Chicago Memorial Day Parade
Saturday, May 28, Wreath Laying Ceremony, 11 a.m.; parade, noon
If your kids only know Memorial Day as the official start to summertime, expand their horizons. Winding its way south through the Loop from Daley Plaza, the parade–one of the country’s largest, and a tradition since 1870–will feature a multitude of Chicago high school bands. The parade kicks off at noon after a special Wreath Laying Ceremony and recognition of Gold Star families. (Gold Star lapel pins, a symbol of honor for loved ones lost during active duty, are a powerful reminder that the weekend means more than just barbecues.)
Get schooled at Emerald City
Through June 5
It’s rare to find a family-friendly show where parents are the ones busting through the doors just ahead of their children. Emerald City’s “Schoolhouse Rock Live!” is totally that show. Running just around an hour and geared towards ages 3-13 (or upwards of 35, say), this is the springtime show you’ll be glad you saw with your kids.
Make music lovers forever
Saturday, May 28
When the Chicago Philharmonic Orchestra teams up with Cirque de la Symphonie, you are in for a dazzling spectacle unlike any you’ve ever seen, as well as a compelling new way to experience orchestral music.
Cirque de la Symphonie, comprised of Olympians and world-record holders, brings the magic of “cirque” to traditional music halls. They’ve crafted performances with aerial flyers, acrobats, balancers, jugglers, dancers, strong men and contortionists. (If ever there were a guaranteed way to ensure a future generation of classical music aficionados, this would totally be it.)