Chicago Street Festivals: Save the Date!

Chicago summer festivals

If you’ve checked out this post, or follow on Instagram, you know Chicago street festivals are one of the best parts about summer!

Every weekend, the city is bustling with fests that celebrate a local neighborhood or art. With live music and endless opportunities to shop, eat, and drink local, these block parties are the best way to enjoy the warm weather.

We’ve already checked out a few Chicago street festivals, but the season is really just getting started.

Are you a  local or have a visit planned in the next few months? Check out the Chicago street festivals we’re most excited for below!

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Chicago Food Truck Fest, June 22 -23: Stomach is growling over here just looking at the vendor line up…Lucy’s and Harold’s fried chicken, The Happy Lobster, Cheesie’s and more! Tickets start at $10.

Chicago summer festivals

Chicago Pride Fest, June 22 – 23: A celebration of diversity and equality in the Boystown neighborhood. Between the fabulous Drag shows, photo booths, and nostalgic boy bands, this fest is always a good time. Small donation recommended.

Taste of Chicago, July 10 – 14: Since 1980, Grant Park has been home to this massive food fest where attendees can swap tickets for basically anytime of cuisine. The city skyline and lake views are prime! Free admission.

Chicago summer festivals

Windy City Smokeout, July 12 – 14: A must for country music and BBQ lover’s. While we aren’t heavy on the country, we are heavy on the BBQ. Famous joints from around the country show up here! Tickets start at $40.

Wicker Park Fest, July 26 – 28: Your classic fest with 50+ bands, local arts and crafts, and food vendors. We don’t spend enough time in this cool, eclectic neighborhood west of the city, so this is always a fun excuse to get back over there! Small donation recommended.

Chicago street festivals

Fiesta del Sol, July 25 – 28: We just discovered this and are so pumped for it. A four day family friendly festival in the heart of Chicago’s Mexican neighborhood? Yes, please. Check it for some of the best tacos, tamales and tostadas in town. Free admission.

Chicago summer festivals

Chicago Hot Dog Fest, Aug. 9 – 11: Delicious franks prepared in all sorts of regional/ethical styles. Fun entertainment for all ages. This small fest near the beach should be your snack stop after an afternoon of sun and sand! Small donation suggested.

chicago street festivals

Taste of Greektown, Aug. 23 – 25: We love Greek food and this marks Greektown’s 30th festival year! Come for all the incredible food, stay for the free smells and festive dancing. Small donation suggested.

chicago street festivals

Lakeview Festival of the Arts, Sept. 14 – 15: Ok, so we’re a little bias – this festival is not far from home, but it is one of the best I promise. There are 150+ impressive, unique artists to browse as you jam to old and new hits by famous local bands. Small donation suggested.

chicago street festivals

Oktoberfest Chicago at St. Alphonsus, Sept. 27 – 29: One of our favorite ways each year to transition from summer to fall. Tasty German food (brats & pretzels), beer, and Bavarian music make for a good time! Entry is $10 Fri/Sat and $5 Sun.

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Chicago summer festivals

Now tell me, which festival are you most excited to hear about??

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