Five Things To Do in Chicago: Apr. 10 to 12, 2026

Spring is here, and so are plenty of fun happenings to enjoy close to home. Discover what's blooming near you at one of these weekend events. 

Expand your palate at the Chicago Tea Festival.
The Chicago Tea Festival is more than just a celebration of tea — it's a unique gathering of tea lovers, organized and staffed entirely by volunteers, focused on diversity, education, and cultural exchange in the tea space. Over two days, attendees have the opportunity to sample dozens of teas from vendors and participate in tea tastings, workshops, and presentations.  

Date: Apr. 11-12
Time: Various times
Cost: $24+
Location: Copernicus Center
More Info: chicagoteafestival.com 

Enjoy delicious food and unique finds at the Chicago Spring Outdoor Market & Food Festival.
Fun is in the air at Humboldt Park this weekend at the Chicago Spring Outdoor Market and Food Festival. This three-day event features local vendors, handmade goods, food trucks, and live entertainment. Admission is free, but getting a ticket in advance will secure your spot in what's sure to be a popular fest. 

Date: Apr. 10-12
Time: Various times
Cost: Free
Location: Humboldt Park
More Info: eventbrite.com

Discover your new favorite artist at EXPO Chicago.
Since 2012, EXPO CHICAGO Contemporary Art Fair has been bringing contemporary and modern artwork from leading galleries across the world right here to Chicago. The event includes four days of exciting programming, on-site installations, and other public art initiatives that draw on the city's history as a vibrant international cultural destination. 

Date: Apr. 9-12
Time: Various times
Cost: $35+
Location: Navy Pier
More Info: expochicago.com 

Begin your art adventure at The Other Art Fair.
Reframe your relationship to art at The Other Art Fair — a radical, inclusive approach to experiencing artwork. Each fair is different, and attendees get the opportunity to connect with 100+ artists in person and lean into the completely unpredictable experience of this unique, interactive art fair.

Date: Apr. 9-12
Time: Various times
Cost: $18+
Location: Artifact Events
More Info: theotherartfair.com 

Step into the strange at World Oddities Expo.
This traveling festival of the macabre makes for a perfect weekend outing, especially for anyone who loves the weird and collectible. Browse the Lost Curio Marketplace, where you'll find everything from taxidermy to handcrafted art and jewelry. With live entertainment, burlesque performances, on-site tattooing, and more, there's something around every corner.

Date: Apr. 10-11
Time: 11:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.
Cost: $20+
Location: Donald E. Stephens Convention Center
More Info: worldodditiesexpo.com