AROUND TOWN: Best Summer Festivals in Chicago

#SummertimeChi is a season that is not to be missed in Chicago. Spending eight months out of the year in our winter coats, well into what should be spring, we are eager to spend summer outside with a cold drink in hand and the sound of music in our ears, literally. Thankfully, there’s no shortage of festivals in Chicago so we’ve rounded up a few of our favorites for you to check out.

Ravenswood on Tap | June 23 and June 24: The third annual Ravenswood on Tap craft beer festival is just around the corner! The two-day outdoor event will take place on Saturday, June 23 and Sunday, June 24 along Ravenswood Ave between Berteau and Belle Plaine. The festival will feature beers and spirits from local breweries including Band of Bohemia, Begyle Brewing Co., Dovetail Brewery, Empirical Brewery, Half Acre Beer Company, KOVAL Distillery, Spiteful Brewing and Urban Renewal Brewery as well as special guests The Northman and Greenstar Brewing. The musical lineup will highlight an eclectic mix of artists with a headlining performance from Chicago Afrobeat Project, a collective of local heavy-hitters with a passion for West African rhythms. Tickets will be on sale starting June 15 and can be purchased online here.

Argyle Night Market | Thursday evenings in July and August: Enjoy global street food, unique goods, cultural performances, and music each Thursday night in July and August in the heart of Chicago’s Asian Marketplace – Argyle Street! Part food hall, part street festival this vibrant and award-winning market is back for its sixth year and is unlike anything in Chicago. The festival takes place on Argyle Street between Kenmore Avenue and Sheridan Road. A list of vendors will be shared soon online here.

West Fest Chicago | July 6 (5:00-10:00 p.m.), July 7 and July 8 (12:00-10:00 p.m.): West Fest is West Town’s signature street fest that captures the music, art, and style of the neighborhood! If you love shopping local retailers, supporting Chicago artists, sipping on local brews, eating the best foods this city has to offer and jamming out to great music, this is your festival. Trust us, there’s something for everyone. On Saturday and Sunday, this street festival also features their annual Pet Fest with a charity dog wash, dog obstacle course, pet retail booths and more, in addition to Kids Fest that’ll have tons of activities for the little ones to enjoy! View the full music lineup and additional details here!

Southport Art Festival | July 14 & 15 (10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.)
The picturesque Southport Corridor in Lakeview will be bustling with life as the Southport Art Festival takes over this July. Located from Waveband to Grace, the streets will be full of a diverse mix of local Chicago fine art. Those who attend will have the opportunity to appreciate some of the city’s most talented artists. The festival is also family friendly, offering a designated kid’s area and plenty of memorable activities. Stop by this summer to experience it all for yourself!

Taste of Greektown | August 24 (4:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.), August 25 & 26 (12:00 to 11:00 p.m.) | Hellenic pride takes center stage in late August! The acclaimed culinary festival, Taste of Greektown, brings lovers of Mediterranean food together from all over the Chicagoland area. Blending Old World traditions with a 21st century freshness, the tantalizing food and spirits from neighborhood eateries will again be the main attraction. There will also be plenty of music and entertainment including Greek bands and games for both kids and families. Opa, and learn more here!