Round Out Summer with These Events in Chicago

Your grandchildren have started school again and the weather is starting to cool off. It’s official: summer is coming to a close. Even if you are looking forward to fall fun, it’s still bittersweet to say goodbye to summer. However, you don’t have to say goodbye just yet. Whether it’s with your friends or loved ones, round out summer with these events in Chicago to make the most of this time of year.

One of the best parts about finding something to do in the city? There is a great mix of free and ticketed activities. For events with a fee, older adults should look into whether or not there is a reduced price for seniors.

Chicago Jazz Festival

Tomorrow (August 31) is the first day of one of Chicago’s oldest free music festivals: the Chicago Jazz Festival. Taking place at Millennium Park, the four-day festival features jazz legends as well as musicians green to the field. Attendees are welcome to bring their own seats, picnic blankets, snacks, and drinks as they listen to the gorgeous live music. This is especially great for older adults who require additional comfort.

However, it is important to note you can only bring your own seating if you sit on the Great Lawn. Seating in the Jay Pritzker Pavilion may be more accommodating for wheelchairs, but it is first-come first-serve.

Printer’s Row Lit Fest

If you’ve found a love of reading in your retirement years, the 38th Annual Printer’s Row Lit Fest is for you. Enjoy the weather and wonderful literature by wandering between vendor stalls and panels. This literary showcase highlights independent bookstores and hosts panels for more than 100 authors to partake in. This is a more relaxed event than many of the Chicago festivals, making it a great option for seniors. Seniors have two dates to attend: September 9 and 10.

Have a beach day

While Chicago is renowned for its festival season, there is still plenty to do that doesn’t involve pushing through a crowd. While many see Labor Day as the end of beach season, the water is still warm and the weather is still nice enough to spend some time lounging in the sand. What’s more—with school back in session, the beach will be less crowded. Make a day out of it by bringing a cooler of water and snacks—and don’t forget to reapply sunscreen!

Chicago Gourmet

September 21 to 24 is for lovers of Chicago’s food scene. Head to the heart of downtown for Chicago Gourmet—a four-day festival that encourages attendees to expand their pallets through delicious food. Celebrity chefs, experts in wine and food, and impressive, local restaurateurs all partake in this festival. You’re practically guaranteed to find a bite or two that you fall in love with.

You can attend for as many, or as few, days as you’d like—however, it is important to note that this event is ticketed. Make sure you purchase your tickets ahead of time to get the experience you want.

World Music Festival Chicago

Chicago is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the country, and the World Music Festival helps celebrate it. From September 22 to October 1, more than 30 artists and ensembles from 22 unique regions across the world come together to share their music with the city. This event is completely free and takes place in venues across the city, so make sure you do your research before attending. This is a fantastic summer festival to end a season of fun with.

Receive the help you need to stay at home

When retirement comes around, you finally have the time and resources you need to try new things. However, as you age into your golden years, you may find that taking care of yourself isn’t as simple as it once was. Don’t let that cause you to miss out on life—instead, hire the help of an at-home caregiver.

For 30 years, Home Care Powered by AUAF has offered seniors in the greater Chicago area the assistance they need to age in place. Our staff provides support with the non-medical activities of daily living that have grown cumbersome, such as cooking, cleaning, and personal care. This allows you to focus on whatever is most important to you without having to worry about your needs going unfulfilled.

To learn more about how an at-home caregiver could support you, give us a call at 773-274-9262.