Happy September, Chicago Southsiders!

Labor Day weekend is almost here, and if you’re anything like me, you’re probably trying to figure out how to make the most of one of the last big weekends of Summertime Chi.

But before we get into where to go and what to do, here’s a little history to take with you into the holiday weekend.

Chicago’s South Side has deep ties to America’s labor history.

During the Great Migration, thousands of Black families came to Chicago in search of jobs, opportunity, and a better life. Many worked in the stockyards, factories, railroads and other industries that helped power Chicago’s growth.

And on the Far South Side, Pullman became an important part of Black labor history. Black Pullman porters helped organize the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, which became the first Black labor union to receive a charter from the American Federation of Labor.

So while Labor Day gives us a chance to enjoy an extra day off, fire up the grill, and soak up the final weeks of summer, it’s also a good time to remember the workers who fought for better wages, working conditions, and opportunities for generations to come.

Now, let’s get into the weekend.

From the African Festival of the Arts and Chicago Jazz Festival to the Labor Day Parade and plenty more, there’s a lot happening around Chicago.

Here’s what to put on your calendar.

Help us tell the South Side’s story by joining Inside Chicago Southsider. Let’s make sure our contributions aren’t erased, overlooked, or forgotten—and show the world that ain’t no side like the South Side.

Let’s get into this weekend’s events!

Talk soon,

Charlene Rhinehart

Publisher, Chicago Southsider

September Event Guide

Our September Event Guide is live, and it’s packed with ways to celebrate, connect, and explore all month long!

Check out a few events coming up:

• Chicago Jazz Festival

• Chicago Labor Day Parade & Eddie Fest

• African Festival of the Arts

• Englewood Village Market

• Pullman Labor Day Parade

• Hyde Park Farmers Market

Visit our September Event Guide here.

Advertise with Chicago Southsider

Ready to advertise with Chicago Southsider and support community news? Email us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com to get started.

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🎷 Chicago Jazz Festival

📅 Thursday, September 3 – Sunday, September 6, 2026
Location: Millennium Park, Chicago Cultural Center and select Chicago venues
🎟️ Free

One of Chicago’s signature music traditions returns for four days of free jazz performances featuring acclaimed artists and rising talent.

Click here for more information: Chicago Jazz Festival

🎉 Chicago Labor Day Parade & Eddie Fest

📅 Saturday, September 5, 2026
Location: Chicago’s 10th Ward / Southeast Side
🎟️ Free to attend

Celebrate Chicago’s labor history with a community parade followed by Eddie Fest, named in honor of longtime labor leader Edward Sadlowski.

Click here for more information: Chicago Labor Day Parade & Eddie Fest

🌍 African Festival of the Arts

📅 Labor Day Weekend, September 5-7, 2026
📍 Washington Park Sunken Garden, 55th Street & Cottage Grove Avenue, Chicago, Illinois
🎟️ Ticketed / prices vary

The African Festival of the Arts returns for its 36th year with music, art, food, culture, entrepreneurs and vendors celebrating Africa and the African diaspora. The organizer has confirmed the festival’s move to the DuSable Museum’s Sunken Garden for 2026.

Click here for more information: African Festival of the Arts

🎶 79th Street Renaissance Festival

📅 Saturday, September 12, 2026 | 10 a.m.–7 p.m.
📍 79th Street & Racine Avenue | Auburn Gresham
🎟️ $5 Suggested Donation

The 21st annual neighborhood festival brings live entertainment, food, local businesses and family activities to Auburn Gresham.

Click here for more information: 79th Street Renaissance Festival

💰 Generation Wealth Conference

📅 Saturday, September 12, 2026
📍 Obama Presidential Center, 6001 S. Stony Island Ave.
🎟️ Ticketed

Centered on “Wealth Wellness: Building a Balanced Life,” the conference brings together youth, families, professionals and entrepreneurs for financial education, interactive workshops, career conversations and networking.

Click here for more information: Generation Wealth Conference

🎤 Englewood Music Festival

📅 Saturday, September 12, 2026 | Noon–6 p.m.
📍 Kennedy-King College, 6401 S. Halsted St.
🎟️ Check event page for admission details

Englewood comes together for an afternoon celebrating music, culture and community at Kennedy-King College.

Click here for more information: Englewood Music Festival

🏈 Chicago Football Classic

📅 Saturday, September 12, 2026 | 3 p.m.
📍 Soldier Field
🎟️ Ticketed

HBCU football returns to Soldier Field as Lincoln University of Pennsylvania faces Mississippi Valley State University in the Chicago Football Classic.

Click here for more information: Chicago Football Classic

🇲🇽 El Grito Chicago

📅 Saturday, September 12 – Sunday, September 13, 2026 | 2–10 p.m.
📍 Grant Park – Butler Field
🎟️ Ticketed

Celebrate Mexican Independence Day with live music, food, an artisan mercado, family activities and an official El Grito civic ceremony. General admission tickets are being sold in pricing tiers, while registration for the Sunday civic ceremony will be free.

Click here for more information: El Grito Chicago

📚 Printers Row Lit Fest

📅 Saturday, September 12 – Sunday, September 13, 2026
📍 South Dearborn Street, from Ida B. Wells Drive to Polk Street
🎟️ Free

Book lovers can explore author conversations, literary programming, independent booksellers and more during one of Chicago’s biggest celebrations of books and reading. The 2026 festival is scheduled for September 12–13.

Click here for more information: Printers Row Lit Fest

🏛️ CAC Designing Futures Gala

📅 Wednesday, September 16, 2026 | 6 p.m.
📍 Obama Presidential Center
🎟️ Ticketed

The Chicago Architecture Center will host its annual Designing Futures Gala at the Obama Presidential Center, including a cocktail reception, awards presentation and seated dinner inside the Special Exhibits Gallery.

Click here for more information: CAC Designing Futures Gala

🎭 Topdog/Underdog at Steppenwolf Theatre

📅 September 17 – November 1, 2026
📍 Steppenwolf Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted St.
🎟️ Ticketed — discount tickets may be available. Stay tuned!

Suzan-Lori Parks’ Pulitzer Prize-winning play follows brothers Lincoln and Booth in a fast-moving story about sibling rivalry, identity and survival. The production is directed by Kenny Leon and stars Steppenwolf ensemble members Glenn Davis and Namir Smallwood.

Click here for more information: Topdog/Underdog

🎷 Englewood Jazz Festival

📅 Thursday, September 17 – Saturday, September 19, 2026
📍 Hamilton Park, 513 W. 72nd St.
🎟️ Free

The 27th annual Englewood Jazz Festival celebrates young musicians and Chicago’s jazz legacy with three days of performances, including appearances by Dee Alexander, Ernest Dawkins, Maggie and Africa Brown and other artists.

Click here for more information: Englewood Jazz Festival

🎭 Chicago Live!

