Introduction to the Weekender
The weekend of September 12-14 is packed with exciting events in the Chicago area. From concerts to parades, and from expos to art walks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Mexican Independence Day Celebrations
Mexican Independence Day Parade
The Little Village Chamber of Commerce presents the 26th Street Mexican Independence Day Parade, one of the largest in the Midwest. This year’s theme, "Pride and Power: Our Strength, Our Legacy," honors the resilience, contributions, and cultural richness of the community. The parade kicks off at the iconic Little Village Arch on 26th street and makes its way to Kostner Avenue on September 14 at 12 p.m.
Mexican Independence Celebration in Woodstock
The 9th Annual Mexican Independence Day Celebration is a family-friendly, free event to celebrate the rich heritage, traditions, and contributions of Mexican culture. It takes place at the Woodstock Square Historic District, 121 W. Van Buren St., Woodstock, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on September 14.
Concerts and Performances
Concert: Mariachi Vargas De Tecalitlán
The world-renowned Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlan brings their 2025 El Legado tour to Chicago. The concert is at The Auditorium, 50 East Ida B. Wells Drive, Chicago, on September 12 at 7 p.m.
Concert: HAIM
HAIM, an American rock band featuring three sisters, is known for their blend of soft rock, pop, and R&B. They perform at the United Center, 1901 W. Madison St., Chicago, on September 12 at 7:30 p.m.
Concert: Mt. Joy
Mt. Joy is an indie rock band that debuted in 2016. They are based in Los Angeles, with roots in Philadelphia. The concert is at the United Center, 1901 W. Madison St., Chicago, on September 13 at 7:30 p.m.
Concert: Jason Aldean
Jason Aldean, a multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated country music singer and three-time ACM "Entertainer of the Year," brings his "Full Throttle Tour" to Chicago. The concert is at Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre, 19100 Ridgeland Ave., Tinley Park, on September 13 at 7:30 p.m.
Concert: The Boyz
The Boyz, a South Korean boy band that debuted their first single in 2017, brings "The Blaze Live Tour" to Chicago. The concert is at the Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St., on September 14 at 7:30 p.m.
Concert: Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga, known for her image reinventions and versatility across the entertainment industry, brings "The Mayhem Ball" to Chicago. However, her concerts are scheduled for September 15, 17, and 18 at the United Center, 1901 W. Madison St., Chicago.
Other Events
Monster Jam
Monster Jam’s "It’s As Big As It Gets!" features 12,000-pound trucks standing on two wheels and flying through the air in competitions of speed and skill. The event takes place at the Allstate Arena, 6920 N. Mannheim Rd., Rosemont, on September 12 at 7 p.m., September 13 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m., and September 14 at 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.
Electrify Expo
Electrify Expo offers a hands-on experience with a variety of electric transportation options. It is held at the NOW Arena, 5333 Prairie Stone Pkwy, Hoffman Estates, on September 13 and 14, starting at 10 a.m.
Cirque Italia
Cirque Italia celebrates art, emotion, and wonder, featuring a custom-designed 35-thousand-gallon water stage that performers do their routines over. The show is at the North Riverside Park Mall, 7501 Cermak Rd., North Riverside, with multiple showtimes from September 12 to 15.
Vintage Shindig Market
Randolph Street Market brings its Vintage Shindig to the North Shore, featuring 75 indoor and outdoor vendors including arts, housewares, fashion, makers, and foodstuffs. The market is at the Highland Park Community House, 1991 Sheridan Rd., Highland Park, and The Art Center of Highland Park, 1957 Sheridan Rd., Highland Park, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on September 13-14.
Ravenswood Art Walk
The 23rd annual Ravenswood Art Walk celebrates the creative hub and community of Ravenswood, featuring open studios and galleries, pop-up performances and activations, and an outdoor arts market. The event entrance is at Ravenswood & Berteau and stretches from Lawrence to Irving Park, on September 13-14 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Conclusion
The weekend of September 12-14 in Chicago promises to be exciting and eventful, with a wide range of activities to suit all interests. Whether you’re looking for cultural celebrations, thrilling performances, or unique shopping experiences, there’s something for everyone.
FAQs
- Q: What is the Mexican Independence Day Parade theme for 2025?
A: The theme is "Pride and Power: Our Strength, Our Legacy." - Q: Where can I find information about the Electrify Expo?
A: Details about the Electrify Expo, including location and schedule, are available in the article. - Q: Are there any concerts happening during this weekend?
A: Yes, there are several concerts scheduled, including performances by Mariachi Vargas De Tecalitlán, HAIM, Mt. Joy, Jason Aldean, The Boyz, and Lady Gaga, although Lady Gaga’s concerts are on later dates. - Q: What is the Ravenswood Art Walk?
A: The Ravenswood Art Walk is an annual event that celebrates the creative community of Ravenswood with open studios, galleries, performances, and an outdoor arts market. - Q: Can I attend the Vintage Shindig Market?
A: Yes, the Vintage Shindig Market is open to the public and features a variety of vendors selling arts, housewares, fashion, and more.
