Chicagohenge: Sun, Skyscrapers, Songs and Science

Join us for a musical and scientific celebration of Chicagohenge – the dramatic meeting of astronomy and architecture announcing the season’s change. “Chicagohenge” is when the bright orange rays of sunset and sunrise fall directly down Chicago’s east-west streets, and happens only twice a year: at the spring and fall equinoxes. In this event astronomer Dr. Luke Leisman and musicians from The Parsnip Factory will take a deep dive into the astronomy and history of Chicagohenge, weaving together songs and science exploring the theme, and its connection to our lives. Through the process we’ll learn how best to view the upcoming fall 2026 Chicagohenge, and connect to a long tradition of marking time and place through the motions of the sun, from ancient monuments to the skyscrapers of the Loop. Dr. Luke Leisman is an astronomer, writer, and entrepreneur, dedicated to making our planet a little braver, more dignified, and better place. A native Michigander, he received his PhD from Cornell University and then taught for several years at Valparaiso University before moving to the University of Illinois and Chicago in 2021. He writes regularly about the night sky and our lives on substack, hosts public astronomy events, and can occasionally be spotted sailing or playing fiddle.How to Attend Register by the start of the event. Chicago Public Library cannot collect personal information online from kids 0 to 13. A parent or guardian’s email address must be used to register. As a reminder, school email addresses may block external emails such as those from CPL. Accessibility Need sign language interpretation or other accessibility assistance for this event? Please call (312) 747-8184 or email access@chipublib.org to request accommodations. Requests must be made at least 14 business days before the event. Image by Alberto Chavez via pexels.com