📅 Saturday, September 19 – Sunday, September 20, 2026 | Noon–6 p.m.
📍 Navy Pier
🎟️ Free

More than 100 Chicago performing arts organizations and artists will take over five stages for two days of music, dance, theater and multidisciplinary performances.

Click here for more information: Chicago Live!

🍽️ Chicago Gourmet: Asian Night Market

📅 Wednesday, September 23, 2026 | 6:30–9:30 p.m.
📍 Zhou B Art Center, 1029 W. 35th St.
🎟️ Ticketed

Chicago Gourmet brings one of its signature events to the South Side with an Asian Night Market at the Zhou B Art Center, hosted by chefs Thai Dang and Beverly Kim.

Click here for more information: Chicago Gourmet

🌎 World Music Festival Chicago

📅 Friday, September 25 – Sunday, October 4, 2026
📍 Multiple locations throughout Chicago
🎟️ Free

The 26th annual World Music Festival brings artists from around the globe to venues across Chicago for performances spanning traditional and contemporary music. The full 2026 schedule is still to come.

Click here for more information: World Music Festival Chicago

🌴 African/Caribbean International Festival of Life

📅 Friday, September 25 – Sunday, September 27, 2026 | Noon–10 p.m.
📍 Chicago — confirm current venue with organizer before attending
🎟️ Ticketed

The 33rd African/Caribbean International Festival of Life joins the Jerk, Seafood & Vegan Festival for three days of music, food, vendors, arts and cultural celebration.

Click here for the latest information: African/Caribbean International Festival of Life

🎨 Beverly Art Walk

📅 Saturday, September 26, 2026
📍 Beverly/Morgan Park
🎟️ Free

The 13th annual Beverly Art Walk turns Beverly and Morgan Park into a neighborhood-wide arts destination with more than 100 juried artists across 40 venues, artist studios, live music, public art and the Uprising Craft Market.

Click here for more information: Beverly Art Walk

🎷 Hyde Park Jazz Festival

📅 Saturday, September 26 – Sunday, September 27, 2026
📍 Multiple locations throughout Hyde Park
🎟️ Free; $10 donation encouraged

The Hyde Park Jazz Festival celebrates its 20th anniversary with two days of performances throughout Hyde Park featuring local, national and international jazz artists.

Click here for more information: Hyde Park Jazz Festival

Summer on the South Side

• Your September Guide to Local Fun & Festivals: From parades to historic festivals, check out what’s going on around Chicago this weekend!

• Early Walker’s No Business Left Behind Initiative Launched This Summer: Through his new No Business Left Behind initiative, the Chicago entrepreneur is helping struggling small businesses access mentorship, capital, and operational support before they’re forced to close their doors.

• South Side Pitch Competition: The next South Side Pitch Competition will take place in October. Learn more about last year’s pitch competition here.

Get in Touch

Interested in sponsoring this newsletter? Email us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

If you want to share your feedback or say hi, feel free to reach out to us on Instagram.

Visit ChicagoSouthsider.com for more content.

Warm regards,

Chicago Southsider

Hey Chicago Southsiders,

If you or someone in your family went back to school this week, I hope the year is off to a great start!

I’m preparing for a speaking engagement where I’ll be talking with students about personal branding and how learning to tell your story can open doors. I also wrote about some of this in my book Debt-Free Before Graduation in case case you want to surprise a student with a copy of the book.

One of my goals before summer ends is to check out a local farmers market. (We finally created a list of South Side Farmers Market to help you find one near you: https://chicagosouthsider.com/chicago-southsider-south-side-farmers-market-guide-2026/)

Seeing the news about Brown Sugar Bakery experiencing a second break-in this week on 75th Street reminded me how important it is to keep highlighting South Side entrepreneurs, supporting their businesses, and making sure more people know they exist. So many are doing more than running a business. They’re helping care for and strengthen our communities and sometimes it can be costly.

Auriel Banister, owner of Bani’s Beets, is doing just that through cold-pressed juices and wellness programming designed to make healthier choices feel more accessible on the South Side.

Read Auriel’s story here about how she is still betting on health on Chicago’s South Side despite rising costs, paying off loans, and managing a business that’s going against sugar cravings.

Stay safe, South Side!

Help us tell the South Side’s story by joining Inside Chicago Southsider. Let’s make sure our contributions aren’t erased, overlooked, or forgotten—and show the world that ain’t no side like the South Side.

Let’s get into this weekend’s events!

Talk soon,

Charlene Rhinehart

Publisher, Chicago Southsider

August Event Guide

Our August Event Guide is live, and it’s packed with ways to celebrate, connect, and explore all month long!

Check out a few events coming up this weekend:

• Black & Bronze: A Bronzeville Music Fest

• Ragtime The Musical

• Sip and Sweat at Pullman Community Center

• Maconomics Wealth Summit

• Chicago Black Dance Legacy Project

• Taste of Greektown

• Sip and Sweat at Pullman Community Center

• Chicago House Music Festival & Conference

Visit our August Event Guide here.

Advertise with Chicago Southsider

Ready to advertise with Chicago Southsider and support community news? Email us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com to get started.

We’re passionate about providing a platform for non-profit organizations and local businesses to connect with our community. Advertise your products and services to over 10,000 subscribers through our newsletter.

👀 Want to Know What’s Coming Before Everyone Else?

Chicago’s calendar doesn’t slow down after summer.

Chicago Southsider paid subscribers get an advance look at major events coming to the South Side and across Chicago so you can save the date, grab tickets and make plans early.

This week, we’re giving paid subscribers a sneak peek at September events and some of the biggest events still coming in 2026.

Become a paid Chicago Southsider subscriber to unlock the full calendar.

🔒 Chicago Southsider Insider: Save These Dates

Read more

Hey Chicago Southsiders,

It’s Back-to-School season!

There’s some good news for students who rely on public transportation. K-12 students can ride CTA, Metra and Pace for free on Monday, August 24, the first day of school. Read more here.

And while everybody is focused on getting through this school year, I also want to put something else on your radar.

If you have a middle school or high school student, this is actually one of the best times to start thinking about college costs. You do not want to wait until senior year and suddenly find yourself trying to figure out scholarships, financial aid and how you’re going to cover a huge tuition bill.

That’s a big reason why I wrote Debt Free Before Graduation. I wanted students and parents to know that there are things you can do before college to put yourself in a better financial position and potentially avoid taking on a mountain of student loan debt.

The earlier you start planning, the more options you have. So if college is somewhere on the horizon for your family, even if it still feels a few years away, now is a great time to start getting ahead of the game. Grab your copy here.

Homeowners also have an important deadline coming up. The second installment of 2025 Cook County property tax bills is due October 1, 2026. Physical bills are expected to be mailed beginning September 1, but you don’t have to wait for yours to arrive. Bills are already available online through the Cook County Treasurer’s Office, where property owners can view, download or pay their bill. Read more here.

And with school starting back up, there are also several back-to-school events, community gatherings and family activities happening across the South Side. We’ve rounded up a few to keep on your radar, along with other upcoming events as we head toward Labor Day weekend and September.

