Restaurant Review – Family-friendly, calorie-conscious Pastore + Brunch in Lincoln Square

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Swimsuit season has officially arrived! Happy second day of Summer, everyone. There are many reasons we like Lincoln Square’s Pastore + Brunch, including the quality of the ingredients, the innovative, Mexican-inspired breakfast, lunch and brunch options, and healthy selections. And in swimsuit season, you can keep track of every calorie you consume at Pastore + Brunch.

Yes, calorie counts on each item come with the menu. 

Take, for example, their signature brunch items. For a mere 348 calories, the Mexican Molletesbolillo rolls smothered with warm refried beans and melty Chihuahua cheese. And you can top them with their self-described “fresh, zesty” pico de gallo. Or their 1100-calorie Mexican-inspired Chicken and Mini Waffles, featuring a fresh, made to order, juicy chicken breast, which has been marinated in their special sauce (a house recipe,) accompanied with “a little waffles,” with your choice of ranch, honey mustard, or Buffalo dipping sauce. For just 447 calories (149 per slice,) you can indulge in their Lincoln Square Stuffed French Toast with three pieces of your choice of strawberries, Nutella, or sweet Ricotta cheese, which are topped with berries sauce, roasted marshmallow, and chocolate Pockys.

Their Lincoln Ave Frittata has thin slices of prosciutto, fresh wild mushrooms, roasted onions, roasted tomatoes and parmesan cheese on top for 470 calories, and their Mix Mex Frittata pairs chorizo, fresh pico de gallo, fire roasted poblano peppers, melted Chihuahua cheese on top for 520 calories.

Their appetizers are equally inspired. A favorite is the Mexican Street Corn, which comes covered with Hellmann’s mayonnaise, chile tajin and cotija cheese, and our choice of ‘on the cob’ or ‘plate’. All for a mere 240 calories! 

Another calorie bargain and specialty of the house is the P+B Burger. How is it possible that ahalf-pound of charbroiled cooked meat, pastor meat, grilled pineapple, grilled onions, and Chihuahua cheese, and waffle fries can clock in at 370 calories? 

Their signature P+B Tacos are served on double house-made corn tortillas (gluten-free). They note that all tacos and baos are available as a lettuce wrap, with your choice of lettuce and tomato, or cilantro and onions. Pastore + Brunch Fish Tacos come with red cabbage, pico de gallo, Valentina (hot) sauce, mayo, and lime wedge, all for 156 calories. Chicken Tacos come with a grilled chicken breast, pickled jalapeño, pico de gallo and queso fresco for 185 calories. Pastor Bao has shredded carrots, cilantro, and chipotle pineapple sauce for 190 calories.

And yes, there are salads! The 530-calorie P+B Spinach Berry Saladpairsbaby spinach and greens, which comes tossed with fresh strawberries, onions, blueberries, fresco cheese and yogurt dressing. Proteins like chicken or steak can be added for additional cost and calories. Their Cobb Iceberg Salad is served on a bed of romaine and iceberg lettuce, with bacon chips, fresh avocado, grilled chicken breast, fresh tomato, hard boiled eggs, and blue cheese, all for 630 calories.

A separate Kids Menu features kiddie-friendly favorites, like quesadillas and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, all for 500 calories and under.

Pastore + Brunch is BYOB and located at 4661 N. Lincoln Avenue. Their hours are Monday-Sunday, 7am-3pm. For more information, click here.

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Chicago Home and Lifestyles – Becoming a morning person

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I’m sure many of us believe that we are either morning people or a night owl. The truth is most of us are in the middle. So, if you are interested in becoming one of those morning people it is quite possible. Your circadian rhythm is a kind of internal clock that influences your daily schedule. It tells us when to wake and sleep. Much of it is genetic but you can train yourself to wake earlier.

Waking early does increase productivity. More than half of Americans say they feel most productive between 5am and noon. Early risers tend to be happier, and more goal oriented also. Of course, any change will take effort and time but is well worth it. 

Start to set your wake-up time earlier by just half an hour. If you usually rise at 8 you cannot just start getting up at 5 in one day. Each week set your alarm 30 minutes earlier and give yourself 5-7 days to get used to it. 

Of course, waking up early doesn’t do much good if you just stumble around in a haze. Exercising releases endorphins that can really get you going. Exercising in the morning gives you better sleep at night also. You sleep longer and deeper when you exercise in the morning, more than any other time of day. Have a small breakfast with protein as the main component, along with some fiber. 

