Searching for the ultimate guide to kid-friendly summer fun in the Chicago area? Look no further! This summer, Chicagoland's festivals and fairs offer family fun with endless excitement for your little explorers and big kids alike. Plan a summer that's packed with thrilling rides, children's performers, hands-on activities, and mouth-watering festival food. We've curated a list of the best family-friendly festivals and fairs in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, ensuring your summer is filled with smiles, laughter, and unforgettable experiences.
May 23 - May 25
Belmont-Sheffield Music Fest
Along Sheffield
Sheffield Ave. from Belmont to Roscoe, Chicago
Kick off summer at the 40th annual Belmont Sheffield Music Fest in Lakeview! This iconic street festival, steps from the Belmont El station, promises live tribute bands on the main stage, unique goods from local artists, and mouthwatering food. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and discover creative wares. Fri 5-10pm, Sat/Sun 11am-10pm. $10 benefits the Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce.
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May 24 - May 25
Barrington Art Festival
Downtown Barrington
Cook & Station Streets, Barrington
Welcome summer at the 16th annual Barrington Art Festival, Memorial Day Weekend! Start your day with coffee and breakfast, then explore unique art from over 125 artists. Participate in a live painting class or visit the Kids Art Zone. Enjoy local food, cold beer, and interactive art demonstrations. Barrington’s restaurants and shops are open all weekend. 10am-5pm. FREE.
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May 24 - May 25
Prairie Arts Festival
Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts
201 Schaumburg Ct., Schaumburg
The 36th annual Prairie Arts Festival transforms the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts into a vibrant outdoor gallery. Explore works from approximately 100 fine artists, including painters, photographers, sculptors, potters, and jewelers. Enjoy live entertainment across three stages, diverse culinary delights from food trucks, and engaging art activities for children. Admission is free for all. 10am - 5pm.
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May 29 - June 01
Maifest Chicago
Andersonville
Lincoln Ave. and Leleand Ave., Chicago
Experience German food, beer, music, dance, and Gemütlichkeit at Maifest Chicago! This traditional German celebration of spring, held in Lincoln Square, features a decorated maypole showcasing local history. Chicago's German community invites everyone to enjoy this popular festival, mirroring celebrations worldwide. Thu 5-10pm, Fri 5-10pm, Sat noon-10pm. FREE.
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May 30 - June 01
Do Division Festival and Family Fun Fest
Wicker Park
Division from Damen to Leavitt, Chicago
The Do Division Street Fest offers diverse music and retailers, ensuring something for everyone. The Family Fun Fest is kid-friendly with its own vendors and live entertainment, including a petting zoo, mega slide, and rocking kids' music. Two music stages, programmed by The Empty Bottle and Subterranean, showcase cutting-edge and popular bands. Friday 5-10PM, Saturday & Sunday 12-10PM. Suggested Donation: $10.
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May 30 - June 01
Windy City Hot Dog Fest
Portage Park
Milwaukee/Irving Park/Cicero, Chicago
Decide the ketchup debate at Chicago’s beloved Windy City Hot Dog Fest! Iconic hot dog stands will compete for "Best Frankfurter." Enjoy live performances by local artists, explore arts and crafts vendors, and partake in family-friendly activities in the kids’ area. A community stage showcases local talent. Friday 4pm - 10pm, Sat and Sun Noon-10p.m. $10. Donations benefit Six Corners Chamber of Commerce.
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May 31
What's Blooming on Harrison
Oak Park Arts District
211 Harrison, Oak Park
Oak Park’s largest spring street festival features an art fair, crafter booths, local business booths, food vendors, children's carnival rides, and an art auction. Adults can enjoy a craft beer garden and live music until 9pm. 11am - 7pm. FREE.
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May 31 - June 01
Deerfield Art Festival
Downtown Deerfield
821 Park Ave., Deerfield
The Deerfield Art Festival fills Park Avenue with 100 original artists. Start your day with coffee and breakfast, then immerse yourself in creativity. Participate in a live painting class or visit the Kids Art Zone. Enjoy lunch, cold beer, lemonade, and snacks. Look for Kid Friendly Tent and Live Art Demos for interactive experiences. 10am-5pm. FREE.
