Like many places that experience extreme winters, summer in Chicago is one huge celebration. Having endured months of cold and darkness, people shed their layers and head out into the beautiful city that’s usually too cold to see. After months of hibernation the city wakes up, and everyone remembers why Chitown (pronounced “shy-town”) is one of the greatest American cities. It’s the city where the skyscraper was born, the city blessed by diversity but cursed with deep-seated segregation. From Mexican to South Asian neighborhoods, Chicago has them all, and during the summer neighborhoods hold fairs and festivals to celebrate their community’s unique cultures. Clear skies dye Lake Michigan blue, and people bike along the coast and linger in its sands. People are friendlier than usual, and happy families dot the river path.

This is that time of the year when all of Chicago is in full bloom, and is unarguably, the best time to visit. From festivals to outdoor concerts, there’s always something going on. Here’s the top ten things that are best enjoyed in the summer months.