MAY 27-31;
Gaelic Park Irish Fest Fri 27–May 30 at noon. Gaelic Park, 6119 W 147th St, Oak Forest (708-687-9323). $15, kids and seniors $12. Step dance into Oak Forest for this four-day Irish bonanza featuring live music, dancing, games and theater. Headliners include Ronan Tynan, Leahy and Tartan Terrors.
* International Mr. Leather Weekend Fri 27, Sat 28, 11–2am; Sun 29, 11am–midnight; May 30, 11am–5pm. Hyatt Regency Chicago, 151 E Wacker Dr (312-565-1234). El: Brown, Orange, Green, Pink, Purple (rush hrs) to State/Lake. Bus: 2, 3, 6, 145, 146, 147, 151, 157. Bronze package $165, silver package $180, gold package $195. What started out as a contest in a bar in 1979 is now a four-day event featuring a fetish and leather market, a physique competition, and, of course, the annual crowning of International Mr. Leather himself.
Belmont-Sheffield Music Festival Sat 28, Sun 29, noon–10pm. Sheffield Ave between Belmont Ave and School St (773-868-3010). El: Red, Brown, Purple (rush hrs) to Belmont. Bus: 22, 77. $5. Kick off your Memorial Day weekend by singing along to cover bands like Too White Crew and Wedding Banned.
Randolph Street Market Festival Final weekend of the month through September: Saturdays 10am–5pm, Sundays 10am–4pm. 1350 block of W Randolph St (312-666-1200). El: Green, Pink to Ashland. Bus: 9, 20. $10, online $8. This monthly fest is home to the Chicago Antique Market and Indie Designer Market. Swap vinyl, feast on fancy foods and check out the Global Goods Bazaar. Peruse antiques or bring your own for appraisal.
## JUNE;
* FREE Maifest Chicago Thu 2, 5–9:30pm; Fri 3, 5–11pm; Sat 4, noon–11pm; Sun 5, noon–10pm. N Lincoln Ave at Leland Ave. El: Brown to Western. Bus: 11, 49, 49B. It wouldn’t be the Lincoln Square tradition without maypole dancing, the official keg tapping and the crowning of the queen. Retro rock bands the Polkaholics and the Captain Blood Orchestra headline.
FREE Chicago Eastside Millennium Art Festival Fri 3, noon–5pm; Sat 4, Sun 5, 10am–5pm. Lake St at Michigan Ave (847-926-4300). El: Blue, Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple (rush hrs) to Clark/Lake; Red to Lake. Bus: 3, 4, 26, 66, 124, 143, 145, 147, 148, 151, 157. This third annual fest showcases ceramics, fiber, glass, jewelry and other artworks by more than 150 juried artisans.
* Do Division Street Festival and Sidewalk Sale Sat 4, Sun 5, noon–10pm. Division St between Leavitt St and Ashland Ave (773-278-6600). El: Blue to Division. Bus: 9, 50, 70. $5. Sip on PBR and shop ten blocks of trendy boutiques and sidewalk vendors at this hipster-approved fest. Headliners include Big Freedia, Javelin, a Place to Bury Strangers and Omar Souleyman.
FREE 57th Street Art Fair Sat 4, 11am–6pm; Sun 5, 10am–5pm. 57th St between Kenwood and Kimbark Aves. Bus: 2, 15, 28, 172. The oldest juried art fair in Chicago has been dealing paintings, sculptures and jewelry since 1963.
June Jam Sat 4, Sun 5, noon–10pm. 3500 N Hoyne Ave (773-665-4682). El: Brown to Addison. Bus: 50, 152. $5. School feels like it’s out for the summer at this kid-friendly celebration held at Audubon Elementary School and the surrounding neighborhood.
Lake View Sausage Fest Sat 4, Sun 5, noon–10pm. 3600–3700 N Sheffield Ave (773-868-3010). El: Red to Addison. Bus: 22, 152. Before 5pm $5, after 5pm $7. Formerly known as the Lake View Music Fest, this neighborhood party still features live tunes and a view of Wrigley Field. This year, gorge on encased meat from some quality vendors.
Chicago Blues Festival 2011 Performers :
Uploaded by ChicagoCultureEvents on May 10, 2011
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FREE Chicago Blues Festival Fri 10–Sun 12, 11am–9:30pm. Grant Park, 300 S Columbus Dr (312-744-3316). El: Red to Monroe; Blue to Washington; Orange, Green, Pink, Purple (rush hrs), Brown to Randolph. Bus: 3, 4, 6, 10, 14, 26, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 151, 157. Get the blues all weekend long and feel good about it. This year, the largest free blues festival in the world celebrates the centennial birthday of Robert Johnson, the musician behind our city’s beloved anthem “Sweet Home Chicago.” David Honeyboy Edwards headlines.
