Chicago comes alive in the summer with a vibrant festival scene. Every weekend, the city hosts events ranging from intimate block parties to massive concerts. Many festivals celebrate Chicago’s diverse culinary landscape, featuring everything from tacos and burgers to craft beers. Attendees can enjoy local food offerings, live music, games, and even dog parades. Below is a guide to some of the city’s most exciting festivals this season.
The Loop and Near North Side
Chicago Gourmet: The Illinois Restaurant Association’s annual festival runs from September 24-26 at the Harris Theater Rooftop at Millennium Park. Events include a taco night, burger feast, grand cru wine tasting, and brunch. Tickets range from $115-$255.
The Great American Lobster Fest: Held September 5-6 at Navy Pier, this fest offers whole Maine lobsters, lobster bisque, rolls, and barbecue. Enjoy live music while exploring crafts from vendors.
Taste of Chicago: Running from July 8-12 at Grant Park, this year features 84 food vendors and trucks alongside live music, showcasing the city’s culinary diversity. Entry is free.
North Side & Northwest Side
Chicago Italian Beef Fest: August 31 – September 2 at Jefferson Memorial Park, enjoy spins on the classic sandwich and live music. Entry is $10.
Chicago Taco & Tequila Fest: Sample local taco offerings and tequila pairings June 26 and 28 at Wrightwood Park. Entry ranges from $15-$18.
Flavors of Albany Park: June 24 offers a restaurant crawl with over 60 participating eateries. Tickets are $45 for adults, $30 for kids.
Horner BrewFest: Sample brews from 35 local breweries July 17 at Horner Park. Entry is $50.
West Side & Near West Side
Taste of Greektown: August 28-30 celebrates Greek cuisine with local restaurant offerings and musical performances. Entry is free with a $10 suggested donation.
Taste of Randolph: June 19-21 features food offerings from West Loop spots and live music. Entry is free.
Windy City Smokeout: Running July 8-12, enjoy barbecue varieties and performances from country music stars like Blake Shelton at United Center. Tickets range from $85-$100.
South Side & Near South Side
Tacos Y Tamales Festival: Held July 17-19, this festival showcases Latin American fare, music, and performances. Entry is free with a $7 suggested donation.
Suburban and Multiple Locations
Bloody Mary Fest: Mixologists compete to craft the best cocktail August 17 at Everts Park. Entry is free.
Blues, Brews and BBQ: Sample beer and barbecue June 20 at The Morton Arboretum. Tickets range from $68-$85.
Evanston Art & Big Fork Festival: August 22-23 provides dishes from local spots while showcasing artwork. Entry is free.
Garlic Fest: August 12 offers garlic-infused dishes at Everts Park. Entry is free.
Oak Park Microbrew Review: August 22 features 40 breweries at 211 S. Marion St., Oak Park. Tickets range from $66-$120.
Prepare to enjoy a summer filled with delicious food and entertainment at these Chicago festivals.