Five Things To Do in Chicago: May 1 to 3, 2026

Spring is in full swing, and it's time to get out and enjoy it. Take a look at what's happening nearby this weekend.

Celebrate the future of AAPINH creativity at EVOLUTION Asian American Arts Festival.
Enjoy works from 125+ performers and artists this weekend at EVOLUTION, a groundbreaking collection of Asian American, Pacific Islander, and Native Hawaiian artistry. The festival features a full schedule of events as well as a food and craft marketplace.   

Date: May 2-3
Time: Various times
Cost: $40+
Location: Lookinglass Theatre
More Info: aaac.art 

Connect with nature at the Chicago Beaver Festival.
This festival — presented by a coalition of Chicago-based outdoor, naturalist, and environmental groups — is a fun, family-friendly event to learn more about the fascinating ways that beavers act as engineers for our local ecosystems. It's a chance to enjoy the outdoors, learn something new, and participate in hands-on, educational activities. 

Date: May 2
Time: 1:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Nichols Park Fieldhouse
More Info: eventbrite.com 

Enjoy the sounds of Mexico at Cinco De Mayo Fest.
A must for any lovers of regional Mexican music, Cinco de Mayo Fest at Plaza Garibaldi brings together touring bands from across the U.S. and Mexico for a night of energetic music and festivities. The lineup features Los Inquietos Del Norte, Banda Los Recoditos, Legado 7, Emmanuel Cortez, Hermanos Plancarte de Tierra Cali, La Zenda Norteña de Mario Madrigal, and Los Indomables de Cedral.

Date: May 3
Time: doors at 12:00 p.m.
Cost: $77
Location: Plaza Garibaldi
More Info: eventmania.com 

Get crafty at the Spring Market for Makers.
Looking for a hand-crafted, unique Mother's Day gift? At the Spring Market for Makers, you can browse handmade goods from over 90 independent artists specializing in home decor, fashion, art, design, jewelry, and food. There's even a DIY station where guests can craft their own unique souvenirs to take home.  

Date: May 2-3
Time: Various times
Cost: Various prices
Location: Artifact Events
More Info: tickets.marketsformakers.com 

Wear your Kentucky Derby finest to Marché Privé: Derby Day Edition.
If you can't make it to the Kentucky Derby this year, do the next best thing and head to Gallery Guichard for a derby-themed luxury shopping experience. Highlighting wares from local BIPOC-owned brands, the event features over two dozen local vendors, a live DJ, complimentary bites, and a cash bar. 

Date: May 2
Time: 1:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Gallery Guichard
More Info: eventbrite.com