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June 06 - June 08
Old Canal Days
Downtown Lockport
9th St. and State St. , Lockport
Families can enjoy a wide array of activities at Lockport's annual celebration of its past and present. The festival includes a carnival, museum exhibits, a diverse food court, live music, a magic performance, an automobile display, and fun duck races. Delve into heritage with antique appraisals, trolley tours, and cemetery visits. Thurs 5-11:30pm, Fri 5-11:30pm, Sat10am-11:30pm. FREE.
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June 06 - June 08
Lincoln Square Greek Fest 2025
St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church
2727 W Winona St., Chicago
Join St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church for Lincoln Square Greek Fest 2025, where summer officially begins! Get your "OPA" on and bring your "OPAtite" to this festive celebration. See web site for schedule. $5.
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June 06 - June 08
Lincoln Park Greek Fest
St. George Greek Orthodox Church
2701 N. Sheffield, Chicago
St. George Greek Orthodox Church, 2701 N. Sheffield, Chicago.
St. George Greek Orthodox Church proudly hosts the Lincoln Park Greek Fest. Whether Greek or not, everyone will feel Hellenic for a day! This popular annual celebration offers authentic flavorful food, great music, lively dancing, and pure fun. Friday 5-11:00 p.m.; Saturday Noon-11:00 p.m.; Sunday; Noon-10:00 p.m. $10 Suggested Donation.
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June 06 - June 08
Ribfest Chicago
Northcenter
4000 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago
Celebrating 25 years of BBQ, Ribfest Chicago remains a highly anticipated food festival. Enjoy the sweet smells of BBQ filling the streets of Lincoln, Damen, and Irving Park Rd. The family-friendly Kids Area, now at Lincoln & Berteau, offers carnival games, activity booths, bounce houses, and face painting for all ages. Friday-5-10 p.m.; Sat-Sunday- noon -10p.m. Suggested donation.
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June 07 - June 08
Gold Coast Art Fair
Grant Park’s Butler Field
S Lake Shore Dr & E Monroe St, Chicago
The 67th annual Gold Coast Art Fair returns to Grant Park. This prestigious event features over 200 juried artists showcasing diverse original works. Find unique art pieces, enjoy live music, and indulge in food, wine, beer, and sangria. Activities include Paint and Sip classes, henna art, caricatures, and a Kids Art Zone with face painting and more. 10AM-5PM. $15.
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June 07 - June 08
57th St. Art Fair
57th Street and Woodlawn
57th Street, Between Woodlawn and Kenwood Avenues Hyde Park, IL , Chicago
Kick off the summer at the first major art fair of the season, located in the beautiful Hyde Park neighborhood on the South Side of Chicago. Listen to some of Chicago's best Blues music at the Buddy Guy's Legends Stage, meet friends, bring your family, enjoy the day at this historic, welcoming, fun event. All artists exhibiting at the Fair are stationed in their booths throughout the weekend to discuss their work. Saturday 11am-6pm and Sunday 10am-5pm. FREE.
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June 11 - August 16
Grant Park Music Festival
Millennium Park's Pritzker Pavilion
201 E. Randolph St., Chicago
The Grant Park Music Festival offers free, world-class classical music concerts throughout the summer. Featuring the renowned Grant Park Orchestra and Chorus, along with talented soloists and conductors, the festival presents a diverse repertoire in the stunning Pritzker Pavilion. Enjoy high-quality live music in a vibrant outdoor setting. Usually Wednesdays and Fridays at 6:30 PM and Saturdays at 7:30 PM; check web site. FREE.
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June 12
Chicago Gospel Festival
Millennium Park
201 E. Randolph St. , Chicago
The Chicago Gospel Music Festival explores the depth of this genre, spanning traditional and contemporary styles. This free, family-friendly annual event showcases lively choral groups, extraordinary vocalists, dynamic duos, and more. Settle in for powerful and inspiring performances. 4-9pm. FREE.
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June 12 - June 24
Fiestas Patronales Puertorriqueñas
Humboldt Park
1301 N. Sacramento, Chicago
Celebrate the vibrant spirit and rich heritage of Puerto Rico at the annual Fiestas Patronales Puertorriqueñas! This lively festival features a dynamic showcase of music, dance, and authentic Puerto Rican cuisine. Immerse yourself in infectious rhythms, savor classic dishes, and experience the warmth and joy of Puerto Rican culture through arts, crafts, and family-friendly activities. See web site for schedule. Free Thursday; $5 Friday-Sunday.
