THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Another “Festful” June Weekend!

We’re at it again!  We’ve got another “festful” June weekend that’s sure to please all Chicagoans!!

Celebrating its 35th year, the Chicago Blues Festival returns to Millennium Park (201 E. Randolph St.) in The Loop for three days of some of the country’s best blues performers on four stages.  This year’s festival will celebrate Chicago’s music legacy with Mavis Staples, a Little Walter tribute, a special tribute to Bob Koester, the 65th anniversary of Delmark Records, and more!  Plus, check out the new Chicago Blues Festival Rooftop Lounge outfitted with a mix of sofas, high boys, round tables, outside seating, live music from 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., piped in music from the Pritzker stage all night, specialty cocktails from CH Distillery, a full bar of beverages, and a special rooftop menu from Robinson’s No. 1 Ribs.  There’s nothing like enjoying free live music in the Blues Capital of the World!!

Join Ribfest Chicago at Irving Park Road, Lincoln, and Damen Avenues in the North Center neighborhood as this fest turns 20!  Thirteen rib restaurants will be vying for this year’s “People’s Choice” award at the close of the weekend.  All rib vendors will be serving a 3-bone sampler, as well as half and full racks.  So, be sure to pick up your ballot upon arrival, let the tasting begin, then vote for your favorite.  Need a rib break?  Well, some returning favorites and new guys will be serving up all kinds of BBQ, sliders, and sandwiches, tacos, chocolate covered bacon, gourmet popcorn, ice cream, and more.  Fest goers can also enjoy hours of original music performed by premier touring bands from across the U.S. and abroad.  And, Kids’ Square will be open all weekend with inflatables, games, and other activities.  You won’t want to miss this street party as it’s one of the city’s best summer attractions!

Returning for its 53rd year to the Andersonville neighborhood, Midsommarfest is an annual street festival along Clark Street between Foster and Catalpa Avenues.  This fest brings you back to old-world Swedish traditions with flavorful international food, a dance around the Maypole, a chance to create your own floral crown, and even a chance to don the ever popular Viking hat!  Plus, music from DJs and longtime favorite bands, dance troupes, and kids’ activities keep this party going all weekend long at one of Chicago’s most legendary street fests!

Two of Chicago’s popular art events take place this weekend as well.  They are the –

Wells Street Art Festival on Wells Street between North Avenue and Division Street in the Old Town neighborhood this Saturday (10:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m.) and Sunday (10:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.).  This festival features over 225 juried artists from across the continent, 20+ food and drink vendors, entertainment provided by local artists and cover/tribute bands, and a kids’ play area with plenty of activities!

Old Town Art Fair will be held in Chicago’s historic Old Town Triangle District (1763 N. North Park Ave.) in the Lincoln Park neighborhood this Saturday (10:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.) and Sunday (10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.).  This favorite festival not only features over 250 nationally acclaimed artists, but it also features a music stage, a food court, a children’s corner, and a garden walk featuring over 50 neighborhood gardens!  Once again, this has been voted America’s #1 Art Fair for the third year in a row!!

Are You Game for Another “Festful” Weekend?