FREE Fiesta Back of the Yards Fri 10, 5–10pm; Sat 11, Sun 12, 10am–10pm. 47th St at Damen Ave. Bus: 47, 48. Taco vendors, a carnival, and live entertainment from bands, DJs and Mexican performers give this fest a distinctive Latino flavor.
* Neon Marshmallow Music Festival Fri 10, 7:30pm–2am; Sat 11, 7:30pm–3am; Sun 12, 7:30pm–2am. Empty Bottle, 1035 N Western Ave (773-276-3600). Bus: 49, 66, 70. $25, three-day pass $70. Now in its second year, this hard-hitting experimental and electronic music party will melt your face. The lineup includes Morton Subotnick, Oneohtrix Point Never, Pelt and dozens more.
Party at St. Mike’s Fri 10, 5–10pm; Sat 11, 3–10pm; Sun 12, 2–9pm. St. Michael’s Church, 1633 N Cleveland Ave (312-337-1938). Bus: 11, 22, 72. $5. The quiet streets around 150-year-old St. Michael’s church in Old Town are transformed into a neighborhood festival complete with live music, beer and sangria, and local eateries.
Ribfest Chicago Fri 10, 5–10pm; Sat 11, Sun 12, noon–10pm. Lincoln Ave at Damen Ave and Irving Park Rd. El: Brown to Irving Park. Bus: 11, 50, 80. $5. This fest started as a neighborhood block party more than a decade ago and now hosts indie bands on two stages, a kids’ square and a rib cook-off. Bring extra wet wipes for Friday’s RibMania, which touts itself as the Midwest’s professional rib-eating contest.
* United Sounds of America: A Journey through Musical Roots Fri 10, Sat 11, 8pm; Sun 12, 7pm. Through Jun 18. Symphony Center, 220 S Michigan Ave (312-294-3000). El: Blue, Red to Jackson; Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple (rush hrs) to Adams. Bus: 1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 14, 26, 28, 126, 144, 145, 146, 147. $25–$70. Explore America’s musical landscape with a series of concerts featuring music originating from and inspired by New York City (Jun 10), Route 66 (Jun 11), New Orleans (Jun 12), Memphis (Jun 16), Detroit (Jun 17) and Austin (Jun 18). Famous musicians like Kurt Elling, Arlo Guthrie and Alejandro Escovedo will be your guides.
ArtsAlive! Sat 11, 3–10pm. 3800 block of N Kedvale Ave, adjacent to Disney II Magnet School. El: Blue to Irving Park. Metra: Union Pacific NW. Before 6pm $10, kids free; after 6pm $15. This kid-friendly fest features music, performances and hands-on activities.
FREE City Wilds Festival Sat 11, 10am–10pm; Sun 12, 10am–3pm. North Park Village Nature Center, 5801 N Pulaski Rd (312-744-5472). Bus: 53, 84. Staff and scientists help visitors explore plants and animals in the nature preserve. On Sunday, take part in music, storytelling and workshops.
Midsommarfest Sat 11, Sun 12, 11am–10pm. 5200 N Clark St at Foster Ave (773-665-4682). El: Red to Berwyn. Bus: 22, 92. $5. Take a dance around the maypole at Andersonville’s 46th annual celebration of traditional Nordic food, dance and entertainment.
Old Town Art Fair Sat 11, Sun 12, 10am–6pm. Lincoln Ave and Wisconsin St. Metra: 11, 22, 36, 76. $7, kids 12 and under free. This craft fair has been taking over Old Town for more than six decades, and it now exhibits the work of 260 artists. Meander through vendor booths, sample food from local eateries and listen to live music.
Wells Street Art Festival Sat 11, Sun 12, 10am–10pm. Wells St between North Ave and Division St (773-868-3010). El: Red to Clark/Division; Brown, Purple (rush hrs) to Sedgwick. Bus: 9, 22, 36, 70, 72, 156. Before 5pm $7; after 5pm $10. More than 300 artisans display their wares at the 37th annual event, which also features live music from 10,000 Maniacs and other acts
Just for Laughs Tue 14–Sun 19. Various locations including the Chicago Theatre, 175 N State St. Prices vary. Back in Chicago for a third year, this TBS-sponsored fest ropes in comedy favorites like Demetri Martin, Joel McHale, George Lopez and Louis C.K. Check the fest’s website for exact showtimes and locations.
