Chicago is finally getting an official Italian Beef Festival and it debuts next week

Italian beef fans, get ready to celebrate: Chicago is getting its first ever Italian Beef Festival (finally). The annual Jeff Fest in Jefferson Park is officially rebranding, and the inaugural Chicago Italian Beef Fest will take over Jefferson Memorial Park from Friday, July 31 through Sunday, August 2.

While Chicagoans celebrate their favorite slow-cooked, thinly sliced roast beef sandwiches on a daily basis, this festival is a chance to sample the offerings of top Italian Beef vendors from all over the city—and vote for the best.

The highlight of the three-day festival is an all-star lineup of regional favorites serving up their distinct takes on the Italian Beef. Here’s who will be slinging sandwiches all weekend:

• Bust Outs
• Byron’s Hot Dogs
• Chef Ciccio
• Frannie’s Beef and Catering
• Genoa Italian Concessions
• Leona’s Restaurant
• Trogo Kitchen Market

Best of all, while chowing down on the goods, you’ll get to vote on which vendor truly deserves the official title of Chicago’s Best Italian Beef.

In addition to the food, the festival will have live entertainment across two stages. The musical lineup includes local favorites like Sixteen Candles, Without U2, Simply Elton, The Chicago Experience and School of Rock. Families can take advantage of a sprawling kids’ zone, while adults can explore local craft market stalls scattered throughout the park grounds.

Tickets are $10 per day, per person. You can save by purchasing a 4-pack ($30+ fees) or 8-pack ($58 + fees) in advance from Chicago Bucketlisters.

Grab your tickets early, bring a massive appetite and prepare for a weekend celebrating the ultimate Chicago sandwich.

What: Chicago Italian Beef Festival
When: July 31-August 2, 2026
Where: Jefferson Park, 4822 N Long Ave.