Your bedroom environment is important too. Bedrooms should be neat, clutter free and as cool as possible (64-68 degrees). If you have annoying outside light, use black out curtains or shades. Too noisy? Use foam earplugs or a sound machine. There are apps that have thousands of different sounds, from thunderstorms and rain (My Favorite), to soft music. Use a pleasant alarm sound rather than a loud obnoxious one. With our smartphones now the choices are endless. It is just as important to have an alarm to sleep also. I have two notifications. One hour before bed to start the bedtime ritual. No more devices and blue light. 

Practicing yoga or meditation sets you up for peaceful sleep. Many people find journaling gets out those nagging thoughts that often keep us up. Make a list of tasks for the next day and get thoughts of tomorrow’s challenges out so restful sleep can commence. 

Get as much natural light during the day as possible. Studies have shown workers with limited light exposure in the workplace have poorer overall sleep quality than those with daily light. Natural light is good as opposed to the blue light that emits from our devices, and that includes television. That is why the one hour ban before bed for devices is so important. 

Keep to your wake and sleep schedule on days off as much as you can. Staying up past midnight and sleeping till noon on days off can ruin all the work you have done during the work week. 

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago

Upgrade Your Front Door Color for Instant Curb Appeal

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Your front door is the first thing people see when they visit your home and should serve as a welcoming point for your guests. Repainting your front door is an easy and affordable upgrade that will instantly increase your homes curb appeal. You can choose any color you’d like for this upgrade but the one you choose should be inline with your overall design style. Here are some tips on how you can make yours standout or match the overall aesthetic of your home.

MAKE A STATEMENT BY USING A BOLD COLOR

Don’t be afraid to use a bold color that makes a statement and really shows off your design style. This is where you can get creative, but remember this is something you’ll see everyday as you pull into your driveway. You can go with a bright color or set the mood with something dark and sleek. Some trending colors from this year are blacks, reds, light greens, and blue hues.

KEEP IT CLASSIC

Maybe using a bold color isn’t your cup of tea and using a classic color is more inline with your design taste. The good news is that classic colors can look great too. Classic colors have more neutral hues and consist of grays, browns, or blacks. These can also be incorporated into a stain if you’d like to showoff some wood grains as well.

WHAT ABOUT THE TRIM?

Think about your front door trim as the frame that surrounds your favorite piece of art. You can paint the trim the same color as your newly painted door or you can choose another color that might prevent it from blending in with the color of your home. It will look best if you keep the door trim consistent with the rest of the trim on your home if you decide not to paint it the same as the door.

EVERY HOME HAS A STYLE

The overall style of your home will guide your decision making process when choosing your new door color. But your personality and design style should not be overlooked as it’s important to make a bold cohesive statement. There aren’t any rules and it can always be repainted easily if you’re not happy with the result as time goes on.

TRY IT FIRST

Most paint stores offer small samples that are inexpensive and can be tested before you paint the entire door. You can test each color by painting small sections of the door which will allow you to see the results with proper lighting and textures. Or, you can make squares out of white poster board and tape these to the door. The poster board approach might be the best route to take if you’re unsure about the colors.

THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Celebrating Our Dads!

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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

Neighborhood News – Summer Daze in the Chicago Loop, Chicago’s Community Parks, Grant Park, Northalsted, Museum Campus, Irving Park

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Celebrations are a part of Chicago, and this week is no exception! Chicago’s diverse communities and cultures go all out to make our longer summer days seem like a celebration…every day! Especially on weeks like this, when Pride Month, Father’s Day and Juneteenth (celebrating the official end of slavery in 1865) intersect, celebrating the freedoms we enjoy and the people and city we love!

Movies Under the Stars Chicago Park District opens its free, family-friendly summer movie series Movies in the Parksthis week at 8:30 pm. Bring a blanket and enjoy family favorites like the March of the Penguins on Thursday, June 16 at Lincoln Park, 2045 N. Lincoln Park West. Or Meryl Streep in Mamma Mia! at Wicker Park, 1425 N. Damen Avenue, and the Oscar and Golden Globe-winning Encanto, on Friday, June 17 at Jonquil Park, 1001 W. Wrightwood Avenue. All movi Too many movies and parks to name here, but for a complete list, click here.

