5 Upcoming Fests & Events

Make the most of what remains of summer with these can’t-miss festivals and events.

Share

Let’s Be Frank

Celebrate all types of encased meat Aug. 11-13 at the Chicago History Museum’s Chicago Hot Dog Fest. The Chicago-style hot dog is the star of this family friendly festival, but get to know other styles along with a little history from speakers, fun from live bands, and activities for children all across three days. Byron’s Hot Dogs, Flashy Hot Dogs, Downtown Dogs, Chicago’s Dog House, and more will be providing their best hot dogs. Food and drinks are available for purchase using Dog Dollars. One normal dollar equals one Dog Dollar but you can purchase them at a 20-percent discount in advance. Feeling full? Dance off some of the extra pounds with bands including the Polkaholics, Yoko & the Oh No’s, Funkadesi, and more.

A Blast From the Past

Ever wish you could go back in time? Well here’s your chance! Chicagoans looking for a blast from the past don’t need to look further than the 21st annual Retro on Roscoe festival happening Aug.11-13. In its 21st year, this music festival brings a blast from the past with live Chicago bands playing oldies and throwbacks on three stages across six blocks in Roscoe Village such as 16 Candles with all the ‘80s hits, American English for your Beatles fix, and Cat Fight, the all-girl band that’s been dubbed “the darlings” of Chicago’s cover band scene. Roscoe Village’s top restaurants provide summer bites; and while the festival may not be on a Thursday, don’t let that stop you from posting #tbt retro pics of the 50 classic vehicles from the Antique Classic Car and Motorcycle show.

High-Flying Fun

As the summer comes to a close, the annual Chicago Air and Water Show will be wrapping it up in style on Aug.19-20. Grab a spot along the water on North Avenue Beach to watch the largest free show in the U.S., with air performances featuring the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights. Work on your tan and take part in a great Chicago tradition, while soaking up the last of those summer rays.

Hellenic Pride

If good food and cultural immersion is more your speed on a hot August day, then head down to Halsted and Van Buren Streets on Aug.25-27 for the 28th Annual Taste of Greektown. With over ten participating Greektown restaurants, this festival blends old-world traditions with a modern twist beside live music from Greek bands and games for kids and families. Entertainment and gyros for all, opa!

Global Rhythms

While summer winds down, so will Chicago SummerDance, which will host its last event Sept. 14th. This summer dance festival has given Chicagoans live music and dance lessons on its 4,900-square-foot dance floor in the Spirit of Music garden at Grant Park for the last 20 years. At its last event of the year, show off your Bollywood skills by learning how to Bhangra, and make the heat of summer last just a little longer.


Written By Amber Holst

Amber Holst is Vice President & Editorial Director at Concierge Preferred. A native Chicagoan, she’ll happily bend your ear about why Top Notch burgers are a must (as is an Original Rainbow Cone) and can often be found procuring milk candy in Chinatown after dim sum with her partner in crime or rooting on her beloved Green Bay Packers (yes, that’s right) at Will’s Northwoods Inn. Lover of cured meats, prosecco, and good old fashioned “slashies” she considers herself fortunate to be able to promote her hometown for a living. Fun fact? She can play the accordion.

Subscribe
Notify of
0 Comments
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments
0
Would love your thoughts, please comment.x
()
x