Chicago Breaks Century-Old Temperature Record as 'Fake Spring' Draws Residents Outdoors

Chicago shattered a 100-year-old weather record on Presidents Day as temperatures soared to 65 degrees, prompting residents to flock outdoors for activities typically reserved for warmer months.

The previous record of 58 degrees was set in 1921, according to weather data. Monday’s high temperature climbed 29 degrees above the average February high of 36 degrees, marking an extraordinary departure from typical winter weather.

The warm spell represents seven consecutive days with temperatures breaking 50 degrees, creating what many residents called a “fake spring” in the middle of winter.

At Gately Park on the city’s far South Side, the Chicago Park District organized a free Teens in the Park Field Day to coincide with Chicago Public Schools’ Presidents Day closure. Teen Engagement Manager Temeszja Drummond said the event provided children with structured activities during the school holiday.

“Not having a place to go, not having things to do is a recipe for a disaster in my book, and we are making sure that we are providing access to those spaces again that they would never have elsewhere,” Drummond said.

The unseasonable warmth drew crowds to Chicago’s lakefront, where cyclists and joggers took advantage of ice-free conditions along Lake Michigan. Janet Kanakarin, walking her dog near the lake, said the experience was unprecedented for February.

“I’ve never been on the lakefront in February before. It’s usually all iced over. So, this is a nice treat,” Kanakarin said.

Kathleen Dragan celebrated her birthday with an eight-mile morning run, escaping the confines of indoor winter exercise.

“I’m going on an 8-mile run because it’s gorgeous. I’ve been on the treadmill way too much this winter. So excited to be out here,” Dragan said.

Sugar Creek Golf Course experienced an unexpected rush of activity on what would normally be a quiet winter Monday. Golfers called throughout the weekend seeking tee times, according to course staff who typically spend February on off-season maintenance projects like painting and cleaning.

Golf Pro Cory Ferrell said players were motivated by the novelty of February golf in Illinois.

“They want to play in February just so they can say they got their patch, ‘I played in February in Illinois,’” Ferrell said. “We’ve got 60 degrees out, and people are not even thinking about the cold temperatures. They’re just thinking about getting their golf game on.”

First-time February golfer Bill Swanson said he planned his day around the forecast.

“This is a first, period. I saw the forecast, and I knew exactly where I was going to be,” Swanson said.

The Morton Arboretum also drew large crowds as visitors took advantage of the holiday and warm weather to explore 16 miles of hiking trails and outdoor sculptures. Ellyn Fortino with the Morton Arboretum reported steady visitor traffic throughout the day.

Linda Tomczynski, visiting the arboretum, marveled at the timing.

“We came out because, when’s the last time it was 62 degrees on February 16? It’s crazy!” Tomczynski said.

Fellow visitor Kristen Kastrzewa expressed relief after a challenging winter season.

“It’s crazy. It’s been a hard winter. Very happy to be outside!” Kastrzewa said.

York High School sophomore Evan Link used his Presidents Day break to enjoy the outdoors, noting that colder temperatures are forecast for the coming week.

“I was checking the weather, and even next week, it’s going to be really cold. Lucky to get this nice weekend,” Link said.

Ferrell said Sugar Creek Golf Course plans to remain open for additional days to capitalize on the continued warm forecast, extending an already remarkable February golf season.