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June 13 - June 14
Scottish Festival and Highland Games
DuPage County Fairgrounds
2015 Manchester Road, N County Farm Rd., Wheaton
Don’t miss this year’s Scottish Festival and Highland Games, featuring special guests Gordon McInally (Rotary International President) and Chef Gary Maclean (National Chef of Scotland). The Children’s Area is packed with entertaining activities, and you can meet Highland Cows. Sign up for whisky seminars and enjoy iconic events like the Caber Toss and the incredible massed band performance. See web site for schedule. FREE.
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June 13 - June 15
Andersonville Midsommarfest
Andersonville
Clark from Foster to Gregory, Chicago
The Andersonville Chamber of Commerce welcomes summer with Andersonville Midsommarfest, one of Chicago's oldest and most beloved street festivals. This annual event takes place along Andersonville's Clark Street corridor, offering a festive atmosphere. Friday 5-10 p.m., Saturday and Sunday noon-10 p.m. $10 suggested donation.
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June 14
Festival del Niño
Harrison Park
1824 S. Wood St., Chicago
Join us at Harrison Park for Festival del Niño, a celebration in the spirit of Día del Niño that honors children's happiness and well-being. A day of play, joy, and laughter awaits, featuring music and dance performances, art activities like cardboard world and puppet-making, carnival games, quesadilla-making, kite-flying, and pet adoption information. 11am. FREE.
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June 14 - June 15
Arts on Sheridan
Along Sheridan
484 Central Ave., Highland Park
Join us for Arts on Sheridan, a brand new art festival in Highland Park! Stroll through East Highland Park and explore a curated selection of art from talented artists. Perfect for Father’s Day gifts or a summer day surrounded by beautiful art. Enjoy a Kids Art Zone, live music, food, drinks, and Live Art Demos. 10am - 5pm. FREE.
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June 14 - June 15
Artists of the Wall Festival
Loyola Beach
At the Lake from Farwell to Morse , Chicago
The 600’ wall features 160 individual "artist spaces" along the lakefront. Each year, new themed artworks are created and displayed until May. This annual celebration includes live music by international artists against the backdrop of Lake Michigan. Artists of the Wall is a true celebration of community, creativity, and music, with activities for all ages including a kid’s art tent and food. See web site for schedule. FREE.
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June 14 - June 15
Old Town Art Fair
Old Town
1736 N. North Park Ave., Chicago
The Old Town Art Fair takes place in the heart of the charming Old Town Triangle Historic District. This event features over 200 nationally acclaimed artists, drawing an estimated 35,000 art lovers. Enjoy a Garden Walk, live music, a food court, and a Children’s Corner. The fair runs rain or shine. Saturday 10am - 7pm, Sunday 10am - 6pm. Suggested donation adults.
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June 14 - June 15
Wells Street Art Festival
Well Street
Wells Street between North Avenue and Division, Chicago
Art lovers, prepare for an unforgettable weekend as the Wells Street Art Festival celebrates its 50th anniversary in Chicago’s historic Old Town. This early summer showcase along iconic Wells Street is a treasure trove of artistry, culture, and community. Kids’ Art Activities will spark creativity in the next generation with hands-on artistic fun. Saturday, 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday 10:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m. Donation benefits the Old Town Merchants & Residents Association.
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June 18 - June 22
Swedish Days
Downtown Geneva
3rd Street and Route 38, Geneva
In 2025, Geneva Swedish Days celebrates 75 years of Swedish immigrant heritage. Festivities include a craft beer tent, carnival, Kids’ Day, nightly entertainment, and a parade. Merchants host special sales and events, while food stands offer Swedish and American menus. Admission is free, with fees for some activities. See web site for schedule. Fees for some activities. FREE.
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June 19 - June 22
Rotary Grove Fest
Downtown Downers Grove
Main St. and Curtis St., Downers Grove
Downtown Downers Grove transforms into a summer hub with this free festival. Enjoy live music, entertainment, a carnival, a food and business expo, a craft beer fest, and a car show. This diverse lineup promises something for everyone seeking summer vibes. There's a $5 cover charge for the main entertainment area for ages 16 and up. See web site for schedule. $5 for main entertainment area for ages 16 and up.
