Labor Day 2025 Celebrations In Chicago
Anybody who’s been in Chicago on Labor Day Weekend knows it’s where you’ll
find the best parties, concerts, sale shopping, sporting events, BBQ, and
all-around fun – in one place – anywhere! And this year’s Labor Day Weekend
in Chicago will be one of the most amazing ever! In addition to the last
long weekend and the end of Summer, the time of the year is finally a bit
cooler in Chicago, which means that the best parties are outside!
Things To Do On Labor Day Weekend 2025 In Chicago
Chicago is a perfect spot to unwind during the long Labor Day Weekend. and
If you’re among the thousands of people making plans for Labor Day weekend
in Chicago, you’ll find no shortage of things to do while you’re here. To
help you narrow down your options, we compiled this list of exciting things
happening in Chicago over the long weekend.
1) 35th Annual African Festival of the Arts
A four-day into African culture & heritage immersive experience with 300
vendors, live African Diaspora music & family entertainment at the
Annual African Festival of Arts
. The nation’s largest Labor Day Weekend celebration of Black global
cultures attracts over 75,000 culture enthusiasts to Chicago, Illinois’
southside museum district in Washington Park. This traditional
end-of-summer, culturally immersive, and interactive event brings the art,
sights, tastes, sounds, rhythms, and spirit of African Diaspora cultures to
Chicago - in a replicated African village with over 300 vendors!
2) All White RnB vs Hip-Hop Yacht Cruise
Join us for the All White Attire RnB vs Hip Hop Yacht Cruise on Saturday, 30th August 2025, from 1:30 pm to 5:00 pm aboard the Anita Dee #2 yacht at DuSable Harbor, 200 Breakwater Access, Chicago. Enjoy 3 levels of music with Chicago’s hottest DJs spinning Hip Hop, RnB, Top 40, and more. The event features indoor heated dance floors, a skydeck, stunning views of the Chicago skyline, and a fully stocked cash bar. It's a 21+ event, with VIP table reservations and food available for purchase. Boarding starts at 12:45 pm, and the yacht sails at 1:30 pm.
3) ARC Music Festival 2025
Bringing the global scene to the birthplace of house music. The
4th annual ARC Music Festival
is scheduled to take over Union Park during Labor Day weekend, celebrating
Chicago's house music roots and welcoming an international lineup of dance
music artists. Taking place across three days, the fest features acts like
Swedish DJs Eric Prydz and Adam Beyer, plus British pioneer Fatboy Slim.
Additional Chicago performers include local house music legends Derrick
Carter and DJ Lady D.
4) 8th Annual Labor Day Jazz Festival 2025
Chicago's Jazz Festival puts up a swinging Labor Day celebration! This
event, which takes place at the storied Jazz Showcase, is a must-attend for
jazz lovers. This 8th Annual Labor Day Jazz Festival
takes in the mastery of five magnificent hours of performances by renowned
musicians, from up-and-coming talents to seasoned veterans. In the cozy Jazz
Showcase atmosphere, celebrate the city's musical history and unwind after a
busy weekend.
5) Labor Day Sunday Funday Sunset Cruise!
Join us for the Sunday Funday Sunset Cruise on Sunday, 31st August 2025, from 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm at Chicago Lakefront Cruises, 900 South Wells Street. Cruise the Chicago River and Lake Michigan with live music by DJ Tecknique, spinning Top 40, EDM, and Hip-Hop. Enjoy stunning skyline views, a lively party atmosphere, and bar service on board. This 21+ event is the perfect way to cap off your Labor Day weekend in style!
