Chicago City Wire

CHICAGO – A busy weekend of events and gatherings in Chicago prompts the need for safety awareness regarding variable weather conditions, increased crowds, and traffic. The Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) will monitor weather conditions and weekend activities, reminding attendees to stay vigilant in crowds and enjoy Chicago’s summer events safely.

Residents and motorists should be aware of potential traffic impacts, while those attending events should know egress and shelter locations in case of an emergency. With extreme heat expected, attendees are advised to stay hydrated, follow beach safety warnings, wear lightweight clothing, seek shade, watch for symptoms of heat-related illnesses, and avoid strenuous outdoor activities.

This weekend’s major venues include:

- **Ribfest**: June 14-16 on Lincoln Avenue between Irving Park Road and Berteau Avenue.

- **Taste of Randolph**: June 14-16 at 900-1200 W Randolph.

- **Taste of Chicago in Rogers Park**: June 15 at Touhy Park.

- **Kenny Chesney at Soldier Field**: June 15 with over 45,000 fans expected.

- **Sundays on State**: June 16 with State Street closed to vehicular traffic from Lake to Adams.

- **Gold Coast Art Fair**: June 16 at Butler Field in Grant Park.

- **Juneteenth VillageFest**: June 16 in Douglass Park.

- **Chicago Cubs games**: June 14-June 16 against the St Louis Cardinals.

Motorists should prepare for increased traffic and possible reroutes due to street closures for larger events. Traffic Control Aides (TCAs) will manage flow and impacts from heavy traffic.

The city urges the public to report suspicious activity by notifying onsite security or calling 9-1-1. The "If You See Something, Say Something" campaign emphasizes reporting suspicious activity to law enforcement authorities.

Public transportation is encouraged as it is affordable, convenient, and environmentally friendly. For more information visit TransitChicago.com or Metra.com.

The OEMC advises checking weather forecasts before heading out. For up-to-date weather information download the Chicago OEMC App or tune into local media. Alerts will be issued as needed through NotifyChicago.org.

Residents can download the Chicago OEMC App for public safety information, preparedness tips, emergency alerts, parade day weather updates, available on Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Follow OEMC on Facebook (@coemc), Twitter (@ChicagoOEMC), and Instagram (chicago_oemc_911).

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