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June 21
Mess Fest
DuPage Children's Museum
301 N. Washington St., Naperville
Celebrate all things MESSY and experience DCM ooey-er, gooey-er, and sloppier than ever during Mess Fest! Dive in, get dirty, and dress for a mess. Enjoy outdoor activities like a Mud Kitchen, Shaving Cream Block Building, and a Polymer Playground with slimes. Kids can clean up at the Kid Wash Station before entering the museum. 9 am – 2 pm. Included with admission.
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June 21
Glenview Summer Fest
Along Lehigh
Lehigh from Glenview Road to Washington, Glenview
The Glenview Summer Fest brings together local vendors, crafts, free games, health services, home enhancements, gifts, and diverse food and beverages. This event fills two village blocks of Lehigh, welcoming thousands for a full day. The Kids' Area offers balloon artists, live entertainment, a magician, bubble station, and fire pole. Evening transforms into Summer Fest After Sunset with live music, local eats, and cold drinks. 9am - 3pm. FREE.
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June 21
Villa Park Summer Festival
Ardmore Business District
Ardmore and Park Blvd, Villa Park
The Villa Park Summer Festival is an annual community gathering to enjoy music, food, libations, entertainment, local vendors, and each other. This one-day event kicks off summer, organized by the Parks & Recreation department to give back to the Villa Park community with a giant street party. 11am - 10:30pm. FREE.
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June 21 - June 22
Chicago Pride Fest
Northalsted
Halsted and Addison, Chicago
The 24th annual Chicago Pride Fest celebrates LGBTQ+ life, culture, and community in Chicago’s landmark Northalsted neighborhood. Pride Fest features live music on three stages, a Youth Pride Space for teens, best of Chicago drag performances, the Proud Pet Parade with prizes, dance exhibitions, Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus, guest speakers, and over 150 food and merchandise vendors. 11am – 10pm. $20 Suggested Donation.
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June 21 - June 22
The Magnificent Mile Art Festival
Along Magnificent Mile
875 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago
The Magnificent Mile™ Art Festival showcases original art from 60 juried artists across various mediums, including jewelry, fashion, glass, functional art, painting, and photography. This free festival, located in the plaza and sidewalks of 875 North Michigan Avenue, is ADA accessible and hosted by 875 North Michigan Avenue and The Magnificent Mile Association. 10AM-5PM. FREE.
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June 27 - June 29
Strawberry Fest
Downtown Long Grove
145 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove
Sweet summertime fun returns when Strawberry Festival takes over historic downtown Long Grove. This annual family tradition and highlight of the summer fest season inspires thousands to visit. Attendees of all ages can expect three days of strawberry-infused foods and drinks, carnival rides, family activities, and live music on three stages. Fri 12-11pm, Sat 10am-11pm, Sun 10am-6pm. Fees for some activities.
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June 28 - June 29
Millennium Art Festival
Michigan Avenue
Michigan Ave, and E. Lake St., Chicago
Get creative with 110 artists on your perfect summer day in the city with art, food, and fun! Just steps from Millennium Park, enjoy thousands of paintings, sculptures, photography, and jewelry. Take a break with a cold beer or piña colada, choose from food trucks and festival snacks, and enjoy the live music stage, face painting, and interactive art demos. 10:00am-5:00pm. FREE.
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July 02 - July 06
Frontier Days
Recreation Park
500 E. Miner Street, Arlington Heights
Frontier Days offers five days of fun, including live music, a carnival, a 4th of July parade, dog frisbee, and plenty of family activities like face painting, a family fun stage, pie eating, cake decorating, and rib eating contests. The Frontier Days Stampede on July 7th includes 5K and 10K runs, a 5K walk, and a 1/4 Mile Kids Dash! See web site for schedule. FREE.
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July 05 - September 01
Bristol Renaissance Faire
Renaissance Faire Grounds
12550 120th Ave., Kenosha WI
Every Faire day recreates 1574 Elizabethan England, celebrating Queen Elizabeth’s visit. Enjoy 16th Century games, rides, arts, crafts, food, music, and encounters with a spectacular cast of characters. The 30-acre site features open-air stages with swordfighters, minstrels, and jesters. All entertainment is included in admission for this rollicking romp. 10 A.M. – 7 P.M. From $40 adult, $15 kids 5-12, free ages 0-4.