Concerts at Grant Park… Is there anything better than concerts by the lakefront? Maybe with a picnic dinner? Jay Pritzker Pavilion, home of the Grant Park Orchestra and Chorus, offers timeless music with a mix of contemporary compositions and classical favorites. On Friday, June 17, at 6:30pm and Saturday, June Saturday, June 18, at 7:30pm, the Orchestra and Chorus perform Felix Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 5, Reformation Judith Weir’s We Are Shadows, and the world premiere of Mischa Zupko’s Blue Matter. All seats are $26. For tickets and information,click here.

Sing Along with ‘Black Panther’ in Concert In honor of Juneteenth, on Saturday, June 18 at The Chicago Theatre, 175 N State Street, at 7:30pm, relive the excitement of T’Challa (Chadwick Boseman) becoming king and battling Killmonger (Michael B. Jordan) while the Chicago Philharmonic Orchestra performs Ludwig Göransson’s Oscar® and Grammy®-winning score live to picture. Joining the orchestra for the concert is Massamba Diop, the revered Senegalese tama drummer who recorded co-created many parts of the movie score with composer Göransson. 

Prior to the movie, guests can walk the red carpet from 6:30pm-7:15pm, have a photo taken in front of the official Chicago Philharmonic step and participate in their Costume Contest and Best Dressed Contest! For tickets, click here.

Wear with Pride! Chicago Pride Fest returns Saturday June 18, to Sunday, June 19 on Halsted Street from Addison to Grace Street. The festival features live music by headline artists and local favorites on three stages, food and drink, 150+ arts/crafts vendors, DJ’s and dancing, drag shows, pet parade, games, giveaways and more. $15 suggested donation. For more information, click here.

Welcome to ‘Jurassic World’…At the Field Museum, 1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Jurassic Oceans: Monsters of the Deep, lets you meet the underwater giants that lived 200 million years ago. As the website says, dinosaurs reached new heights, sea creatures became larger, faster, and fiercer. Experience what it’s like to stand (or swim) next to top predators like a plesiosaur—a reptile with flippers, a very long neck, and super sharp teeth! Jurassic Oceans runs now through September 5, and required a special ticket and admission to the Field Museum. For tickets, click here. 

Eat the Parks?… A special Father’s Day Weekend edition! Join Chicago’s only full-time professional forager Dave Odd for a walk around the Horner Park, 2741 W. Montrose Avenue on Saturday, June 18, from 10am–noon to see all the wild and wonderful edible plants (and possibly mushrooms too!) that grow in the city. The website guarantees that you will learn at least 50 edible plants! Meet in front of the Governor Horner Memorial at Montrose & California. Tickets are $40 per person, or $70 a pair. But this weekend, Dads get FREE admission! For tickets and information, go to eattheneighborhood.com, or contact Dave for questions or comments via text or phone 847-409-8623. Tickets are also available on Eventbrite.

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Restaurant Review – Father’s Day and Juneteenth at Ina Mae Tavern & Packaged Goods

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The celebrations keep coming! This weekend, we honor all fathers the third Sunday of the month on Father’s Day for their hard work in raising their families. We also celebrate Juneteenth, now a Chicago official holiday, commemorates the end of slavery in the United States, on June 19, 1865, according to Brittanica.com. 

“In New Orleans, every day seemed like Friday.”

Executive Chef Brian Jupiter and Mark Domitrovich, owners of Ina Mae

One restaurant celebrating both holidays is Ina Mae Tavern & Packaged Goods in Wicker Park, The Michelin-listed restaurant serves Southern comfort food as a true art form. Chef and Co-owner Brian ‘Chef Jup’ Jupiter, a former Chopped champion, “pulls inspiration from closely held family secrets and recipes,” according to their website. So much so, in fact, that Ina Mae is named for Chef Jupiter’s grandmother.

Starting at 11am this Sunday, you can celebrate Dad and Juneteenth with live music from 12-3pm, $5 Cigar City drafts, and $10 Old Fashioned drinks. All outdoor seating will be on a first come, first serve basis, and currently, they are limiting table reservations to an hour and a half for groups of 2-3 and 2 hour booking for groups of 4-8. Reservations are available on Tock by clicking here.

Their Creole and Southern menu means spicy creations await you and your family! Their Spoken Cafe Boudin Balls are packed with Tabasco aioli and pickled cayenne peppers. Or try Nola Hot Sausage Sliders, which are two pork sliders with cheddar cheese, Vidalia onions, and Creole mustard, served on a brioche bun. For a slightly less spicy option, try Chilled Gulf Shrimp with remoulade, which is paired with iceberg lettuce and preserved lemons, served with saltine crackers, and drizzled with Chef’s House Hot Sauce. ‘Chef Jup’s’ soups include Gumbo Ya-Ya…” Just like Maw Maw makes it!” The gumbo is traditional, with shrimp, chicken, crawfish, Andouille sausage and rice, served with potato salad. Cajun Cobb Salad has mixed greens, boiled egg, bacon, cheddar cheese, tomato, red onion, cucumber, croutons, Tasso ham and blackened ranch dressing. Crispy Okra Salad pairs tomato, pickled peppers, N

Nola Po Boys are served on French Bread, and dressed with lettuce, tomato, pickles, mayo and hot sauce, and served with French fries. Your choice of protein includes Blackened or Grilled Shrimp, Crawfish, Cauliflower, or Oysters. Jup’s Chicken Coop’s Big Chicken Dinner may cost $50, but it includes eight pieces of fried chicken, your choice of two sides, and four buttermilk drop biscuits. The not-to-be-missed sides include Corn Maque Choux– fresh summer corn sautéed with bell peppers, tomatoes, onions and Cajun seasoning, Their Crab Mac is spaghetti with crab cheese sauce. Bayou Potatoes are tossed in Cayenne Aioli.

Save room for desserts! Among their specialties are seasonal Bread Pudding, and a Beignet Sundae, which has warm beignets served with ice cream, butterscotch sauce and crushed pralines

Finally, Ina Mae’s brunch menu features classic takes on Southern recipes, including Shrimp & Grits- sauteed shrimp served on a bed of stone ground grits and topped with Ina’s house Nola sauce, Their Grand Slam is a Nola Classic Breakfast served with Seasonal fruit, Buttermilk drop biscuit and stone grits, and your Choice of Gator sausage, Andouille Sausage, or Bacon, as well as your choice of scrambled or fried egg.

One Google reviewer gave the highest rating, saying. “A really unique place! The food was really good, I had the chance to try the alligator sausage. The waitress was really kind and they also have a band playing live. I recommend the restaurant!” 

Another wrote, in part, “(It’s) soul food with a twist of New Orleans, nice decor to match theme! They also have live music 🎶 as well. The food was good and flavorful. The wait staff is awesome and attentive. I definitely recommend this establishment, and yes I will back…”

Ina Mae Tavern & Packaged Goods is located at 1415 N. Wood Street. Several reviews mentioned the lack of parking, and to read the signs around the restaurant carefully, but say it’s definitely worth it. They are open Tuesdays-Fridays from 4pm–1am, Saturdays from 11am–1am, and Sundays from 11am–10pm. They are closed on Mondays.

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago

Chicago Home and Lifestyles – Recipe for good relationships

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John Gottman is a marital stability expert who has come up with the 5:1 ratio for successful relationships and backs this up with decades of research. It is a simple concept to understand, but may be more difficult to implement.

5:1 indicates that for good relationships you need to have at least 5 positive interactions for every 1 negative. The interactions can be simple, not necessarily dramatic. A hug or hand squeeze can be positive. Something as small as an eyeroll can be negative. It shows how small things can make so much difference. Dozens of roses and diamonds may not have as much impact as actually listening to your spouse when they need to vent. 

This can be used in business relationships as well as personal. Nowadays the small courtesies done with little thought years ago are sometimes forgotten in our increasingly busy world. An employer will always get more results when praising employees 5 times more than criticizing. A small slight in a business relationship will often be forgotten when simple kindnesses are normal. 

Relationships can be rather tricky but if you try to keep the 5:1 ratio in mind it can go a long way to having and keeping personal and business relationships. 

For more information check out The Gottman’s Institute at:

www.gottman.com/blog/the-magic-relationship-ratio-according-science/

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago

Easy Money Saving Tips That Will Help Reduce Your Monthly Expenses

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How we spend our money has changed a great deal over the past few years. Whether you’ve saved more or depleted your savings, we all need some financial inspiration to help us save where we can. Check out these tips, and you’ll be amazed at just how much money you can save with very little effort.

DON’T PAY INTEREST

Put a plan in place to get rid of credit card debt that you’ve accumulated over the years. You might not have a magical solution available to wipe this debt away, but that’s okay. You can achieve the same thing by transferring your debt to a card with 0% interest for a fixed period (six months to nearly two years). This will allow for you to pay off a set amount each month while avoiding paying for interest.

