Kendrick Lamar, Angel Reese and Mavis Staples headline a festive week in the city (Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons).
The signs of summer are everywhere: longer days, warmer nights, and that unmistakable energy in the air. In true #SummerTimeChi fashion, the city is stacked with stuff to do this weekend—from blues to bars, ribs to hoops. Whether you’re here for Kendrick, Angel, Kamilla and the Sky or just some good vibes, Chicago’s got something for you.
Here are the best events to check out this weekend:
Tina – The Tina Turner Musical
June 3–8, Cadillac Palace Theatre
Tina Turner’s story roars to life in this electrifying production. Meghan Dawson channels the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll with power and grace.
Read our spotlight: Meghan Dawson in the Defender
Chicago Blues Festival
June 5–8, Millennium Park & Ramova Theatre
Blues in the park. Blues on the South Side. Four days of music that moves the soul—free and open to all.
Ribfest Chicago – 25th Anniversary
June 6–8, Lincoln Ave. from Irving Park Rd. to Berteau Ave.
Three days. 20+ vendors. One unmistakable smell in the air: BBQ. Ribfest marks 25 years of finger-licking, Sweet Baby Ray’s–powered glory.
Hours: Fri 5–10PM | Sat–Sun 12–10PM | Suggested donation: $10
Kendrick Lamar and SZA: Grand National Tour
June 6, Soldier Field
This is what a moment sounds like. Kendrick and SZA hit Chicago with a show built for the big stage. Expect smoke, lights, and verses that land heavy.
One Of A Kind: The Eddie Levert Show
June 6, City Winery Chicago
Two sets. One soul icon. Eddie Levert takes the mic and delivers.
Read the full interview: Eddie Levert in the Defender
Simone Green Live
June 6, Q’s Lounge & Bar, 8406 S. Kedzie Ave.
Doors 6PM | Show 7PM
She sings like Sunday morning and moves like she’s got five lives. From church choirs to executive suites, Simone Green’s story is as dynamic as her voice.
White Sox vs. Royals
June 6–8, Guaranteed Rate Field
Forget the standings—summer baseball still hits different. Grab a seat, grab a dog, and watch the Sox take on Kansas City under clear skies and city lights.
Chicago Sky vs. Indiana Fever
June 7, 7PM, Wintrust Arena
Fresh off a two-game streak, the Sky face off against the Fever in a matchup with heat, heart, and high energy. Sky games don’t just feel like sports—they feel like a party.
That’s What Friends Are For: Gladys, Dionne and Patti
June 7–July 27, Black Ensemble Theater
Three icons. One tribute. Black Ensemble Theater honors the voices and stories of LaBelle, Warwick, and Knight.
Maxwell Street Market
June 8, 800 S. Desplaines St.
The city’s best street market returns. Come hungry, leave inspired—food, music, and culture all in one place.
Invisible to Whom?
Through June 30, UChicago Regenstein Library
Robert A. Sengstacke’s lens reframes what it means to be seen. A striking exhibit on Black presence, past and present.
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