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July 05 - July 06
Lincolnshire Art Festival
Village Green North Lincolnshire
405 Village Green S, Lincolnshire
Plan your perfect summer day at Lincolnshire’s Village Green! Grab breakfast, then browse original art from over 80 artists. Visit the Kids Art Zone for face painting, caricatures, and creative projects. Take a break with live music and a cold beer from Half Day Brewing. Look for Kid Friendly Art Tent and Live Art Demo signs for interactive fun. 10AM-5PM.
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July 11 - July 12
Chicago Latin Jazz Festival
Humboldt Park
1440 N. Humboldt Blvd., Chicago
Don’t miss the fun, dancing, great food, and music of Latin Jazz Fest at Humboldt Park Fieldhouse! Bring your family and friends to enjoy a relaxing day in one of Chicago's most beautiful park settings. Presented by the Jazz Institute of Chicago. Friday 6-9pm, Saturday 5-8pm. FREE.
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July 11 - July 13
Square Roots Festival
Lincoln Square
Lincoln and Montrose, Chicago
Square Roots brings together the best of Lincoln Square, Chicago, and beyond, with a great lineup of live music, family fun, local restaurants and vendors, and the best craft beer showcase of any Chicago street fest. Join the fun and support non-profit organizations Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce and Old Town School Of Folk Music. See web site for schedule.
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July 12
Shop Black Fest Chicago
Midway Plaisance Park
1130 Midway Plaisance North, Chicago
Chicago, it's time to celebrate Black culture, community, and entrepreneurship at Shop Black Fest in Hyde Park! This outdoor festival highlights Black-owned small businesses with delicious food from food trucks, bounce house fun for kids, line dancing, live DJ sets, and over 40 Black-owned vendors offering fashion, skincare, art, and wellness products. 2:00pm to 7:00pm.
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July 18 - July 20
El Gran Festival Colombiano
Humboldt Park
3100 W. North Avenue, Chicago
Celebrate Colombia's independence from Spanish colonization at the 11th Anniversary of El Gran Festival Colombiano! Pay homage to Colombian roots, traditions, and joy. See you in Chicago, where Colombia is dressed up for the celebration with music that moves and pride that lives on. See web site for schedule.
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July 18 - July 20
Roscoe Village Burger Fest
Belmont and Damen
2000 W. Belmont , Chicago
Get ready for a burger-filled summer as Roscoe Village Burger Fest returns for its 18th mouthwatering year! This beloved Windy City tradition brings together Chicago’s top eateries, showcasing their juiciest, most creative takes on the classic burger. Beyond the food, it’s a full-blown summer celebration of food, music, and family fun! Friday 5-10 p.m.; Sat/Sunday 11:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. $10 suggested donation.
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July 19 - July 20
Glencoe Festival of Art
Downtown Glencoe
700 Vernon Avenue, Glencoe
Get creative at the Glencoe Festival of Art with 100 artists on your perfect summer day! Start with breakfast, then enjoy thousands of paintings, sculptures, photography, and jewelry. Stop at the Kids Art Zone for projects, face painting, and bubbles. Take a break with a cold beer or wine, and enjoy live music and interactive art demos. 10am-5pm. FREE.
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July 25 - July 27
Wicker Park Fest 2024
Milwaukee Avenue
Milwaukee Avenue from Damen to Ashland, Chicago
Dubbed "Chicago's Best Street Festival of the Summer" by the Chicago Tribune, Wicker Park Fest is one of Chicago’s top-drawing festivals, attracting visitors with its fantastic music lineup. Reflecting the neighborhood’s rich musical heritage, vibrant nightlife, and acclaimed restaurants, the weekend celebrates with eclectic music, great local food, arts and crafts, and retail vendors. Enjoy the family-friendly kid’s area and "Pet Fest." See web site for schedule. Ages: 3+.
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July 25 - July 26
Taste of Lincoln Avenue
Lincoln Park
2500 N Lincoln Ave., Chicago
You won't want to miss the Annual Taste of Lincoln Avenue, a beloved summer festival perfect for the whole family! Beyond the delicious food, unique arts and crafts, and various vendors, there's a fantastic Kids' Carnival happening all afternoon Saturday and Sunday from noon to 6 PM, featuring inflatables, games, and entertainment for your little ones. Plus, your furry family member can even participate in a Dog Parade on Saturday. With an amazing lineup of bands and local food favorites, this festival is a must-do for enjoying summer in the city. Friday 3-10pm, Saturday and Sunday noon - 10pm. $10 Suggested Donation upon entry.
