Here’s the question on many of our minds: “do y’all wanna just celebrate Juneteenth again on Friday!!?”
Independence Day is this Friday, July 4. However, history tells us time and time again that this holiday, like many other things in this country, wasn’t created for us to truly celebrate. Right now, we’re living through a political moment of attacks on civil rights.
In the resilient spirit of Black people, though, we always carve out space for joy and community. Many of us will be off work. You might see the occasional old head in his grill master sandals, cooking up some fire for the family. Kids will play in the sprinklers — or open fire hydrants. Spade games will commence. And drinks will be had.
Chicago, arguably the best city in the world, is known for curating some of the best summertime vibes. The TRiiBE called around to see what the moves are for this weekend.
Here’s a list of some cool things to check out.
Thursday, July 3
“Pier Soul” House Music at Pier 31
Time: 5:00 p.m.. to 10:00 p.m.
Location: Pier 31 Restaurant at 3101 S. DuSable Lake Shore Dr.
Calling all house heads! On July 3, TheWayWeWere Productions is hosting “Pier Soul,” featuring resident DJ Mike Dunn. Bringing the vibes all summer long, Pier 31 is the spot for beach parties. Its weekly lineup includes Afrobeats on Mondays, house music on Thursdays, hip-hop and R&B on Fridays and a live band on Sundays.
Big Kid Show @ Dorian’s
Time: Starting at 8:00 p.m.
Location: Dorian’s, a speakeasy at 1939 W. North Ave., in Wicker Park
Hosted and founded by Toaster and Raych Jackson, this event is a fun and funny variety show calling for all creatives to come out and share their talents in a safe and supportive space. It’s $10 to get in, and DJ Ca$h Era will be on the ones and twos.
Nights Like This
Time: 9:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m.
Location: Never Have I Ever, an agave den at 2247 N. Lincoln Ave., in Lincoln Park
With sounds by DJ Ca$h Era, DJ D9-3 and DJ Zuni, this moment is sure to be a magical one. Early bird and general admission tickets are sold out. But there are some “last call” tickets available here. According to DJ Ca$h Era, “consider this the official kickoff for the 4th of July weekend.”
Red, White & Vibes – July 4th Weekend Beach Kickoff
Time: 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Location: Whispers at Oak Street Beach, a beach bar at 1001 N. Lake Shore Dr.
For this event, some of Chicago’s best curators are coming together to create some Independence Day party vibes we all need on the 4th. The party is a collaboration between Sigma Chris, Shaniqua D., and the Good Company Brand.
The TRiiBE briefly spoke with Shaniqua D., co-founder of Black Yacht Weekend and collaborator of this event. “This past Black Yacht Weekend, we were able to bring out around 1,500 people, and we’re looking to keep up the trend of just providing a really fun, safe, exciting space on Chicago’s shoreline,” she said.
Dress code is upscale beachwear. Last-minute tickets start at $55.20, and are available on eventbrite.
Friday, July 4
Ratio Chicago
Time: 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Location: Puttery Chicago at 932 W Randolph St., in the West Loop
Ratio is bringing its traveling party series back to Chicago on the rooftop of Puttery Chicago. It’s a curated party experience designed with the ladies in mind, blending hip-hop, R&B, and Afrobeats. Fellas, the instructions are simple; Show up, show love, and match the vibes. The experience promises giveaways, surprises, and exclusive vibes. Tickets are sold out at the moment.
Saturday, July 5
2025 Pride South Side Festival
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Location: DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center at 740 E. 56th Pl., in Washington Park
Pride continues into July with this annual free celebration at the DuSable Museum. The event honors the resilience of the Black LGBTQ+ community and the South Side. Those attending can expect to see dancers, musical and spoken word performances, and more.
Navy Pier Fireworks
Time: Starting at 10:00 p.m.
Location: Navy Pier
An iconic lakefront destination, Chicago’s Navy Pier offers some of the best views of the city skyline while also functioning as an entertainment and cultural hub. All summer long, Navy Pier lights the sky with its weekly fireworks shows every Wednesday at 9:00 p.m. and Saturday at 10:00 p.m. through August 30.
Keyshia Cole — The Way It Is 20th Anniversary Tour
Time: Starts at 7:00 p.m.
Location: United Center at 1901 W Madison St.
Known as the “Princess of Hip-Hop Soul,” Keyshia Cole brings her gritty and soulful R&B style to Chicago’s United Center on July 5. Her tour is named after her debut album, The Way It Is, which turned 20 on June 21. Chicago will be well represented on stage that night with special guests Jeremih and Tink.
Sunday, July 6
The Wine Down: An R&B Festival
Time: 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Location: South Side Sanctuary, an outdoor recreational green space at 4702 S. King Dr., in Bronzeville
Who said R&B was dead? “The Wine Down: An R&B Party” promises unmatched energy as attendees will enjoy hits ranging from old to new school. Curated by BY-SA in collaboration with Michael Lavelle Wines & Bronzeville Winery, get ready to hear the best of R&B by some of the city’s smoothest DJs. Tickets are sold out, but there’s an option online to “unlock hidden tickets.”
That’s So Rubes x Kevin White presents: Soft Serve
Time: 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Location: Tetto’s Rooftop at 406 N. Sangamon St., in the Fulton Market District
Kevin White is throwing some of the hottest Chicago parties right now. “Soft Serve” promises a vibe that you don’t want to miss. It’s giving rooftop views, upbeat music, and a beautiful mature crowd. Attendees can expect to hear sounds from DJ Caleeb, Adonia, Peewee, and Commando. A final wave of tickets are still available at $39.49.