Keep scrolling for what you need to know and what’s happening across the South Side.

Help us tell the South Side’s story by joining Inside Chicago Southsider. Let’s make sure our contributions aren’t erased, overlooked, or forgotten—and show the world that ain’t no side like the South Side.

Let’s get into this weekend’s events!

Talk soon,

Charlene Rhinehart

Publisher, Chicago Southsider

August Event Guide

Our August Event Guide is live, and it’s packed with ways to celebrate, connect, and explore all month long!

Check out a few events coming up:

• The Sweet Mix DJs – Strugglebeard Bakery

• Back to School Health Fair

• Righteous Rise Back to School & Resource Block Party

• Villapalooza Little Village Music Festival

• National Park Week August 22-30

• Hyde Park Farmers Market

Visit our August Event Guide here. Would you like to advertise in our event guide? Contact us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

Summer on the South Side

• Your August Guide to Local Fun & Festivals: From parades to historic festivals, check out what’s going on around Chicago this weekend!

• August is National Black Business Month - Early Walker’s No Business Left Behind Initiative Launched This Summer: Through his new No Business Left Behind initiative, the Chicago entrepreneur is helping struggling small businesses access mentorship, capital, and operational support before they’re forced to close their doors.

• South Side Pitch Competition: The next South Side Pitch Competition will take place in October. Learn more about last year’s pitch competition here.

Advertise with Chicago Southsider

Our newsletter connects businesses with vibrant South Side communities, giving your brand the exposure it deserves.

Ready to advertise with Chicago Southsider and support community news? Email us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com to get started.

We’re passionate about providing a platform for non-profit organizations and local businesses to connect with our community. Advertise your products and services to over 10,000 subscribers through our newsletter.

Follow us on social media and never miss an update:

📘 Facebook: Chicago Southsider

📸 Instagram: @chisouthsider

▶️ YouTube: The Chicago Southsider

🎧 Spotify: Chicago Southsider Podcast

Get in Touch

Interested in sponsoring this newsletter? Email us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

If you want to share your feedback or say hi, feel free to reach out to us on Instagram.

Visit ChicagoSouthsider.com for more content.

Warm regards,

Chicago Southsider

Hey Chicago Southsiders,

What a week. Severe storms swept through the Chicago area, leaving downed trees, flooding, power outages and damage across many communities. We hope you and your loved ones are safe.

Please take a moment to check on family, friends and neighbors who may still be dealing with the aftermath.

With the unpredictable weather, some of the events happening around the city may be canceled, postponed or moved. Before heading out, be sure to check directly with event organizers for the latest updates.

And if this week’s storms have you thinking about how prepared your home is for heavy rain and flooding, we’ve got some practical tips for you here.

One tip that stood out to me: standard homeowners insurance typically doesn’t cover flood damage, so you may need a separate flood insurance policy.

Stay safe, South Side!

Help us tell the South Side’s story by joining Inside Chicago Southsider. Let’s make sure our contributions aren’t erased, overlooked, or forgotten—and show the world that ain’t no side like the South Side.

Let’s get into this weekend’s events!

Talk soon,

Charlene Rhinehart

Publisher, Chicago Southsider

August Event Guide

Our August Event Guide is live, and it’s packed with ways to celebrate, connect, and explore all month long!

Check out a few events coming up:

• Printer’s Row Art Fest

• Greater Together Back-To-School Block Party

• Beverly Porch Concert

• Get Flea Market

• South Side Zine Fest

Visit our August Event Guide here.

Advertise with Chicago Southsider

Ready to advertise with Chicago Southsider and support community news? Email us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com to get started.

We’re passionate about providing a platform for non-profit organizations and local businesses to connect with our community. Advertise your products and services to over 10,000 subscribers through our newsletter.

👀 Want to Know What’s Coming Before Everyone Else?

Chicago’s calendar doesn’t slow down after summer.

Chicago Southsider paid subscribers get an advance look at major events coming to the South Side and across Chicago so you can save the date, grab tickets and make plans early.

This week, we’re giving paid subscribers a sneak peek at September events and some of the biggest events still coming in 2026.

Become a paid Chicago Southsider subscriber to unlock the full calendar.

🔒 Chicago Southsider Insider: Save These Dates

Read more

Hey Chicago Southsiders,

Ain’t no side like the South Side.

One of the many stories rooted here is that of Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States.

Before the world knew his name, Obama made a home on the South Side.

He lived in Hyde Park, walked the streets of Bronzeville, and served as a community organizer focused on bringing people together to create change.

He married fellow South Sider Michelle Obama, taught at the University of Chicago, and began a journey that would eventually lead to the White House.

Whether you supported his policies or not, his ties to the South Side are part of our local history and that story continues to unfold.

The Obama Presidential Center was under construction last year and now it’s open to the public. The center explores the lives and legacies of both President and Mrs. Obama. It aims to be a space for learning, civic engagement, and inspiration for generations to come.

As Obama celebrates his 65th birthday this week (August 4), we take a moment to reflect on the South Side’s influence on a global figure and how that legacy continues to shape our community.

Help us tell the South Side’s story by joining Inside Chicago Southsider. Let’s make sure our contributions aren’t erased, overlooked, or forgotten—and show the world that ain’t no side like the South Side.

Let’s get into this weekend’s events!

Talk soon,

Charlene Rhinehart

Publisher, Chicago Southsider

August Event Guide

Our August Event Guide is live, and it’s packed with ways to celebrate, connect, and explore all month long!

Check out a few events coming up:

• 97th annual Bud Billiken Parade

• Feature Fridays | The Wiz

• Mercado De Intercambio: Back to School giveaway

• Summer Sunday Concert Series

Visit our August Event Guide here. Would you like to advertise in our event guide? Contact us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

Summer on the South Side

• Your August Guide to Local Fun & Festivals: From parades to historic festivals, check out what’s going on around Chicago this weekend!

• August is National Black Business Month - Early Walker’s No Business Left Behind Initiative Launched This Summer: Through his new No Business Left Behind initiative, the Chicago entrepreneur is helping struggling small businesses access mentorship, capital, and operational support before they’re forced to close their doors.

• South Side Pitch Competition: The next South Side Pitch Competition will take place in October. Learn more about last year’s pitch competition here.

Advertise with Chicago Southsider

Our newsletter connects businesses with vibrant South Side communities, giving your brand the exposure it deserves.

Ready to advertise with Chicago Southsider and support community news? Email us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com to get started.

We’re passionate about providing a platform for non-profit organizations and local businesses to connect with our community. Advertise your products and services to over 10,000 subscribers through our newsletter.

Follow us on social media and never miss an update:

📘 Facebook: Chicago Southsider

📸 Instagram: @chisouthsider

▶️ YouTube: The Chicago Southsider

🎧 Spotify: Chicago Southsider Podcast

Get in Touch

Interested in sponsoring this newsletter? Email us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

If you want to share your feedback or say hi, feel free to reach out to us on Instagram.

Visit ChicagoSouthsider.com for more content.

Warm regards,

Chicago Southsider

Hi Chicago Southsiders,

As always, I’m up burning the midnight oil, but before we get into this weekend’s events, let’s pause to remember Emmett Till, who was born in Chicago on July 25, 1941.

Emmett was only 14 years old when he was kidnapped and brutally murdered while visiting family in Mississippi in 1955.

His death and his mother Mamie Till-Mobley’s courageous decision to show the world what happened to her son became a major catalyst for the Civil Rights Movement.

Back in 2023, I had the opportunity to experience Trial in the Delta, which took audiences behind the scenes of the trial that helped change the course of American history.

Read more here about Emmett Till, the trial that followed his murder, and the lasting impact of his story here.

The DuSable Black History Museum will present Janet Langhart Cohen’s Anne & Emmett, a powerful one-act play that imagines a conversation between Till and Anne Frank while exploring prejudice, injustice, courage, and hope. Check out event details here.

Also, the Taste of Bronzeville returns this Saturday, July 25, with food, music, art, culture, and local entrepreneurs.

I’m still working on an updated guide to farmers markets across Chicago’s South Side to help you find fresh produce, local vendors, and neighborhood markets this season.

I’m actually trying to recruit a little help with pulling it all together because, as you can probably imagine, I have my hands full right now.

I’m also learning that every great idea needs the right time, people, and financial resources behind it, so now I have to do what every good publisher should do: prioritize, delegate, secure the support needed, and bring in help when the time is right.

But for now, I hope you enjoy the events we’ve curated for this week.

Talk soon,

Charlene Rhinehart

Publisher, Chicago Southsider

July Event Guide

Our July Event Guide is live, and it’s packed with ways to celebrate, connect, and explore all month long!

Check out a few events coming up:

• Fiesta Del Sol

• Chicago Gospel Festival

• WNBA Live presented by AWS

• Anne and Emmett, A One-Act Play

• Taste of Bronzeville

Visit our July Event Guide here. Would you like to advertise in our event guide? Contact us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

Summer on the South Side

• Your July Guide to Local Fun & Festivals: From parades to historic festivals, check out what’s going on around Chicago this weekend!

• Taste of Bronzeville Returns this Month: Founded by cousins Diara and Robin Bradley, the festival will showcase South Side restaurants on 37th and King Drive next Saturday.

• Early Walker’s No Business Left Behind Initiative: Through his new No Business Left Behind initiative, the Chicago entrepreneur is helping struggling small businesses access mentorship, capital, and operational support before they’re forced to close their doors.

Advertise with Chicago Southsider

Our newsletter connects businesses with vibrant South Side communities, giving your brand the exposure it deserves.

Ready to advertise with Chicago Southsider and support community news? Email us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com to get started.

We’re passionate about providing a platform for non-profit organizations and local businesses to connect with our community. Advertise your products and services to over 10,000 subscribers through our newsletter.

Follow us on social media and never miss an update:

📘 Facebook: Chicago Southsider

📸 Instagram: @chisouthsider

▶️ YouTube: The Chicago Southsider

🎧 Spotify: Chicago Southsider Podcast

Get in Touch

Interested in sponsoring this newsletter? Email us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

If you want to share your feedback or say hi, feel free to reach out to us on Instagram.

Visit ChicagoSouthsider.com for more content.

Warm regards,

Chicago Southsider

Image Source: City of Chicago

Hi Chicago Southsiders,

Of course, I’m up burning the midnight oil, but before we get into this week’s updates, let’s pause for a moment to say Happy Birthday to Ida B. Wells.

Ida B. Wells was a truth-teller, civil rights leader, and one of the most powerful voices for justice in American history.

Chicago is the perfect place to tap into Ida B. Wells’ legacy because she lived, worked and made history right here on the South Side. Her former home still stands on King Drive.

Read more here to learn about her life, her work and how you can walk in the footsteps of Ida B. Wells across the city.

I also saw the results from our last survey, and it looks like many of you want a 2026 edition of our South Side farmers markets guide.

So I’ll be working on an updated guide to farmers markets across Chicago’s South Side to help you find fresh produce, local vendors and neighborhood markets this season.

Unfortunately, I have to cut this newsletter short because some of the keys on my laptop stopped working. Can you believe that?

Talk soon,

Charlene Rhinehart

Publisher, Chicago Southsider

July Event Guide

Our July Event Guide is live, and it’s packed with ways to celebrate, connect, and explore all month long!

Check out a few events coming up:

• Hyde Park Summer Sidewalk Sale

• Tacos Y Tamales Festival (Saturday)

• Bevapalooza (Saturday)

• Advocate Trinity Hospital Gym Shoe Ball & Community Health Fair

Visit our July Event Guide here. Would you like to advertise in our event guide? Contact us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

Summer on the South Side

• Your July Guide to Local Fun & Festivals: From parades to historic festivals, check out what’s going on around Chicago this weekend!

• Taste of Bronzeville Returns this Month: Founded by cousins Diara and Robin Bradley, the festival will showcase South Side restaurants on 37th and King Drive next Saturday.

• Early Walker’s No Business Left Behind Initiative: Through his new No Business Left Behind initiative, the Chicago entrepreneur is helping struggling small businesses access mentorship, capital, and operational support before they’re forced to close their doors.

Advertise with Chicago Southsider

Our newsletter connects businesses with vibrant South Side communities, giving your brand the exposure it deserves.

Ready to advertise with Chicago Southsider and support community news? Email us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com to get started.

We’re passionate about providing a platform for non-profit organizations and local businesses to connect with our community. Advertise your products and services to over 10,000 subscribers through our newsletter.

Follow us on social media and never miss an update:

📘 Facebook: Chicago Southsider

📸 Instagram: @chisouthsider

▶️ YouTube: The Chicago Southsider

🎧 Spotify: Chicago Southsider Podcast

Get in Touch

Interested in sponsoring this newsletter? Email us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

If you want to share your feedback or say hi, feel free to reach out to us on Instagram.

Visit ChicagoSouthsider.com for more content.

Warm regards,

Chicago Southsider

We published a South Side Farmers Market Guide in 2024. See guide here.

Hey Chicago Southsiders,

I’m sending this week’s roundup a little earlier than usual.

I woke up to an alert that thunderstorms may be heading our way today, and I didn’t want to take any chances.

Whether you’re planning your weekend now or waiting to see what the weather does, I wanted to make sure you had plenty of time to explore what’s happening around the city.

One event that immediately caught my eye is the return of Taste of Chicago. I haven’t been in years, but it brought back so many memories of growing up in Chicago during the ‘90s.

It felt like one of the biggest events of the summer, and I always looked forward to seeing what restaurants were there (and, of course, grabbing a funnel cake before heading home!).

Speaking of food festivals, Taste of Bronzeville is also returning this month.

