Summertime in My Hometown! By Derick Errrera

I Love Summertime Chi, home sweet home Chicago. I have had the privilege to spend roughly 40 prime summers in Chicago. Chicagoans depend on spectacular summers to survive the often brutal stretches of winter.

The moment the temperature rises above 70 sometime in May and the sun is shining, people pour out of their homes and the many outdoor patios at bars and restaurants are overflowing. The goal of Chicago summer is to get out there and enjoy every moment of the warm air and sunny skies. Chicago doesn’t always fully experience all four seasons, more often it feels like winter blends right into summer pulling everything from one extreme to the next.

Nobody does summer like Chicago, with its beautiful skyline sitting on a lake that looks more like an ocean! A boat lover's dream, summer nights floating in the “playpen”, a popular anchor spot to watch the weekly fireworks over Lake Michigan. There are almost too many lakefront summer activities to count, from the beautiful public beaches and lakefront bike path all th

e way down to Grant Park where they hold Lollapalooza. You can head further into the city and still enjoy the water on the Riverwalk path lined with bars and restaurants. Alternatively, you could head over to Navy Pier and walk around or ride the Ferris wheel.

The highlight of Chicago summer is a night spent in historic Wrigley Field watching the sunset as the Cubbies get a hard-earned win against the visiting team.

Chicago has a full calendar of street festivals all summer long. A favorite is Old Town Art Fest, the streets are closed to cars and lined with art and crafts and delicious food. Many popular cover bands play the fest circuit and can be enjoyed into the night. Another Chicago tradition is block parties which are similar to street fests but held on neighborhood blocks and hosted by those who live on the block.

With over 200 golf courses in the area, Chicago is a golfer's dream. A favorite of mine is Marovitz Golf Course, relaxing 9 holes with terrific views of the city and harbor.

Like the classic movie Ferris Bueller's Day Off, Chicago summer has it all, a true love letter to the city by John Hughes. Ferris couldn’t possibly spend a beautiful sunny day at school when he could be out soaking up every moment of Chicago and all it has to offer.