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Chicago's Pride Parade returns this weekend for its 54th year, emphasizing unity and safety amid national challenges. The event, themed "United in Pride," will take place on June 29 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Lakeview, with city officials urging attendees to prioritize hydration and report any emergencies.
The Field Museum in Chicago opened its “Reptiles Alive!” exhibit on June 20, showcasing various reptile species from local areas and beyond. Curator Sara Ruane emphasizes the importance of appreciating local wildlife, highlighting that visitors can see up to 50 reptile species without leaving Illinois. The exhibit features live animals, interactive displays, and notable figures like Chance the Snapper, a local alligator celebrity.
Chicago hosts a vibrant weekend of activities, including a Pride Parade, a Queer Book Fair, and the Chicago Food Truck Festival. Events celebrate local culture, cuisine, and community engagement, providing diverse entertainment options across the city.
Bob Kuhn sold Timber Lanes, a historic bowling alley in North Center, to longtime teammate Matt Rosenbaum, ensuring its future in the community. The alley, which has operated for 80 years, will remain open for at least 15 years under Rosenbaum's ownership, who plans to maintain its traditional charm. Kuhn, recovering from cancer, retains ownership of the building and hopes to continue bowling.
Universal Studios will open a horror-themed attraction, Universal Horror Unleashed, in Chicago by 2027, generating over $1 billion in economic impact and creating 400 jobs. This venue, located at 700 W. Chicago Ave., will feature immersive experiences similar to its Las Vegas counterpart. Chicago's location will be the first Universal attraction in the Midwest.
Ald. William Hall withdrew his request to rename West Chatham Park after Derrick Rose due to community backlash. Neighbors argued that the park's name should reflect local history and contributions rather than honor a celebrity not connected to the area. The West Chatham Improvement Association organized to oppose the renaming, emphasizing their community’s identity.
Owners Lydia Esparza and Nick Lessins have opened Great Lake, a new grocery and pizza shop in Andersonville, a decade after closing their previous establishment, Great Lake Pizza. The shop commenced operations quietly without a formal announcement and plans to sell unique grocery items alongside pizza. They aim for a long-term presence, signing a 10-year lease with aspirations to stay for 20 years.
Aldi plans to open a new store in a 25,000-square-foot space at 30 W. Huron St. in River North, previously occupied by Whole Foods until its closure in 2022. The grocery chain's expansion in Chicago includes this location and another planned for the West Loop in 2026.
Lincoln Avenue in Lincoln Square will close to vehicles starting Tuesday for six weeks due to ongoing construction. The project aims to enhance pedestrian and cyclist safety, as well as upgrade the nearby Brown Line station. Access to local businesses and the Brown Line will remain open during the closure.
Artist Mike Norton celebrates two significant milestones this June with the debut of the SyFy adaptation of his comic “Revival” and the release of “Krypto: The Last Dog of Krypton.” Norton, known for his animal illustrations, particularly dogs, says he was immediately drawn to illustrating Krypto’s origin story. The series, which does not use dialogue, explores Krypto's beginnings on Krypton and his journey to Earth.