SAVE FIRST & SPEND LATER

You should always pay yourself first, as it’s a great step towards your financial freedom. Use the 50/30/20 budgeting method that can help you manage your money more effectively. This means that 50% of your after-tax pay goes towards your needs (food, bills, gas, etc.), 30% goes towards your wants (eating out, clothing, etc.), and 20% goes towards your future (savings, emergencies, paying off debt). Unfortunately, this rule won’t work for everyone due to individual circumstances, such as living in an area with a high cost of living. You can adjust these percentages as needed so it fits your individual situation.

DON’T SPLURGE ON PAYDAY

Recent surveys shows that roughly 32% of Americans run out of funds before payday. This includes those with a higher income (over $100K) and not only those living paycheck to paycheck. Try limiting situations that trigger you to spend more, stick to a budget (50/30/20), or switch to cash and leave your cards at home. Follow these suggestions and always ask yourself if you really need it?

USE AN INCOGNITO BROWSER

Using an incognito window when shopping online will help you save money by automatically deleting browsing history when the window is closed. This will help you avoid dynamic pricing, which is when retailers alter their pricing based on your browsing and purchasing history. Yes, this really happens! Giving online retailers less to track will also limit the number of promotional emails and ads you see on a daily, which will reduce the temptation to spend.

SHOP OWN BRANDS

Every supermarket has its own brand of products, and these are always a cheaper alternative to name brands that are sold at a higher price. Switching from name branded products to own brands is an easy way to save money on your next grocery bill. In most cases you can barely tell the difference when it comes to the taste and quality of these products. It’s easy to always reach for that branded label you’ve always enjoyed, but making the switch is worth a try. This might not be significant if you’re a serious couponer as coupons are geared towards name brands.

WEATHER THE STORM

If we’ve learned anything over the past few years it’s that having rainy day funds is more important than it’s ever been. It’s possible that yours might be depleted or maybe you never had one to begin with. It’s never too late to start saving, so put some money aside and start that rainy day fund. As a rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to have three months of income set aside for emergencies, and six months if you have a mortgage.

THIS WEEKEND IN CHICAGO – Summer Festivals Out in Full Force!

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Our outdoor summer festivals will be out in full force this weekend here in Chicago, rain or shine! Hopefully the ‘rain’ part will stay away!! Shall we get started?

The largest free blues festival in the world, the Chicago Blues Festival, is returning live to Millennium Park (201 E. Randolph St.) in The Loop this Saturday and Sunday. With a diverse lineup celebrating the blues’ past, present and future, this Festival shares the great Chicago-born music tradition while shining a spotlight on the genre’s contributions to soul, R&B, gospel, and more. This year’s lineup includes headlining sets from blues singer Shemekia Copeland, guitarist Ronnie Baker Brooks and one-time child prodigy Eric Gales, plus a special “Women in Blues” showcase on Sunday paying tribute to legendary Chicago blues singer Mary Lane!  And, for the first time this year, concerts in several Chicago neighborhoods will honor those neighborhoods where Blues was born in Chicago!!

Taste of Chicago pop-ups will return this year with events in three Chicago neighborhoods in June while a bite-sized version of the classic lakefront food festival (Taste of Chicago) will be held in July. This weekend, Taste of Chicago Austin will be featured on Saturday (12 p.m. – 8 p.m.) at 5720 W. Chicago Avenue in the Austin neighborhood. This pop-up features top local food vendors offering everything from Caribbean bites, savory soul food, the best tacos, mouthwatering gumbo and more! Plus, live Blues music will be on hand celebrating the living legacy of the Chicago Blues on the city’s west side with top talent from the Chicago Blues Festival performing throughout the day!!

Grant Park’s Butler Field (100 S. Lake Shore Dr.) in The Loop will be filled with plant-based foodies for the highly anticipated Vegandale Chicago as it returns to the city this Saturday from11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Not only will fest goers experience the best in vegan comfort food from over 100 vendors from across the continent and beyond, but they will also experience an epic party with all the drinks, music, contests, and more!

