While the beaches, the festivals and the weather are all great things about Chicago in the summer, it's also the best time to take advantage of free or super cheap things to do around town. Venture out this week to get fit, hear some music or tune-up your bike without spending a dime.
Today
Singer-songwriter Samuel Beam, better known as Iron and Wine, headlines the free New Music Monday concert in Millennium Park tonight. Catch their opening act The Head and the Heart for some soothing folk tunes.6:30 p.m.; FREEJay Pritzker Pavilion at Millennium Park
Tuesday
The MCA kicks off their Tuesdays on the Terrace summer program this week with a free jazz concert from musician Junius Paul. Bring some cash to grab hamburgers, hot dogs and other snacks from the grill or wine and cocktails from the outdoor bar.5:30 – 8 p.m.; FREE220 E. Chicago Ave.; 312-280-2660
The Midwest Independent Film Festival continues with a screening of “The Dream Play” at Landmark Century Centre Cinema. Director Michael Toth will be on hand for a Q&A after the film.6 p.m.; $10 - $152828 N. Clark St.; 312-642-4222
Wednesday
See art in action at Interface, a new summer program at Steep Theatre Company. Listen to five storytellers’ tales, then hear an original improvised musical composition by pianist Matthew Loren Cohen after each one. Meanwhile, artist Shawna Bowman will be working her magic on a canvas throughout the evening, with the painting being raffled off at the end of the show.8 p.m.; $10 in advance, $12 at the door1115 W. Berwyn Ave.; 312-458-0722
Thursday
Pop punk band Farwell kicks off their tour with a free concert this Thursday at The Double Door. Also performing are Know Lyfe, Mismatch, David and Goliath and I Can Hear Myself Levitate.8 p.m.; FREE1572 N. Milwaukee Ave.; 773-489-3160
Saturday
Break a sweat at Millennium Park this Saturday. Join yoga, pilates and zumba instructors on the Great Lawn as they lead Chicagoans in a totally free and fun workout session.Yoga at 8 a.m.; Pilates at 9 a.m.; Zumba at 10 a.m.; FREEJay Pritzker Pavilion at Millennium Park
Bring your fixie in for a tune-up at Schubas Bike Bash. This festival will feature local bike shops doing workshops and demos along with DJs, an all-girl BMX performance and a bike drive for donating old cycles and parts. 1 p.m.; FREE3159 N. Southport Ave.; 773-525-2508