- Wine Enthusiast's Toast of the Town Tasting - Thursday, May 1
Wine tasting and restaurant extravaganza at the Field Museum.
- Looptopia - Friday, May 2 to Saturday, May 3
From dusk to dawn, the nation's first all night festival promises to percolate through the Loop for the second year of this incredibly vibrant event. 300 artists. 100 venues.
- Cinco de Mayo Festival and Parade - Friday, May 2 to Sunday, May 4
More than 200,000 people attend this family-oriented celebration every year in Douglas Park (1401 S. Sacramento). The parade runs on May 4 beginning at noon on Cermak and Damen and heading west to Marshall Blvd.[/link]
- Poland in the Park - Sunday, May 3
A celebration of Polish culture beginning with a parade at 11:30am followed by a fest in Millennium Park beginning at 2pm. Will include music, food, and entertainment.
- Out at Chicago History Museum - Thursday, May 8
"Screaming Queens and Lavender Panthers: A History of Transgender Activism" lecture and reception. Starts at 5:30 pm.
- 16th Annual Chicago River Day - Saturday, May 10
Join with thousands of other volunteers in the morning to help clean the Chicago River, then join them for a mega-BBQ at River Park (5100 N. Francisco) in the afternoon.
- Mother's Day - Sunday, May 11
Love your mama, even if she's done you wronga. Find Chicago events and gift ideas to celebrate mom.
- Green City Market Opens - Wednesday, May 14
The city's premiere farmers market opens just in time to rescue us from a dismal winter and hydroponic tomatoes. In fact, the farmers markets begin to open up all over the city this month and next. Find one near you with the guides below.
- Chicago Places and Spaces Festival - Saturday, May 17 and Sunday, May 18
Another name for this might be "Urbanist Fest." Come tour the city's architectural gems and neighborhood wonders through this celebration of our urban landscape.
- Chicago Green Festival - Saturday, May 17 and Sunday, May 18
Tap into the city's green vibe and re-commit to a sustainable lifestyle at this Navy Pier event. Yoga. Organic Beer. Speakers. Eco-friendly products.
- 10th Annual Asian American Festival - Monday, May 19 to Friday, May 23
Performances, lunch, street market and more every day in Daley Plaza from 9am to 5pm. Sponsored by the Korean American Association of Chicago.
- Chicago's Memorial Day Parade - Saturday, May 24
Remember, honor, and enjoy your day at downtown Chicago's Memorial Day parade.
- Chicago Antique Market Opens - Saturday, May 24 and Sunday, May 25
The city's European style antique market kicks off its summer season.
- Bike the Drive - Sunday, May 25
Lake Shore Drive is one of the loveliest drives in the world - why not bike it in this car-free, friendly event?
- Mayfest - Thursday, May 29 to Sunday, June 1
Lincoln Square's summer celebration with a German flair.
- International Mr. Leather - Thursday, May 29 to Monday, June 2
Celebrating 30 years of hot and hunky.
- 24th Annual Gospel Music Festival - Friday, May 30 to Sunday, June 1
It's all about praise, glory, and great voices. It's also proof that summer is here with the first Grant Park/Millennium Park festival of the season. More reason for praise, no?
