The Chill
Get up, stand up at one of the summer’s hottest music fests. The diverse lineup features acts from the Roots Rock Reggae tour (including the Marley Brothers, Toots and the Maytals among others) as well as the Violent Femmes and Los Lobos. Leave the coolers at home and munch on the snacks and drinks at the show. Don’t worry–the three-day bash is sponsored by Miller Lite, so there’ll be tons to drink. 4:30-10 p.m. Friday; 3-10 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. $6-$10. New City YMCA, 1515 N. Halsted St. 312-458-9401.
49th Annual Ginza Holiday Festival
Experience Japanese culture without the super-long plane ride. The Midwest Buddhist Temple’s extravaganza will dish up sushi, teriyaki and kintocki (shaved ice flavored with sweet beans). Dancers in traditional robes will perform classical and folk numbers, while martial arts experts demonstrate aikido, judo and kendo (Japanese fencing). If you’re really into it, snag your own kimono at one of the booths selling clothes, books and more. 5:30-9:30 p.m.
Friday; 11:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday; 11:30 a.m.-8 p.m. Sunday.
$3-$4. 435 W. Menomonee St. 312-943-7801.
55th Annual Greek Festival
Are the Olympics just not fulfilling your Greek needs? Then hop on over to this food-heavy fest. Nosh on souvlaki, lamb, chicken, homemade pastries and tons more. If you’re still able to move postfeast, try braving the carnival rides or dance to live music. Oopah!
5-11:30 p.m. Friday-Saturday; noon-11:30 p.m. Sunday. $2. St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church, 2727 W. Winona St. 773-561-5992.
Aretha Franklin
The queen of soul hits the stage at Ravinia for two nights of classic Motown hits. Expect to hear all of your fave tunes, including “Chain of Fools” as well as her rendition of “Try a Little Tenderness.” Of course, no night would be complete without her anthem, “Respect.”
8 p.m. Friday-Saturday. $15-$60. 200-231 Ravinia Park Rd., Highland Park. 847-266-5100.
Air & Water Show parties
The loud roar overhead can mean only one thing: It’s time for the annual Air & Water Show. If you’re not lucky enough to have a sweet view from home, you can still catch the spectacular Blue Angels without dealing with the beach crowd. Jump aboard the show’s official cruise and sail around the lake with a lunch buffet and fully stocked bar (booze isn’t included in the price). For those who prefer to stay on land, check out Castaway’s open bar party, which includes breakfast and lunch (mimosas, anyone?). Air & Water Show cruise: 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Sunday. Saturday is sold out. $45-55. 600 E. Grand Ave. 866-211-3804; Castaway’s: $125 per person; $50 under 21; $1,000 for tables of 10; reservations required. 1501 N. Lake Shore Drive, 312-222-0707.