FREE Fiesta Puertorriqueñas Tue 14–Thu 16, 4–10pm; Fri 17, 4–11pm; Sat 18, 2–11pm; Sun 19, 2–10pm. Division St between Western Ave and Rockwell St. Bus: 49, 70. Come summer, the party in Humboldt Park never seems to end. The neighborhood’s fiesta season begins with one of the largest and lengthiest fests in Chicago. Originating in 1964, this celebration of Puerto Rican heritage includes performances by Latin entertainers, carnival rides, food and crafts vendors, and a parade on Saturday.
* FREE Grant Park Music Festival Wed 15, Fri 17 at 6:30pm; Sat 18 at 7:30pm; runs through Aug 20. Millennium Park, Pritzker Pavilion, 205 E Randolph St (312-742-7638). El: Red to Monroe; Blue to Washington; Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple (rush hrs) to Randolph. Bus: 3, 4, 6, 10, 14, 26, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 151, 157. Drop a blanket and unpack the wine and cheese: The sounds of Grant Park Orchestra serenade the crowds on Pritzker Pavilion’s lawn. Expect good music and a laid-back atmosphere with plenty of finger batons. For classical-music purists, ticketed seats are also available.
* United Sounds of America: A Journey through Musical Roots Thu 16–Sat 18 at 8pm. Symphony Center, 220 S Michigan Ave (312-294-3000). El: Blue, Red to Jackson; Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple (rush hrs) to Adams. Bus: 1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 14, 26, 28, 126, 144, 145, 146, 147. $25–$70. Explore America’s musical landscape with a series of concerts featuring music originating from and inspired by New York City (Jun 10), Route 66 (Jun 11), New Orleans (Jun 12), Memphis (Jun 16), Detroit (Jun 17) and Austin (Jun 18). Famous musicians like Kurt Elling, Arlo Guthrie and Alejandro Escovedo will be your guides.
FREE Chicago Peace Fest Fri 17–Sun 19, noon–9pm. 1700 N Stockton Dr. Bus: 11, 22, 36, 73, 151, 156. Yeah brah, it’s like totally time to participate in light shows and drum circles and stuff. Listen to DJs and bands including Old Shoe and Malafacha.
Festa Pasta Vino Fri 17, 5–11pm; Sat 18, noon–11pm; Sun 19, noon–9pm. Oakley Ave at 24th St (630-962-7000). El: Pink to Western. Bus: 49, 60. $7, seniors $5, kids free. Watch as this neighborhood transforms into an Italian piazza, complete with Venetian performers and a full-scale replica of the Trevi Fountain. The three-day celebration serves up live entertainment and cuisine from local restos such as La Fontanella, Bacchanalia and Ignotz’s.
* Taste of Randolph Street Fri 17, 5–11pm; Sat 18, Sun 19, 2–11pm. 900–1200 W Randolph St (773-665-4682). El: Green, Pink to Ashland. $10. Eat your way through six blocks of trendy West Loop restaurants. The festival often showcases a stellar lineup of national indie bands.
Custer’s Last Stand Festival of the Arts Sat 18, Sun 19, 10am–9pm. Main St and Chicago Ave, Evanston (847-328-2204). El: Purple to Main. Bus: 205. $1. Named after Custer Avenue, the street where it started 39 years ago, this Evanston fest offers arts and crafts, a North American Indian Pow-Wow and an eco-village.
6 Corners BBQ Fest Sat 18, noon–10pm; Sun 19, noon–8pm. 4000–4080 N Milwaukee Ave (773-685-9300). Bus: 54, 54A, 56, 80. $5. At this Portage Park neighborhood cookout (which celebrates the end of construction in the area), families can check out rock and country music, a reptile show, and WWE wrestlers.
* FREE Grant Park Music Festival Wed 22, Fri 24 at 6:30pm; Sat 25 at 7:30pm. Millennium Park, Pritzker Pavilion, 205 E Randolph St (312-742-7638). El: Red to Monroe; Blue to Washington; Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple (rush hrs) to Randolph. Bus: 3, 4, 6, 10, 14, 26, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 151, 157. Drop a blanket and unpack the wine and cheese: The sounds of Grant Park Orchestra serenade the crowds on Pritzker Pavilion’s lawn. Expect good music and a laid-back atmosphere with plenty of finger batons. For classical-music purists, ticketed seats are also available.
Bloomington Gold Corvette Show Thu 23–Sun 26, 7am–5pm. Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E Main St, St. Charles (309-888-4477). $15–$40. Check out the sweet rides at the “Granddaddy of Corvette Shows.” The show features a contest for best classic Vette, vendors and a collector car show.
Chicago Pride Fest Fri 24, 3–10pm; Sat 25, 11am–10pm. Halsted St at Waveland Ave (773-868-3010). El: Red to Addison. Bus: 8, 36, 152. Before 5pm $7; after 5pm $10. Music, costumes and female impersonators will rule Halsted Street during this gay festival, which leads up to the annual Pride Parade on Sunday.
