As the mercury rose, Chicago-area residents made the most of the warm weather, dining outside, soaking up the sun and ditching their jackets for shorts.
"We had to come out. We said if we don't come out, it's a sin," said Christiana Chae.
"We are outside enjoying the scenery and having food and being happy because we haven't been happy in a while with the weather we have had," said Greg Jackson
For those who have to work outside, the toasty temps made the job easier or even enjoyable.
"Beautiful out. First day with just a t-shirt on and already working on the tan. It's nice. Less clothing, easier to move and get a lot more done," said construction worker Michelle Calcagno.
By mid-afternoon, the mercury had climbed into the mid 80s, making it the warmest day since last September. As is typical this time of year, it was significantly cooler along the lakefront with temperatures there around 70 degrees.
Lake Michigan's water temperature was still only around 50, making it too cold to swim. But sunbathing was in full swing at many Chicago beaches.
According to ABC7 meteorologist Mike Caplan, Wednesday will also be warm, with a high of 84 degrees.
Tthe old record for this date - 89 degrees- was set back in 1896.
