Yes, Chicago, Illinois is known for a brutal winter which is why the city puts on fantastic festivals during the summer to make all the months spent inside worth it. During the summer months there are events and festivals every weekend and most weekdays, but there are three standouts you will be glad you went to see.
So what are the top three summer 2011 festivals in Chicago? Look below for all you need to know.
Belmont/Sheffield Music Festival
This festival is not a small little party set up in a tent on a parking lot. It is a great event in a friendly neighborhood with many attractions, and after 27 years of practice, they know how to party. The street is blocked off from Belmont all the way past School. Local vendors line the street leading up to the stage that will be the platform for Too White Crew, Libido Funk Circus, and a local favorite, Wedding Banned. Adding to the excitement is Sheffield’s beer garden where you can pick from over 200 beers, Trader Todd’s for some karaoke, or Leona’s for a tasty pizza.
Date: May 28-29
Time: 12pm-10pm
Price: $5
Location: 3200 N. Sheffield Avenue
Just for Laughs Comedy Festival
Every wanted to laugh for five days straight? You can make your dreams come true by attending every night of this comedy heaven. This festival always hosts big names but also some under the radar funny acts. Last year they had my favorite comedian, Ellen DeGeneres. This year’s line-up includes one of SNL’s best weekend update anchors, Seth Myers. Also performing will be Steve Martin and Martin Short, Joel McHale, Ron White, Jeffrey Ross, and so many more. I cannot even begin to explain how funny this festival is. It is a fantastic time that will put you in a good mood for days.
Date: June 14-19
For times, prices, and locations, click here.
Taste of Chicago
This is the classic Chicago festival. The Taste of Chicago is one of the largest packing out Grant Park. With fifty plus vendors I always have a tough time deciding which stands I’m going to use my tickets on, but when decision time comes, I always go back to my southern roots picking up a turkey leg and fried cheesecake. Some of the new vendors I am excited about are The Smoke Daddy and Starfruit Caf©.
Adding to the reasons to check this festival out is the great music cast. Set to hit the stage at the Petrillo Music Shell is Natalie Cole, Broadway in Chicago, internet sensation Grayson Chance, and many more great acts. With a great sound system you can grab a blanket, your favorite tastes of Chicago, and just relax while you jam out.
Date: June 24-July 3rd
Time: 11am-8:30pm daily except July 3rd which is from 11am-6pm
Location: 100 E. Congress Parkway
With so many to choose from I hope you give these top three a chance. For those that have the time and energy, you can find the full festival list here.
Source(s):
Personal Experience
http://chicago.metromix.com
