Free Events for Seniors in the Chicago Area

In the summertime, the city of Chicago comes to life. Between events at Millennium Park, to street festivals in the nearby neighborhoods, to community gatherings in the suburbs, there is always something happening for all age groups. The best part? Many of them are free! You don’t have to spend a penny to have fun this summer. If you’re looking for some interesting occasions to switch up your weekly routine, consider these free events for seniors in the Chicago area.

Shakespeare in the Park

For 11 seasons, Shakespeare in the Park has enchanted Chicagoans with free, pop-up performances of some of the prolific playwright’s most famous shows. The theater troupe puts a unique spin on classic plays such as that appeal to audiences both young and old. Shows take place from July through August.

Lovers of the theater will enjoy the chance to watch these classic performances out in the fresh air. Each performance takes place at a different park across the city, meaning it will be easily accessible to you during the run. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own seating and any refreshments they’d like during the show.

Senior strength and conditioning training

Fitness is crucial to helping seniors age healthfully. If you would like to join a fitness class that targets cardiovascular endurance, strength, agility, speed, and balance, consider joining the course at McKinley Park. This event takes place from April through June, so sign up soon so you don’t miss the last few!

This class was designed with Chicago’s senior citizens in mind, so most seniors over 60 should be comfortable joining. Between calisthenics and exercises traditionally seen in a weight room, the 45-minute class will have you feeling satisfied by the end.

Free museum days

Chicago is possibly best known for its myriad of museums to explore. To get a wider variety of people through those museum doors, many offer free entry days. These dates shift throughout the year, allowing new groups of people access to these incredible venues. Below are just a few of the free entry dates:

• DuSable Museum of African American History—Every Wednesday
• Art Institute of Chicago—Thursdays from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center—Last Friday of every month
• Chicago Botanic Garden— June 13, 15, 19; July 11, 13; August 8, 10; September 12, 14
• Chicago History Museum— June 19, 28; July 4

Chicago SummerDance

Whether you love to admire dance or want to learn some moves of your own, head to Grant Park for SummerDance. From mid-July to mid-September, dancers of all ages and skill levels are invited to join introductory-level lessons put on by professional instructors. The night ends with an incredible performance of live music and dance.

Dance is a fantastic avenue of exercise for seniors. For most individuals, it is a form of exercise that doesn’t exactly feel like exercise but still gets the blood pumping and the muscles working.

For support at home, consider home care

This summer, you want to focus on fun—not how certain activities of daily living have grown to be difficult. Instead of dwelling on it, get the help you need by hiring the support of an at-home caregiver. These professionals can assist with any and all activities of daily living you require, from companionship to personal care.

For 30 years, Home Care Powered by AUAF has supported seniors in the greater Chicago area. We hire only the most compassionate staff, so you always receive the care you need no matter what stage of the process you are in. To learn more about our services, give us a call at 773-274-9262. We would be happy to discuss how we can help you live comfortably at home.