Put away your parka...it's festival season!

Warm weather and massive amounts of food go hand-in-hand!

After another agonizing winter, it’s finally time for Chicagoans to step outside and enjoy all that our fair city has to offer. Here at GH, we know things are taking a turn for the better when we can look out of our conference room windows and see “The Bean” reflecting the sun and skyline, as opposed to being covered in snow. To celebrate the warm weather, here’s a quick guide to some of the best May/June Chicago festivals, covering art, live music, and of course…food!

Looptopia, May 2

An all-night celebration in Chicago’s Loop; includes dance, theatre, film, music, art and activities for kids and families.

Cinco De Mayo, May 2-4

Lawndale neighborhood festival, complete with a carnival, food and live music, and a parade on Sunday.

Green City Market, Wednesdays and Saturdays starting May 14

Chicago’s only sustainable farmers’ market features everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses and breads. A favorite among local chefs and recently featured on “Top Chef: Chicago.”

Great Chicago Places & Spaces, May 17-18

A weekend of appreciation for Chicago architecture and design, with over 200(!) free tours and events.

Randolph Street Market Festival, starting May 24

Antiques, collectibles, jewelry and great food can all be found at this weekly festival in West Town.

Mayfest, May 29-June 1

Brats and beer in Lincoln Square, culminating in a Maypole Dance on Sunday.

Chicago Blues Fest, June 5-8

The city’s largest music festival, now in its 25th year! A can’t-miss event.

Ribfest, June 7-8

What started as a North Center block party has grown to a full-out street festival. Come hungry: 65,000 pounds of ribs will be served during the weekend!

Printer’s Row Book Fair, June 7-8

Browse through treasure troves of new and used books alike, specialty and antique books, signings and panel discussions and events at Harold Washington Library.

Taste of Chicago, June 27-July 6

The biggest and most well-known of Chicago’s food festivals – more food-on-a-stick than you can…well…shake a stick at. Wear lots of sunscreen and bring a (reusable) water bottle.

Chicago Pride Parade, June 29

Picnics and parties all over the lakefront, with the famous parade running through Boystown and into Lincoln Park.

Bike Chicago, May – September

Burn off the calories from the food you consumed at the neighborhood festivals by participating in races and group rides.

For more information, check out:
http://chicago.metromix.com/
http://www.cityofchicago.org/specialevents

Posted by Heather Kaplan