THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Outdoor Summer Fests Close Out July!

There’s no denying that Chicagoans love their summer and being outdoors. In fact, this weekend is filled with outdoor summer fests as we close out the month of July in true summer fashion!

Chicago’s biggest music festival welcomes thousands of fans from around the world to experience Lollapalooza which has called Chicago home for more than 30 years.  This Saturday and Sunday will wrap-up this four-day festival at Grant Park (337 E. Randolph St.) in the Loop with 9 stages and 170+ bands packed with some of the biggest names in pop, rock, and hip-hop!  And beyond the music lineup, Lolla also emphasizes art, fun, community, and food from Chow Town which offers patrons more than the typical carnival type fare featuring some of the city’s top spots.  Plus take advantage of interactive areas with giveaways, merch and more. Don’t forget there’s also Kidzapalooza with workshops, activities, and kid-friendly music all day. This is a must attend if you love summer and being outdoors!!

Are you ready to hunt for some new and old treasures?  Chicago’s most beloved vintage treasure hunt returns to Plumbers Hall (1341 W. Randolph St.) in the West Loop with the Randolph Street Market Festival this Saturday and Sunday (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.). Since 2003, this European flea-market style brings together 175+ top independent vendors, makers, and designers from across North America offering an ultra-curated, high-quality selection of antiques, vintage and modern goods ranging from art to fashion, jewelry, décor, retro home furnishings and more!  Plus, patrons will be delighted by the continuous lineup of live musical acts, unique food vendors, fun cocktails and more to enjoy throughout the weekend!!

One of Chicago’s most ethnically unique outdoor events returns to Wentworth Avenue and Cermak Road with the Chinatown Summer Fair this Saturday (12 p.m. – 10 p.m.) and Sunday (10 a.m. – 7 p.m.) which attracts thousands from throughout the region.  This iconic event will open with a traditional lion dance procession (12:30 p.m.), a welcome on the main stage (1 p.m.) followed by Asian performances, kung fu demonstrations, cuisine from Chinatown’s restaurants, arts & crafts exhibits, street vendors with an array of merchandise, and a kid’s area!  There’s even a breakdance competition, K-pop entertainment, and a copi fish ball eating contest!!

If you love classic rock, you might want to skip Lollapalooza and head to Jeff Fest at Jefferson Memorial Park (4922 N. Long Ave.) in the Jefferson Park neighborhood this Saturday and Sunday (2 p.m.-10 p.m.) for performances from local cover bands.  You’ll also find tasty foods from neighborhood vendors.  Beyond the music and food, there’s even a dedicated Kids’ Zone featuring a ton of cool activities where families can hang out and boogie with their little ones!  Don’t forget to visit the fest’s groovin’ “Community Stage” as well located on the north side of the park!!

Looking for some good old-fashioned fun?  Then Lincolnwood Fest is where you need to be this Saturday (10 a.m. – 11 p.m.) and Sunday (10 a.m. – 9 p.m.). This annual community festival is held at Proesel Park (6915 N. Kostner Ave.) and features daily live music from local and regional acts, a business expo, carnival rides, games, bingo, a Classic Car Show and so much more!  Plus, new this year is their Arts & Crafts Fair and Family Fun Tent so be sure to check these out as well!!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago