Growing up in Chicago was an experience I wouldn’t change for the world
Shoutout to Sue the T. rex
When someone asks me where I’m from, I’m always proud to say Chicago. Sure, people will argue that where they were born and raised is the greatest city, but they really don’t know what great is unless they’ve lived in Chicago.
Outsiders may define the city by its well known trademarks like Sears Tower or The Bean. Although these things are notable, children who grew up here know the Windy City has much more to offer than just its visitor attractions.
There is a sense of nostalgia shared among the people who were lucky enough to grow up in Chicago. Not many places have the power to create feelings of sentiment, which is why the city is truly one-of-a-kind.
Childhood memories include trips to Navy Pier and meeting Sue the T. Rex at the Field Museum
Navy Pier and the Field Museum are, for me at least, the greatest staples of a Chicago childhood. Experiencing the top of Navy Pier’s ferris wheel and staring into the face of a dinosaur older than time itself at the Field Museum instilled a sense of wonder in me as a child. The city is so diverse, so I know not everyone had the exact same childhood as me. It’s the vivid memories spent in the city that Chicago children all share.
Music festivals in the city mean our favorite artists come to you
No matter your taste in music, there is probably a concert in Chicago that will spark your interest. Lollapalooza, Summer Camp, Ravina and Spring Awakening are just a few popular music festivals that draw the masses.
I went to Lollapalooza for the first time this past summer, and let me tell you, there is no better feeling in the world than singing your heart out in the middle of the city with all your friends.
There are four distinct seasons, but winter almost always spills into spring
I’m sure living in Southern California where it’s summer most of the year has its perks, but getting to experience each season is something I wouldn’t trade for a year of 85 degree weather. We’re used to the long winters, which have prepared us for anything mother nature has to offer.
Chicago kicks off the winter season early, so rest assured we won’t be stuck inside until spring. We can literally ice stake in Millennium Park anytime between November 18th to March 5th.
Chicago sports fans are the most loyal
Even when the Blackhawks aren’t doing so hot (which usually isn’t the case), we can’t resist cheering them on. Not to mention the Cubs winning the World Series for the first time in 108 years is an answered prayer that my grandparents have been waiting a lifetime for. Rain or shine, winning or losing, we’re always there to watch and support our favorite teams.
We actually know what good pizza is and now have high standards
Critics might try and argue that New York-style pizza is the best, but true Chicagoans know the Windy City is the reigning champ when it comes to outstanding pizza. While Dominos is great for satisfying drunk cravings, Lou Malnati’s deep dish will have you speaking Italian after your first bite.
Saint Patrick’s Day is celebrated like Christmas
There is no other city in the nation that celebrates Saint Patrick’s Day quite like Chicago. Being Irish myself, I felt so lucky to live somewhere that went all out for a holiday that sometimes tends to be ignored.
The Chicago River is even dyed green to show appreciation for the holiday. People of Chicago always find a reason for celebration, so you don’t even have to be Irish to join in.
We get a special behind the scenes look at movies and TV shows
I remember walking downtown with my parents and witnessing what I thought was a terrible car accident. I didn’t understand why no one was doing anything to help. Turns out the TV series Chicago Fire was filming a crash scene and the “accident” was just a faux emergency.
Our city is also home to so many classic movies like Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, Risky Business, The Dark Knight and Home Alone. Coincidentally, the Home Alone house was so close to mine that I could see it from my bedroom window.
A trip to the beach doesn’t mean we have to drive all the way to Florida
Having Lake Michigan in such close proximity means a beach getaway can be right in our backyards. Obviously, Chicago beaches won’t feel as tropical in the winter as the Caribbean beaches do, but they are a close second. When summer rolls around, the beaches transform and people flock to play volleyball, soak up the sun and take a dip in the water – enjoying the warm weather while it lasts.
The experiences I had growing up in Chicago have shaped me into who I am today. I’m beyond thankful that I was born and raised in a place that gives so much to the people who inhabit it. Even though the winters may be lengthy and the Cubs may not always be on top, there is no other place in the world I’d rather call home.