Chicago (WLS) — Many people in the Chicago area spent Saturday doing everything they could to stay cool while enjoying the summer.
For some families, hot weather means a day at the paddling pool.
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The Chicago area is being hit by a heat wave. The area could see three consecutive days of high temperatures and humidity in the 90s.
Chicagoans know how to make the most of summer. Although it's hot across the city, that doesn't stop people from enjoying festivals and all kinds of family fun in the city centre.
During the Western Festival, the nearby streets are bustling with people dancing in the heat while drinking ice-cold drinks to keep cool.
“Love it…love it…all kinds of people, so much fun,” said Winnetka resident Toby Higgin. “It felt very comfortable. It was a really good night.”
The festival offers a variety of local merchandise showcasing the best of Chicago's art, food and music.
Some say atmosphere is the best way to spend a hot summer day.
“It’s nice to be able to walk around and see everyone doing what they love,” Lexi Serediuk said.
See also | AccuWeather Alert: Storms possible Saturday
Chicago's parks and beaches also came alive Saturday as families soaked up the sun and kept kids active.
“It was hot, but we tried to control the heat by coming out to some of the splash pads in the area,” said Bronzeville resident Corey Harris. “We also went to the 31st Street Beach.”
Residents of some South Side neighborhoods aren't letting the summer heat stop their fun. The 93rd and Eberhart Block Club made sure to keep things cool during Saturday's block party. Children enjoyed bouncy houses and other fun, while homeowners and residents had a chance to get to know each other again.
For some, the weekend is about enjoying the weather and keeping cool, while for others it's about embracing the moment with the help of some great music.
Jackson Park was packed with DJs and house music lovers, and the Chosen Fruit concert once again did not disappoint.
The hot weather will continue for several days, and the heat index may reach triple digits. Some say this is no problem.
“Just saying, 100 degrees is better than 40 below,” said Michele Robinson.
This weekend there were many tourists visiting the city for the first time. Matt Preston from Virginia told ABC7 the weather here is actually pretty good compared to where he's from.
“It's warm, but not as humid as Virginia, so I'm going to be soaked right now,” Preston said.
Air conditioning units will be commissioned in the area in the coming days. The city is also preparing several cooling centers that will be open throughout the weekend.
Learn more | How to stay cool during a heat wave in the Chicago area, and the symptoms of heat stroke to know
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