Navy Pier Spring Programming Anchored by EXPO CHICAGO Return

Navy Pier Spring Programming Anchored by EXPO CHICAGO Return

CHICAGO - Navy Pier is jumping into spring with a vibrant schedule of seasonal programming and curated experiences, designed to welcome and delight visitors from near and far as Chicago warms up for a new season. The spring season is filled with cultural celebrations, performances, music, and art, highlighted by the 13th edition of EXPO CHICAGO Contemporary Art Fair April 9-12.

Since its inception in 2012, EXPO CHICAGO draws upon the city's robust history as an international cultural destination, highlighting the region's contemporary arts community. The show, hosted in Navy Pier's Festival Hall, features leading contemporary and modern art galleries, alongside a curated program of talks, on-site installations, and public art initiatives.

Highlights of the 2026 edition of EXPO CHICAGO include a major partnership with the forthcoming Obama Presidential Center; Focus, the emerging galleries section; and a continued collaboration with the Galleries Association of Korea (GAoK). Click here for additional information and to purchase tickets.

Additional programming and special events include:

Navy Pier Marina Opening (April 1) - The Navy Pier Marina, located on the north side of the Pier, will welcome boaters for its second season. Chicago's premier marina brings world-class amenities, service, dining, shopping, and entertainment directly to Lake Michigan's boating community. Transient boater reservations can be made here.

Easter Weekend at the Pier (April 3-5): Navy Pier offers multiple options for celebrating Easter with family and friends, including brunch options at Offshore Rooftop and Lirica, as well brunch cruises on Lake Michigan. Additional information about Easter Weekend at the Pier can be found here.

Chicago Shakespeare Theater (April 2 - May 3) - For the first time since 2018, Chicago Shakespeare Theater will have productions running simultaneously across all three theaters. In celebration of Shakespeare's birthday in late April, the beloved local theater will have a record 31 performances across nine days, entertaining people of all ages and identities. Shows this spring include:

The Merry Wives of Windsor (April 2 - May 3) - This comedy reveals there is much more to the charming, middle-class English hamlet than meets the eye. Tickets can be purchased here.
Mrs. Krishnan's Party (April 7 - 26) - Step into the back room of Mrs. Krishnan's corner shop, in this immersive experience from New Zealand, and enjoy a party like no other. Tickets can be purchased here.
Fault (April 18 - May 24) - Enrico Colantoni and Teri Hatcher star in this wickedly dark new comedy, directed by Jason Alexander. All's fair in love and marital warfare as the main characters go head-to-head after 30 years of marriage. Tickets can be purchased here.

Play for All at Chicago Children's Museum (April 12) - Chicago Children's Museum's Play For All initiative creates a community where play and learning connect for visitors of all abilities. The museum opens early for pre-registered children and families to experience the inclusive, multisensory exhibits and programs. The first 250 children and families with disabilities who register receive FREE admission. Pre-registration is required and can be found here.

Margaritas & Memories with Mac McAnally (April 18) - City Cruises Live is hosting an island-inspired evening with Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Mac McAnally, along with Scotty Emerick and Eric Darken, in an intimate live setting on Lake Michigan. The evening pairs live music with a multi-course buffet dinner, with an optional VIP upgrade offering an open bar, meet-and-greets, and priority seating for those looking to elevate their experience. Click here to purchase tickets.

Mexico Fest (May 1-3) - The final event in Navy Pier's Global Connections Series, presented by ComEd and Sue Ling Gin Foundation Trust, Mexico Fest invites guests to join Navy Pier in celebrating Mexican culture and community. Experience vibrant performances and art that celebrates Mexican traditions and community, all coming together in a joyful, can't-miss festival. For the full schedule of events, please click here.

Lakefront Loop 5K Run & Kids Dash (May 3) - Head to the lakefront and participate in Navy Pier's Lakefront Loop 5K Run and Kids Dash, along the Northwestern Medicine Wellness Way Fitness Trail. Registration for the only 5K completely contained on the Pier, includes race entry, t-shirt, one Centennial Wheel ticket, and post-race party access. Every dollar raised supports the Pier's nonprofit mission to provide dynamic, free experiences for millions of annual guests. Registration for both events can be completed here.

Pier Park: Home to one of Chicago's most iconic attractions, the magnificent Centennial Wheel, Pier Park is filled with classic rides and family-friendly amusements. Enjoy soaring views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan from the Wheel, take a ride on the classic, 1920s-inspired Carousel, a whirl on the Wave Swinger, or play a round of Pier Park Mini-Golf. Rides are open weather permitting; tickets can be purchased here.

Image assets for Navy Pier's Spring programming can be found here.

NOTE: All events and dates are subject to change.