Founded by cousins Diara and Robin Bradley, the annual festival celebrates South Side restaurants, entrepreneurs and culture, while creating new opportunities for local businesses to thrive. Read more about the Taste of Bronzeville here.

Speaking of entrepreneurs, did you hear about the No Business Left Behind initiative created by local philanthropist Early Walker?

Walker has already helped businesses throughout Chicago, including Sip & Savor and Shawn Michelle’s Homemade Ice Cream, and now he’s looking to support even more local entrepreneurs by awarding $10,000 grants to 10 small businesses. Read more about Early Walker’s No Business Left Behind Initiative here.

I could go on and on with updates, but I’ll save a few for next week.

Until then, have a wonderful week, stay safe if the storms roll through, and we’ll see you around.

Talk soon,

Charlene Rhinehart

Publisher, Chicago Southsider

Become a monthly or annual subscriber to support community news and get exclusive updates.

July Event Guide

Our July Event Guide is live, and it’s packed with ways to celebrate, connect, and explore all month long!

Check out a few events coming up:

• Bronzeville Summer Nights (Friday)

• Dice Fest (Friday - Sunday)

• Chosen Few DJs Picnic & Festival (Saturday)

• Beverly/Morgan Park Garden Walk (Sunday)

• Taste of Chicago (ends Sunday)

Visit our July Event Guide here. Would you like to advertise in our event guide? Contact us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

Summer on the South Side

• Your July Guide to Local Fun & Festivals: From parades to historic festivals, check out what’s going on around Chicago this weekend!

• Early Walker’s No Business Left Behind Initiative: Through his new No Business Left Behind initiative, the Chicago entrepreneur is helping struggling small businesses access mentorship, capital, and operational support before they’re forced to close their doors.

• Obama Presidential Center Releases More Museum Tickets: The new release will include museum admission dates from September through January 2027.

Advertise with Chicago Southsider

Our newsletter connects businesses with vibrant South Side communities, giving your brand the exposure it deserves.

Ready to advertise with Chicago Southsider and support community news? Email us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com to get started.

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Warm regards,

Chicago Southsider

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Hey Chicago Southsiders,

This week’s heat is proving that we are in the heart of summertime Chi. Whew!

With temperatures climbing into the 90s all week, I think we can safely say summer has officially made itself at home.

But let’s get into an overview of what to expect this weekend as the nation commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

If fireworks are part of your plans, Navy Pier’s Independence Day Fireworks will take place on Saturday, July 4, at 10 p.m. Guests are encouraged to arrive well in advance to secure a good viewing spot, access the Pier before crowds build, and avoid traffic delays.

As for me, I’ll be spending as much time as I can with family.

My father’s side of the family made Chicago home after arriving here in the 1960s, and hearing their stories remind me just how many journeys have helped shape the South Side we know today.

One of my hobbies is digging into my family’s history and learning more about the people and places that brought us here. I attended Ancestry’s Women Who Shaped Chicago bus tour in March, and exploring more of Ancestry’s resources is high on my to-do list.

My eyes are starting to droop, so it’s time for me to sign off and get ready for the holiday weekend. However you’re celebrating, I hope it’s filled with good food, good company, and a little time to recharge.

Stay safe, stay cool, and enjoy the weekend!

Be sure to follow Chicago Southsider on Facebook for all the updates.

Until next time!

Talk soon,

Charlene Rhinehart

“South Side and proud of it”

Publisher, Chicago Southsider

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July Event Guide

Our July Summertime Chi Event Guide is live, and it’s packed with ways to celebrate, connect, and explore all month long!

Check out a few events coming up:

• Hyde Park Parade on Saturday, July 4th

• Introduction to Meditation at Osaka Garden on Saturday, July 4th

• Navy Pier Fireworks

• Pullman National Historical Walking Tour on Sunday, July 5th

Visit our July Summertime Chi Event Guide here. Would you like to advertise in our event guide? Contact us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

South Side News

• Your July Guide to Local Fun & Festivals: From parades to historic festivals, check out what’s going on around Chicago this weekend!

• Early Walker’s No Business Left Behind Initiative: Through his new No Business Left Behind initiative, the Chicago entrepreneur is helping struggling small businesses access mentorship, capital, and operational support before they're forced to close their doors.

• Obama Presidential Center Releases More Museum Tickets: The new release will include museum admission dates from September through January 2027.

Follow us on social media and never miss an update:
📘 Facebook: Chicago Southsider
📸 Instagram: @chisouthsider
▶️ YouTube: The Chicago Southsider

Get in Touch

Interested in sponsoring this newsletter? Email us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

If you want to share your feedback or say hi, feel free to reach out to us on Instagram.

Visit ChicagoSouthsider.com for more content.

Warm regards,

Chicago Southsider

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Hi Chicago Southsiders,

It’s officially Summertime Chi, and apparently the storms wanted to make their presence known too.

I was one of the lucky ones who got the full “no lights, no Wi-Fi, what’s in the fridge?” power outage experience, so I missed our weekly newsletter.

Then the following week, the Obama Presidential Center took over the headlines, and honestly, we had to pause for that historic South Side moment.

So here are a few updates to get us caught up.

In our last survey, we asked what you wanted to see more of in Chicago Southsider this summer, and the answer was clear: Summertime Chi events.

So we’re planning to dedicate more of the summer to helping you find things to do across the South Side and beyond.

The Obama Presidential Center is releasing its next block of museum tickets in July.

Founding Members can access tickets starting July 1, followed by the general public on July 8.

If you’ve been trying to get inside the museum, this is one to watch. You can also check out the benefits of becoming a Founding Member here.

Another major development is coming to the South Side: a new hospital.

Earlier this month, I attended the groundbreaking for Advocate Health Care’s $300 million Lakefront Hospital, which is expected to open in the coming years. Read more here.

And since last week was Juneteenth, there were celebrations happening all across the city.

This weekend, we’ll also see fireworks in various locations, so I’ll work on pulling together a list for you.

Until next time,

Charlene

Publisher, Chicago Southsider

Inside Chicago Southsider is here!

What if you could sit inside a newsroom — not just as a reader but as a partner in its growth?

That’s the idea behind Inside Chicago Southsider. This paid-subscriber series gives you a front-row seat into how we’re building a mission-driven media platform from the South Side. And it matters.

Think of it as our version of a shareholder update. But it's more transparent and more personal. We don’t just show you the wins. We show you the work.

You’ll get:

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• Insights into how we generate revenue to sustain our work and grow our audience

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No fluff. Just the blueprint, shared with you.

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South Side News

• Obama Presidential Center Museum Tickets: The next block of tickets will become available to Obama Foundation Founding Members on July 1, followed by the general public on July 8..

• New Hospital Coming to South Side: Advocate Health Care breaks ground on $300M state-of-the-art hospital on Chicago’s South Side.

• New Locations for Advocate Health’s Neighborhood Care network: Advocate Health Care expands same-day Neighborhood Care across the South Side.

Why Advertise With Us?

Our newsletter connects businesses with vibrant South Side communities.

