Dear Traveler:

On behalf of the people of Chicago, welcome to the greatest city in the world! You may have heard about all the amazing things to do in our city during the summer. But rest assured, we know how to have as much fun in the fall, and you’re here at just the right time. 

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As the leaves start turning and the air gets crisper, our thoughts once again turn to football and our beloved Chicago Bears. It’s the 106th NFL season for the Monsters of the Midway, and this year, the team has a new head coach and is led on the field by second-year quarterback Caleb Williams, who is poised to cement his status as one of the game’s best and most exciting players. We can’t wait for the Bears to kick off the regular season on Monday Night Football, Sept. 8, at historic Soldier Field, when they play their NFC North rival Minnesota Vikings. To read more about Da’ Bears, go to Page 56. 

 

It wouldn’t be fall in Chicago without parties, events and activities taking place all over town as Halloween beckons. Whether it is corn mazes, fun at Lincoln Park Zoo or various festivals, there will be no shortage of good times this season for young and old alike. Check it all out in the In Chicago section starting on Page 50.

 

For this edition, we spotlight the South Side neighborhood of Chinatown, which is home to a wonderful array of shops, restaurants and cultural institutions. To read about the great offerings of this historic neighborhood, go to Page 42.

 

Of course, we couldn’t put together the newest edition of Air Chicago without talking about our newly-famous native son, Pope Leo XIV! The first American pope, he began his journey to the papacy as an altar boy on Chicago’s South Side before he became known across the globe. We are honored to spotlight him in this edition’s feature story (pg. 8), and as we like to say around here, everything dope about America comes from Chicago — and that includes the Pope!

 

From sights to see, things to do and people to celebrate, Chicago has it all for you. We hope you enjoy the fall season. Thank you for coming — we’re glad you’re here!

 

Sincerely,

Brandon Johnson

Mayor