For those of you not familiar with Chicago tradition, the "grand daddy" of all summer festivals has arrived here in Chicago, which opens its gates to the public today. The 28th Annual Taste of Chicago will continue through Sunday, July 6th, in Grant Park. Yep, that's 10 days of non-stop food, and from what I've heard, there will be samplings from 65 restaurants, not to mention cooking demos, live music at the Petrillo Music Shell and much more. Also, the wine garden is back again along with two new pavilions, added this year - the sports and international entertainment pavilions.
Admission is free; however, food and drink tickets will cost you $8 for a strip of 12, and please be mindful that ticket sales end a half hour before gates close at 9:00PM except for July 3rd and 4th when they'll close at 9:30PM, and July 6th at 6:00PM. I wouldn't want anyone to go home without allowing themselves ample time to sample all the food, which by the way, ranges from haute cuisine to hot dogs to desserts to - I could go on and on but you should really check it out for yourself!
Now, after stuffing your face, you might want to digest a bit by heading over to the Petrillo Music Shell for some live entertainment. A few top acts that will be performing are Stevie Wonder and Bonnie Raitt. Click here for more information on who will be performing and when.
And above all, don't miss the City's annual July 4th fireworks which will take place Thursday, July 3rd, with music being provided by the Grant Park Orchestra. This is a must if you have never seen this live, but beware, the crowds are huge, so head down early to grab the best seat!
For more information on this 10-day "grand daddy" of a fest, click here.
If the Taste of Chicago is a little too grand for your taste, check out these two other local street festivals:
The Fifth Annual Randolph Street Market, located in the West Loop at Randolph and Ogden. This festival was formerly known as the Chicago Antique Market. Click here for more details.
BAM!, the Belmont Arts and Music Fest, located at Belmont and Damen Avenues in Roscoe Village. Click here for more info.
Last but not least you might want to end your day by going to one of the City's "Movies in the Parks", which are held at various parks throughout Chicago and begin at dusk. Click here for movies and parks!
Go enjoy your "grand daddy" of a weekend, and remember to have a Happy, Safe 4th of July, where ever you decide to celebrate!
SUE MOSS & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO
