Inaugural Chicago Italian Beef Fest August 2, 2026

More info

Italian beef is Chicago’s love language—thinly sliced, slow-roasted beef piled high on a fresh Italian roll and soaked in savory, seasoned au jus. Top it with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera for the perfect mix of juicy, messy, and absolutely irresistible. Now, it’s time to honor this local legend at the inaugural Chicago Italian Beef Fest Friday, July 31 to Sunday, August 2 The fest will be taking over Jefferson Memorial Park, 4822 N Long Ave, Chicago, IL 60630. Hours are Friday, 5-10 p.m.; Saturday/Sunday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

This mouthwatering celebration will feature some of Chicagoland’s favorite restaurants serving up their unique takes on the iconic sandwich. Vendors include: Bust Outs, Byron’s Hot Dogs, Carm’s Little Italy, Chef Ciccio, Genoa Italian Concession, Leona’s Restaurant and Trogo Kitchen Market.

Attendees can sample, savor, and cast their vote for the Best Italian Beef Sandwich.

Visitors can browse items from Ecodunia – handbags and accessories; Paintings By My Design – hand painted art and Nomadic Maple – syrups and other Canadian delicacies.

Tickets are $10 per day per person or buy 4 tickets for the price of 3.  There are packages available (Family pass 2 adults, 2 kids for $17.. Click here to purchase in advance. Your ticket will allow you to gain access to the 7+ beef vendors, crafters, sponsors, 2 stages of entertainment and the huge kids area!  Chairs and blankets are welcome at this event.  Kids 17 and under are free with a paid parent/guardian!

Music acts include:

Main Stage Entertainment
Friday, July 31
6:00pm – The Birkenrocks

8:00pm – Bostyxx

Saturday, Aug 1
1:00pm – School of Rock

3:00pm – The PriSSillas

4:30pm – Without U2

6:00pm – Simply Billy

8:00pm – Sixteen Candles

Sunday, Aug 2

1:00pm – Bucket Number Six

2:30pm – The Wild Chicago

4:00pm – Simply Elton

6:30pm – The Chicago Experience

Jefferson Park Forward Stage

Friday, July 31

6:00pm – Ian McKinley

7:30pm – Dexter

9:00pm – Emily Jane Powers

Saturday, Aug 1

2:30pm – DJ Sliam

4:00pm – 8-Bit Creeps

5:30pm – The Prime

7:00pm – Salisman

8:30pm – Little Church

Sunday, Aug 2

3:00pm – Chicago Music and Acting Academy

5:30pm – Jefferson Park Songwriters

 “This festival has rebranded to focus on Italian Beef sandwiches,” said Bella Ventresca, Executive Director of the Jefferson Park Chamber of Commerce. “We want to give the festival its own unique Chicago identity. If Italian beefs can be the thing that brings thousands of people into Jefferson Park, that is a huge win for our local economy and our businesses.”

Proceeds go towards the Jefferson Park Chamber of Commerce.  The mission of the Jefferson Park Chamber of Commerce is to advance the business, civic and social interests of its members while enhancing the overall welfare and vitality of the Jefferson Park community. The Chamber supports local businesses, encourages neighborhood connections and works to strengthen Jefferson Park as a welcoming place to live, work and visit.

For information go to https://chicagoevents.com/event/chicago-italian-beef-fest/

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