National Cherry Day

National Corn Fritters Day

National Guinea Pig Appreciation Day

National Wedding Invitation Day

World Snake Day

Mom’s House at The Original Mother’s: Mom's House at The Original Mother's is bringing the sounds of Ibiza to Chicago this summer with The Ibiza Escape, a monthly event series inspired by house music, late-night culture and the city's rich DJ legacy. Located in Gold Coast at 26 W. Division St., Mom's House is a DJ-focused dance lounge inside one of Chicago's most iconic nightlife destinations.

Each event features sets from Sophia George and guest DJs, along with drink activations, complimentary ice cream and sorbet and an atmosphere inspired by Ibiza, the world's most iconic nightlife island, while showcasing Chicago's vibrant house music scene.

The Ibiza Summer Series takes place Saturday, July 25, Saturday, Aug. 22 and Saturday, Sept. 26 from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. Tickets are $20 and include a welcome cocktail plus access to all activations throughout the night.

Use code BEST15 for 15% off tickets and follow @momshousechicago for updates on upcoming events and summer programming.

Air Quality: As you have likely noticed, smoke from more than 100 Canadian wildfires has blanketed the Chicago area today, creating hazy skies and causing air quality to reach unhealthy to very unhealthy levels across parts of northern Illinois. Residents are encouraged to limit time outdoors if possible, especially those with asthma or other heart or lung conditions. The smoky conditions are expected to gradually improve Friday afternoon.

Illinois Tolls: Illinois Tollway officials are proposing a toll increase to help fund a 15-year, $26.5 billion infrastructure plan. Under the proposal, passenger vehicles with I-PASS would pay about 45 cents more per toll, while drivers without I-PASS would pay about 90 cents more. Commercial vehicle tolls would increase by roughly 30%. Public hearings are underway before the Tollway Board decides whether to approve the plan.

James Beard Awards: Chicago's future as the home of the James Beard Awards is officially in question. The James Beard Foundation announced it is opening a nationwide search for a host city for the James Beard Awards, often called the "Oscars of the food world," from 2029-2033. Chicago has hosted the prestigious culinary awards since 2015 and will continue to do so through 2028.

Portillo’s: Portillo's is opening a new Wrigleyville location at 3519 N. Clark St., about a block south of Wrigley Field. The restaurant is expected to open next year and will feature the chain's first-ever walk-up window for ordering and pickup. It will become Portillo's fifth Chicago location and its 46th restaurant across Chicagoland.

Health Inspections: Two popular Chicago spots were temporarily shut down by health inspectors this week after cockroach infestations were discovered. Stella's Diner in Lakeview and Magnolia Bakery in the Loop both had their licenses suspended following inspections. Both businesses are expected to reopen after the health violations have been addressed.

Lincoln Square Cat Tour: A cat tour is coming to Lincoln Square. The neighborhood is hosting its first-ever "Caturday" on Saturday, Aug. 8, with CatVideoFest 2026 at the Davis Theater at 12:30 p.m. followed by The Lincoln Square Cat Tour from 3–5 p.m. The free tour lets cat lovers stroll the neighborhood in search of local cats hanging out in windows, on porches and in catios.

Chicago Fire: International soccer star Robert Lewandowski is expected to make his highly anticipated Chicago Fire debut tonight as the team takes on the Vancouver Whitecaps at Soldier Field. The match will be followed by a postgame concert by Two Friends, and tickets are still available.

Swig Dirty Sodas: Swig, the drive-thru chain known for popularizing dirty sodas, is officially expanding to the Chicago area with 13 planned locations. The first location will open next month at 1701 N. Larkin Ave. in Crest Hill, with additional locations planned for Naperville, Bolingbrook and Romeoville in 2027.

Yu-Yubu: Chicago's first dedicated Yubu café and one of the city's first ceremonial matcha bars is opening at The Shops at North Bridge. Yu-Yubu, located on Level 4, will celebrate its grand opening on Saturday, July 25 and serve made-to-order Inari-style sushi, handcrafted poke bowls and individually hand-whisked ceremonial matcha.

Sidewalk Sale: Take a stroll through Lincoln Park this weekend at the Armitage-Halstead-Webster Sidewalk Sale on Saturday, July 18 and Sunday, July 19 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. This special outdoor shopping event will feature 37 participating businesses, many of which will have special deals. See the map and deals list.

Colombian Fest: The 12th Colombian Fest Chicago takes place this weekend from Friday, July 17 through Sunday, July 19 at North Avenue and Albany Avenue in Humboldt Park. The three-day festival celebrates Colombian culture with live music, traditional food, dancing and family-friendly activities. Tickets are required, but general admission is free on Friday.

Chicago Artisan Market: The Chicago Artisan Market is back this weekend for a fun one-day local shopping experience! The market takes place at Morgan MFG in Fulton Market this Sunday, July 19 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The huge indoor market brings together 110+ talented Chicago and Midwest artisans all under one roof. It's completely indoors and air-conditioned, making it a great way to beat the heat while supporting local small businesses.

Grab a drink from the fully stocked bar, enjoy lunch, coffee or dessert, and browse the unique selection of artisans. The market is also dog-friendly and kid-friendly, making it a fun outing for the whole family.

Tickets are $8 each or four for $20, making it an even better value if you bring a few friends. Kids under 12 are free, and tickets are more expensive at the door, so it makes sense to purchase them in advance.

Tacos y Tamales Festival: Tacos y Tamales Festival returns to Pilsen this weekend from Friday, July 17 through Sunday, July 19 and is open until 10 p.m. each evening. The festival is modeled after traditional open-air markets in Mexico and features a block-party atmosphere, live music, dance performances, art, vendors and plenty of authentic tacos, tamales and other Mexican cuisine. It's free to attend, but there is a suggested donation.

West Fest: West Fest returns to West Town this weekend from Friday, July 17 through Sunday, July 19 along Chicago Avenue between Wood and Damen. The house music festival features live music curated by Bass By The Pound and Empty Bottle, local food and drinks, a Kids Fest, Pet Fest and more. Admission is free ($10 suggested donation)

Ravenswood on Tap: Sip your way through Malt Row this weekend at Ravenswood on Tap, featuring some of Chicago's top breweries (Weekend Beer List), KOVAL cocktails, live music, local artists and artisans, mini golf and food vendors. The fest runs Saturday, July 18 and Sunday, July 19 on Ravenswood Avenue. Drink tickets are $8 for a full pour or $12 for three tastings. The event is cash only, though ATMs will be available on site. Admission is free ($10 suggested donation).

Taste of River North: Check out Taste of River North on Friday, July 17 and Saturday, July 18. The free festival features live music, art vendors, interactive experiences, a dog parade, family-friendly activities and food from River North restaurants including Seoul Taco, Avli, Fogo de Chão, Lure Fishbar and more.

Roscoe Village Burger Fest: Roscoe Village Burger Fest returns this weekend from July 17–19 for its 19th year. There will be 11 burger vendors competing for the "Critics' Choice" and "People's Choice" Best Burger awards, with attendees able to vote via QR codes at each booth. Beyond the food, the festival also features two music stages, local merchants, a kids' zone with activities, games, crafts and more. Admission is free ($10 suggested donation).

18%: Taste of Chicago

21%: Windy City Smokeout

6%: Both

56%: Neither

Sunrise: 5:29 a.m. (5 minutes later)

Sunset: 8:23 p.m. (4 minutes earlier)