FREE Taste of Chicago Fri 24–Jul 3, 11am–8:30pm. Columbus Dr from Balbo Dr to Monroe Dr. El: Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple (rush hrs) to Adams; Blue, Red to Jackson. Bus: 1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 14, 26, 28, 126, 145, 146, 147. This year, the City of Chicago passed off Taste to the Chicago Park District. Other big changes: Celtic, Gospel, Country and Viva! festivals have been rolled into the behemoth celebration. Foodwise, it’s business as usual; Buy 12 tickets for $8 (discounts available at Dominick’s). Break out your pants with the elastic waistband, and make room for bites from dozens of vendors.
Chicago Summerfest Sat 25, noon–10pm; Sun 26, noon–9pm. 2045 N Lincoln Park West (773-665-4682). Bus: 11, 22, 36, 73, 151, 156. $5. After getting your fill of live music, food, drinks and artist vendors, you can take a guided architecture and history tour of the neighborhood.
Fountain Square Art Festival Sat 25, Sun 26, 10am–6pm. Sherman Ave and Church St, Evanston (773-868-3010). El: Purple to Davis. Bus: Pace 201, Pace 205. Metra: Union Pacific N to Davis. $5. Check out crafts from more than 225 artisans at this Evanston street festival.
* Green Music Fest Sat 25, Sun 26, noon–10pm. Damen Ave between North Ave and Schiller St (312-850-9390). El: Blue to Damen. Bus: 50, 56, 72. $5. Grab your reusable tote and buy the latest ecofriendly products at this fest, which takes place at a new Wicker Park location. Yo La Tengo, Les Savy Fav and the Thermals provide the soundtrack, courtesy of biodiesel generators.
## June 27–July 4;
UPDATE - There will be no city-run July 3rd or July 4th fireworks show this year: That means Chicago’s only official fireworks will be the previously scheduled show at 9 p.m. July 4 at Navy Pier. That 15-minute show is paid for by the Metropolitan Pier and Exposition Authority.
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FREE Taste of Chicago Mon 27–Sat 2, 11am–8:30pm; Sun 3, 11am–6pm. Columbus Dr from Balbo Dr to Monroe Dr. El: Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple (rush hrs) to Adams; Blue, Red to Jackson. Bus: 1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 14, 26, 28, 126, 145, 146, 147. This year, the City of Chicago passed off Taste to the Chicago Park District. Other big changes: Celtic, Gospel, Country and Viva! festivals have been rolled into the behemoth celebration. Foodwise, it’s business as usual; Buy 12 tickets for $8 (discounts available at Dominick’s). Break out your pants with the elastic waistband, and make room for bites from dozens of vendors.
Taste of Lombard Thu 30, Fri 1, 5–11pm; Sat 2, Sun 3, noon–11pm. Through Jul 4. Madison Meadows Park, Madison St at Lewis Ave, Lombard. $3, kids 9 and under free. Live entertainment, a carnival, and a slew of local restaurants and food vendors round out this fest in the West Suburbs.
African Caribbean International Festival of Life Fri 1–Jul 4, noon–10pm. Washington Park, 55th St and Cottage Grove Ave (312-427-0266). El: Green to Garfield. Bus: 2, 4, 55, 171, 172. Before 5pm $10, after 5pm $15, kids $5. This year, Caribbean Festival joins forces with the International Festival of Life. Sounds even yummier. Get together and feel all right at this South Side celebration of life, music and health awareness. Take in food, arts and crafts, and live reggae and calypso beats.
Chicago Botanic Garden Art Festival Fri 1–Sun 3, 10am–5pm. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Rd, Glencoe (847-835-5440). Metra: Union Pacific N to Braeside. Parking $20. For these artisans, there’s room to grow: Botanic-themed or plant-made paintings, jewelry and photography are on sale at the fest. Artist demos and family activities are also on tap.
Eyes to the Skies Festival Fri 1, 1–11pm; Sat 2, Sun 3, 11am–11pm. Lisle Community Park, 1825 Short St, Lisle (630-964-3410). Metra: Burlington/Santa Fe to Lisle. $5, kids under 5 free. Hot-air balloons take to the sky daily at 6am and 6pm and grounded balloons fire up nightly around 8:30pm. Stay for the carnival, craft fair, kids’ area, fireworks, food and live music each night.
* Naperville Ribfest Fri 1–Jul 4, noon–10pm. Knoch Park, 700 S West St, Naperville. Metra: Burlington/Santa Fe to Naperville. $12, kids under 11 free. For more than two decades, this pork party has been serving up grilled grub and rock- and country-flavored tunes. This year, headliners include Montgomery Gentry, REO Speedwagon and Styx.