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July 26 - July 27
Art at the Glen
The Glen Town Center
2030 Tower Drive, Glenview
Come celebrate one of Glenview’s most beloved community traditions! Start your perfect summer day with breakfast at The Glen Town Center, then enjoy thousands of paintings, sculpture, photographs, jewelry and more. Become living art with face painting, and make your masterpiece with live painting classes. Take a break with a fest snack and enjoy the live music stage. Look for Kid Friendly Art Tent and Live Art Demo signs to get interactive with the artists. 10AM-5PM. FREE.
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July 26 - July 27
Chinatown Summer Fair
China Town
2200 S. Wentworth Ave., Chicago
This iconic event is one of the most ethnically unique outdoor events in Chicago and the Midwest. Attracting over 50,000 people, Chinatown Summer Fair is a true celebration of Far East beauty and culture, including food, art, and music. Sat 12pm - 10pm, Sun 10am - 7pm.
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July 30 - August 03
Northbrook Days
West Metra Commuter Lot
Shermer and Walters, Northbrook
Every year, volunteers across our community unite for five days to put on an exciting festival for residents of Northbrook and surrounding towns. This summer tradition in downtown Northbrook for decades includes rides, games, live music, food, beer & wine, and much more! Wed 6-10pm, Thur 5-10pm, Fri 6-11pm, Sat noon-11pm, Sun noon-8pm.
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July 31 - August 03
Fiesta del Sol
Pilsen
1400 W. Cermak Road , Chicago
Fiesta Del Sol is a free, four-day, family-friendly Latino festival in the heart of Pilsen. This event spans eight blocks down Cermak Road, visible for miles thanks to the carnival’s Ferris Wheel and bright lights from over 100 booths showcasing some of the best tacos, tamales, and tostadas in town. Well-known and up-and-coming artists perform on three stages. Thursday 3-10pm, Friday-Sunday 11am-10pm.
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August 01 - August 02
Jeff Fest
Jefferson Park
4822 N. Long Ave., Chicago
Kick back and enjoy amazing tunes, delicious food, and family fun at the 24th annual Jeff Fest, also known as the Jefferson Park Arts & Music Festival. This summer celebration offers more than just music and food! Families will love the vibrant Kids’ Zone, packed with fun activities. Don’t miss the Community Stage, where local talent brings even more energy to the festival. Friday 5-10pm, Saturday 2-10pm, Sunday 2-10pm. $10.
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August 02 - August 03
Wilmette Art Fair
Downtown Wilmette
Wilmette & Central Avenues, Wilmette
A perfect summer day awaits at the Wilmette Art Fair! Start your day with breakfast downtown, then enjoy thousands of paintings, sculptures, photographs, jewelry, and more. Become living art with face painting, and make your masterpiece with live painting classes. Take a break with a cold beer or sangria and enjoy the live music stage. Look for Kid Friendly Art Tent and Live Art Demo signs for interactive fun. 10AM-5PM. FREE.
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August 09 - August 10
Burr Ridge Art Fair
Burr Ridge Village Center
701 Village Center Drive, Burr Ridge
Burr Ridge Village Center hosts a perfect summer day! Start with breakfast, then browse paintings, sculpture, photographs, jewelry and more from 80 artists. Make your own masterpiece at a live painting class, or stop at the Kids Art Zone for fun projects. Take a break with a cold beer and snacks, and enjoy the live music stage. Look for interactive art demos. Most shops are open during the fair. 10AM-5PM. FREE.
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August 14 - August 17
Taylor Street Little Italy Festa
W Taylor Street (between S Ashland and S Loomis)
1431 W Taylor St, Chicago
A celebration of Italian food, entertainment, and merchandise, this festival is held in Chicago's Little Italy. Explore statues, fountains, cultural exhibits, mouth-watering Italian food specialties, imported merchandise, and enjoy a variety of unique entertainers. See web site for schedule. Suggested Donation: $10.
