Graduate Commons Program 2025-2026

[GRAD] I-House Goes to the Chicago Jazz Festival

FRI., AUG. 29, 2025

Join International House for an evening of music, culture, and summer city vibes at the Chicago Jazz Festival, Chicago’s longest-running free music festival and a Labor Day weekend tradition. Set in the iconic Jay Pritzker Pavilion at Millennium Park, the festival features an impressive lineup of local, national, and international jazz artists.

Poster advertising I-House Goes to the Chicago Jazz Festival Event presenting a retro sunset-style gradient in orange, yellow, green, and teal, with the silhouette of a saxophone player and floating musical notes, and a large illustrated saxophone on the left side, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] I-House Visits the Chicago History Museum

THU., AUG. 28, 2025

Join International House for an afternoon at the Chicago History Museum—home to captivating exhibits, rare artifacts, and rich storytelling about Chicago’s past. Wander through immersive galleries, connect with fellow graduate students, and learn more about the city we call home.

Poster advertising I-House Goes to the Chicago History Museum Event presenting illustrations of map location icon with a museum symbol, a Chicago “L” train, and a sepia-toned city skyline, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] I-House Goes to the Chicago House Music Festival

SAT., AUG. 23, 2025

Join International House for an electrifying day at the Chicago House Music Festival—an open-air celebration of the genre that was born right here in Chicago. Held at the iconic Millennium Park, the festival features back-to-back sets by legendary DJs like Ralphi Rosario and Tyree Cooper, live performances across multiple stages, and a high-energy House Dance Summit with freestyle showcases and battles.

Poster advertising I-House Goes to the Chicago House Music Festival Event presenting an abstract, neon-style image with purple, green, and blue tones, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Taste of Greektown

FRI., AUG. 22, 2025

Join International House for a festive summer outing to one of Chicago’s most vibrant neighborhood celebrations—Taste of Greektown! Set in the heart of the city’s historic Greek enclave along Halsted Street, this lively street festival brings together delicious Greek cuisine, energetic music, traditional dancing, and a joyful community atmosphere.

Poster advertising Taste of Greektown Event presenting illustrated market stalls with vendors selling Greek food, desserts, and drinks, along with people enjoying the festival atmosphere, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Millennium Park Summer Films: Pride & Prejudice

TUE., AUG. 19, 2025

Join International House for a charming summer evening under the stars at Millennium Park’s Summer Film Series! We’ll head to the iconic Jay Pritzker Pavilion to enjoy the beloved 2005 adaptation of Pride and Prejudice, celebrating both the film’s 20th anniversary and the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth. Follow Elizabeth Bennet’s witty journey through love, society, and misunderstandings—all on a stunning 40-foot screen with Chicago’s skyline as the backdrop.

Poster advertising Millenium Park Summer Films: Pride & Prejudice Event presenting a still from the 2005 film adaptation, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Picnic at The Point

SUN., AUG. 17, 2025

Join International House for a peaceful midweek break with our Picnic at the Point! Enjoy a relaxing lakeside evening with fellow grad students, complete with light snacks, fresh air, and a beautiful view of the lakefront. It’s the perfect way to unwind, reset, and recharge during the busy week.

Poster advertising Picnic at the Point Event presenting a sunny outdoor scene with illustrations of people picnicking under a red-and-white umbrella, trees, birds, and a large sun in the sky, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Chicago Air & Water Show

SAT., AUG. 16, 2025

Join International House for a high-energy summer outing to one of Chicago’s most iconic and action-packed lakefront events—the Chicago Air and Water Show! We’ll head to North Avenue Beach to catch the city’s biggest free spectacle featuring thrilling aerial stunts, parachute teams, military jet flyovers, and water rescue demos, all set against the dramatic skyline of downtown Chicago.

Poster advertising Chicago Air and Watet Show Event presenting illustrations of airplanes, parachutists, boats, and ocean waves, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Grad Summer Mixer

TUE., AUG. 12, 2025

Join International House for the Final Grad Mixer of the Summer —an opportunity to connect, unwind, and celebrate summer with fellow graduate students and postdocs. Enjoy refreshments, great conversation, and a casual setting designed to help build community across campus during the summer quarter.

