The Chicago Air and Water Show and 95th Bud Billiken Parade, boosts domestic tourism: What you need to know?

Chicago is set for an exciting and eventful weekend as two major events—the Chicago Air & Water Show and the 95th Bud Billiken Parade—headline a busy schedule packed with concerts, festivals, and other happenings across the city.

Chicago Air & Water Show to Thrill Spectators

The Chicago Air & Water Show, one of the city’s most anticipated annual events, will take place this Saturday, August 10, and Sunday, August 11.

From 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day, spectators can head to North Avenue Beach and along the Lakefront to witness the exhilarating performances.

This year’s show features the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights as the headliners, showcasing their breathtaking aerial maneuvers and parachute demonstrations.

The event is free and open to the public, with no reserved seating areas, allowing attendees to choose their spots on the sand or grass areas.

Public Transportation and Parking

For those planning to attend, public transportation is highly recommended. The CTA Bus #72 provides direct access to North Avenue Beach.

Additionally, the Millennium Park Garages offer discounted pre-purchase parking, along with a shuttle service equipped with a lift, providing convenient transportation to DuSable Lake Shore Drive.

95th Bud Billiken Parade Celebrates Heritage and Community

On Saturday, August 10, the historic Bronzeville neighborhood will come alive with the 95th Bud Billiken Parade, starting at 10 a.m.

Known as the second-largest parade in the United States after the Rose Bowl Parade, this iconic event draws approximately 500,000 attendees each year.

The Bud Billiken Parade, a longstanding tradition in Chicago, is more than just a celebration—it’s a commemoration of the past and a joyous expression of community pride.

Spanning a 2-mile route, the parade showcases over 200 participants, including marching bands, drill teams, dance troupes, and tumblers from across the country.

It serves as a unifying event for African Americans in Chicago, bringing together music, dance, food, and laughter in a vibrant display of culture and tradition.

Additional Weekend Events in Chicago

In addition to these two major events, Chicago’s weekend lineup also includes a highly anticipated Metallica concert at Soldier Field on Sunday, August 11.

Sports enthusiasts can look forward to the second game of the two-game series between the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago White Sox, which will take place on Saturday, August 10, on the South Side.

With so much happening across the city, Chicagoans and visitors alike are in for a weekend filled with entertainment, community spirit, and memorable experiences.

Stay Informed:

For more details on these events and others happening this weekend, visit the official City of Chicago website and the Chicago Park District’s event calendar.

Public safety information, transportation updates, and other essential details can also be found on these official platforms.