SLC Shortlist -Things to do in Chicago July 6-12
Curated Things to do in Chicago this week
You love luxury experiences, want an active social calendar but you’re busy? We can help with that. There’s a ton of fun things to do in Chicago any day of the week but sifting through to match your discerning taste can be exhausting and that’s why you have SociaLifeChicago, your go to lifestyle curator! The weekly SLC Shortlist is a curation of some of the best things to do in Chicago from the week into the weekend. Elevate your social outings and check out this week’s list. You can also check out our list of where to meet high earners in Chicago HERE. Thank you for your support.
~Bolaji
Tuesday July 7
Enjoy an evening of free music on the MCA’s Anne and John Kern Terrace Garden with the annual summer concert series, “Tuesdays on the Terrace” celebrating artists from Chicago’s internationally renowned music community. This week drummer, percussionist, and composer Daniel Villarreal blends jazz, Latin, funk, and psychedelia into groove-driven music rooted in rhythm and feel. Entry to Tuesdays on the Terrace is complimentary, but limited. Become an MCA Member or secure advance tickets for priority access.
Millennium Park Summer Film Series presented by Wells Fargo at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Tuesdays, gates open 5:30pm, film begins 6:30pm. This week is Ratatouille to kickoff Taste of Chicago.
Wednesday July 8
Join the Shedd Aquarium for the popular midweek Jazzin' at the Shedd series with unforgettable evenings of live jazz music, mingling and marine life.
Taste of Chicago, established in 1980, this uniquely-Chicago summertime tradition returns with an impressive array of eateries showcasing the city’s culinary excellence and diversity. Food, music and more. Free Admission
First Come, First Served. Tickets will not be sold. *Unlike Taste of Chicago from years past, only credit cards are accepted by all food vendors, No food tickets will be sold.*The Rough and Rowdy Experience - A Legacy. The legendary Bob Dylan, for the fifth year in a row, is taking his 2020 album for a spin, alongside all-time favorite classics in a career-spanning setlist. For this show in Chicago, he will be joined by Lucinda Williams and her band, plus The John Doe Folk Trio as special guests.
An Adult Education course series offered at the Newberry Library, Black Londoners of the Georgian Era, will foreground the experiences of people of African background living in London during the last half of the 18th century!
Tavern on Rush will host an intimate five-course wine pairing dinner featuring award-winning Jordan wines. This one-night-only culinary exploration will feature a thoughtfully curated selection of vintages from the #1 Winery in North America. The evening begins at 6:30pm.
Windy City Smokeout Country Music and BBQ Festival will take over the United Center parking lot from July 8-12. The event features up-and-coming as well as renowned country music bands, finger-lickin’ good BBQ by over 20 pit masters, and a variety of beer vendors. Lainey Wilson, Jordan Davis, Hootie & the Blowfish, Blake Shelton, + more.
Thursday July 9
Enjoy La Dolce Vita at Cafe Bionda’s Limoncello Class. Purchase of a ticket includes a guided cocktail class featuring two seasonal cocktails and our famous limoncello as well as provided light bites to sip and socialize.
BLVCKSCENE boat weekend. What began as a single boat with a close-knit group of friends celebrating life on Lake Michigan has blossomed into an unparalleled cultural movement. Blvckscene is not just an event; it is the original and most prestigious Black boating weekend, setting the gold standard for community, exclusivity, and luxury. A weekend lineup of events from July 9-12.
The Clicquot Courtyard is back at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago from Thursday through Saturday. Where the sunlit Peacock Garden offers a serene retreat in a French inspired courtyard. In partnership with Veuve Clicquot, the garden transforms into a place where time slows and champagne flows.
Friday July 10
GRAY is pleased to announce IT’S ABOUT TIME: Counterproductive Conceptualisms in Chicago, an exhibition that traces the contours of a newly emerging conceptual art ethos among younger generations of Chicago-based or -trained artists. Organized by DRAW, the curatorial duo composed of Dieter Roelstraete and Abigail Winograd, the exhibition brings together a group of artists who prefer taking their time, and who often use “time” itself as one of their subjects. IT'S ABOUT TIME will open on July 10 with a reception from 3-8 PM. The evening will include performances by Shir Ende and Max Guy and an artist activation by Devin T. Mays.
Don’t miss Chance Peña with Hans Williams at the Vic Theatre. He's collaborated with artists across various genres, from working with KYGO and Julia Michels on 2024’s “Louder,” to joining country-rock singer/songwriter Sam Barber for the duet “Better Than the Floor.”
Multi-platinum, GRAMMY-winning singer/songwriter Ella Mai will perform at The Salt Shed Fairgrounds for her Do You Still Love Me? Tour joined by AMA, Girlfriend.
