
City Cast Chicago
🧑⚖️ State weapons ban remains
July 3, 2024 · — Adrian González
¡Buenos días! The meats are marinating, the beer fridge is stocked… but did you remember to pick up snacks? You can never really have enough. That’s why we’re sharing our favorite Chi snacks to bring to the cookout.

What's CITY Talking About?
State Weapons Ban Remains
The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear challenges to Illinois’ assault weapons ban — legislation enacted in response to the 2022 Fourth of July shooting in Highland Park. Justice Clarence Thomas indicated the high court could revisit the issue once the lower courts reach a decision. [Sun-Times]
- Why State Rep. Bob Morgan introduced the “Protect Illinois Communities Act.” [City Cast Chicago 🎧]
Jack in the Box Returns to Chi
After pulling out of Chicago in the 1980s, the restaurant chain is set to open eight locations around the city over the next two years, including one near Midway Airport. The company plans to eventually open a total of 125 stores in the area. [Tribune]
- Speaking of fast food, here’s a Pulitzer-worthy story of how Chicago-based McDonald’s became a hub for Black franchise owners. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]
Ex-Blackhawks Execs Cleared to Return
The NHL has reinstated three former Chicago Blackhawks executives who stepped down in 2021 after mishandling sexual assault allegations. A league press release said the trio have shown sincere remorse since their time away. [NBC5]
- It’s not just the Blackhawks. Hockey has a toxicity problem. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

What To Do
Wednesday, July 3
- Senior Fitness Walk 👟 River Forest | 9 a.m. | Free
- Disco Circus Carnival ♋ Washington Park | 3 p.m. | $20
- Taste of Oak Brook 🍴 Oak Brook | 4–9:30 p.m. | Free entry
- Chosen Few DJs 🎛️ The Loop | 6–11:30 p.m. | $10+
- Chicago Fire FC Fireworks Night 🔥 Soldier Field | 7:30 p.m. | $35+
Thursday, July 4

- African/Caribbean International Festival of Life ❤️ Washington Park | Noon | $35
- Remembrance Ceremony, Parade 🖤 Highland Park | 10 a.m. | Free
- Civic Season Independence Day 🧠 Chicago History Museum | 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | Included with admission
- 4th on 53rd Parade, Festival 🇺🇸 Hyde Park | 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. | Free
- 4th of July Brunch 🍴Wicker Park | Noon to 6 p.m. | Varies
- Cubs vs. Phillies 🐻 Wrigley Field | 1:20 p.m. | $50+
- Rib Fest starts 🍖 Tinley Park | 2–10 p.m. | $15
- Rose on the River starts 🎸 The Salt Shed | 4 p.m. | $89+
- Independence Day Salute 🎆 Grant Park | 6:30–8 p.m. | Free lawn seats
Friday, July 5
- Homeschool Family Meetup 👪 Garfield Ridge | 1–2 p.m. | Free
- Naperville Salute starts 🇺🇸 Naperville | 4–10 p.m. | $20
- Craft Beer Fest starts 🍺 Lincoln Park | 5–10 p.m. | $35+
- “Romeo & Juliet” 🎭 Lincoln Square | 6–8 p.m. | Free

Today on City Cast

The Best Chicago Snacks For Your Cookout
Chicago might be the snack capital from big brands like Nabisco and Kellogg to local ones like Garrett Popcorn and Jays Chips. We’re bringing back a conversation from the winter between host Jacoby Cochran and producer Michelle Navarro, where they break down the best snacks the city has to offer and the snacks unworthy of your hard-earned money.

I’ll leave you with the story of the White Sox’s Mexican Heritage Night that led to their first sold-out game of the season. Talk to ya Friday!
Free · Daily