Poster advertising Grad Summer Mixer Event presenting a graphic of group of people barbecuing, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Summer Screening: The Umesh Chronicles

MON., AUG. 11, 2025

Join us for an exclusive screening of Umesh Chronicles at the iconic Chicago Cultural Center, brought to you by the Chicago International Film Festival. This captivating film offers a powerful narrative that explores compelling themes and rich storytelling, making it a must-see event this summer.

Poster advertising Film Screening: The Umesh Chronicles Event presenting a film still showing two characters talking, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Beach & Ball

SUN., AUG. 10, 2025

Soak up the sun and feel the summer magic—Beach & Ball is back by popular demand! Join International House for an unforgettable afternoon of sandy fun, friendly games, and laid-back beach vibes on the shores of Lake Michigan. We’re turning up the heat (and the fun) with beach volleyball showdowns, fast-paced rounds of Spikeball, and other sandy competitions—all with plenty of time to chill, splash, and soak it all in.

Poster advertising Beach & Ball Event presenting illustrations of a striped beach chair, umbrella, volleyball net, and beach ball on sand near the ocean, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Garfield Park Conservatory

SUN., AUG. 10, 2025

Join International House on Sunday, August 10, from 12–4 p.m. for an afternoon surrounded by vibrant plant life, stunning glass architecture, and peaceful garden spaces. Wander through lush indoor landscapes and discover one of Chicago’s most beautiful hidden gems.

Poster advertising Garfield Park Conservatory Event presenting a Garfield Park Conservatory photo in the background, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Waves & Walks: An Evening Adventure on the Chicago River

SAT., AUG. 9, 2025

Hop on for a golden-hour cruise and riverfront adventure with International House—soak in skyline views, fresh breezes, and city lights on an unforgettable Water Taxi ride and Riverwalk stroll!

Poster advertising Waves & Walks: An Evening Adventure on the Chicago River Event presenting an illustrated city skyline, Chicago River, and a yellow water taxi, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] I‑House at the Chicago Ducky Derby

THURS., AUG. 7, 2025

Quack up with I-House at the Chicago Ducky Derby! Cheer on thousands of rubber ducks racing down the Chicago River and soak up the summer vibes with music, food, and fun.

Poster advertising I-House at the Chicago Ducky Derby Event presenting a fun rubber duck theme with bright yellow ducks floating on stylized water against a bold blue background, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Grad Summer Mixer

TUE., AUG. 05, 2025

Join International House for a relaxed and lively evening at our Grad Summer Mixer—an opportunity to connect, unwind, and celebrate summer with fellow graduate students and postdocs. Enjoy refreshments, great conversation, and a casual setting designed to help build community across campus during the summer quarter.

[GRAD] Beach & Ball

SUN., AUG. 3, 2025

Soak up the sun and feel the summer magic—Beach & Ball is back by popular demand! Join International House for an unforgettable afternoon of sandy fun, friendly games, and laid-back beach vibes on the shores of Lake Michigan. We’re turning up the heat (and the fun) with beach volleyball showdowns, fast-paced rounds of Spikeball, and other sandy competitions—all with plenty of time to chill, splash, and soak it all in.

[GRAD] South Loop Farmers Night Market

THURS., JUL. 31, 2025

Savor summer flavors with I-House at the South Loop Farmers Night Market! Browse fresh produce, local treats, and handmade goods while enjoying a lively evening in the city.

Poster advertising South Loop Farmers Night Market Event presenting colorful illustrations of a market scene with vendor tents, produce, clothing racks, and people enjoying the evening, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Grad Summer Mixer

TUE., JUL. 29, 2025

Join International House for a relaxed and lively evening at our Grad Summer Mixer—an opportunity to connect, unwind, and celebrate summer with fellow graduate students and postdocs. Enjoy refreshments, great conversation, and a casual setting designed to help build community across campus during the summer quarter.

[GRAD] Lincoln Park Zoo & Conservatory

SUN., JUL. 27, 2025

Join us for a day of discovery and relaxation at two of Chicago’s most cherished green spaces: Lincoln Park Zoo and the Lincoln Park Conservatory - This outing offers a chance to explore fascinating wildlife, wander through lush botanical gardens, and enjoy a refreshing escape in the heart of the city.

