NEAR WEST SIDE — If you're not catching the fireworks Downtown, there's plenty to do in the neighborhood this Fourth of July weekend.
From outdoor festivals to patriotic pup parades, here are our top picks of things to do and see in the West Loop, Pilsen and Near West Side.
All weekend
International Festival of Life at Union Park — The four-day fest, which is marking its 24th year in Chicago, celebrates the music, food and culture of the Caribbean, Africa, Latin America and the United States. Adult single-day pass $15-25, four-day pass $45-100, kids free. Noon-10 p.m. Friday-Monday, Union Park, 1501 W. Randolph St., Near West Side.
Friday
Happy hour shrimp boil at Mad Boiler — Mad Boiler, a new Cajun seafood restaurant on Madison, celebrates its grand opening with a one-pound shrimp boil for $4 during happy hour Friday (normally priced at $14). 4-6 p.m. Friday, Mad Boiler, 1045 W. Madison St., West Loop
Classic double feature at Thalia Hall — The Pilsen venue will kick off the holiday weekend with a double screening of summer blockbuster classics "Jaws" and the original "Jurassic Park." Tickets $8. 7 p.m. Friday, Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., Pilsen
Saturday
Green City Market — The West Loop's outdoor farmers market brings fresh produce to the neighborhood and artisan treats every Saturday throughout the summer. Free. 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday, 211 S. Peoria St., West Loop
Sunday
Pilsen Community Market — Pilsen's weekly outdoor farmers market features homemade tamales, fresh produce and so much more. Free. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, 1800 S. Halsted St., Pilsen
Patriotic Pup Parade — Neighbors are invited to dress their dogs in their patriotic best for a dog parade kicking off at University Commons. The event will include a photo op, best-dressed doggie contest and prizes. Meet at 9:50 a.m. Sunday at University Commons Management Office, 1070 W. 15th St., University Village.
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