A Grant Park landmark finally turned on for the summer season on Saturday. Buckingham Fountain is one of the most iconic fountains in Chicago.
Saturday, May 9, 2026 10:37PM Buckingham Fountain is one of the most iconic fountains in Chicago. When it is switched on, the fountain produces a 20-minute display that shoots water 150 feet high.
The annual tradition means we are getting closer to summer. The event was a partnership between the Chicago Park District and ComEd.
"Watching the water come out from this beautiful fountain, that's the best part of this," ComEd president and CEO Gil Quiniones said. The guest of honor, who activated the fountain, is Zach Gray, from Logan Square. Gray was the lucky Illinois resident who won ComEd's sweepstakes contest earlier this year, which received more than 8,000 entries.
"Well I got an email a few months ago was immediately like this just sounds like fun. I love all of Chicago get ready for summer events," Gray said.
"I did not believe it when I got the news. I was like, yeah there's no way. I've never won a contest before.
" ABC7's Cheryl Scott emceed the Switch on Summer event, which started at 11:30 a.m. The free event included performances and activities for children. "We're also kicking off the 14th season of Night Out in the Parks, our wonderful programming, where you can access free cultural programming and entertainment in parks in every part of the city," said Carlos Ramirez- Rosa, General Superintendent and Chief Executive Officer of the Chicago Park District.
"I am very biased, but Chicago is the best city in the world, so I'm just excited to hear and start off the best time of the year," Gray said.
Buckingham Fountain Grant Park Grant Park Chicago Chicago News Chicago Events Chicago Summer Summer 2026 Switch On Summer Chicago Chicago Park District Comed Comed Chicago Buckingham Fountain Schedule Buckingham Fountain Chicago Buckingham Fountain Turn On Buckingham Fountain Opening 2026 Is Buckingham Fountain Open 19069592
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