Ready to advertise with Chicago Southsider and support community news? Email us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com to get started.

We’re passionate about providing a platform for non-profit organizations and local businesses to connect with our community. Advertise your products and services to over 10,000 subscribers through our newsletter. Stay Connected with Chicago Southsider!

Follow us on social media and never miss an update:
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Warm regards,

Chicago Southsider

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Hey Chicago Southsiders,

It’s June, and that means Summertime Chi is right around the corner.

Chicago is one city that knows how to do summer right, and we’ll be sharing more guides, events and neighborhood highlights to help you stay connected to what’s happening across the city.

There’s always something going on in Chicago, and this week I attended the groundbreaking for a new state-of-the-art, tech-enabled lakefront hospital that will replace Advocate Trinity Hospital on the South Side.

The event brought together South Side leaders and Chicago influencers, including Derrick Rose, who handed out roses from his Rose Shop, along with Mayor Brandon Johnson and Congresswoman Robin Kelly.

Read more about the groundbreaking and what the new hospital could mean for South Side healthcare access here.

Enjoy your weekend!

Talk soon,

Charlene

Publisher, Chicago Southsider

Inside Chicago Southsider is here!

What if you could sit inside a newsroom — not just as a reader but as a partner in its growth?

That’s the idea behind Inside Chicago Southsider. This paid-subscriber series gives you a front-row seat into how we’re building a mission-driven media platform from the South Side. And it matters.

Think of it as our version of a shareholder update. But it's more transparent and more personal. We don’t just show you the wins. We show you the work.

You’ll get:

• Behind-the-scenes decisions and the moves we’re making to grow

• Insights into how we generate revenue to sustain our work and grow our audience

• Real numbers, honest lessons, and community-driven action

If you're curious about what it really takes to build a newsletter and media company rooted in purpose, Inside Chicago Southsider is for you.

Become a monthly or annual subscriber to gain exclusive access below.
No fluff. Just the blueprint, shared with you.

Our next Inside Chicago Southsider newsletter will be released this month!

Subscribe below.

June Event Guide

We are currently updating our June Event Guide, which should be available on Friday morning. Here’s a preview of what’s coming up this weekend.

• Kickoff to Summer Picnic

• Chicago Blues Festival

• Emmett Exhibition Opening

• 57th Street Art Fair

Visit our June Event Guide here. Would you like to advertise in our event guide? Contact us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

South Side News

• Your June Guide to Local Fun & Festivals: From art fairs to historic festivals, check out what’s going on around Chicago this month.

• New Hospital Coming to South Side: Advocate Health Care breaks ground on $300M state-of-the-art hospital on Chicago’s South Side.

• New Locations for Advocate Health’s Neighborhood Care network: Advocate Health Care expands same-day Neighborhood Care across the South Side.

Why Advertise With Us?

Our newsletter connects businesses with vibrant South Side communities.

Ready to advertise with Chicago Southsider and support community news? Email us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com to get started.

We’re passionate about providing a platform for non-profit organizations and local businesses to connect with our community. Advertise your products and services to over 10,000 subscribers through our newsletter. Stay Connected with Chicago Southsider!

Follow us on social media and never miss an update:
📘 Facebook: Chicago Southsider
📸 Instagram: @chisouthsider
▶️ YouTube: The Chicago Southsider
🎧 Spotify: Chicago Southsider Podcast

Get in Touch

Interested in sponsoring this newsletter? Email us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

If you want to share your feedback or say hi, feel free to reach out to us on Instagram.

Visit ChicagoSouthsider.com for more content.

Warm regards,

Chicago Southsider

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Hello Chicago Southsiders,

Summertime Chi is right around the corner.

Over the next few weeks, we’re working on expanding our summer events coverage so you can make the most of the season without breaking the bank.

If you’ve been trying to catch Covenant at The Goodman, there’s still time. The production has been extended through June 7. You can grab tickets here.

Meanwhile, this is the final weekend to see Windfall at Steppenwolf.

The production explores grief, justice, family, and community in ways that feel especially relevant to Chicago. And you’ll get to see South Side native Glenn Davis. Read more here.

And if you’re attending an 8th-grade graduation, high school graduation, or college celebration this season and looking for a meaningful gift, consider a copy of my book, Debt Free Before Graduation.

I wrote it to help students learn practical strategies for landing internships, finding scholarships, building professional networks, and preparing for success before they step onto a college campus.

And one more thing.

If you love the work we’re doing at Chicago Southsider, consider becoming a premium subscriber.

Your support helps us keep telling South Side stories, sharing community resources, and building a stronger local news platform for our neighborhoods.

And if you’ve already been rocking with us as a premium subscriber, thank you. We appreciate you.

As always, thank you for reading and supporting Chicago Southsider.

Let’s get into what’s happening this weekend and beyond.

Have a great weekend!

Charlene
Publisher, Chicago Southsider

www.chicagosouthsider.com

News You Can Use

• Windfall is now playing at Steppenwolf until May 31. A Chicago family faces grief, justice, and the question of what money can really fix. Read more here.

• South Side Opportunities: Looking for grants, scholarships, internships, or summer jobs? Check out our South Side opportunities guide here.

• Remembering Dr. Angela Martin. A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, April 25th. See the obituary and what others are saying here.

  ---

Things to Do This Weekend

Check out a few events coming up here:

• 31st Beach Sunrise Yoga

• Race for Peace

• Aretha Franklin Tribute

• Kite Festival

• Windfall at Steppenwolf

• Covenant at The Goodman

• Navy Pier Summer Fireworks

• Jazzin’ at the Shedd

• Deeply Rooted Dance Theater

Visit our Spring Event Guide here for more details. Would you like to advertise in our event guide? Contact us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

Know someone looking for things to do on the South Side? Forward this email or share it with a friend. It helps us grow and keep this work going.

Get in Touch

Follow us on social media and never miss an update:
📘 Facebook: Chicago Southsider
📸 Instagram: @chisouthsider
▶️ YouTube: The Chicago Southsider
🎧 Spotify: Chicago Southsider Podcast

Interested in sponsoring this newsletter? Email us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

If you want to share your feedback or say hi, feel free to reach out to us on Instagram.

Visit ChicagoSouthsider.com for more content.

For more details, visit our Disclaimer page. You can manage your subscription preferences or unsubscribe at any time.

Privacy Policy: Learn how we protect your information by reading our Privacy Policy.

Hello Chicago Southsiders,

I didn’t want to burn the midnight oil tonight, but I also didn’t want the day to end without getting this week’s events over to you. See events below.

The final days of Windfall at Steppenwolf are also upon us. The production features Glenn Davis — Steppenwolf’s co-artistic director and a son of Chatham — and explores grief, justice, and community. Read more here.

Tomorrow morning, I’ll be celebrating another graduate, and one tradition I’ve kept over the years is gifting graduates a copy of my book, Debt Free Before Graduation.

If you’re looking for a practical graduation gift for a young adult stepping into the next chapter, you can grab a copy here.

