Blake Shelton is set as the final headliner for the 2026 Chicago Windy City Smokeout, joining other acts for the five-day festival at the United Center parking lot.

Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs returned a Purple Heart to James R. Bennett's niece, highlighting Operation Purple Heart's mission to reunite military medals with families.

For the first time ever, Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve will count down midnight live from Chicago with riverfront fireworks and a national ABC broadcast.

Tickets for Christkindlmarket events in Chicago, including a new "Haus of Krampus" attraction, are on sale, with additional seasonal activities like ice skating and workshops at Gallagher Way.

Morgan Wallen's "Still The Problem Tour" hits Chicago on June 19-20, 2026, with Lane, Adcock, and King as openers; presale tickets available from November 5.

Buckingham Fountain in Chicago will close for the season on October 31, with the last display at 10:35 p.m. Shows run hourly with a special final spectacle.

Federal agents detained the night manager of Laugh Factory Chicago during an immigration operation, sparking public concern documented in online videos.

Grammy-winning R&B singer D'Angelo has died at 51 from cancer, leaving behind a legacy in the neo-soul genre and an impact on music with his emotive voice and lyrics.

Country star Luke Combs announced his 2026 "My Kinda Saturday Night Tour," including dates at Notre Dame Stadium and Lambeau Field, with ticket sales starting in October.

Rush announces the "Fifty Something Tour" to celebrate their legacy and honor late drummer Neil Peart, with Anika Nilles on drums. The tour kicks off June 7, 2026, in Los Angeles and includes a new anthology release.

The Leo High School choir finished fourth in "America's Got Talent," earning praise for their talent and symbolic representation of faith and brotherhood.

St. Alphonsus Church in Lakeview, Chicago, kicks off its 23rd annual Oktoberfest this weekend, with German food, music, and beers. Admissions are $10 on Friday and Saturday and a $5 donation on Sunday.

Chicago house music icon Ron Carroll died at 57 of a heart attack, leaving a legacy of influential collaborations and hits in the dance music community.