African Caribbean International Festival of Life Mon 4, noon–10pm. Washington Park, 55th St and Cottage Grove Ave (312-427-0266). El: Green to Garfield. Bus: 2, 4, 55, 171, 172. Before 5pm $10, after 5pm $15, kids $5. This year, Caribbean Festival joins forces with the International Festival of Life. Sounds even yummier. Get together and feel all right at this South Side celebration of life, music and health awareness. Take in food, arts and crafts, and live reggae and calypso beats.
FREE Fourth of July Fireworks Mon 4 at 9pm. Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave. El: Red to Chicago. Bus: 29, 65, 66 . With the City of Chicago canning its big fireworks show, Navy Pier is Independence Day central. A patriotic soundtrack plays as fireworks erupt overhead.
* Glen Ellyn’s Fourth of July Fireworks Mon 4 at 1pm. Lake Ellyn Park, 645 Lenox Rd, Glen Ellyn. Metra: Union Pacific W to Glen Ellyn. 1–4pm $2, fireworks free. Independence Day festivities begin in Glen Ellyn with a parade at noon, carnival games from 1–4pm and fireworks at dusk.
FREE Itasca’s Fantastic Fireworks Mon 4, 4–11pm. Hamilton Lakes Office Campus, Park Blvd at Thorndale Ave, Itasca (630-773-0835). Independence Day goes off with a bang at one of Illinois’s largest fireworks displays. The live music starts around 6pm; fireworks commence around 9:30pm.
Lake Forest Festival & Fireworks Mon 4, 3–10pm. Deerpath Park, Deerpath Rd at Hastings Rd, Lake Forest (773-868-3010). Metra: Union Pacific N to Lake Forest. $10, kids 5 and under free. Rick Springfield headlines this suburban fireworks festival.
* Naperville Ribfest Mon 4, noon–10pm. Knoch Park, 700 S West St, Naperville. Metra: Burlington/Santa Fe to Naperville. $12, kids under 11 free. For more than two decades, this pork party has been serving up grilled grub and rock- and country-flavored tunes. This year, headliners include Montgomery Gentry, REO Speedwagon and Styx.
Taste of Lombard Mon 4, noon–11pm. Madison Meadows Park, Madison St at Lewis Ave, Lombard. $3, kids 9 and under free. Live entertainment, a carnival, and a slew of local restaurants and food vendors round out this fest in the West Suburbs.
## END OF JULY 4 WEEKEND; STARTING JULY 6...
* FREE Grant Park Music Festival Wed 6, Fri 8 at 6:30pm; Sat 9 at 7:30pm. Millennium Park, Pritzker Pavilion, 205 E Randolph St (312-742-7638). El: Red to Monroe; Blue to Washington; Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple (rush hrs) to Randolph. Bus: 3, 4, 6, 10, 14, 26, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 151, 157. Drop a blanket and unpack the wine and cheese: The sounds of Grant Park Orchestra serenade the crowds on Pritzker Pavilion’s lawn. Expect good music and a laid-back atmosphere with plenty of finger batons. For classical-music purists, ticketed seats are also available.
FREE Neighborhood Boys & Girls Club Family Fest Wed 6–Fri 8, 6–11pm; Sat 9, Sun 10, 2–11pm. 3900 N Rockwell St. Bus: 80. This benefit for the Neighborhood Boys & Girls Club youth programs boasts carnival rides, live music, food and a beer garden.
* FREE Chicago SummerDance Thu 7–Sept 18. Grant Park, Spirit of Music Garden, 601 S Michigan Ave. El: Red to Harrison. Bus: 1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 14, 26, 28, 126, 145, 146, 147. Kick up your heels at this annual series of couples dances Thursday through Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons. For the first hour of each event, a professional instructor conducts dance lessons. After that, let the world (or, at least, Grant Park) see your skills during live music and dancing sessions.
Cans Music Fest Fri 8, Sat 9, 5–11pm. Damen Ave at Concord Pl (773-227-2277). El: Blue to Damen. Metra: 50, 56, 72. $5. If you’re down with O.P.P., get to this festival. On Saturday, Naughty by Nature headlines.
FREE Chicago Tribune North Michigan Avenue Arts Fest Fri 8, Sat 9, 10am–6pm; Sun 10, 10am–5pm. Pioneer Court, 435 N Michigan Ave (561-746-6615). El: Red to Grand. Bus: 2, 3, 10, 26, 66, 120, 121, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 148, 151, 157. Cruise the Mag Mile, but not for fashion. This three-day fest hawks art from more than 300 juried artists.
