CHICAGO STREET FESTIVALS
Neighborhood street festivals not to miss for 2012.
From food fairs to outdoor concerts, Chicago's summer festivals leave no neighborhood uncovered.
1. Randolph Street Market Festival | June 23-24, July 28-29, August 25-26
Called "the Barney's of Vintage," Randolph Street Market in the West Loop sprawls indoors and out. Shoppers make a day of it, trawling the antiques, indie designs and vinyl swap; then they settle in with a glass of vino to hear the live bands.
2. African Caribbean International Festival of Life | July 4-8
Enjoy spectacular music, food, arts, crafts, and more in conjunction with the 31st International Reggae and World Music Awards and in honor of Jamaica's 50th year of independence at this family-friendly event, now in its 20th year.
3. West Fest | July 7-8
Enjoy live cutting edge music, a Kid Fest and a Pet Fest, as well as a multitude of booths from popular neighborhood restaurants, retailers, and artists at this street fair that reflects the eclectic persona of its West Town environs.
4. Windy City Ribfest | July 13-15
The best local and national ribbers mix it up with three days of classic and hot music acts at this fourth annual summer event in the Uptown neighborhood.
5. Chinatown Summer Fair | July 15
Immerse yourself in culture with a Dragon and Lion Dance Procession, live music, authentic food, Chinese arts and crafts exhibits, street vendors and a children's play area.
6. Gold Coast Art Fair | July 14-15
See the works of more than 350 juried artists from around the world, with one-of-a-kind prices ranging from $25 to $25,000.
7. Taste of River North | July 20-22
This bustling downtown district is always a scene. Enjoy amazing food, music, works by artisans, goods from area merchants, and much more at their family-friendly event, now in its 11th year.
8. Sheffield Garden Walk & Festival | July 21-22
Green thumbs and architecture buffs will be at home at this colorful annual event. The historic Lincoln Park neighborhood hosts self-guided tours of more than 80 lovely gardens and guided architectural tours. Live entertainment by some of Chicago's finest bands, food and drink, and activities for children at the Kids Corner round out the weekend festivities.
9. Fiesta del Sol | July 26-29
Enjoy a huge lineup of entertainment and music on two stages, savor a variety of food including authentic Mexican favorites, browse works and engage with artists in the Arts & Culture Pavilion, and bring kids to the Children's Area for face painting, books and educational games, and other fun activities at this great family event, now in its 40th year.
10. Taste of Lincoln Avenue | July 28-29
Catch 40-plus music acts on five diverse stages by performers in many genres including pop/rock, local tribute bands, down home blues and acclaimed national indie/classic rock headliners plus acclaimed local/national kids' acts, food, beer and wine, and a huge offering of arts & craft vendors. Bring kids for the popular kids' carnival with inflatables, art activities galore, a petting zoo and pony rides.
11. Wicker Park Fest | July 28-29
In addition to the highly regarded live music bill, this festival is a showcase of its diverse neighborhood. Historic yet hip, the district's acclaimed restaurants, family activities, trendy fashion scene and distinctive artistic side are all represented.
12. Northalsted Market Days | August 11-12
Revelers gay and straight alike prowl the incense-wafting vendors along Boystown's Halsted Street. Drag queens in feather boas, Twister games played in the street and disco divas on the main stage (lookin' at you, Gloria Gaynor!) are a sure bet.
View our Events Calendar for more street festival dates and details.
