Civic Season at CHM
Chicago’s story isn't finished—it's being written by you.
What is Civic Season?
The Chicago History Museum collaborates with local community leaders, artists, and youth to set the stage every summer for Civic Season in partnership with Made By Us. Instead of a single commemorative event on Independence Day, our programming starts Juneteenth and continues with Civic Saturdays all leading toward our final program on Independence Day.
During Civic Season, the Museum will serve as a space to help Chicagoans connect with their communities and build new skills. Using the past as a guide, we can draw a roadmap to future community participation so we may all be more informed and engaged citizens.
Preview Civic Season at CHM
This year, presented in collaboration with the Floating Museum, the Chicago History Museum (CHM) is hosting the Founders inflatable at CHM on June 21, 2025, in support of Civic Season and to further promote awareness of underrepresented parts of Chicago’s history. During the program, the inflatable will be further activated with performances and related hands-on arts-making activities for youth and families.
Founders is a mobile monument and collaboration between Floating Museum, Chris Pappan (Kanza/Osage, Lakota), and Monica Rickert Bolter (Potawatomi/African-American/German).
Nurturing Community
Juneteenth: Annual Community BBQ
Thursday, June 19
8:00 AM–8:00 PM
Free; RSVP required.
Join us at the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center’s Juneteenth Annual Community BBQ celebration! Enjoy a vibrant mix of education, entertainment, food, and local vendors as we honor Black history, culture, and freedom. Bring your family, friends, and neighbors—there’s something for everyone.
The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center, 740 E 56th Pl
Hands-On History
Civic Saturdays @ CHM
Saturdays, June 21 & June 28
10:00 AM
Included with general admission. Free ticket day for IL residents.
Join us as we explore the city’s activist history to transform your ideas into action through workshops, tours, art projects, and documentaries about today’s issues. No history degree required—just bring your questions and ideas. Leave with skills, connections, and a roadmap for making real change.
Connect + Family Fun
Independence Day: Shaping Chicago's Next Chapter
Friday, July 4
10:00 AM
Included with general admission. Free ticket day for IL residents.
What actions will you take to be a more engaged citizen? How will you stay informed about issues affecting your community? Find inspiration, connect with community-serving organizations, and explore your creativity with multiple civic art workshops. Together, we’re learning from the past to write a better future. What will your chapter add to Chicago’s story?
Highlights
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