Introduction to Memorial Day Weekend in Chicago
It’s going to be a busy Memorial Day weekend in Chicago — and officials are warning residents of a number of street closures, heightened traffic and the possibility of large crowds. With numerous events like the Sueños music festival, Chicago’s Memorial Day Parade, AC/DC at Soldier Field and more, there will be no shortage of reasons residents and visitors might hit a road block.
Events and Street Closures
"Motorists in the areas where events are happening should be prepared for heavy traffic and possible reroutes," Chicago’s Office of Emergency Management and Communications said. "There will be some street closures in effect for larger events to ensure public safety. Traffic Control Aides (TCAs) will be on hand at select events citywide to direct flow and impacts from heavy traffic." The large events include:
- AC/DC at Soldier Field: May 24
- Sueños Fest: May 24-25
- The Belmont/Sheffield Music Festival: May 23-25
- The Soldier Field 10-Mile and 10K: May 24
- Ridge Run and Parade: May 26
- Chicago’s Memorial Day Parade: May 24
Chicago’s Memorial Day Parade
Chicago will hold its annual Memorial Day Parade down State Street Saturday. The event, which "honors all men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our country," is set for a wreath laying ceremony at 11 a.m. in Daley Plaza, followed by a parade down State Street from Lake to Van Buren, which steps off at noon. Street closures are anticipated throughout the parade.
Sueños Fest
The popular music festival Sueños Fest in Chicago’s Grant Park will offer live music from Buckingham Fountain Plaza to Lower Hutchinson Field and is expected to draw large crowds for the annual event. The 18-and-older fest will take over an area from Michigan Avenue to Lake Shore Drive and Roosevelt Road to Jackson. Street closures for the fest include:
- Balbo from Columbus Drive to DuSable Lake Shore Drive
- Columbus Drive from Roosevelt Road to Jackson
- Balbo Drive from Columbus Drive to Michigan Avenue
Additional Events and Precautions
Add to that, Chicago’s beaches officially open for summer and Navy Pier’s iconic fireworks return. NBC 5’s Kye Martin said drivers looking to avoid backups will want to avoid the city’s lakefront if possible due to the large number of closures and crowds anticipated. Security measures will be in place across the city, officials said, with police planning for large deployments across the holiday weekend.
Travel and Safety
The heightened security comes as the city braces for what has historically marked a violent weekend and as officials continue to raise concerns about so-called "teen takeover" events. Last year, at least nine people were killed and more than 40 others were wounded over the long holiday. Beyond the events, the Illinois Tollway is anticipating record travel for the holiday weekend. An estimated 8 million vehicles are expected on the state’s tollway system between Friday and Tuesday, according to the agency. "Our road crews will be out in force during the holiday weekend to provide prompt help to drivers whose vehicles become disabled on our system," the Tollway said. "We’re also urging drivers to protect themselves, other drivers and emergency responders by following posted speed limits, especially in work zones, and by putting away their phones so they can focus on driving safely.”
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Memorial Day weekend in Chicago is expected to be busy with numerous events, street closures, and heightened traffic. Residents and visitors are advised to plan ahead, check for updates on street closures, and follow safety precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable weekend.
FAQs
Q: What events are happening in Chicago over Memorial Day weekend?
A: There are several events happening, including the Sueños music festival, Chicago’s Memorial Day Parade, AC/DC at Soldier Field, and more.
Q: Are there any street closures I should be aware of?
A: Yes, there will be street closures in effect for larger events to ensure public safety. Check the city’s website for updates on specific closures.
Q: What safety precautions should I take?
A: Follow posted speed limits, put away your phone while driving, and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
Q: How many vehicles are expected on the Illinois Tollway system?
A: An estimated 8 million vehicles are expected on the state’s tollway system between Friday and Tuesday.
Q: What should I do if my vehicle becomes disabled on the tollway?
A: The Illinois Tollway’s road crews will be available to provide prompt help to drivers whose vehicles become disabled on their system.