MUBI FEST returns to Chicago with a weekend full of exclusive screenings, live music, an open air vendor market, and more. The cinema event featuring exclusive screenings, premieres, and live cultural experiences takes place in Chicago from July 10–12, with events held at The Salt Shed, the Music Box Theatre, and the Siskel Film Center.
White Sox Mexican Heritage Tailgate Fundraiser presented by Orange Crush SAC at Guaranteed Rate Field. Before the White Sox take on the Oakland A’s join in a fun-filled event celebrating Mexican heritage. Enjoy delicious food, drinks, music, and games while supporting a great cause. Let's come together to show our pride and support for our scholarship fund. **SOLD OUT*
Windup Watch Fair returns to Chicago for a fifth year with over 70 brands taking place at Morgan MFG.
Saturday July 11-Sunday July 12
The BTN Big 10K race on July 11, celebrates the greatest conference in college sports at this one-of-a-kind racing experience. Represent your favorite Big Ten school while racing along Chicago’s lakefront trail. fans celebrate their favorite Big Ten team. The BTN Big 10K Post-Race Tailgate is held near Soldier Field immediately following the finish of the 10K and 5K events.
The Alliance Française de Chicago presents the annual Bastille Day celebration with an afternoon (and evening) of Parisian charm, live music, and summertime joy in the heart of Chicago.
The Loci Wine Tasting Event July 11 at Pops for Champagne where Michael Seward will be joined by Loci Wines founder Randall Bush as they explore 2 exciting houses within his Champagne Portfolio.
The Chosen Few Old School Reunion Picnic returns to Chicago’s Jackson Park on Saturday for a full day of soulful celebration and house music history. Now in its 36th year, this iconic event—often dubbed the “Woodstock of House Music”—brings together thousands of music lovers from around the world for one unforgettable reunion.
The one and only Jack Johnson will be stopping in Chicago on his highly-anticipated comeback on the road — a new “SURFILMUSIC TOUR”! Get ready for an experience of everything that Jack Johnson loves — great surf, film, and music in support of his upcoming documentary, the trek will see the man sharing fresh vibes and new music expected to be in the show’s soundtrack, scored by Johnson and Hermanos Gutiérrez.
Shedd House Party-Get ready to vibe in the city that built house music! Local DJs will keep the energy high, spinning beats that move the crowd. Come face-to-face with incredible aquatic animals and captivating exhibits for a one-of-a-kind night. Bring your crew and your best moves — this is an evening you won't want to miss!
Ravinia’s 2026 Grand Opening Night presents a very special guest performance by global superstar and flutist Lizzo, featuring Chief Conductor Marin Alsop and award-winning pianist Yunchan Lims. The grand opening night will also mark Ravinia’s 60th Gala Evening and the 90th CSO Opening Night, the event illuminates the festival’s legacy of artistic excellence, celebrating decades of unforgettable performances while opening a bold new chapter on the Hunter Pavilion stage.
Jam Presents Paul Oakenfold x The Crystal Method with Liquid Todd at Park West on July 11.
Billy Idol stands out as one of punk rock’s most iconic figures and he returns to the stage at Ravinia on Sunday July 12with special guest Tom Hamilton Band.
City Winery Chicago & LadyGang Presents LadyHang Brunch Club live on Saturday July 11. From brunch and crafts to trivia, karaoke, and interactive activities, every part of LADYHANG is designed to turn introductions into genuine connections in a fun, welcoming atmosphere.
6 PLACES TO WORLD CUP WATCH
LondonHouse Chicago's rooftop, a permanent large-format screen has been installed on the LH Rooftop. They will be broadcasting every match that falls within operating hours ((11am–midnight daily) til July 19.
Watch Every FIFA World Cup 2026™ Match at the biggest viewing event in Chicago, the Chicago Fire Soccer Celebration at Recess, presented by McDonald's, promises soccer, culture and community.
Catch every match live at Fadó Irish Pub! The atmosphere is electric, the pints are flowing, and every goal feels bigger. Plus no reservations needed, first come first served.
Fulton market social is showing every match with massive watch party energy, drink specials, giveaways, pop-up experiences, and a crowd that treats a late-game yellow card like a life event.
Soccer House HQ a bar, restaurant with globally inspired menu, and cafe in Chicago’s West Town neighborhood is your soccer hub not just during World Cup. It is where you’ll want to be to watch early-morning kickoffs, derby days, cup finals, and that midweek Conference League match in Portugal you absolutely need to see.
Elephant & Castle (Both downtown locations) is showing every match live with sound in the heart of downtown — no reservations, just proper matchday atmosphere. every match, from the opening kick to the final whistle, will be shown live throughout the tournament. All seating is first come, first served, so arrive early, grab a pint, and settle in for the football action.