

LunchStop Summer Meals Program

Through 8/12, Mon-Fri, 10 AM–noon

Chicago Public Schools provides free breakfast and lunch to any Chicago children between one and 18 years old at any school where summer programs take place. ID is not required to pick up meals. Go to the CPS website to see a full list of all LunchStop pickup sites.

Volunteer Opportunities

Here are a few organizations that are seeking young volunteers.

Cards for Hospitalized Kids

CFHK distributes cards to hospitalized children across the country, including in Illinois. Volunteers can help in a couple of ways: either helping with card sorting and distribution at its Chicago facility or making cards for hospitalized children at home.

Chicago Area Runners Association

CARA welcomes anyone age 14 or older to volunteer for its ‘Go Run events. Volunteers help with setup, check-in, registration, and on the course. 

7/9

Warren Park, 6601 N. Western

7/16

Humboldt Park, 1440 N. Humboldt 

7/23

Jackson Park, 6401 S. Stony Island 

Chicago Cares

Chicago Cares offers a range of volunteer opportunities throughout the city, both in person and virtually. Many are onetime commitments for a few hours. Here are just a few options:

Cook a meal with elementary-school students in East Garfield Park.Learn how to repair bikes in North Lawndale. Help maintain the Kilbourn Organic Greenhouse in Avondale.

Greater Chicago Food Depository

The GCFD welcomes youth volunteers to help repack food donations for individual and family recipients. This can include assembling boxes, checking expiration dates, and labeling products. Volunteers who are 16 and older can volunteer without an adult. 

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Summer in the city: youth editionKirsten Lamberton July 12, 2022 at 9:08 pm Read More »