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August 16 - August 17
Evanston Art & Big Fork Festival
Downtown Evanston
800 Church St Evanston, IL, Evanston
Downtown Evanston hosts the community favorite Evanston Art & Big Fork Festival. Browse thousands of original pieces from 150 juried artists showing paintings, sculpture, jewelry, and more. Take a break at the extensive tasty foods area, try a painting class, have a personalized poem written for you, or visit the Kids Art Zone with the little artist in your life. Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 10am-5pm.
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August 22 - August 24
Edison Park Fest
Edison Park
Oliphant and Olmsted Avenues, Chicago
Edison Park Fest began in 1972 as a sidewalk sale and has since grown into one of Chicago’s most popular neighborhood street festivals. This annual community fundraiser welcomes nearly 20,000 attendees. Proceeds support beautification projects, free community programs, local fundraisers, and the daily operations of the Edison Park Chamber of Commerce. Friday 5PM-10PM, Saturday 12PM-10PM, Sunday 12PM-10PM. $10 donation.
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August 22 - August 24
Irish Fest
Chicago Gaelic Park
6119 W. 147th Street, Oak Forest
Get ready for a euphoric journey to the Emerald Isle at Chicago Gaelic Park’s Irish Fest! The air will be filled with enchanting Celtic music and rhythmic dancing. This weekend-long extravaganza features an unprecedented ensemble of Irish bands, dance schools, and artists who will bring the true essence of Irish culture to the forefront. See web site for schedule. From $15.
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August 23 - August 24
Bucktown Arts Fest
Holstein Park
2200 N Oakley Avenue, Chicago
The Bucktown Arts Fest originated in the early 1980s when local artists organized an art fair to showcase their work. It was community-driven, with participants contributing and neighbors helping. Today, the festival remains a free community event, with proceeds dedicated to supporting arts education in local classrooms and at Holstein Park. See web site for schedule.
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August 23 - August 24
Port Clinton Art Festival
Downtown Highland Park
600 Central Ave., Highland Park
See paintings, sculpture, mixed media work and more. Browse thousands of art pieces from over 200 of the best artists. Get creative at the Kids Art Zone with art projects, face painting, giant bubbles, and painting classes. Take a break with a cold beer, specialty coffee, tasty treats, and live music. Interact with artists at Live Art Demo stations! Celebrate 42 years of art at Port Clinton Art Festival. 10AM-5PM. FREE.
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August 29 - September 01
Naperville Jaycees' Last Fling
Downtown Naperville
Along Jackson, Naperville
The Naperville Jaycees’ Last Fling is a family-friendly community festival over Labor Day Weekend, offering a fun farewell to summer! This event features a wide variety of attractions for all ages, including music, food and beverage vendors, a family-fun area, a carnival, special events, a business expo, and a parade. Fri 5-10pm, Sat//Sun 10am-10pm, Mon 10am-6pm. Free admission, fees for carnival and some activities.
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August 29 - September 01
Taste of Polonia
Copernicus Center
5216 W. Lawrence Avenue, Chicago
Join us for an unforgettable four-day festival featuring nonstop live music, captivating dance performances, authentic Polish cuisine and beer, engaging exhibitions, local vendors and a dedicated Kids Zone with a variety of exciting activities. There’s something for everyone—don’t miss out on this incredible cultural experience! Friday 5-10:30pm, Saturday: 12 pm to 10:30 pm; Sunday: 12 pm to 10:30 pm; Monday: 12 pm to 9:30 pm.
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August 30 - September 01
Septemberfest
Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts
201 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg
This Labor Day celebration historically draws over 100,000 patrons, mainly from Schaumburg and surrounding communities, with strong local support. We also welcome attendees from across greater Chicagoland and beyond, making Septemberfest the destination for Labor Day weekend! See web site for schedule. Free admission, fees for carnival and some activities.
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September 05 - September 07
Retro on Roscoe
Roscoe Village
2000 W Roscoe St., Chicago
Get ready to time-travel at Retro on Roscoe, one of Chicago’s most beloved street festivals! This throwback extravaganza features live music, classic car shows, vintage shopping, and old-school fun for all ages. Stroll Roscoe Street, soak in nostalgic vibes, indulge in delicious eats, sip craft beer, and let the kids enjoy the family-friendly games and activities. Fri 5-10pm, Sat noon-10pm Sun noon - 8pm. $15 suggested donation.
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