Chicagoans enjoy lakefront, festivals despite rainy kickoff for first day of summer

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The start of summer in Chicago brought crowds to the lakefront and neighborhood festivals Sunday, as residents and visitors made the most of the day despite cloudy skies and intermittent rain.

From early morning, people filled the city's lakefront paths, walking, running and biking along the shoreline. For many, the weather did little to disrupt their plans.

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Andre McGowan Sr., visiting his son for Father's Day weekend, planned to spend time out on Lake Michigan.

"It's not going to rain. We're manifesting good times. Great vibes. You know what I meant. I might have to ask the rain gods, do a rain gods in a second, ask it to stay away," McGowan said.

Rain eventually arrived, but it did not stop activity across the city.

At the Obama Presidential Center, visitors continued to explore and celebrate opening weekend festivities as light rain began to fall. Some attendees said the moment carried special meaning.

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"I was fortunate enough to do a little work on some of the pieces here and to kind of see it being installed and put together. So it's really exciting to see it finished," said Ross Fiersten.

A Mariachi band began performing just as the first raindrops hit, with visitors gathering to watch.

"I've only been here 5 minutes and it's just amazing. It's amazing. The show of community. All types of people out here," said Nicole McClelland.

In the Northalsted neighborhood, Pride Fest continued into its second day. While crowds appeared smaller than the day before, attendees said they were still eager to participate.

"We wanted to bring the dog to get socialized and just show a little family pride. He's a 7 month old great pyrenees. This is his very first pride fest. And Fitz's. Our son's too," said Megyn Jennings.

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Visitors continued to browse vendors, watch performances and sample food offerings throughout the festival.

"You can't stop. You gotta keep going. That's how it always is. I wanted to see an artist that I really want to see here so I'm excited to pick up a painting or two," said Andrew Camacho.