Free things to do this weekend in and around Chicago

Chicago's Top Picks for FREE family-friendly fun Friday, July 24, 2026 to Sunday, July 26, 2026

(Scroll down for full, detailed list of free weekend activities.)

Free summer mini photo session with Shoott! - Chicago - Shoott - Broadway, New York, NY, USA, Friday, July 24, 2026; Sunday, July 26, 2026 - See link for times

Fun Fridays at the Shell: Mary Macaroni - The Shell at Reed-Keppler Park - Arbor Avenue, West Chicago, IL, USA, Friday, July 24, 2026, 11:00AM

Kids Bowl Free - Register Your Kids for a Summer Fun Bowling Pass Today - Kids Bowl Free - Find a participating bowling center near you today!, Friday, July 24, 2026 to Sunday, July 26, 2026 - See website for details.

Summer Fireworks at the Navy Pier 2026 - Navy Pier - 600 East Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611, United States, Saturday, July 25, 2026, Wednesdays: 9 pm - 9:10 pm; Saturday: 10 pm - 10:10 pm

Taco & Art Fest - The Shell at Reed-Keppler Park - Arbor Avenue, West Chicago, IL, USA, Saturday, July 25, 2026, 3:00pm-7:00pm

North Riverside Park Mall's Custom Kicks Lab - North Riverside Park Mall - 7501 W Cermak Rd, North Riverside, IL 60546, United States, Saturday, July 25, 2026, 9 AM - 12 PM

Chess A2Z July Webinar: NM Austin Liu - Opening Principles: Play Better Without Memorizing - Chess A2Z - 10940 SW Barnes Rd 247, Portland, OR 97225, United States, Saturday, July 25, 2026, 7PM to 8PM PDT