If you’re attending proms, graduations, or celebrations this weekend, stay safe and enjoy every moment.

And one more thing.

If you love the work we’re doing at Chicago Southsider, consider becoming a premium subscriber.

Your support helps us keep telling South Side stories, sharing community resources, and building a stronger local news platform for our neighborhoods.

And if you’ve already been rocking with us as a premium subscriber, thank you. We appreciate you.

We’d love to feature you or your business in an upcoming newsletter as a small way to show our appreciation. If you’re interested, send us an email at hello@chicagosouthsider.com by June 6.

As always, thank you for reading and supporting Chicago Southsider.

Let’s get into what’s happening this weekend and beyond.

Have a great weekend!

Charlene
Publisher, Chicago Southsider

www.chicagosouthsider.com

News You Can Use

• South Side Opportunities: Looking for grants, scholarships, internships, or summer jobs? Check out our South Side opportunities guide here.

• Remembering Dr. Angela Martin. A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, April 25th. See the obituary and what others are saying here.

• Windfall is now playing at Steppenwolf. A Chicago family faces grief, justice, and the question of what money can really fix. Read more here.

  ---

Things to Do This Weekend

Check out a few events coming up here:

• Windfall at Steppenwolf

• Covenant at The Goodman

• Navy Pier Summer Fireworks

• Sueños Music Festival

• Black Writers Weekend

• Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony & Parade

• Tea Workshop

• Block Print Workshop

• Southwest Side Zine Library Launch

Visit our Spring Event Guide here for more details. Would you like to advertise in our event guide? Contact us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

Know someone looking for things to do on the South Side? Forward this email or share it with a friend. It helps us grow and keep this work going.

Get in Touch

Follow us on social media and never miss an update:
📘 Facebook: Chicago Southsider
📸 Instagram: @chisouthsider
▶️ YouTube: The Chicago Southsider
🎧 Spotify: Chicago Southsider Podcast

Interested in sponsoring this newsletter? Email us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

If you want to share your feedback or say hi, feel free to reach out to us on Instagram.

Visit ChicagoSouthsider.com for more content.

For more details, visit our Disclaimer page. You can manage your subscription preferences or unsubscribe at any time.

Privacy Policy: Learn how we protect your information by reading our Privacy Policy.

Don't miss COVENANT, a “bone-chilling" (Chicago Theatre Review), descent into the supernatural and the terrifying power of belief.

Get 25% off performances with code SOUTHSIDER

Not valid on previously purchased tickets or in combination with other offers. Seating restrictions apply. Enter the code before selecting your performance date.

Get Tickets Here

This message is brought to you by a paid advertiser.
Advertisers help Chicago Southsider keep our content free and accessible to the community while sharing products and services from local and national businesses.

For more details, visit our Disclaimer page. You can manage your subscription preferences or unsubscribe at any time.

Privacy Policy: Learn how we protect your information by reading our Privacy Policy.

Hello Chicago Southsiders,

Last week, we ran a quick poll asking if you wanted us to pull together more South Side opportunities, including summer jobs, camps for kids, grants, scholarships, internships, and programs with upcoming deadlines.

Only a few people responded.

But you know what? We put it together anyway.

Because if even one student finds a summer program, one parent finds a camp, one entrepreneur finds a grant, or one South Sider finds an opportunity they didn’t know existed, that’s worth it.

You can check out our latest opportunities roundup here:

South Side Opportunities: Grants, Scholarships, Internships, and Summer Programs to Know in Spring 2026

Next week, we’re also celebrating the birthday of Lorraine Hansberry, the Chicago-born playwright and activist best known for A Raisin in the Sun.

Growing up, I had no idea that Lorraine Hansberry’s childhood home was located on the South Side, only a few miles away from the middle school I attended.

That’s one of the reasons we do this work.

Sometimes history is not far away.

Sometimes it is right down the street.

So here’s today’s South Side History check:

Find the answer in our story on the Lorraine Hansberry House and mural here.

And one more thing.

If you love the work we’re doing at Chicago Southsider, consider becoming a premium subscriber.

Your support helps us keep telling South Side stories, sharing community resources, and building a stronger local news platform for our neighborhoods.

And if you’ve already been rocking with us as a premium subscriber, thank you. We appreciate you.

We’d love to feature you or your business in an upcoming newsletter as a small way to show our appreciation. If you’re interested, send us an email at hello@chicagosouthsider.com by June 6.

As always, thank you for reading and supporting Chicago Southsider.

Let’s get into what’s happening this weekend and beyond.

Have a great weekend!

Charlene
Publisher, Chicago Southsider

www.chicagosouthsider.com

News You Can Use

• South Side Opportunities: Looking for grants, scholarships, internships, or summer jobs? Check out our South Side opportunities guide here.

• Remembering Dr. Angela Martin. A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, April 25th. See the obituary and what others are saying here.

• Windfall is now playing at Steppenwolf. A Chicago family faces grief, justice, and the question of what money can really fix. Read more here.

• Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Returns to Chicago. AILEY returned to The Auditorium last month, and Chicago showed up. Read more about opening night here.

  ---

Things to Do This Weekend

Check out a few events coming up here:

• Covenant at The Goodman

• Legally Blonde, Jr.

• Windfall

• Maxwell Street Market

• Spring Lounge: Celebrating Lorraine Hansberry

Visit our Spring Event Guide here for more details. Would you like to advertise in our event guide? Contact us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

Know someone looking for things to do on the South Side? Forward this email or share it with a friend. It helps us grow and keep this work going.

Get in Touch

Follow us on social media and never miss an update:
📘 Facebook: Chicago Southsider
📸 Instagram: @chisouthsider
▶️ YouTube: The Chicago Southsider
🎧 Spotify: Chicago Southsider Podcast

Interested in sponsoring this newsletter? Email us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

If you want to share your feedback or say hi, feel free to reach out to us on Instagram.

Visit ChicagoSouthsider.com for more content.

For more details, visit our Disclaimer page. You can manage your subscription preferences or unsubscribe at any time.

Privacy Policy: Learn how we protect your information by reading our Privacy Policy.

The Blues are calling and something darker is listening in COVENANT, a “blackout-and-blood-curdling-scream deliciousness” (New York Magazine) descent into myth, music, and the terrifying power of belief.

Get 25% off performances with code SOUTHSIDER

Not valid on previously purchased tickets or in combination with other offers. Seating restrictions apply. Enter the code before selecting your performance date.

Get Tickets Here

This message is brought to you by a paid advertiser.
Advertisers help Chicago Southsider keep our content free and accessible to the community while sharing products and services from local and national businesses.

For more details, visit our Disclaimer page. You can manage your subscription preferences or unsubscribe at any time.

Privacy Policy: Learn how we protect your information by reading our Privacy Policy.

Hello Chicago Southsiders,

It’s Mother’s Day weekend in Chicago, and if you’re looking for something to do with your mom, grandmother, auntie, or the special women in your life, there are plenty of options across the city.

