THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Feeling the Vibes of Summer!
We’ll be feeling the vibes of summer here in Chicago this weekend with the return of some outdoor festivals and arts & crafts fairs. Now, if only the temperatures would stabilize around here, we’d be in good shape. However, when have we ever let our weather stop us from enjoying our weekends!
Celebrating its 27th season, and kicking off the summer festival season as well, is Chicago Mayfest 2024 this Saturday (12 p.m.-10 p.m.) and Sunday (12 p.m.-9 p.m.) located in the historic district of Lincoln Park at Armitage (1000 W. Armitage Ave.) and Sheffield Avenues. Attendees will experience all the best Chicago has to offer with two stages of the most acclaimed Chicago bands and up-and-coming house talent, a variety of delicious food and libations which includes Chicago’s famous Red & White Sangria, and a family carnival area for the kids. Plus, new this year, the Armitage Art Show will be part of the festival where Chicago’s top artists showcase and sell their works along with presenting interactive art demonstrations. You might not want to miss this summer kickoff event!
Returning for its 3rd season, the Lincoln Roscoe Spring Art & Craft Fair is this Saturday (10 a.m.-7 p.m.) and Sunday (10 a.m.-5 p.m.) on Lincoln Avenue (3329 N. Lincoln Ave.) from School to Roscoe Streets in the Lakeview neighborhood. Enjoy free admission as you treat yourself to over 75 vendors selling handmade art such as paintings, sculptures, and fiber pieces as well as jewelry and décor. Also included is live music, festival food, a selection of brews for purchase from Bitter Pops, a live painting class, and a Kids’ Art Zone. It’s known to be an urban, edgy, and fun event for all!
Returning to the Andersonville neighborhood is the Renegade Craft Fair’s flagship event this Saturday and Sunday (11 a.m.-6 p.m.) on Clark Street between Bryn Mawr and Edgewater Avenues. Shop the handmade wares of more than 250+ of the best artists, craft designers, and creatives around selling everything from candles to jewelry to pottery and more. Also on hand will be food and drink for purchase provided by local restaurants so you don’t go hungry or thirsty while you shop!
The Chicago Bacon & Bourbon Fest takes place this Saturday (2 p.m.-6 p.m.) at the Headquarters Beercade (213 W. Institute Pl.) in the River North neighborhood. Get ready for the best mouth-watering experience you’ll have filled with delicious bacon and bourbon. Tickets include 8 bourbon tastings, 8 bacon bites, free arcade gameplay, discounted specialty cocktails, and more. What more could anyone want besides bacon, bourbon, and arcade games!
The inaugural Chicago Margarita Festival takes place Saturday and Sunday (12 p.m.-10 p.m.) at 1800 S. Peoria Street in the Pilsen neighborhood. Over 15 varieties of margaritas will be served from classic to exotic elevating your margarita experience to new heights. Then embark on a culinary journey of Latin flavors featuring a lineup of authentic Latin food vendors to compliment your margarita experience. In addition, local art and merch vendors as well as entertainment from cover bands and local DJs are part of this festival’s lineup!
Head over to the Maggie Daley Park (337 E. Randolph St.) in The Loop this Sunday (7:00 a.m.) for the Chicago Spring Half Marathon & 10 K along the Lakefront Trail. Afterwards, join the Spring Market Finish Festival which includes a hot brunch, a beer garden, live music, pick-your-own flowers to take home, photo ops, and much more. It’s time to shake off those winter blues and enjoy spring!
Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago
