Chicago City Wire

The City of Chicago is preparing for a busy Memorial Day weekend from Friday, May 24 to Monday, May 27. Numerous festivals, concerts, athletic events, and the opening of beaches are scheduled throughout the city and along the lakefront.

The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) advises residents and visitors to expect street closures, increased crowds, and heavy traffic. The OEMC emphasizes the importance of being aware of one's surroundings and reporting any suspicious activity to on-site security or by calling 9-1-1. "If you see something, say something," is a national anti-terrorism public awareness campaign encouraging the reporting of suspicious activities.

To ensure public safety, Chicago will deploy citywide resources during Memorial Day weekend. The OEMC will activate its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) to coordinate efforts among various city departments and private partners. Additionally, OEMC and the Chicago Police Department will activate the Summer Operations Center (SOC) each weekend through Labor Day for strategic oversight.

For public safety at lakefront events, attendees should note pole markers that can help first responders locate them in emergencies. These markers can also serve as meeting points for separated groups.

Public transportation is recommended as a convenient option for attending events. Information about routes and schedules can be found at TransitChicago.com and Metra.com. Motorists should anticipate heavy traffic and possible reroutes due to street closures in event areas.

The Chicago OEMC App provides safety information, preparedness tips, emergency alerts, weather updates, and more. It is available on both Apple App Store and Google Play Store or via Chicago.gov/OEMC.

Several key events include:

- **Lakefront Beaches Opening**: Starting Friday, May 24 with swimming hours from 11 am to 7 pm daily.

- **Mole de Mayo Festival**: Held from May 24-26 in Pilsen with food and music.

- **Soldier Field 10-Mile and 10K**: On Saturday morning starting at Soldier Field.

- **Memorial Day Parade**: Honoring military personnel on Saturday with a Wreath Laying Ceremony followed by a parade.

- **Belmont/Sheffield Music Festival**: A three-day street festival in Lakeview neighborhood.

- **Sueños Fest**: A two-day sold-out music festival at Grant Park.

Street closures around Sueños Fest include sections of Balbo Drive and Columbus Drive from May 15 through May 30.

Navy Pier Fireworks shows begin on Memorial Day weekend with displays every Wednesday at 9 pm and Saturday at 10 pm through Labor Day weekend.

The Ridge Run & Parade takes place on Monday in Beverly/Morgan Park featuring races followed by a parade.

OEMC will monitor these events closely in collaboration with public safety partners. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about weather conditions through local media or weather apps. Alerts can be received by signing up for NotifyChicago or texting specific keywords like "CHILAKE" or "CHIBIZ" for relevant updates.

Further details can be found on OEMC’s website or social media platforms including Facebook (@coemc), Twitter (@ChicagoOEMC), and Instagram (chicago_oemc_911).