Events

The Newberry’s used book fair ended after 2023, so here is what the library still offers families and where to find cheap books now.

Noon Year’s Eve parties, early countdowns at the zoos, midnight fireworks at Navy Pier and easy ideas for a family New Year’s Eve at home in Chicago...

How the Chicago Park District’s free Movies in the Parks program works, how to find a screening near you and what to pack for a movie night with kids. ...

Spooky Zoo, Boo! at the Zoo, the Botanic Garden’s jack-o’-lantern walk and the Arts in the Dark parade, sorted by which ages each one suits best. ...

Six u-pick orchards within driving distance of Chicago, how u-pick pricing usually works, and practical tips for picking apples with kids.

A fall to-do list for Chicago families, from a last river cruise and fall color at the Morton Arboretum to the gear and car prep to finish before winter. ...

Beaches, Navy Pier fireworks, splash pads, free concerts and outdoor movies: a printable list of free and easy summer plans for Chicago families.

Christkindlmarket, ZooLights, the Lights Festival parade and the Auto Show: the Chicago winter events that come back every year, with tips for going with kids. ...

How Illinois resident free days work, the library pass most families miss, and how to make a free day actually enjoyable.

The things worth doing between the thaw and summer, most of them free or close to it.