Who’s ready for fall? Shorter daylight hours, lower temperatures and the holiday season just around the corner. It’s enough to make you want to stay inside with a some hot cocoa.
But if that’s not your speed, and you’re looking for some excitement on a budget, we’ve got it for you here.
Hyde Park Jazz Festival — Free
What: The Hyde Park Jazz Festival always attracts huge names. This year, Ravi Coltrane with Brandee Younger, Jason Moran and Christian Scott all play the festival.
When: Saturday from 1 p.m. to midnight and Sunday from 1 to 7 p.m.
Where: Locations vary, visit the festival’s website for details.
Art on theMART — Free
What: Take a seat on the Chicago Riverwalk and watch as one of Chicago’s most iconic buildings is lit up for the inauguration of Art on theMART.
When: Saturday, 6:30 p.m.
Where: Wacker Drive between Wells and Franklin streets.
Shortcut100 Film Festival — $20
What: The 2018 Shortcut100 Film Festival features films from independent artists around the world.
When: Saturday, 5 p.m.
Where: The Logan Theater, 2646 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago.
St. Benedict Oktoberfest — Free
What: Celebrate German culture with music, brats and beers during the 53rd annual St. Benedict Oktoberfest.
When: Friday through Sunday, between 1 and 10 p.m.
Where: St. Benedict Courtyard, 2215 W. Irving Park Road, Chicago.
More Sun-Times Guides with things to do
- The Grid: Our Sun-Times neighborhood series by Ji Suk Yi with the scoop on things to do including where to eat, drink and shop.
- Sun-Times 2018 Farmers Market Guide: Everything you need to know about city and suburban farmers markets
Tell us about free and cheap things to do!
We’d love to hear about your suggestions for free and cheap things to do in Chicago. Email us at freeandcheap@suntimes.com and we may include your event in a future story.
