If you’re at a loss for things to do this year I can only suggest you pick up some airline tickets to Chicago and book a vacation in the city. There’s so much going on with events taking place every month of the year that your only problem will be choosing what to do first. From gardening demonstrations to theater tours and live music festivals there really is something for everyone to enjoy, young or old. It’s worth getting hold of an events calendar so you can pick out the best of what’s on offer, but until then I have a few ideas to get you started.

Beginning in May here’s one great family day out you’ll not want to miss if you’ve got children – the Kids and Kites festival at Montrose Harbor . The Mayor’s office of Special Events provide free kite making kits for children so they can design their own flying machines and then be shown how to use them by professionals. It’s fantastic way to get children out into the open air and learn some new skills along the way. Whether or not you have children you might also like to pay a visit to the Metronome Festival at Milwaukee Avenue. The event takes place in June, and as well as performances by over thirty original bands there are stalls featuring arts and crafts, jewelry, and an array of environmentally friendly products for sale. Boat lovers won’t want to miss the 52nd Annual Venetian Night which takes place in July. This spectacle of light and color on Lake Michigan is likely to be extremely popular, so you’ll have to get there early to secure a place.

I hope I’ve given you a good taster of what’s to come in Chicago this year with events to enjoy for the whole family. Why not book some cheap hotel rooms and spend a week or long weekend in the city? You’ll find plenty of outdoor entertainment, and the fresh air will do you the world of good.