Irish American Heritage Festival Fri 8, 6pm–midnight; Sat 9, noon–midnight; Sun 10, noon–11pm. Irish American Heritage Center, 4626 N Knox Ave (773-282-7035). El: Blue to Montrose. Bus: 54, 78. $14, seniors $7, kids 12 and under free. Dance a jig to live bands, including Gaelic Storm, the Tossers and Scythian. Enter a mashed-potato-eating contest or a singing contest, or hope for the luck of the Irish at the Hooley hook-up matchmaking event.
* Chicago Folk & Roots Festival Sat 9, Sun 10, noon–10pm. Welles Park, 4400 N Lincoln Ave (773-728-6000). El: Brown to Western. Bus: 11, 49, 78. $10, kids and seniors $5. Get folksy at this annual world-music fete, organized by Old Town School of Folk Music. The lineup includes Baloji, Maracs, Rosie Flores & Friends, and Delbert McClinton. Learn everything from the hula to the rhumba in the dance tent. Little ones can make music in the kids’ tent.
* Chicago Ice Cream Festival Sat 9, noon–5pm; Sun 10, noon–7pm. Ravenswood Event Center, 4011 N Ravenswood Ave (773-388-2170). El: Brown to Irving Park. Bus: 9, 80. $15, kids $10. Scream for ice cream at this micro-creamery celebration. The fest features tastings, chef battles, homemade ice-cream workshops and book signings.
FREE Gold Coast Art Fair Sat 9, Sun 10, 9am–7pm. Butler Field, Grant Park, 100 S Lake Shore Dr (847-926-4300). El: Red to Jackson; Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple (rush hrs) to Adams. Bus: 1, 3, 4, 6, 7, 10, 14, 26, 28, 126, 144, 145, 146, 147. Grant Park plays host to this 54th annual event, which showcases the work of more than 350 juried artists.
Roscoe Village Burger Fest Sat 9, Sun 10, 11am–10pm. Belmont Ave at Damen Ave (773-868-3010). El: Brown to Paulina. Bus: 50, 77. $5 before 5pm, $7 after 5pm. Even vegetarians will find their perfect patty at this North Side neighborhood fest featuring local restos and live music from Foghat, the Smithereens, Todd Carey, Divebar, Canasta, Arra and School of Rock.
* West Fest Sat 9, Sun 10, noon–10pm. Chicago Ave between Wood St and Damen Ave (312-850-9390). Bus: 66, 50. $5. Stroll down Chicago Avenue for this West Town festival, and you’ll find a solid lineup of music.
Halsted Tastes Better Mon 11, 6–9pm. Halsted St and Aldine St (773-883-0500). El: Red, Brown, Purple (rush hrs) to Belmont. Bus: 8, 77, 152. $35, advance $25. Feast on delicacies from local restos, listen to live jazz and cheer on your favorite server at the Waiter’s Race. Price includes food and drink tickets.
Bastille Day 5K Run, Walk & Block Party Thu 14, 7:30–10pm. Cannon Dr and Fullerton Ave (773-868-3010). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs), Red to Fullerton. Bus: 22, 151, 156. $30–$37; block party only $5. After you break a sweat in the 5K, cool down at the block party, which starts at 8:30pm at the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum (2430 N Cannon Dr). The party celebrates all things French with food, live music and cabaret. Proceeds benefit the Mercy Home for Boys and Girls.
BenFest Fri 15, 4–11pm; Sat 16, 4–11pm. St. Benedict’s Parish, 2215 W Irving Park Rd (773-588-6484). El: Brown to Addison. Bus: 11, 49, 80. Before 8pm $5, after 8pm $10. The folks at St. Benedict throw this bash each year to benefit their schools and parish. Chow down on food, listen to bands, and register for the $10,000 raffle. Dot Dot Dot headlines.
Old St. Pat’s World’s Largest Block Party Fri 15, Sat 16, 5:30–10:30pm. Madison St at Des Plaines St (312-648-1590). El: Green, Pink to Clinton. Bus: 14, 20, 56. $45, advance $40, two-day pass $70. This jammy singles-friendly fest boasts that it has brought together several sets of spouses over nearly three decades. Price includes five beverages.
* Pitchfork Music Festival Fri 15, 3–10pm; Sat 16, Sun 17, noon–10pm. Union Park, 1501 W Randolph St (312-742-7529). El: Green, Pink to Ashland. Bus: 9. $45 per day. Join throngs of indie-music fans descending on Union Park for this Chicago tradition. This year, headliners include Animal Collective, Neko Case, Fleet Foxes and TV on the Radio.
