Another weekend, another batch o’ fests to keep the entire city full, happy, tipsy and dancing. From free music performances in Grant Park to all the pasta you can eat in Little Italy, this weekend is going to be a good one.
Grant Park Music Festival
When: June 14-Aug. 19
Where: Millennium Park
How much: Free
The skinny: From Beethoven’s Symphonies to “Star Wars,” the Grant Park Music Festival has something for every taste.
Craft Brews at the Zoo
When: June 16-17
Where: Lincoln Park Zoo
How much: $20-$79
The skinny: Go wild at Lincoln Park Zoo with a selection of more than 75 brews to choose from.
Oakley Festa Pasta Vino
When: June 16-18
Where: Heart of “Little Tuscany”
How much: Free
The skinny: Celebrate Italian culture with music, wine and authentic Italian food.
Taste of Randolph Street
When: June 16-18
Where: West Loop
How much: $40-$100
The skinny: Taste of Randolph is old enough to drink now, celebrating its 21st anniversary this year. Listen to local musicians and chow down on Chicago’s finest edibles.
Back Lot Bash
When: June 16, 23-24
Where: Andersonville
How much: $20-$100
The skinny: This outdoor music festival was started in 2004 as a Pride weekend event for the lesbian community.
Pride Fest
When: June 17-18
Where: Boystown
How much: $10 (suggested donation)
The skinny: Celebrate the LGBTQ community at this two-day festival ahead of the Pride Parade.
Gold Coast Art Fair
When: June 17-18
Where: Gold Coast
How much: $5
The skinny: Head to Grant Park’s Butler Field for artwork, live music and family-friendly activities like speed-painting demonstrations.
Women’s Funny Festival
When: June 15-18
Where: Lakeview
How much: $15-$100
The skinny: Women prove once again that they can and will be funny with more than 500 performers across 80 shows.
@shelbielbostedt | sbostedt@redeyechicago.com
Want even more fests? Check out our ultimate guide to 135+ Chicago summer festivals.
