THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Celebrating Our Dads!

This June weekend offers us many great events since Sunday is not only Father’s Day but it’s also Juneteenth which celebrates the end of slavery!  So, get out there and have a fun-packed weekend with your family and friends to celebrate our dads!!

Commemorating the liberation of African descendants from slavery, Juneteenth Village Fest takes place Saturday (12 p.m. – 6 p.m.) at Douglass Park (California Ave. between 12th Pl. and Ogden Ave.) in the North Lawndale neighborhood.  This free, family-friendly event features free carnival rides, games, inflatables, face painting, a rock-climbing wall, a petting zoo, food, community vendor booths and so much more! It Takes A Village Family of Schools is hosting the event and is being attended by local and celebrity artists as well as elected officials, community leaders, and activists supporting our new holiday!!

The Taste of Randolph Street returns to 900 W. Randolph Street at Peoria Avenue in the West Loop this Saturday and Sunday (12 p.m. – 10 p.m.).  This event brings together the biggest and brightest names in Chicago dining featuring over 16 restaurants for their delectable menus and unique flavors along with a DJ stage to entertain you while on your culinary adventure.  Plus, StarEvents has curated a list of the nation’s hottest up-and-coming bands and musicians, as well as the biggest names in Chicago house music, performing on two stages!  For 25 years, this street festival has been a staple here in Chicago!!

Taste of Chicago pop-ups return this year with events in three Chicago neighborhoods!  This weekend, Taste of Chicago Pullman will be featured on Saturday (12 p.m. – 8 p.m.) at Pullman Park (11101 S. Cottage Grove Ave.) in the Pullman neighborhood. This pop-up features tasty ribs, artesian sandwiches, exotic and gourmet sausages/hot dogs, a fun variety of DJ and live music performances, and more!  Plus, there’s even free introductory dance lessons to work off the pound or two you just gained!!

Chicago Pridefest returns Saturday and Sunday (11 a.m. – 10 p.m.) to Northalsted (Halsted St. from Addison to Grace Streets) in the Lakeview neighborhood.  This festival features 3 stages of live music by headline artists and local favorites, food, drink, 150+ arts/crafts vendors, DJs, drag shows, games, giveaways and more!  And don’t miss the Proud Pet Parade at 12 p.m. on Sunday at the North Stage.  You can register your pet from 12 p.m.-12:30 p.m., then Miss Foozie will lead the contestants to the South Stage at 1 p.m. for prizes and fun as the Winner presentations take place!

Celebrating 64 years, the Gold Coast Art Fair returns to Grant Park, Butler Field (100 S. Lake Shore Dr.) in The Loop this Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.  This family-friendly art fair welcomes 200 juried artists from around the country to create an exceptional, shoppable art experience featuring jewelry, paintings, sculpture, ceramics, mixed media and more!  Plus adding to the festive atmosphere are live music stages located in various locations along with delicious food, beer, wine, and sangria!!

Finally, if your dad is a sports enthusiast, here’s who’s in town on his weekend:

The Chicago Cubs are hosting the Atlanta Braves this Saturday and Sunday (1:20 p.m.) at Wrigley Field (1060 W. Addison St.) in the Wrigleyville neighborhood.

The Chicago Dogs are hosting the Lake Country this Saturday (6 p.m.) and Sunday (3 p.m.) at Impact Field (9850 Balmoral Ave.) in Rosemont.  Also, this Saturday is a Theme Night Special celebrating Jimmy Buffett.  Fans of all ages are welcomed for a one-of-a-kind experience!

The Chicago Fire FC are hosting D.C. United this Saturday (7 p.m.) at Soldier Field (1410 S. Museum Campus Dr.) in the South Loop.

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago