The headlining music artists have been announced for this summer’s Chicago Jazz Festival, taking place Aug. 28-31 in Millennium Park, along with Thursday opening-day events at the Chicago Cultural Center.

Headliners include the Grammy-winning vocalist Esperanza Spalding, pianist Monty Alexander, and trumpeter and vocalist Kermit Ruffins. Cuban guitarist and singer Eliades Ochoa will close the fest on Sunday night.

The annual fest over Labor Day weekend is programmed by the nonprofit Jazz Institute of Chicago and presented by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events. A full lineup of concerts will be announced at a later date, including for the Von Freeman Pavilion stage, the WDCB Jazz Lounge, and the spotlight on young jazz artists at the Harris Theater Rooftop Terrace, all in Millennium Park.

All concerts are free; more information and artist updates at ChicagoJazzFestival.us.

This river architecture tour is such a fun activity. It is run by volunteers from the Chicago Architecture Foundation and they do an incredible job explaining Chicago's amazing history.

No explanation required, the best museum in the city!

Natural history museum that is great for young children