Poster advertising Lincoln Park Zoo & Conservatory Event presenting an image of different wild animals, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] I-House at the 46th Annual Chinatown Summer Fair

SAT., JUL. 26, 2025

Join International House for an exciting cultural experience at the 46th Chinatown Summer Fair — one of Chicago’s most colorful and beloved summer street festivals! Held in the heart of historic Chinatown, this free outdoor event celebrates Chinese culture and community through traditional and contemporary performances, delicious street food, and vibrant festivities.

Poster advertising I-House at the 46th Annual Chinatown Summer Fair Event presenting images of young man, kid wearing traditional lion dance costume, and festive elements like confetti, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Wicker Park Fest 2025

FRI., JUL. 25, 2025

Join International House for an exciting evening at Wicker Park Fest 2025—one of Chicago’s most iconic summer street festivals! Experience the energy of this legendary neighborhood through live music, vibrant street culture, and some of the city’s best local food vendors. It's a perfect opportunity to explore Chicago beyond Hyde Park and connect with fellow grad students in a fun, festival setting.

Poster advertising Wicker Park Fest 2025 Event presenting a pink and turquoise boombox, microphone, music notes, and a red mouth with a gold tooth, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Grad Summer Mixer

TUES., JUL. 22, 2025

Celebrate summer with fellow grad students and postdocs at the Grad Summer Mixer! Enjoy food, games, and great conversation at International House in this fun, relaxed social gathering.

[GRAD] I-House Visits the Field Museum

SAT., JUL. 19, 2025

Join International House for an exciting afternoon of exploration at the Field Museum of Natural History—one of Chicago’s most iconic and expansive cultural institutions! Discover towering dinosaur skeletons, ancient civilizations, dazzling gems, and rare artifacts from around the world as you wander through world-class exhibits alongside fellow graduate students.

Poster advertising I-House Visits the field Museum Event presenting a photo of the Field Museum building, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Tacos y Tamales Festival

FRI., JUL. 18, 2025

Join International House for a lively evening in Pilsen at the Tacos y Tamales Festival 2025—an outdoor celebration of Latin flavors, music, and community! This popular summer street fest features some of Chicago’s best tacos, tamales, and Latin-inspired bites, alongside live performances and colorful market stalls. Come explore the sights, sounds, and tastes of one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods with fellow grad students.

Poster advertising Tacos y Tamales Festival Event presenting a close-up photo of tacos on a wooden table, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Grad Summer Mixer

TUES., JULY 15, 2025

Join the Graduate Commons Program for a relaxed and friendly Summer Mixer! Connect with fellow graduate students and postdocs over light refreshments and outdoor fun at International House.

[GRAD] Beach & Ball

SUN., JUL. 13, 2025

Experience a sun-soaked summer afternoon of beach-side fun in the heart of Chicago! Join International House for our Beach & Ball Program, where the warm Lake Michigan breeze sets the stage for friendly competition and splashy good times. Under the open sky, you’ll team up for beach volleyball matches, quick-fire rounds of Spikeball, and a variety of other sand-and-shore games—then cool off with a swim in the lake or leisurely beachside hangs.

[GRAD] Midsommer Flight: Love’s Labour’s Lost

FRI., JUL. 11, 2025

Enjoy an enchanting evening of Shakespeare in the park with Midsommer Flight’s performance of *Love’s Labour’s Lost* at Nichols Park. Gather with fellow grad students for a night of culture and community beneath the summer sky.

Poster for the Graduate Commons Program event "Midsommer Flight: Love’s Labour’s Lost at Nichols," taking place Friday, July 11, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. Attendees meet in front of International House (1414 E 59th St) at 5:30 PM. The poster features two actors in period costume smiling at each other, framed by a scalloped-edge cutout.

[GRAD] Movies on the Midway

WED., JUL. 9, 2025

Enjoy a summer evening under the stars with a free outdoor screening of *Despicable Me 4* on the Midway! Join fellow grad students for laughs, snacks, and community fun. Presented by UChicago’s Office of Civic Engagement and the Chicago Park District.

Poster for the Graduate Commons Program event "Movies on the Midway" featuring an outdoor screening of Despicable Me 4 on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, from 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM. Attendees meet in front of International House (1414 E 59th Street, Chicago, IL) at 7:00 PM. Poster includes images of Gru, a baby, and Minions from the movie, plus colorful graphics of popcorn, a movie ticket, and a film projector. Registration required at https://ihouse2025_MoviesOnMidway.eventbrite.com. Event is for graduate students with UCID.

