Going out in Chicago can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. There’s plenty of fun to be had every week without putting a dent in your wallet. We’re making it easier for you by providing a weekly guide to free things to do throughout the city.
SATURDAY, AUG. 31
Grand Opening Party at Tone Deaf Records
4356 N. Milwaukee Ave., 773-372-6643
The Portage Park store celebrates with live music from John Langford, the Siderunners and Jessica Risker, plus DJs, raffles, coffee, snacks and beer. Noon-7 p.m.
SUNDAY, SEPT. 1
Chicago Jazz Festival at Millennium Park
201 E. Randolph St., 312-742-1168
Spread across four stages, the 41st annual fest features performances from Alec Tet, Ben LaMar Gay, Ben Sidran and the Eddie Palmieri Sextet, plus a New Orleans-style second line procession led by the Four Star Brass Band. 11:15 a.m. to 9 p.m.
MONDAY, SEPT. 2
More Top Picks Best Hydration Backpacks
‘Carnival Row’ Experience at Polk Bros Park at Navy Pier
600 E. Grand Ave.
Step inside the world of the new Amazon Prime Video fantasy series with a display of life-size curiosity boxes containing centaurs, faeries and other mythical creatures. Noon-9 p.m.
TUESDAY, SEPT. 3
Star Party at LH Rooftop
85 E. Upper Wacker Drive, 312-253-2317
Look at Saturn, Jupiter and the crescent moon through a pair of telescopes as astronomers provide insights into the night’s sky. 7-10 p.m.
WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 4
Free Admission Day at the Field Museum
1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, 312-665-7669
Bring proof that you’re an Illinois resident and you’ll get to visit exhibits covering dinosaurs, gems, ancient Egypt and beer. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Samantha Nelson is a RedEye freelancer.