Taste of River North Fri 15, 5–10pm; Sat 16, noon–10pm; Sun 17, 11am–6pm. Kingsbury St at Erie St. El: Blue to Grand. Bus: 8, 66. $5. The Chicago riverfront serves as the backdrop for this festival of neighborhood restaurants, art galleries and merchants. Walk or take a water taxi to the fest, which also includes activities for kids and pets and a lineup of live bands.
Windy City Ribfest in Uptown Fri 15, 4–10pm; Sat 16, Sun 17, noon–10pm. Lawrence Ave at Broadway (773-868-3010). El: Red to Lawrence. Bus: 36, 81. $5. Give up trying to keep your hands clean. Embrace the saucy mess at this third annual Uptown fest. Performers include Rusted Root, Georgie Porgie and Linda Clifford.
Edgewater Arts Festival Sat 16, 11am–6pm. 5917 N Broadway. El: Red to Thorndale. Bus: 36, 136, 147, 151. Donation TBA. Live music accompanies a selection of fine art, and local arts and crafts for sale.
FREE Evanston Ethnic Arts Festival Sat 16, Sun 17, noon–7pm. Dawes Park, Sheridan Rd at Church St, Evanston. El: Purple to Davis. Bus: 93, 205. Several nations are represented at this feel-good multiculti fest showcasing music, dance, food and visual arts from around the world.
Lincoln Park Arts & Music Festival Sat 16, noon–10pm; Sun 17, noon–9pm. Racine Ave between Fullerton and Webster Aves (773-868-3010). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs), Red to Fullerton. Bus: 11, 74. $5. This third annual festival showcases nearly 100 artists, accompanied by live music and food vendors.
Sound System Block Party Sat 16, noon–10pm. Milwaukee Ave at Evergreen Ave (773-278-7130). El: Blue to Damen. Bus: 50, 56. $5. Hosted by the Silver Room, this dance-heavy party celebrates art, music, bike fashion and deejayed music.
FREE Chinatown Summer Fair Sun 17, 10am–8pm. Wentworth Ave and Cermak Rd (773-868-3010). El: Red to Cermak/Chinatown. Bus: 21, 62. Celebrate Chinese culture with a parade, arts and crafts, and, of course, food.
Dearborn Garden Walk Sun 17, noon–5pm. Enter at Latin Lower School, 1531 N Dearborn St (312-632-1241). Bus: 9, 11, 22, 36, 72, 73. $35, advance $30. Learn to walk the walk of residents in fancy Dearborn Parkway graystones. Tour more than 20 private gardens and listen to live jazz and classical music.
FREE Festival of the Lakes Wed 20, Thu 21, 5–11pm; Fri 22, noon–11pm; Sat 23, 7am–11pm; Sun 24, 8am–11pm. Wolf Lake Memorial Park, 2938 S Calumet Ave, Hammond, IN (219-853-6378). This lake-centric fest 30 miles south of Chicago features music, a carnival and food vendors.
* FREE Grant Park Music Festival Wed 20, Fri 22 at 6:30pm; Sat 23 at 7:30pm. Millennium Park, Pritzker Pavilion, 205 E Randolph St (312-742-7638). El: Red to Monroe; Blue to Washington; Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple (rush hrs) to Randolph. Bus: 3, 4, 6, 10, 14, 26, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 151, 157. Drop a blanket and unpack the wine and cheese: The sounds of Grant Park Orchestra serenade the crowds on Pritzker Pavilion’s lawn. Expect good music and a laid-back atmosphere with plenty of finger batons. For classical-music purists, ticketed seats are also available.
Kane County Fair Wed 20, Thu 21, noon–11pm; Fri 22, Sat 23, noon–midnight; Sun 24, noon–10pm. Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S Randall Rd, St. Charles (630-584-6926). $5–$8. This old-fashioned county fair offers a carnival, a petting zoo, a rodeo and tons of fried food.
* Celebrate Clark Street Sat 23, 1–11pm; Sun 24, 1–10pm. Clark St between Morse and Touhy Aves (773-508-5885). El: Red to Morse. Bus: 22, 155. Metra: Union Pacific N to Rogers Park. $5, family $10. Rogers Park celebrates diversity with live world music, food, art and jewelry. Former HotHouse manager David Chavez always creates a stellar lineup of global sounds.
Sheffield Garden Walk & Festival Sat 23, Sun 24, noon–10pm. Webster St at Sheffield Ave (773-929-9255). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs), Red to Fullerton. Bus: 8, 11, 74. $10, before 3pm $7. Tour nearly 100 resident gardens in the historic Sheffield neighborhood. Stop by the Kids Corner from noon–5pm, eat from local restaurants and listen to folky bands.
