THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Is Summer Melting Away?!?!
Summer seems to be slowly melting away from us as it’s already the final weekend of August. However, that doesn’t mean we have to accept it. In fact, there’s still a variety of ways to make what’s left of our summer weekends memorable!
Returning for its 31st year, Taste of Greektownis the city’s largest celebration of Hellenic cuisine and culture taking place along Halsted Street between Adams and Van Buren Streets this Saturday and Sunday (12 p.m.-10 p.m.). Enjoy authentic Greek cuisine like feta, tzatziki, roasted chicken, gyros, and more signature Mediterranean dishes cooked by some of the neighborhood’s most beloved restaurants. Then stick around for performances from lively Greek bands, dance troupes, local musicians, and The Jesse White Tumblers. There’s even a gyro eating contest! OPA!!
Celebrating its 8th year, the Edgewater Arts Festival 2021 will take place at 1100 W. Granville Avenue in the Edgewater neighborhood on Saturday and Sunday (11 a.m.-7 p.m.). Spend the weekend exploring art from over 70 artists booths in all mediums; from photography to painting to sculptures to jewelry and more. Then catch amazing live performances by great cover and original bands at the festival’s Beer Garden stage. Plus, this year’s family area will feature “The School of Rock” stage with many interactive and safe activities for kids and their families!
Hitting the streets of the West Loop neighborhood for its 8th year is Motoblot. This urban moto street festival will be a jam-packed weekend featuring two live music stages, four blocks of vendors, a motorcycle and car show, the Motoblot pin-up contest, the Ace High VIP Lounge, and many signature highlights only found at this event. It’s a Motorcycle and Hot Rod Street rally not to be missed!
Join the friendly Gladstone Park neighborhood at its 5th annual pre-Labor Day Throwback Music Fest on Milwaukee Avenue between Elston and Peterson Avenues this Saturday (11 a.m.-10:30 p.m.) and Sunday (11 a.m.-9 p.m.). Enjoy cool tunes from the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s performed live by local artists. In addition, there’s also great food, arts & crafts, kids’ activities, a vintage car display, a pet parade, and a cool Miss Throwback contest. It’s time to get retro!
It’s one part horror convention and one-part dark arts – The Oddities and Curiosities Expo takes place at McCormick Place Convention Center (2301 S. King Dr.) in the South Loop this Saturday (10 a.m.-6 p.m.). This expo features over 150 local/national vendors and small businesses showcasing taxidermy, original horror and Halloween-inspired artwork, antiques, handcrafted oddities, and much more. Plus, you can have a true carnival sideshow experience at the expo’s Freak Show ($5) and gaze upon many real wonders of nature with your very own eyes!
Quench your thirst at Brookfield Zoo’s 10th annual unique beer-tasting event ZooBrew this Saturday (12 p.m.-7:30 p.m.) sponsored by Hop Valley. Enjoy 3-ounce samplings from a selection of over 80 beers, lagers, and ales. Designated driver tickets are also available for unlimited soft drinks. All tickets include commemorative swag and admission to the zoo. Photo ID is required upon entry. Enjoy a day of bears and beers, lions and lagers, anteaters and ales!
Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago
