The end of the school year always approaches faster than you think.
Chicago Public Schools parents can be prepared for the last day of school by planning ahead. Between child care needs during the summer and finding fun activities for kids, summer break can require some extra work. Find out when the last day of school is below.
Last day of school for Chicago Public Schools
- Last Day of School: June 4, 2026
Check out their full 2025-2026 calendar.
Summer break activities in Chicago
Not sure how to keep the kids entertained this summer? Here are some exciting ideas for fun activities near you!
- Catch a movie at Millennium Park. Enjoy free outdoor movie screenings at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, where families can bring a picnic and relax under the city skyline.
- Have a beach day at North Avenue Beach. Build sandcastles, play beach volleyball or rent paddleboards for a fun day along Lake Michigan’s shoreline.
- Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo. One of the country’s last free zoos, Lincoln Park Zoo is home to lions, giraffes and even a farmyard area where kids can interact with goats and cows.
- Ride the Ferris wheel at Navy Pier. Take in stunning city and lake views from the Centennial Wheel, then check out the Chicago Children’s Museum or enjoy a fireworks show on Wednesday and Saturday nights.
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This article was last updated on Aug. 22, 2025, by Chicago Parent Audience Development Manager Katina Beniaris. The update includes additional resources and details on the 2025-2026 Chicago Public Schools calendar to help parents stay organized throughout the school year. For questions, please reach out to katina@chicagoparent.com.