From the Real Moms Slay event at the DuSable Museum to the suspenseful twists and turns of Covenant now playing at The Goodman (Get 25% off performances with code SOUTHSIDER), Chicago is full of experiences worth exploring this weekend.

We’ve also compiled a list of events, performances, and activities happening across the city that you can check out below.

Summer is also right around the corner, which means there are a lot of opportunities opening up for students, entrepreneurs, and people looking for jobs.

I’m seeing a lot of opportunities come my way with deadlines quickly approaching, so I’m considering putting together a special weekend edition focused on summer opportunities — including internships, scholarships, grants, fellowships, youth jobs, and business resources.

Quick question: Would you like a special opportunities newsletter this weekend with summer jobs, internships, scholarships, grants, and application deadlines?

Let’s get into what’s happening this weekend and beyond.

Have a great weekend!

Charlene
Publisher, Chicago Southsider

www.chicagosouthsider.com

Things to Do This Weekend

Check out a few events coming up here:

• Covenant at The Goodman

• Real Moms Slay the Runway for Mother’s Day

• Shedd House Party

• Granny Square Crochet Workshop

• The House on Mango Street Ballet

• Free SOX Sunday

Visit our Spring Event Guide here for more details. Would you like to advertise in our event guide? Contact us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

Know someone looking for things to do on the South Side? Forward this email or share it with a friend. It helps us grow and keep this work going.

Get in Touch

Follow us on social media and never miss an update:
📘 Facebook: Chicago Southsider
📸 Instagram: @chisouthsider
▶️ YouTube: The Chicago Southsider
🎧 Spotify: Chicago Southsider Podcast

Interested in sponsoring this newsletter? Email us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

If you want to share your feedback or say hi, feel free to reach out to us on Instagram.

Visit ChicagoSouthsider.com for more content.

Warm regards,

Chicago Southsider

Advertisers help Chicago Southsider keep our content free and accessible to the community while sharing products and services from local and national businesses.

For more details, visit our Disclaimer page. You can manage your subscription preferences or unsubscribe at any time.

Privacy Policy: Learn how we protect your information by reading our Privacy Policy.

“Everybody got a secret.”

The Blues, supernatural tension, and devilish twists collide in COVENANT, a “blackout-and-blood-curdling-scream deliciousness” (New York Magazine) descent into myth, music, and the terrifying power of belief.

Get 25% off performances with code SOUTHSIDER

Not valid on previously purchased tickets or in combination with other offers. Seating restrictions apply. Enter the code before selecting your performance date.

Get Tickets Here

This message is brought to you by a paid advertiser.
Advertisers help Chicago Southsider keep our content free and accessible to the community while sharing products and services from local and national businesses.

For more details, visit our Disclaimer page. You can manage your subscription preferences or unsubscribe at any time.

Privacy Policy: Learn how we protect your information by reading our Privacy Policy.

Hello Chicago Southsiders,

Last weekend, I finally checked something off my bucket list.

I attended Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater for the first time, and it felt like more than a performance.

From the energy in the room to the legacy on stage, it reminded me why I made a commitment this year to be more present in my own city.

I shared more about the experience here.

Now somehow… it’s already May.

And if you’re anything like me, you’re probably thinking about how to make the most of your weekends and starting to plan for Mother’s Day next week.

That’s exactly why we put our May Events guide together.

We’ve curated a list of events across Chicago to help you plan ahead, try something new, and experience the city in a different way. You can check out the full event guide below.

One to have on your radar: Covenant at The Goodman, opening this Saturday. It’s one of the newest productions hitting the stage this month.

Get Tickets Here

Let’s get into what’s happening this weekend and beyond.

Have a great weekend!

Charlene Rhinehart
Publisher, Chicago Southsider

www.chicagosouthsider.com

Sponsored By: The Goodman

Expect one devilish twist after another in Covenant, a mythic and suspenseful new play hailed as “blackout-and-blood-curdling-scream deliciousness” (New York Magazine).

📍 The Goodman - Owen Theatre
🗓 May 2 through May 31

Get 25% off performances with code SOUTHSIDER
*Not valid on previously purchased tickets or in combination with other offers. Seating restrictions apply. Enter the code before selecting your performance date.

Get Tickets Here

News You Can Use

• Remembering Dr. Angela Martin. A Celebration of Life was held on Saturday, April 25th. See the obituary and what others are saying here.

• Windfall is now playing at Steppenwolf. A Chicago family faces grief, justice, and the question of what money can really fix. Read more here.

• Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Returns to Chicago. AILEY returned to The Auditorium last weekend, and Chicago showed up. Read more about opening night here.

  ---

Now, let’s get into what’s happening this weekend.

Things to Do This Weekend

Check out a few events coming up here:

• Covenant at The Goodman

• Windfall at Steppenwolf

• Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom at Goodman

• DREAMERS Women’s Networking & Celebration

• Chicago Beaver Festival

• Early Summer Grower Workshop

Visit our Spring Event Guide here for more details. Would you like to advertise in our event guide? Contact us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

Know someone looking for things to do on the South Side? Forward this email or share it with a friend. It helps us grow and keep this work going.

Get in Touch

Follow us on social media and never miss an update:
📘 Facebook: Chicago Southsider
📸 Instagram: @chisouthsider
▶️ YouTube: The Chicago Southsider
🎧 Spotify: Chicago Southsider Podcast

Interested in sponsoring this newsletter? Email us at hello@chicagosouthsider.com.

If you want to share your feedback or say hi, feel free to reach out to us on Instagram.

Visit ChicagoSouthsider.com for more content.

Warm regards,

Chicago Southsider

This message is brought to you by a paid advertiser.

Advertisers help Chicago Southsider keep our content free and accessible to the community while sharing products and services from local and national businesses.

For more details, visit our Disclaimer page. You can manage your subscription preferences or unsubscribe at any time.

Privacy Policy: Learn how we protect your information by reading our Privacy Policy.

Get Tickets Here

When a Chicago father loses his child in a clash with the police, he is visited by three strangers who advise him to take the city’s cash settlement.

A communal experience created for this moment, Windfall is directed by Awoye Timpo, returning to Steppenwolf following her production of Leroy and Lucy last year.

This cast includes Alana Arenas, Glenn Davis, and Jon M. Hill reunited onstage for the first time since their award-winning run of Purpose on Broadway. They are joined by ensemble member Namir Smallwood, fresh from his run in Bug on Broadway.

📍 Steppenwolf Theatre Company
🗓 Now through May 31st

Read highlights from a conversation with South Side native Glenn Davis on Windfall, Chicago, and the bigger question the play raises.

Tickets are available at www.steppenwolf.org.

Check out what audiences are saying about Windfall!
⭐“STELLAR acting by the entire cast”

⭐“was one of the most outstanding of all during the many seasons of Steppenwolf we have enjoyed”

⭐“This play was incredible. Thought provoking, profound, and so well done.”

Get Tickets Here

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