With Labor Day Weekend just around the corner, the unofficial end of the summer season is fast approaching. But just because the end of August has arrived and it's almost time to say goodbye to what's been a fabulous summer here in Chicago, there's still plenty to see and do before the cold weather settles in. And to get a better idea of what's happening all around the downtown Chicago area over the next several weeks, take a closer look at just some of September's highly-anticipated events and festivals.
Venetian Night- Sept 10
Grab your camera for an illuminating evening on Navy Pier with the longstanding Venetian Night festival. For more than 50 years brightly lit boats have floated Chicago’s lakefront to the delight of locals and visitors alike. The free parade is followed up by a spectacular fireworks show to cap off the night.
Urban Adventure Race- September 10
Explore Chicago like you’ve never done before during the XPLORE Chicago, Urban Adventure Race. Teams will race by foot or via pubic transit to spots all over the city, solving clues, completing challenges and interacting with residents along the way.
West Loop Art Fest- Sept 17-18
The next weekend is all about the arts with more than 150 of the nation’s best artists showcasing their work at the West Loop Art Fest. The two-day event includes original artwork for sale, along with live music and food. There will also be some interactive art tents set up for budding artists to show off their skills.
Chicago Half Marathon/5k- Sept 25
Finally, lace up your sneakers for the Chicago Half Marathon and 5k run. The 13.1-mile course takes off from Jackson Park, moving on to Hyde Park and Lake Shore Drive before finishing at the Statue of the Republic.
Chicago Gourmet- September 23-25
Meanwhile, Chicago Gourmet is sure to spice things up as Millennium Park reinvents itself into a parade of food and cocktails. The event includes two demo stages where top chefs will share their techniques, as well as interactive cocktail and wine seminars. Breweries, wineries and some of Chicago’s best restaurants will stake their place on the Great Lawn.
Oyster Fest- September 30
Finally, round out the month with Oyster Fest, now in its 28th year. The event features live music and seafood in River North, presented by Shaw’s Crab House. Organizers are expecting a crowd of more than 3,000 people this year alone. Oyster Fest kicks off at the corner of Rush Street and Hubbard.
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