Things to do in Chicago this weekend — EXPO Chicago, Rum Fest and more
CHICAGO - You've made it to another weekend and it's full of top-notch entertainment. Whether you're looking to dance the night away at Mubi Fest, laugh with Theo Von, or hunt for handcrafted treasures at The Mart, there's something for everyone.
Here's a list of things to do this weekend, April 25-27 in Chicago.
From left to right: Chicago Rum Fest, Theo Von and The Harold Washington Library.
What concerts are in Chicago this weekend?
April 25: Spiritbox at Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom
April 25: Chloe Moriondo at Bottom Lounge
April 25: Leftover Salmon at Outset
April 25: OK Go at Riviera Theatre
April 25: Penny and Sparrow at Thalia Hall
April 25: Denzel Curry at The Salt Shed Indoors
April 26: L.S. Dunes at Outset
April 25: Paleface Swiss at Thalia Hall
April 26: Trisha Paytas at The Chicago Theatre
April 27: Mubi Fest Chicago at The Salt Shed Indoors
Multiple dates: Ivan Cornejo at United Center
Multiple dates: The Used at House of Blues Chicago
What comedy shows are in Chicago this weekend?
Chris Redd
Chicago native and former Saturday Night Live cast member Chris Redd brings his high-energy stand-up to the Chicago Improv in Schaumburg April 24-26. Tickets start at $25 and can be purchased online.
Katt Williams
Comedy legend Katt Williams returns to Chicago with his Heaven on Earth Tour, delivering a night of humor and social commentary. Williams will perform April 25 at United Center.
Theo Von
Viral stand-up comedian and podcast host Theo Von brings his Return of the Rat tour to Wintrust Arena April 24 and Allstate Arena April 25. Tickets can be purchased at theovon.com and start at $35.
What sporting events are in Chicago this weekend?
April 24: Chicago Bears Draft Party
April 25: Chicago Cubs versus Philadelphia Phillies
April 26: Chicago Cubs versus Philadelphia Phillies
April 27: Chicago Cubs versus Philadelphia Phillies
What events are happening in Chicago this weekend?
One Earth Film Festival
Dates: April 22–28, 2025
Time: Various times
Location: Various venues across Chicagoland and virtual screenings
Attend screenings of environmental and climate justice films, followed by discussions and action-oriented programs. The festival aims to inspire and mobilize audiences toward sustainable living. Full schedule and tickets at oneearthfilmfest.org.
EXPO Chicago
Dates: April 24–27, 2025
Time: Various times
Location: Navy Pier
Experience the International Exposition of Contemporary & Modern Art, featuring over 100 galleries from around the world. Explore cutting-edge works from established and emerging artists. Tickets and more information available at expochicago.com.
Art on the Mart
Dates: April 25–27, 2025
Time: Dusk
Location: Chicago Riverwalk
Witness large-scale digital projections on the Merchandise Mart, showcasing works from local and international artists. The projections are visible from the Riverwalk and are free to view. More information at artonthemart.com.
One of a Kind Show
Dates: April 25–27, 2025
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. (April 25–26), 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (April 27)
Location: The Mart
Discover unique, handcrafted goods from over 350 artists and makers. Perfect for finding one-of-a-kind gifts and home decor. Tickets start at $15; learn more at oneofakindshowchicago.com.
Earth Day StoryWalk at Humboldt Park
Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
Time: 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Location: Humboldt Park
Celebrate Earth Day with a 20-minute guided nature walk around Humboldt Park Lagoon. Designed for children ages 5 to 8, each child must be accompanied by a parent. Participants will receive a special t-shirt and a free copy of the storybook read during the walk. Register at bit.ly/2025EARTH.
Dia de los Niños Parade
Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Location: Pilsen Neighborhood
Join the 26th annual celebration of children with a vibrant parade featuring music, dance, and cultural performances. The free event honors the importance of children in the community.
Chicago Independent Bookstore Day Crawl
Unlock your inner bookworm at the Chicago Independent Bookstore Day Crawl
Independent Bookstore Day is coming up, and local businesses are holding a crawl of their own.
Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Location: Various independent bookstores across Chicago
Explore the city's vibrant literary scene by visiting local independent bookstores. Each stop offers unique selections and special promotions. Start your adventure at after-words bookstore.
Chicago Public Library’s 26th Annual Poetry Fest
Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Harold Washington Library Center
Celebrate National Poetry Month with workshops, open mics, and presentations. Highlights include the Haiku Fest Annual Awards Ceremony at 10 a.m. and "Poems While You Wait" in the Grand Lobby at 11 a.m. More details at chipublib.org.
Taste of Northalsted
Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Location: Northalsted (Halsted Street between Belmont and Addison)
Enjoy food and drink samples from over 20 local establishments in the Northalsted neighborhood. Tickets are $25 in advance and include tastings.
Chicago Rum Fest
Chicago Rum Festival returns to Logan Square this month
The 9th annual Chicago Rum Fest returns to Logan Square on Saturday, April 26th.
Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Location: Logan Square Auditorium
Sample over 200 rum expressions from more than 85 premium brands. Enjoy unlimited tastings and learn about the history and craft of rum. Tickets and more information at chicagorumfest.com.