THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Celebrating Our Fall Season!
Here in Chicago, not only do we embrace our change of seasons, but we celebrate them as well! Now that the fall season is officially here, this last weekend of September offers us some traditional fall festivities to unwind, have some fun, and celebrate fall!
We’re continuing to don our dirndls and raise our steins this Saturday (12 p.m.-10 p.m.) and Sunday (12 p.m.-7 p.m.) at the St. Alphonsus Oktoberfest Chicago. This legendary festival transforms the intersection of Lincoln, Southport, and Wellington (1429 W. Wellington Ave.) in the Lakeview neighborhood into all things Bavarian. Enjoy a weekend of authentic German cuisine such as homemade bratwurst and pretzels made from centuries old recipes passed down by the neighborhood’s German immigrants; enjoy the new Munich-inspired Beer Hall offering authentic German beer from local and international breweries; and enjoy two stages of live music complete with oompah bands and best festival bands featuring all music genres. In addition, Sunday brings the little ones a family-friendly Kinderfest featuring the Kinderfest train, kids’ games, face painting, and more. Don’t miss out on hoisting your stein and Prost to one of Chicago’s most beloved fall traditions!
Hubbard Street turns Bavarian for one unforgettable day with Hubbard Haus Oktoberfest this Saturday (12 p.m.-9 p.m.) as it takes over the River North neighborhood between Clark Street and LaSalle Drive. This lively festival celebration features a large German-style beer hall tent with seasonal specials; a main stage with authentic, traditional German music by German bands setting the vibe while DJs and other live acts provide non-stop energy throughout the festival; plenty of street eats; immersive experiences all day and night, and more. It’s a one day only event held at Chicago’s iconic nightlife scene, and not to be missed!
Wrapping up this weekend is one of the nation’s top food festivals Chicago Gourmet at Millennium Park (201 E. Randolph St.) in The Loop. This year’s theme, “Step Up To The Plate,” celebrates the best in food and sports with all-star chefs as well as sports-inspired culinary events. Saturday’s sports-inspired event showcases lights-out cuisine from best-of-the-best chefs paired with the finest wines and spirits and hosted by chefs Stephanie Izard and Karen Akunowicz at the Grand Cru, while Sunday’s event delivers a brunch trifecta with top-tier chefs serving up sweet and savory bites, inventive cocktails, and lively music on the Harris Theater Rooftop. Come with an appetite and leave fully satisfied with the ultimate culinary experience!
Join the movement to end HIV at the AIDS Run/Walk Chicago this Saturday at Soldier Field (1410 Museum Campus Dr.) in the South Loop. There are three courses, the 5K Walk & Roll, the 5K Run, and the 10K Run, all featuring breathtaking views of Chicago’s skyline and Lake Michigan. Water stations will be placed along all courses and additional refreshments will be available at the finish line. Be a part of something powerful as this event brings the community together for a day of action, awareness, and impact!
The 19th annual Hyde Park Jazz Fest returns to Chicago’s South Side for an unforgettable weekend this Saturday (12 p.m.-10 p.m.) and Sunday (1 p.m.-7 p.m.) at the iconic Midway Plaisance (1130 Midway Plaisance) in the Hyde Park neighborhood. This celebration features world-class jazz musicians, rising stars, and thousands of music lovers. So, bring a blanket, grab some local bites, and let the music move you to this jazz lover’s paradise!
Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago
