Memorial Day weekend 2025 events mark the unofficial start of summer in Chicago
It might not feel like summer outside but Memorial Day weekend means beaches are open and preparations for events and parades are underway.
It may be a little cold to jump into Lake Michigan but you can still enjoy a day by the water as all of Chicago's 22 beaches opened for the season Friday morning.
It was a little chilly, but Leilani Miranda and her friends went to North Avenue Beach for a Friday afternoon picnic, clearly not concerned that their teachers watch the news.
You can check swim conditions on the Chicago Park District's website to make sure your preferred location is actually open for taking a dip. Lifeguards were in place despite the chillier temps. The Office of Emergency Management and Communications reminds residents to only swim where a lifeguard is present; everywhere else is not permitted.
The Shore Club, a perennially popular Chicago beach destination, had to close for a few days this week because of the rain and cold. General Manager John Blubaugh said it's a tough decision for the staff to make, since they are only open a few months out of the year, so every summer weekend counts.
"Generally we are crazy busy this weekend so kind of disappointing but it's Chicago! What are you going to do," he said.
There's no admission fee at Chicago beaches, and they're open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day through Labor Day on Sept 1.
For those looking to observe the more solemn, serious meaning behind Memorial Day, a wreath laying ceremony will be held Saturday at 11 a.m. in Daley Plaza to honor fallen soldiers. Gold Star families and members of the military are expected to attend.
Saturday also brings the annual Memorial Day Parade down State Street. The route goes from Lake Street to Van Buren Street, and the keynote address will be given by retired Army Major General William J. Walker, who has served for more than 30 years.
CBS News Chicago's own Audrina Sinclair will serve as the parade's emcee. The parade steps off after the wreath-laying ceremony, at 12 p.m.
If you're just looking for a good time and great live music performances, Sueños Music Festival returns to Grant Park Saturday and Sunday, with headlining sets from Shakira on Saturday and Don Omar on Sunday.
Street closures for the festival have already begun. Click here to see everything you need to know.
At Soldier Field, they'll host the 10-miler and 10K, and then an AC/DC concert.
The Beverly and Morgan Park communities are hosting their big Memorial Day tradition on Monday with their annual Ridge Run and Memorial Day Parade, featuring a 10K run, 5K run/walk, and youth mile race, followed by the parade along Longwood Drive.
In Lakeview, the three-day Belmont Sheffield Music Fest kicked off Friday night. The annual festival is celebrating its 40th anniversary, featuring tribute bands, food, beer, wine, local artists, and more.
OEMC said they will have citywide deployments with all the activities going on, and reminded people to be aware of pole markers in case of emergencies around Grant Park and the lakefront so emergency personnel can respond to exact locations.
Chicago mayor announces summer safety plan ahead of Memorial Day weekend
Mayor Brandon Johnson and Chicago Police Supt. Larry Snelling outlined their summer safety plans on Thursday.
Data shows last Memorial Day weekend, 41 people were shot in Chicago, 12 of them fatally.
As the mayor outlined the city's summer safety plan, Johnson said shootings overall this year are down 36% compared to the same time last year; homicides and other violent crimes are down 21%.
In order to keep violence down, the mayor called on help from community groups, like Brilliance and Excellence, a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting safe and peaceful communities.
The CTA said, beginning June 23, they're going to give 250 students and young adults a 7-week paid summer internship.
And the Chicago Park District said they're bringing back late-night basketball and soccer games to provide a safe nighttime activity for youths.
