31st annual Chicago Jazz Festival
According to music critic Howard Reich, this year’s festival will offer “an extraordinary range of innovative work.” Highlights include performances Saturday by saxophonist (and local legend) Fred Anderson, and bassists William Parker and Dave Holland; on Sunday check out saxophonist Archie Shepp and pianist Muhal Richard Abrams. When: 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. (also Sunday) Where: Grant Park, Columbus Drive and Jackson Boulevard Price: Free; 312-744-3315, 312-427-1676, explorechicago.org
Northwestern University vs.
Towson University
This is the home opener for the Wildcats. When: 11 a.m. Where: Ryan Field, Northwestern University, 1501 Central St., Evanston Price: $25-$35; 847-491-7887, nusports.com
African Festival of the Arts
Celebrate African and African-American culture with live music — including hip-hop stalwarts the Pharcyde, multi-instrumentalist Booker T. Jones and jazz pianist Ahmad Jamal (Sunday) — and a diverse food court. When: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. (also Sunday) Where: Washington Park, 51st Street and Cottage Grove Avenue Price: $10-$15, $5 for seniors and children younger than 12; 773-955-2787, africanfestivalchicago.com
The last fling
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Put a fun stamp on the end of the season at this fair where you can enter a spaghetti-eating contest and hang out with the Radio Disney Road Crew. When: 10 a.m.-11 p.m. (also Sunday) Where: Naperville Riverwalk, 100 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville Price: Free general admission, $7-$12 main stage admission, $20 unlimited ride carnival pass (Saturday only); 630-961-4143, lastfling.org