Aaah, Summertime In The City!

Pritzker Pavilion

Chicago is a great city for singles as well as the coupled ones. There's always something to do, especially in the summer.

Though summer officially is 7 days away, you couldn't tell in Chicago. That's because festivals kick into high gear, marking the arrival of summer in the city.

Twelve (yes, at least that many) festivals and fairs started Friday throughout the city, and just about all of them are free. The weather is beautiful -- sunny and warm -- and the people are pleasant. Food at these gatherings? Authentically Chi-Town.

Big Jack Johnson, '09 Chicago Blues Festival

The festivals are a celebration of this city, warts and all. They are a reflection of the values, cultures and similarities. One of the best ways to get to know Chicago is through its celebrations.

Summer in Chicago is simply splendid! You've got to give it a try. Here are a few recommendations:

Taste of Randolph (West Town)
Chicago Blues Festival (The Loop) Aaron Neville hits the stage Sunday night
Puerto Rican People's Day Festival ( Humboldt Park)
Thai Festival