Whether you have two legs or four, there are plenty of options for you this weekend in Chicago.
Clear the Shelters
Clear the Shelters is a nationwide pet adoption event hosted by NBCUniversal TV studios that aims to get animals into the loving homes they need. More than 100,000 pets were adopted for last year's event. Shelters across the country, including many in the Chicago area, will waive or discount adoptions fees to help pets find their fur-ever homes.
When: August 17
Where: Nationwide. Find a participating shelter near you here.
Edison Park Fest
Edison Park Fest first started in 1972 as a sidewalk sale on Northwest Highway. The annual community fundraiser draws about 20,000 people, and proceeds help free community programs and beautification projects.
Local
When: August 16-18
Where: Edison Park
Time: Friday 5 p.m.-10:30 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m.-10 p.m.
Admission: $5 donation
Chicago Air and Water Show
This is the largest free show of its kind in the United States, according to the city of Chicago website. The show can be seen along the lakefront from Fullerton to Oak Street and from Ohio Street Beach. Food vendors will be stationed along the lakefront selling food like hot dogs, hamburgers and ice cream.
When: August 17-18
Where: North Avenue Beach
Time: 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Admission: Free
Sangria Festival Chicago
What’s better than sipping on some sangria in the park?
When: August 17-18
Where: 3021 W Division St. 3015 West Division Street, Humboldt Park Chicago, IL. 60622
Time: 12 p.m.-10 p.m.
Admission: $15-$95
Chicago Caribbean Carnival Parade & Festival
"A unique Caribbean experience celebrating a day of traditions, food music, culture among people."
When: August 17
Where: Midway Plaisance Park, 1130 Midway Plaisance Park Chicago, IL 60637
Time: 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
Admission: Free
Kilbourn Park Summer Festival
An event that aims to encourage the enhancement of the neighborhood while offering up DJ music, food, and plenty of fun activities.
When: August 17
Where: Kilbourn Park, 3501 N Kilbourn Ave. Chicago, IL. 60641
Time: 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Admission: Free
Live on the Lake!
A variety of performances and a beautiful view of the summer fireworks at night.
When: August 17
Where: Miller Lite Beer Garden, Navy Pier
Time: 2 p.m.-11:30 p.m.
Admission: Free
Pilsen Fest
A festival to appreciate the Latino community and cultural talents.
When: August 17-18
Where: Pilsen, 1800 S. Blue Island Ave. Chicago, IL. 60608
Time: 12 p.m.-11 p.m.
Admission: Donation
Gelato Festival
Enjoy all you can eat gelato! Need we say more?
When: August 17-18
Where: Taylor Street
Time: Saturday 2 p.m.-10 p.m., Sunday 12 p.m.-8 p.m.
Admission: $25
Logan Square Stir-Up
It’s a bartender competition! Who will make the best drinks? Come and find out!
When: August 18
Where: Logan Square Auditorium
Time: 3 p.m.
Admission: $55
