It’s Summertime Chi!

The Memorial Day weekend is the official kickoff for Chicago residents that summer has finally arrived. Even if the weather is still traditionally somewhat crappy, rain and temps in the 50’s are sometimes possible, this weekend looks to be a great one with temperatures in the 70’s and no rain in the forecast. With better weather means more people will be out and about and taking advantage of all the city offers. This year, Chicago doesn’t disappoint with a variety of concerts, shows and other events for tourists and residents.

The big concert this weekend is Janet Jackson and Ludacris performing at the Credit Union1 Amphitheatre in Tinley Park on Saturday the 27th. Jackson is still putting on high-level performances and the addition of rap legend Ludacris makes for a unique concert mix.

If you want some unique experiences over the holiday weekend, two events for sure will bring you some laughter and entertainment. At the Logan Square Auditorium 2539 N. Kedzie, you can check out the burlesque parody show “The Empire Strips Back.” Highly praised in the San Francisco Gate and LA Weekly, the show features a unique blend of seduction and sci-fi as the show takes you on a journey to the dark side like no other. The tantalizing burlesque experience brings beloved Star Wars characters to life with loving detail and humor that has audiences laughing around the country. Whether you are a die-hard Star Wars fan or just looking for an adult entertainment night out, this unique show is one sure to fulfill your needs. Must be 18 or older to enter.

Not to be outdone by “The Empire Strips Back” there is “Drunk Shakespeare” also being performed at The Lion Theatre, 182 N. State St. At this show, a professional actor downs five shots of whiskey and is then on stage with four other sober actors as they attempt to perform one of Shakespeare’s plays. Every show is different depending on which actor is doing the drinking. The show runs for 90 minutes and you must be 21 and older to enter.

The 38th Annual Belmont-Sheffield Music Fest will kickoff the summer festival season at 3200 N. Sheffield. Performances by top Midwest tribute bands on the main stage (near Roscoe), great eats, libations (beer and wine) and artisans. Also, expect eclectic entertainment near Belmont filled with fun neighborhood music acts, deejays and other performers. Headliners include Freddy Jones Band and Rod Tuffcurls & the Benchpress.

If you are looking for sports, the Chicago Sky have two home games at Wintrust Arena in the South Loop. The Sky will play host to the Dallas Wings on Sunday the 28th at 5 p.m. while the Chicago Cubs have a series against the Cincinnati Reds at Wrigley Field. There is also a 10k race taking place on Saturday morning at Soldier Field.

Finally, who doesn’t love fireworks on Navy Pier? On Saturday, the fireworks return at 9 p.m. over Lake Michigan. You can view the show from the pier itself or out on the water as the lakefront boat cruises are back. Dinner on one of the cruises is also a great way to view the Chicago skyline at night.