There are only about a million Chicago festivals this weekend. Here’s my pick for the top 5.
Taste of Randolph
When: Friday, June 13, 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.; Saturday, June 14 and Sunday, June 15, 12 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Where: 900 W Randolph St
Why you may want to attend: The city’s best restaurant strip takes this street festival thing pretty seriously. “This food-centric festival brings together some of the top restaurants in the West Loop, such as BellyQ, Publican Quality Meats, De Cero Taqueria, Pork Chop, Grange Hall Burger Bar, Vivo and La Sardine, among others. Not to mention Amstel Light, sangria and Constellation Wines to wash it all down…Music fans will not be disappointed either… three unique stages will feature incredible talent throughout the weekend.”
More info: www.tasterandolph.com
Chicago Blues Festival
When: Friday, June 13 – Sunday, June 15 11 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Where: Grant Park
Why you may want to attend: “The Chicago Blues Festival is the largest free blues festival in the world and remains the largest of Chicago’s Music Festivals. During three days on five stages, more than 500,000 blues fans prove that Chicago is the “Blues Capital of the World.” Past performers include Bonnie Raitt, Ray Charles, B.B. King, the late Bo Diddley, Buddy Guy and the late Koko Taylor.”
More info: http://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/chicago_blues_festival.html
Wells Street Art Festival
When: Saturday, June 14 – Sunday, June 15 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Where: N. Wells Street between North Avenue and Division
Why you may want to attend: “The annual art extravaganza features the works of more than 250 juried artists with the eclectic mix running the gamut from paintings, sculptures and glasswork to photography, ceramics, woodwork and much more. It also features the tasty cuisine of Old Town restaurants, the always-hoppin’ music stage, and a silent auction.” Also, cover bands.
More info: http://www.chicagoevents.com/event.cfm?eid=141
Old Town Art Fair
When: Saturday, June 14 – Sunday, June 15 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Where: Next door to the other art festival at Lincoln Avenue & Wisconsin Street
Why you may want to attend: “One of the top art fairs in the country… charming, tree-lined streets of the city’s historic Old Town Triangle District set the stage for 250 nationally acclaimed artists and an estimated 40,000 art lovers.”
More info: http://www.oldtowntriangle.com/fair/general_information/index.html
Puerto Rican Festival & Parade
When: Thursday, June 12 – Friday, June 13, 3p.m. – 10 p.m.; Saturday, June 14 – Sunday, June 15 Noon – 10 p.m.
Where: Humboldt Park (Division & California)
Why you may want to attend: “Drawing crowds from all over the Midwest, this community-wide gathering celebrates a rich culture with lively music, entertainment, authentic Caribbean cuisine, arts & crafts, carnival rides and much more.”
More info: http://www.chicagoevents.com/event.cfm?eid=279