What is Civic Season?
CHM is reimagining our celebrations, together. Instead of one commemorative event on Independence Day, CHM will present “Civic Season” in partnership with Made By Us. Our celebrations and programming will kick off at Juneteenth, and will continue with Civic Days all leading towards a reimagined Independence Day celebration with traditions new and old. The Museum will serve as a space to help Chicagoans connect with their community, build new skills, and provide a roadmap to future community participation so we may all be more informed and engaged citizens.
Last Year's Civic Season
2023 Highlights
Hands-On History + Community
Civic Days @ CHM
Sunday, June 23 + Saturday, June 29
TBA
IL Resident Free Days
Presented in partnership with Made By Us, Civic Season is a new tradition anchored by Juneteenth and July 4 to acknowledge our complex national story and consider pathways to a more perfect union. Activities include hand-on arts and crafts with local teaching artists, facilitator-led exploration of Designing for Change, musical performances, and more family-friendly fun
Connect + Nurture Community
Juneteenth with Light Up Lawndale
Wednesday, June 19
TBA
Free
Join us in North Lawndale’s Douglass Park for their annual Juneteenth celebrations! Come support this amazing community based-organization and learn about our nation’s history and how to use it to inform and inspire civic participation for generations to come.
Virtual History
Chicago's Own Civic Superheroes
Learn more about some of Chicago’s civic superheroes on display at the Chicago History Museum. Dive into the interactive map to learn more about their contributions to the city. Easily browse the digital exhibitions—organized here by civic superpower—to learn more about some of Chicago’s civic superheroes and draw inspiration from their actions.
Connect + Family Fun
Independence Day
Thursday, July 4
TBA
IL Resident Free Day
What actions will you take to be a more engaged citizen? How will you stay informed about issues affecting your community? Find inspiration for your civic participation. Connect with community-serving organizations, learn about the civic superheroes of our past, and explore your creativity during multiple art workshops.
Our Partners