[GRAD] Grad Summer Mixer

TUES., JUL. 8, 2025

Celebrate summer with fellow grad students and postdocs at the Grad Summer Mixer! Enjoy food, games, and great conversation at International House in this fun, relaxed social gathering.

[GRAD] Disc Golf

MON., JUL. 7, 2025

Get outside and join the Graduate Commons Program for a fun and active evening of disc golf! No experience needed—just bring your energy and enjoy a relaxed game with fellow grad students.

Poster for a Graduate Commons Program event titled "Disc Golf" on Monday, July 7, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Participants will meet in front of International House at 5:00 PM (1414 East 59th Street, Chicago, IL). The poster includes a photo of graduate students holding discs and smiling on a grassy field. Registration is required at https://ihouse2025_discgolf0707.eventbrite.com. The event is for graduate students with UCID, 21+, and a valid government-issued ID. The design features playful illustrations of trees, discs, and a disc golf basket.

[GRAD] Griffin Museum & Japanese Garden

SUN., JUL. 6, 2025

Join the Graduate Commons Program for an inspiring afternoon at the Griffin Museum of Science and Technology, followed by a tranquil walk through the Japanese garden. Explore interactive exhibits and unwind in a peaceful natural setting.

Poster for the Graduate Commons Program event titled "Griffin Museum and Japanese Garden" on Sunday, July 6, 2025. Participants are instructed to meet in front of the Griffin Museum at 3:00 PM, located at 5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive. The event is for graduate students with UCID, 21+, and requires registration at https://ihouse2025_griffinmuseum.eventbrite.com. The poster includes images of the museum’s neoclassical architecture and a serene Japanese garden with a bridge.

[GRAD] Independence Day Fireworks

SAT., JUL. 5, 2025

Join International House for a festive Independence Day celebration in Chicago on Saturday, July 5. We’ll meet in front of International House at 8:20 PM sharp to catch the Metra (fare on you) and roll down to Navy Pier together. Once we arrive, wander the pier, sample your favorite snacks or drinks, and stake out the ultimate viewing spot for what comes next.

Poster advertising Fourth of July Fireworks at Navy Pier Event presenting a black background filled with colorful fireworks and small stars and American flags, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Sunrise Dip & Yoga

FRI., JUL. 4, 2025

Start your day with a refreshing sunrise dip and relaxing yoga at 57th Street Beach! Hosted by the Graduate Commons Program, this early morning event is open to graduate students with UCID, ages 21+.

Poster for a University of Chicago Graduate Commons Program event titled "Sunrise Dip & Yoga" on Friday, July 4, 2025, at 5:30 AM at 57th Street Beach, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive. Includes a cartoon of a woman doing yoga by the lake with the Chicago skyline in the background. The event is for graduate students with UCID, 21+. Registration link: https://ihouse2025_dip.eventbrite.com.

[GRAD] I-House Visits the Art Institute of Chicago

THU., JUL. 3, 2025

Join International House for an evening of art, culture, and connection at one of the world’s premier museums—the Art Institute of Chicago! Stroll through galleries filled with iconic works by Monet, Van Gogh, and many others, alongside captivating pieces from around the globe. Whether you're a longtime art lover or simply curious, this is a perfect summer outing to experience the city's rich cultural offerings with fellow graduate students.

Poster advertising I-House Visits the Art Institute of Chicago Event presenting an ornate gold picture frames, one containing an image of the Art Institute lion sculpture and illustrations of people exploring an art museum at the bottom, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Pride Parade

SUN., JUN. 29, 2025

Get ready to paint Boystown every shade of fabulous—Graduate Commons is rolling out the glitter carpet for the Chicago Pride Parade on Sunday, June 29! Enjoy live music, LGBTQIA+ performances, educational programs, and community resources. It's a vibrant celebration of pride, diversity, and inclusion.

Poster advertising Pride Parade Event presenting a vibrant parade photo with rainbow balloon letters spelling "CHICAGO", detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Beach & Ball

SAT., JUN. 28, 2025

Picture this: you, your future BFF, and a seagull all sprinting for a Spikeball like it’s the last ice cream at a grad mixer. Then you’ll “spectacularly” dive for volleyball saves worthy of slow-mo replays. No swimming? No problem. No prior athletic ability? Even better. Just bring your sense of humor and your best beach-day swagger. See you where Uchicago meets chill vibes!

