What is Civic Season?
The Chicago History Museum is reimagining our celebrations, together. Instead of one commemorative event on Independence Day, we’re presenting Civic Season in partnership with Made By Us! Our celebrations and programming kicks off on Juneteenth and continues with Civic Days all leading toward a reimagined Independence Day celebration. 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.
Civic participation happens in many ways and this year, we’re excited to explore ways art can serve as powerful tools to catalyze change in societies. Using our newest exhibition Designing for Change: Chicago Protest Art of the 1960s–70s, the Civic Season series will connect visitors to Chicago’s legacy of activist art and feature interactive hands-on art activities to respond to today’s issues.
Hands-On History + Community Art
Community Days @ CHM
Sunday, June 23 + Saturday, June 29
12:00–3:00 p.m.
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 hands-on arts and crafts with local teaching artists, facilitator-led exploration of Designing for Change, musical performances, and more family-friendly fun.
Last Year's Civic Season
2023 Highlights
Connect + Family Fun
Independence Day
Thursday, July 4
10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
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 community participation. Connect with community-serving organizations, learn about the civic superheroes of our past, and explore your creativity during multiple art workshops.
Virtual History
Chicago's Own Civic Superheroes
Join us on Independence Day for a day full of indoor and outdoor activities, including gallery tours; performances; artmaking; family-friendly trivia, games, and crafts; a collaborative mural; opportunities to connect with civics-focused organizations in Chicago; and more!
This expanded program allows us to amplify our mission, exhibitions, and partners with an inspiring, interactive experience for all that celebrates those civic superheroes who have impacted society for the better and is rooted in Chicago’s contributions to the American story.
Nurture Community
Juneteenth: Celebrating Freedom
Wednesday, June 19, 2024
10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.
Free for all; RSVP required.
We’re excited to be a part of the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center’s Juneteenth celebration! This community event commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States and features musical performances, children’s activities, local vendor tables, food trucks, and more.
Amplifying Stories
SOLD OUT! Civic Engagement or Bust!: Stories, Songs and a Meal for Collective Joy
Friday, June 21, 2024
EVENT ENDED
Free for all; RSVP required.
This Civic Season, Hull-House Museum will partner with the Chicago History Museum and Made By Us to present: Civic Engagement or Bust!: Stories, Songs and a Meal for Collective Joy. At this community-building event, we will gather to eat, sing, and share stories of civic engagement.
Our Partners
