As Chicago hosts the Democratic National Convention (DNC), the city is buzzing with activities that extend far beyond the political scene. On the Southside, a series of community-driven events are set to showcase the rich culture, creativity, and resilience of the area, thanks to the Next Stop: Chicago initiative. These events, supported by the civic and cultural agency Gertie, focus on transforming “third spaces”—public areas outside of work and home—into vibrant hubs of art, culture, and community engagement. Here’s a detailed look at the underrated yet impactful events you can enjoy for free during this week.
1. Homecoming at The Arts Lawn
• Dates: August 20-21, 2024
• Location: Arts Lawn, 337 E. Garfield Blvd, Washington Park
Funded by an $80,000 grant from Gertie, “Homecoming” at The Arts Lawn is a two-day activation designed to create a relaxing, interactive space in the heart of Washington Park. This event, hosted by Arts + Public Life, invites residents to unwind with an interactive soundscape by local artists ebere agwuncha and Josué Esaú, play card and board games, and enjoy refreshments. The event aims to reclaim leisure time for Southside residents, turning a newly constructed public space into a thriving community hub just steps away from the Garfield Green Line CTA stop.
2. Heart + Craft on Lake
• Date: August 21, 2024
• Location: 3400 block of West Lake Street, Garfield Park
SkyART, in collaboration with For Freedoms, is transforming the 3400 block of West Lake Street into a creative corridor with the inaugural “Heart + Craft on Lake” community arts festival. Supported by another $80,000 grant, this festival will feature the unveiling of a mural by artist Jake Troyli, created in partnership with SkyART youth, and various creative workshops. The event also includes a free community meal, an interactive town hall, and a performance by the BandWith Chicago youth drumline, all set against the backdrop of DJ Duane Powell’s House Music mix. It’s an event that celebrates art, culture, and the power of community on Chicago’s West Side.
3. A Celebration of Bronzeville Culture
• Date: August 21, 2024
• Location: Boxville, 51st Street & Calumet Avenue, Bronzeville
Bronzeville, one of Chicago’s most historic neighborhoods, is being celebrated through the Bronzeville Murals Project, a series of public art installations supported by Gertie’s $80,000 grant. The “Celebration of Bronzeville Culture” event will take place at Boxville, a shipping container market that has become a central hub for creative entrepreneurship in the area. The event will include live performances, art displays, and local food vendors, all designed to honor the cultural renaissance that Bronzeville continues to experience. This gathering is more than just a celebration—it’s a community effort to engage residents and visitors alike in the ongoing revitalization of the neighborhood.
4. Grow Greater Englewood × Englewood Arts Collective
• Date: August 22, 2024
• Location: Englewood Trail entrance at 58th and Halsted, Englewood
Englewood is on the cusp of transformation with the unveiling of a “living sculpture” by the Englewood Arts Collective, marking the beginning of the “We Deserve Beautiful Spaces” public art campaign. This event, funded by an $80,000 grant from Gertie, will kick off with a Black Abundance Dinner curated by Grow Greater Englewood, bringing together community leaders and residents to celebrate and envision the future of the Englewood Trail. The $90 million infrastructure project aims to connect Englewood to surrounding communities through a walkable, green corridor that will also foster an agro-eco district, promoting creative and clean energy businesses in the area. This is more than just an event—it’s a visionary step towards a more connected and beautiful Englewood.
These events, part of the Next Stop: Chicago initiative, highlight the intersection of art, community, and infrastructure in Chicago’s Southside. By attending these events, you’ll not only experience the rich culture and creativity of the area but also become part of the ongoing efforts to revitalize and reimagine public spaces in historically marginalized communities. Don’t miss out on these unique opportunities to engage with Chicago’s vibrant Southside during DNC week!
For more information, visit Next Stop: Chicago.
Amer Goosby
