THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Autumn Season Brings Colorful Fall Events!
We’re turning another page this weekend as Chicago bids farewell to the end of summer and welcomes the arrival of the autumn season with a colorful line-up of fall events!
Come celebrate the end-of-summer at Goose Island’s annual 312 Block Party this Saturday (4 p.m.) outside of its 1800 West Fulton Street Brewery on the Near West Side. This party usually fills up quickly since it features food vendors, plenty of beer, and a great lineup of performers such as singer-songwriter Neal Francis, the rock band Houndmouth, and others. It’s a great way to end summer with your friends!
Holding its first Equinox Night Market, the SAUCED Night Market is being held this Saturday (5 p.m.-10 p.m.) at Half Acre Brewery (2050 W. Balmoral Ave.) in the Lincoln Square neighborhood. This roving night market is dedicated to emerging chefs, artists, and artisans as it features food from local eateries, a live mural being painted by Fab R, 50 vendors selling their various handmade goods, and a beer garden. Plus, DJ Johnny Walker will be on hand as your musical entertainment for the evening. This event is free to attend if you RSVP online and is open to guests of all ages!
One of Chicago’s most popular fall celebrations returns for its 21st year with Oktoberfest Chicago this Saturday (12 p.m.-10 p.m.) and Sunday (12 p.m.-7 p.m.) at St. Alphonsus Church (1429 W. Wellington Ave.) in the Lakeview neighborhood. The three Bs of Bavarian cuisine – Beer, Brats (homemade), and Bretzel (German for pretzel) will be the featured stars of the fest along with a variety of Sam Adams beers, two stages of live music provided by Bavarian and cover bands, a merchandise tent, and a separately ticketed craft beer celebration that includes 15 tastings and a souvenir tasting glass (4 p.m.-7 p.m.). In addition, there’s a special Kinderfest area on Sunday featuring inflatables, face painting, games, activities, and a meal for the kids to enjoy!
Returning for another magical evening in Chicago, the Water Lantern Festival takes place this Saturday (4 p.m. – 8 p.m.) at Humboldt Park (1400 N. Sacramento Ave.) in the Humboldt Park neighborhood for its floating lantern event. This festival also includes food, live music, vendors, games, activities, and of course the launching of your very own unique lantern. It’s a night you’ll never forget!
Chicago Gourmet is wrapping up its four-day food fest with the following two events this weekend:
Saturday brings Chicago Gourmet’s fabulous Grand Cru to the Harris Theater Rooftop (205 E. Randolph St.) in The Loop with two sessions (2 p.m.-5 p.m. & 7 p.m.-10 p.m.). Enjoy amazing gourmet food from award-winning chefs, the world’s finest wines, spirits, & cocktails, and lively music. Guests will also have an opportunity to learn from master sommeliers and mixologists as well. Cheers!
Sunday brings Chicago Gourmet’s Prost! In The Park to the Harris Theater Rooftop from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. This Sunday Funday event is hosted by Chef Sarah Grueneberg (Monteverde) bringing a German flair to this cheery Oktoberfest afternoon with loads of delicious classic German delights, craft brews, cool cocktails, music, and more!
Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago
