Chicago City Wire

The Sueños Chicago music festival is set to return to Grant Park, taking place from noon to 10 p.m. on May 24 and 25. This event coincides with a busy Memorial Day weekend in Chicago, featuring multiple festivals, concerts, athletic events, and the opening of beaches. The City of Chicago advises residents and visitors to be mindful of street closures, increased crowds, and traffic.

To ensure public safety during the weekend's activities, the Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) will oversee events from its Operations Center. The OEMC will coordinate with various city departments and private partners for enhanced security measures.

"If you See Something Say Something," urges the city in promoting vigilance among attendees. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious activity by notifying onsite security or calling 9-1-1.

Event-goers should also note pole markers throughout Grant Park for easy location reference in emergencies. Heavy traffic is expected around event areas; thus, motorists should anticipate reroutes and are advised to use public transportation where possible.

Sueños Chicago has expanded its footprint this year with an additional stage at Buckingham Fountain Plaza alongside the main stage at Lower Hutchinson Field. "As the festival gets underway," states OEMC, "we encourage those attending to enjoy a fun and safe event by adhering to all security precautions."

Entry into the festival requires a ticket and age verification of 18 years or older. Enhanced security measures include bag searches; only clear bags up to specific dimensions are permitted inside the venue.

Street closures around Grant Park have been announced as part of traffic management efforts for Sueños Chicago:

- Balbo Drive from Columbus Drive to DuSable Lake Shore Drive will be closed until May 31.

- Columbus Drive between Roosevelt Road and Jackson will remain closed through May 27.

Public transportation options have been bolstered by CTA and Metra services for ease of access during these large-scale events.

The OEMC encourages downloading their app for safety information, emergency alerts, weather updates, and more. For ongoing updates regarding weather conditions or emergencies over Memorial Day weekend, residents can follow local media or download a weather app.