OK, so it’s only March 1, but we can finally see the light at the end of this bitter, cold tunnel of winter. That’s why we’re giving you proof that swigging suds in the sun’s not far off. (And get the full lineup right now online at metromix.com.)
APRIL
April 1:
Alfresco dining season in Chicago officially begins. Stop by Japonais’ (600 W. Chicago Ave.) two outdoor patios, or hit the brand-new deck next door at just-opened Motel Bar.
April 4:
Play ball! White Sox vs. Cleveland Indians in the home opener. 2:05 p.m. $7-$55. U.S. Cellular Field, 333 W. 35th St. 312-674-1000, 312-559-1212.
April 8:
The Cubs open by battling the Milwaukee Brewers. 1:20 p.m. $38-$250. Tickets on sale now. Wrigley Field, 1060 W. Addison St. 773-404-2827, 312-559-1212.
April 14:
Ravinia (200-231 Ravinia Park Rd., Highland Park) tickets go on sale online at www.ravinia.com.
MAY
May 1:
Cinco de Mayo Parade steps off at noon at Damen Avenue and Cermak Road and winds west to Kedzie Avenue in Pilsen/Little Village. 773-843-9738.
May 20-22:
10th Annual Lakeview Mayfest kicks off the festival season. Bands, beer and food. $5. 3100 N. Ashland Ave. 773-665-4682.
May 28:
Memorial Day Parade. One of the largest parades in the country. Steps off at noon from State and Lake Streets, continuing south on State to Van Buren Street.
May 30:
Chicago beaches open.
JUNE
June 3-5:
21st Annual Chicago Gospel Music Festival, Millennium Park, 55 N. Michigan Ave. Free. 312-744-3370.
June 9-12:
22nd Annual Chicago Blues Festival, Grant Park. The world’s largest free outdoor blues event. 300 S. Columbus Drive, 312-744-3370.
June 24-July 4:
Taste of Chicago turns 25! Free. Grant Park, 300 S. Columbus Drive, 312-744-3315.
June 25:
Pride Fest rocks two stages with live music, food and drinks. 3700 N. Halsted St. 773-868-3100.
June 26:
Pride Parade celebrates its 36th anniversary. Noon. Free. 3200 N. Halsted St. 773-348-8243.
JULY
July 1-4:
African-Caribbean International Festival of Life features more than 70 performers. $10. Washington Park, 5100 S. Cottage Grove Ave. 312-427-0266.
July 9:
L.A.T.E. Ride 2005. Cycle 25 miles through downtown and North Side neighborhoods. Meet at Buckingham Fountain, 500 S. Lake Shore Drive.
July 12:
Chicago Outdoor Film Festival opens. Tuesdays through Aug. 23. Free. Butler Field, Grant Park, 100 S. Lake Shore Drive, 312-744-3315.
July 15-16:
21st Annual Old St. Patrick’s World’s Largest Block Party. $35-$40. 650 W. Madison St. 312-458-9401.
AUGUST
Aug. 6-7:
Northalsted Market Days. Two days of music, food and art. 3500 N. Halsted St. 773-868-3010.
Aug. 13-14:
11th Annual Retro on Roscoe: Flashback weekend features music from the ’70s to the ’90s. $5. 3400 N. Damen Ave. 773-665-4682.
Aug. 20-21:
47th Annual Chicago Air & Water Show. Gawk along the lakefront near North Avenue Beach. Free.
312-744-3370.