[GRAD] Grant Park Music Festival

FRI., JUN. 27, 2025

Experience a summer evening of powerful symphonic music in the heart of Chicago! Join International House for a night at the Grant Park Music Festival as world-renowned conductor Giancarlo Guerrero leads Shostakovich’s gripping Symphony No. 10, along with stirring works by Augusta Read Thomas and Wagner. Enjoy the music at the indoor Harris Theater, just steps from Millennium Park!

Poster advertising Grant Park Music Festival Event presenting images of instruments (trumpet, clarinet, music notes) and a photo of violinists performing, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Latin Dancing

THU., JUN. 26, 2025

International House is turning up the heat this Thursday night with a trip to the legendary Alhambra Palace! We’ll meet at I-House and head together to a two-level Latin dance haven: downstairs, the Main Room pulses with salsa, mambo, cha-cha and cumbia; upstairs, the Bachata Room sizzles with both classic and sensual bachata. From 8 PM until the last beat, you’ll start with expert-led salsa and bachata classes, then laugh, dance and discover moves you never knew you had.

Poster advertising Latin Dancing Event presenting an image of dancing couple, detailed description of the event and registration link

[GRAD] Adler Planetarium and Fireworks

WED., JUN. 25, 2025

Join us for a night of wonder at the Adler Planetarium! Step into the stars with interactive exhibits and immersive sky shows that take you on a journey through the cosmos. After exploring the universe, relax and enjoy a stunning, panoramic view of the Navy Pier fireworks, from the planetarium.
Don’t miss this unique blend of science, skyline, and celebration!

Poster advertising Adler Planetarium and Fireworks Event presenting colorful illustrations of planets, comets, stars, rockets, and fireworks, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] A Taste of Chicago Summer Mixer

MON., JUN. 23, 2025

International House at the University of Chicago and International House at UC Berkeley welcome you to join us for a "Taste of Chicago" reception for Graduate Fellows, Interns, Alumni, and Friends. Sample foods from some of Chicago’s famous neighborhoods while enjoying time with old friends or meeting new ones.

[GRAD] Dragon Boat Race

SAT., JUN. 21, 2025

The Dragon Boat Festival is a vibrant cultural tradition with roots over 2,000 years old, celebrating unity, heritage, and community spirit. Join International House as we gather to experience the 2025 Chicago Dragon Boat Race for Literacy, featuring exciting boat races, cultural performances, and music along the scenic Chicago River.

Poster advertising Dragon Boat Race Event presenting a dragon boat with animated paddlers and a fierce dragon head, there are fireworks in the background, detailed description of the event and registration link.

[GRAD] Grad Summer Mixer

TUE., JUN. 17, 2025

Join us for our first Grad Summer Mixer! Unwind and bask in the gentle breeze in the I-House Courtyard, an idyllic respite for a light dinner, games, and good conversations. Whether this is your first summer in Chicago or your seventh, the I-House Grad Summer Mixer beckons to rekindle bonds with old friends and weave new tales of camaraderie.

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The University of Chicago
International House
1414 East 59th Street
Chicago, Illinois 60637-2997
773.753.2274

Graduate Commons Program 2025-2026

SUN., AUG. 10, 2025 Join International House on Sunday, August 10, from 12–4 p.m. for an afternoon surrounded by vibrant plant life, stunning glass architecture, and peaceful garden spaces. Wander through lush indoor landscapes and discover one of Chicago’s most beautiful hidden gems.

SAT., AUG. 9, 2025 Hop on for a golden-hour cruise and riverfront adventure with International House—soak in skyline views, fresh breezes, and city lights on an unforgettable Water Taxi ride and Riverwalk stroll!

THURS., AUG. 7, 2025

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SUN., JUL. 27, 2025

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TUES., JULY 15, 2025

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SUN., AUG. 10, 2025

Join International House on Sunday, August 10, from 12–4 p.m. for an afternoon surrounded by vibrant plant life, stunning glass architecture, and peaceful garden spaces. Wander through lush indoor landscapes and discover one of Chicago’s most beautiful hidden gems.

SAT., AUG. 9, 2025

Hop on for a golden-hour cruise and riverfront adventure with International House—soak in skyline views, fresh breezes, and city lights on an unforgettable Water Taxi ride and Riverwalk stroll!