Navy Pier is going out with one last hurrah before it shuts down for remainder of year.
Chicago’s iconic lakefront destination, Navy Pier, announced last month that it would be shutting down for the remainder of the year following Labor Day Weekend. Before it does so, the Pier is holding a series events free to the public.
On Friday, September 4, from 11 am – 6 pm, Navy Pier is hosting an Artisan Market on the South Dock between the Shoreline boats and Harry Caray’s in support of local artists across Chicago:
“Whether you are looking for a unique art piece, souvenir your family has not seen before, or a one-of-a-kind collectible for your home, shopping in Chicago is more dynamic and delightful at Navy Pier than anywhere else in the city,” the Pier writes on its webpage.
While the event is set for just Friday, vendors will set up on the premises throughout the weekend. Vendors include:
- BareCrafted
- Urban Wreath Project
- Rocco Bee Collective
- NiBu Design
- Vina’s Millinery
- Loi Design and more
On Saturday and Sunday, Navy Pier will host Live On The Lake, a live outdoor concert series in Miller Lite Beer Garden. The concerts kick off Saturday at 2 pm, and will feature a variety of acts across all genres. Featured performances include:
- Brian Allison | 2 – 3pm & 3:30 – 4:30 pm
- bq | 5:30 – 6:30 pm & 7 – 8 pm
- Katie Kadan | 9 – 10:10 pm & 10:25 – 11:30 pm
On Sunday, the free, all ages concert series will continue at the Miller Lite Beer Garden with performances from:
- Carpacho y Su Super Combo | 2 – 3 pm & 3:30 – 4:30 pm
- DJ Papa G | 4:30 – 5:30 pm & 6:30 – 7 pm
- Gizzae | 5:30 – 6:30 pm & 7 – 8pm
In addition to the artisan market and live concert series, the Pier welcomes visitors to enjoy its restaurants, retail shops, tour boats, and dining cruises. The 70 small businesses located on the grounds of the Pier will also be forced to closed on Tuesday, September 8.
Last month, Navy Pier reported a substantially low visitor turnout for the year with only 500,000 since reopening — compared to 3.5 million visitors the year before.
“If we’re seeing 15% attendance during our typically strongest months, we’re very concerned for out partner businesses that rely on summer to get them through the year,” Navy Pier CEO and President, Marilynn Gardner told ABC 7.
Following Labor Day Weekend, September 8, the Pier aims to reopen in spring of 2021. [Featured image via facebook.com/millerlitebeergarden]
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