The event formerly known as the Hyde Park Brew Fest is transitioning to a full-out music festival now known as the Hyde Park Summer Fest this Saturday and Sunday at the Midway Plaisance (E. 59th St. and Ellis Ave.) This Fest will feature a stacked lineup of artists, DJs, and brewers in the Blue Moon Beer Garden where you can sample over 40 craft beers which include the New Blue Moon Light Sky and Blue Moon Haze!

Andersonville’s beloved summer street fest, Andersonville Midsommarfest, returns to Clark Street with a newly expanded footprint from Catalpa Avenue to Foster Avenue this Saturday and Sunday (12 p.m. – 10 p.m.). This Fest gathers enthusiastic Chicagoans for a weekend filled with Swedish-themed festivities, tangy international food, energetic entertainment, exclusive artisans and vendors along with an array of family-friendly interactive activities!

It’s time again for the Wells Street Art Festival which is returning to Wells Street between North Avenue and Division Street in the Old Town neighborhood this Saturday (10 a.m. – 10 p.m.) and Sunday (10 a.m. – 9 p.m.).  Explore stunning and innovative works of art from a diverse mix of nearly 125+ juried artists from both the region and across the nation. Other weekend highlights include tasty treats and savory bites from the neighborhood’s eclectic restaurants, a cool music stage featuring local bands and the Jesse White Tumblers, and kids’ art activities!

Happy Festing!!

Sue Moss and Dean’s Team Chicago

Neighborhood News – Grant Park, Andersonville, Humboldt Park, Old Town, Navy Pier

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Singing the Blues!Chicago celebrates the art form that began here at theChicago Blues Festival starting Thursday, June 9 through Sunday, June 12. The festivities get underway at Millennium Park, at Michigan and Columbus Avenues at 2:40pm daily with a welcome from legendary DJ Tom Marker and entertains through 9pm each day. Too many legends to list here, but the lineup includes Shemekia Copeland, “Blue Lou” Marini, The Mike Wheeler Band, Nora Jean Wallace, The Kinsey Report, and Ronnie Baker Brooks, and so many more! Free to all. For more information, click here.

 Välkommen! From Friday, June 10 to Sunday, June 12, North Clark Street from Foster to Catalpa transforms into Andersonville’s quintessential celebration of Swedish heritage. Midsommarfest returns for its 56th year with with eclectic music, great vendors, food and free kids activities!  Three music stages features groups like 16 Candles, Rod Tuffcurls and the Bench Press, and Fiona Gray. Become a star yourself with ABBA Karaoke! Bring your pooch to Sunday’s Dog Parade and learn the art and grace of  Swedish Dancing! Families can dance, eat, make memories around the maypole, and take photos adorned by flower crowns in the Midsommarfest Social Media booths. Hours are Friday, 5pm-10pm, and Saturday and Sunday, noon to 10pm. For more information, click here.

Chicago’s 43rd annual Puerto Rican People’s Day Parade  returns Saturday, June 11, at 2pm, on the Paseo Boricua from Division Street and Campbell Street; proceeding west on Division Street through the heart of the Puerto Rican commercial and cultural community, to Sacramento and Division. Post-parade, at Humboldt Park, enjoy live music, food, carnival rides, art, and workshops at Fiestas Patronales Puertorriqueñas.The Festival begins Thursday, June 9, with a free Community Day, and continues Friday from 4pm-10pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 12pm-10pm. For tickets and information, click here. 

Chicago’s most revered celebration of artistry and artisans, the Old Town Art Fair, kicks off Saturday, June 11 and Sunday, June 12 in the heart of the Old Town Triangle Historic District, 1763 N. North Park Avenue. Art lovers can take their families to see 200+ nationally acclaimed artists, participate in a beautiful Garden Walk, experience live music, refuel at the food court and let your kids unleash their inner artist at the Children’s Corner! Come rain or shine, Old Town Art Fair hours on Saturday are 10am to 7pm and Sunday, 10am to 6pm. Kids come free, suggested donations are $12 per adult. For more information, click here.

Mini-Golfing with Buzz Lightyear? You and your family can at Navy Pier’s outdoor Pixar Putt, 600 E. Grand Avenue…to Infinity and Beyond! From now through August 21, come to Polk Brothers Park for 18 fun, interactive holes inspired by the stories, characters, and icons from some of Disney and Pixar’s most beloved films including Toy Story, The Incredibles, Monsters, Inc., Finding Nemo, Coco, A Bug’s Life, Wall-E, and Inside Out. For tickets, click here.

Alison Moran-Powers and Dean’s Team Chicago