By: Ashmar Mandou
Known as the unofficial kick-off to summer, Memorial Day weekend is the perfect time to explore different neighborhoods, towns, and activities from honoring the men and women in the Armed Forces to paying a visit to the historic Pilsen neighborhood for a mole cook-off to even taking in the beauty of Chicago architecture. Check out our top list of activities to do this Memorial Day weekend.
Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony and Parade
The City of Chicago and the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) are honored to announce the Grand Marshal for Chicago’s Memorial Day Parade and Wreath Laying Ceremony on Saturday, May 27. The Wreath Laying Ceremony will begin at 11am at Daley Plaza (50 W. Washington St). The Parade will step off at noon and proceed south on State Street from Lake Street to Van Buren Street.
Mole de Mayo
Situated in the historic Pilsen neighborhood, Mole de Mayo returns with all new vendors ready to celebrate the outdoor mole coo-off event. The three-day fest located on 18th St. (Blue Island Ave. and Ashland Ave.) includes an open-air mercado that will be bustling with local merchants, crafters, and artisans. You will also find music, dancing, smells of savory mole dishes, and the excitement from the lucha libre wrestling that makes for an authentic recipe of a unique festival-style atmosphere. For the complete lineup and general information, visit www.moledemayo.org.
Chicago Architecture Center (CAC) River Cruise
Lauded as a “must-do” activity by locals and tourists alike, the 90-minute CAC River Cruise aboard Chicago’s First Lady glides down all three branches of the Chicago River, providing guests with an unobstructed, open-air, 360-degree view of the city’s wide variety of architectural styles, including art deco, neoclassicism, mid-century modernism and postmodernism. For ticket information, visit www.CruiseChicago.com
Sueños Music Festival
Sueños returns to Chicago with the biggest Latin lineup this weekend, May 27th and 28th. Spend the weekend noshing on delicious food from local vendors, a ride on a Ferris wheel, and live performances from Wisin y Yandel, Becky G, Nicky Jam and Ivy Queen. Tickets are quickly selling out so purchase yours at www.suenosmusicfestival.com
Fireworks at Navy Pier
Gather around the Pier for free dazzling fireworks beginning this Saturday. Enjoy a colorful show with spectacular views of the Chicago skyline just behind you. Fireworks at Navy Pier on Saturday nights begin at 10pm. Navy Pier is located at 600 E. Grand Avenue. For more information, visit www.navypier.org.
WNDR Museum
WNDR Museum is an interactive experience: a multi-sensory showcase of art and technology located in the West Loop neighborhood. WNDER is filled with interactive artworks from various designers and artists. WNDR Museum is located at 1130 W. Monroe Street. For additional information or for tickets, visit www.WNDRmuseum.com.
