4th of July fireworks at Navy Pier
The weekly display (Navy Pier fireworks are every Wednesday and Saturday through Labor Day weekend) will get a patriotic musical accompaniment in honor of the holiday. When: 9 p.m. Where: Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. Price: Free; 312-595-7437, navypier.com
More Top Picks Steamers
Buddy Guy
The Taste of Chicago gets all bluesy with legendary guitar man Buddy Guy headlining at the Petrillo Music Shell. Guster and Booker T. and the Drive By Truckers also perform. When: 3 p.m. Where: Grant Park, Columbus Drive and Monroe Drive Price: Free; 312-744-3315, tasteofchicago.us
African Caribbean International Festival of Life
The culture, cuisine and music of Jamaica, Trinidad, Haiti and more will be yours to savor in Washington Park. When: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. (also Sunday) Where: Washington Park, 55th Street and Cottage Grove Avenue Price: $10, $5 for children younger than 12 and seniors, free for children 6 and younger; 312-427-0266, festivaloflife.biz
Naperville Ribfest
You can get your grill on without having to do the actual grilling (or cleaning). Tons of ribs (as well as vegetarian and non-pork choices) are yours for the tasting. Music on two stages includes headliners Todd Rundgren (Saturday) and Huey Lewis (left) and the News (Sunday); carnival rides, a petting zoo, a fireworks display and more round out the fest. When: Noon-10 p.m. (also Sunday; gates are open to everyone at 7 p.m. Saturday for the fireworks display) Where: Knoch Park, 700 S. West St., Naperville Price: $10, free for children 11 and younger, ribfest.net