Chicago Festivals 2026 & 2027
Chicago has 8 festivals with confirmed dates on the 2026-2027 calendar below, each linked to its official source. Pick the ones that fit your window, then build the rest of the trip around them.
The Chicago festival calendar leads with these:
- Chicago International Film FestivalOct 14 - Oct 25film festival
- Chicago International REEL Shorts FestivalNov 13 - Nov 14film festival
- Chicago Thanksgiving ParadeNov 26Parade / Procession
By TripSapien · Updated October 14, 2026
Festival calendar
October 2026
- Oct 14 - Oct 25
Chicago International Film Festival
film festival. The largest review the achievements of world cinema.
- Oct 18 - Oct 21
food festival
November 2026
- Nov 13 - Nov 14
Chicago International REEL Shorts Festival
film festival. International short film festival.
- Nov 21
Magnificent Mile Lights Festival Parade
Religious / Spiritual. Associated occasion: Christmas / holiday season.
- Nov 26
Parade / Procession. Associated occasion: Thanksgiving.
January 2027
- Jan 15
film festival. International arthouse film festival.
May 2027
- May 29 - May 30
music festival
November 2027
- Nov 5 - Nov 14
Chicago International Children’s Film Festival
film festival. International Children’s Film Festival in Chicago.
Going to Chicago for a festival?
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Planning leads
Early leads on festivals still lining up. Exact dates and details firm up closer to your trip.
Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade
Mar 17 - Mar 20 · Planning lead · projected date
May 29 · Planning lead · dates set closer in
Jun 19 · Planning lead · dates set closer in
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