Taste of Chicago
July 12th – 14th
Grant Park
Get a taste of Chicago from 40 different restaurant booths, food trucks, a beer hall, a wine garden, a cocktail lounge, and first-rate concerts (free if you sit on the lawn).
Topgolf Crush
July 12th – 14th
Soldier Field
Golf enthusiasts, this is the event for you. Come with a friend or up to 7 of your friends to hit golfballs from the Bears’ stands at targets on the field. Come for the golf and stay for the food and music.
Railroad Days
July 12th – 14th
West Chicago
This family-friendly carnival includes kids’ activities, live music, a beer garden, and a parade on Sunday at 1PM.
Uncork Barrington
July 12th (6PM to 9:30PM)
Downtown Barrington
Try several wines and appetizers at this 21+ event. You get 20 single ounce samples of wine, so be sure to eat up those appetizers!
Windy City Smokeout
July 12th – 14th
United Center
This country-themed outdoor event features barbecue, country bands, and beer!
Irish American Heritage Festival
July 12th – 14th
Irish American Heritage Center in Chicago
This cultural fest that celebrates Irish heritage features music, dance, food vendors, family activities and more that greatly exemplifies the Irish culture.
Bastille Day
July 13th
Polk Bros Park at Navy Pier
Head to this free event to take in the best the French has to offer (and I’m not talking about French Fries! You can partake true french cuisine, music, entertainment and more at this fest! Stick around late for the fireworks at 10:15PM.
Outside Experience
July 13th – 14th
McCormick Place
For the outdoors-person in your life, this event not only features the latest in outdoor gear and vehicles but also offers test rides of paddle boats on Lake Michigan and mountain bikes that you can ride on an indoor dirt trail!
Bucktown Garden Walk & Block Party
July 13th – 14th
Churchill Park
This annual neighborhood event features a walk through the garden, food trucks, and activities for the kids.
Roscoe Village Burger Fest
July 13th – 14th
Belmont Avenue & Damen Avenue
There’s more than just burgers at this BBQ fest! Head out to Rosco Village to check out music, arts & crafts, and a kids’ zone.
Southport Art Festival
July 13th – 14th
N Southport Ave. at Waveland
This art fest comes with a dose of live music, food and a kids’ area.
Hungarian Gulyas Festival
July 13th – 14th
Norridge
Eat some fine Hungarian dishes including all-you-can-eat goulash! There will also be folk dance and music, vendors to shop from and activities for kids.
Bristol Renaissance Faire
Weekends through September 3rd
Kenosha, WI
See works from many artisans, merchants and performers including jousting knights and ravishing rogues. The Faire is a rollicking romp through Elizabethan England complete with 16th Century games and rides, arts, crafts, food, music and dance.