* Wicker Park Fest Sat 23, Sun 24, noon–10pm. Milwaukee Ave between North Ave and Wood St (773-384-2672). El: Blue to Damen. Bus: 50, 56, 72. $5. Beginning at the diagonal intersection known as the Crotch, Wicker Park Fest stretches along Milwaukee Avenue. Hipster-friendly acts include Wild Flag, Wavves, Blitzen Trapper, Joe Pug and Flosstradamus.
DuPage County Fair Wed 27–Sun 31, 8am–10pm. DuPage County Fairgrounds, 2015 Manchester Rd, Wheaton (630-668-6636). $8, kids ages 3–12 $3, kids 2 and under free. Funnel cakes, demolition derbies, monster truck races and pop stars abound at this annual county fair. Entertainment admission ticketed separately.
* FREE Grant Park Music Festival Wed 27, Fri 29 at 6:30pm; Sat 30 at 7:30pm. Millennium Park, Pritzker Pavilion, 205 E Randolph St (312-742-7638). El: Red to Monroe; Blue to Washington; Brown, Green, Orange, Pink, Purple (rush hrs) to Randolph. Bus: 3, 4, 6, 10, 14, 26, 143, 144, 145, 146, 147, 151, 157. Drop a blanket and unpack the wine and cheese: The sounds of Grant Park Orchestra serenade the crowds on Pritzker Pavilion’s lawn. Expect good music and a laid-back atmosphere with plenty of finger batons. For classical-music purists, ticketed seats are also available.
FREE Fiesta del Sol Thu 28, 5–10pm; Fri 29, Sat 30, 11am–11pm; Sun 31, 11am–10pm. 1400 W Cermak Rd between Loomis and Morgan Sts. Bus: 9, 21, 60. One of the largest Latino fests in the Midwest, this Pilsen celebration features carnival rides, live music and local art.
* FREE Newberry Library Book Fair and Bughouse Square Debates Thu 28, Fri 29, noon–8pm; Sat 30, Sun 31, 10am–6pm. Newberry Library, 60 W Walton St (312-255-3556). El: Red to Chicago. Bus: 22, 36, 70, 147, 156. This is one for the books. Choose from thousands of used publications for purchase. On Saturday afternoon (1–4pm), watch rabble-rousers take to their soapboxes during the Bughouse Square Debates.
Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival Fri 29, 4–11pm; Sat 30, Sun 31, noon–11pm. Milwaukee Ave between Washtenaw and Dawson Aves (773-278-4257). El: Blue to California, Logan Square. Bus: 52, 56, 74, 76. $5. Nearly two miles of Milwaukee Avenue are curated with pop-up galleries, three stages of live music, performance art and family activities.
* FREE Pierogi Fest Fri 29, Sat 30, 11am–10pm; Sun 31, 11am–5pm. 119th St at Indianapolis Blvd, Whiting, IN (219-659-0292). Head out for a weekend of dumpling adoration and polka passion. In addition to watching dozens of Whiting denizens decked out in pierogi costumes, you can chow down on pierogi, compete in the Pierogi Toss and enter the Pierogi Eating Contest.
* Ghana Fest Sat 30, 11am–10pm. Washington Park, 5600 Russell Dr. Bus: 4, 55. Metra: Green to Garfield. $10. Learn about the Ghanian traditional harvest and fill your plate with yummy regional cuisine.
Summer on Southport Sat 30, 11am–10pm; Sun 31, 11am–9pm. 3700 N Southport Ave (773-665-4682). El: Brown to Southport. Bus: 9, 152. $5. In addition to hosting the tenth annual Children’s Festival (rock wall, mini golf, face painting and more), this fest offers entertainment and dining for grown-ups.
Taste of Lincoln Avenue Sat 30, noon–10pm; Sun 31, 11am–10pm. Lincoln Ave between Fullerton and Wrightwood Aves (773-868-3010). El: Brown, Purple (rush hrs), Red to Fullerton. Bus: 8, 11, 74. $7–$10. Sample food from local vendors along Lincoln Avenue, then shop for handmade goods at the Lill Street Craft Fair. Toad the Wet Sprocket, Sister Hazel and Carbon Leaf will perform.
## HELPFUL INFORMATION ...
CITY OF CHICAGO CULTURAL AFFAIRS and SPECIAL EVENTS: http://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/dca.html
CITY OF CHICAGO Mayors Office for People with Disabilities:
http://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/mopd.html
Chicago Transit Authority: http://www.transitchicago.com/
TIME OUT MAGIZINE: http://timeoutchicago.com/
CHICAGO READER: http://www.chicagoreader.com/
CHICAGO MAGIZINE: http://www.chicagomag.com/
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