Wicker Park Fest
When: 11:30 a.m. Saturday and Sunday
Where: Damen and North Avenues in Wicker Park
Entry: $5 donation
Get there: No. 72 North Avenue bus; Damen Blue Line “L” stop
The basics: This super-trendy, ever-changing ‘hood is already a hotbed of afternoon drinking, so this fifth annual fest fits right in. See alt-indie acts on two stages, including the 1900s, Bassnectar and Polvo (Saturday), and Bob Schneider, Isis and Red Sparowes (Sunday). Salud and Smoke Daddy join the food vendor lineup; art booths highlight handcrafted jewelry, glass, clothing and more.
Don’t miss: The chance to score a spot on the patio at Pontiac Cafe & Bar (1531 N. Damen Ave.) to watch the crowds go by.
MORE FESTIVALS
* 25th Annual Taste of Lincoln Avenue Covering the bustling stretch between Fullerton and Wrightwood Avenues, this neighborhood favorite showcases more than 40 national and local music acts on five stages, including JJ Grey & Mofro, Dot Dot Dot, The Lee Boys and Hello Dave (Saturday), and the Radiators, Anna Fermin’s Trigger Gospel, Vanessa Davis and Hairbangers Ball (Sunday). More than 20 restaurants join the collection of 300-plus food, beer and art vendors. The fun also includes a wine garden and bags tourneys on Sunday.
FREE 51st Annual Venetian Night Crowds swarm Monroe Harbor to watch Saturday’s parade of about 25 illuminated vessels decorated to the theme of “Summer’s Favorite City.” Grab a spot along the lakefront from Shedd Aquarium north to the Chicago Yacht Club at Monroe Drive. Fireworks close out the night at 9:30 p.m.
FREE Bughouse Square Debates. Soapbox speakers highlight this storied festival of free speech Saturday in Washington Square Park. Confirmed guests: speakers from the Obama and McCain campaigns, and a host of locals covering topics such as health care reform, gun rights, abstinence and the state-wide smoking ban. Vendors sell hot dogs, lemonade and root beer floats.
FREE GhanaFest 2008. Washington Park sets the scene Saturday for an event billed as the largest Ghanaian cultural exposition in North America. See dance performances, live music and crafts. Food vendors are on site.
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