Get those taste buds in high gear!
Want the lowdown on the best food festivals in Chicago?
From hidden foodie events to global extravaganzas, our guide has you covered.
Prepare for a mouth-watering schedule, from bratwurst at the West Loop Bavarian Block Party to avocado greens & salsa reds at Chicago Gourmet.
Let’s tuck in!
PS - You may want to bookmark this page as I plan on updating it every year.
Lesser-known and underrated Chicago food fests
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Looking for food parties beyond Taste of Chicago?
Let us tell you about the mouthwatering pizzas at Pizza City Fest and the authentic Thai cuisine at Thai Festival Chicago.
These criminally underrated and lesser-known Chicago food fests are a food lover's dream come true.
Pizza City Fest
A pizza lover’s dream!
Pizza City Fest in Chicago showcases various pizza styles from across the Windy City.
And it’s not just food stalls—expect speakers, seminars, and even “doughcent”-led pizza tours!
#DidYouKnow: Chicago has more than ten different kinds of pizza, from Deep-Dish to Sicilian, and even Artisan.
Website: Visit their website
2025 Dates: Fall 2025.
Location: In the West Loop
Craft Brews at Lincoln Park Zoo
Sip and stroll among the Zoo’s residents and lush habitats, after-hours!
Enjoy over a hundred craft beers and ciders, live music, yard games, and delicious bites from local food trucks.
Craft Brews at Lincoln Park Zoo is an unforgettable night out in late spring for Chicago’s foodies and animal lovers!
Pro tip: Grab an early access ticket to get started an hour early.
Website: Visit their website
2024 Dates: Saturday, June 15th.
Location: Lincoln Park Zoo (Check address / Plan route on Google Maps)
Taste of Melrose Park
Searching for a food festival in Chicago’s suburbs? You’ve hit the jackpot with Taste of Melrose Park!
Have your fill from a variety of food vendors offering everything from artichoke casserole & ravioli to steak teriyaki & stuffed mushrooms. They even have a stall manned by nuns from a local convent!
And then enjoy family-friendly music, carnival rides, and even a grand fireworks show.
Website: Visit their website
2024 Dates: Friday, August 30th, to Sunday, September 1st.
Location: 1000 North 25th Ave., Melrose Park, IL 60160 (Check address / Plan route on Google Maps)
EEEEEATSCON
An awesome Chicago food party and convention, with vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
EEEEEATSCON bills itself as a music festival, but with restaurants for headliners.
Expect innovative dishes, with imports from across the country, backed up with live music.
And if you’re interested, join some of the panels on various aspects of the restaurant industry.
Pro tip: Entry is free for children under 6 and service dogs (of any age).
Website: Visit their website
2024 Dates: Saturday, July 13th, and Sunday, July 14th.
Location: The Salt Shed (Check address / Plan route on Google Maps)
Chef BBQ
The Windy City’s top restaurants, winemakers, and mixologists converge on Green City Market in early fall for one of the best food and wine festivals in Chicago—Chef BBQ.
Enjoy seasonal Midwest dishes, made locally and sustainably sourced ingredients.
Just like at EEEEEATSCON, you can expect vegan, vegetarian, dairy-free and gluten-free options.
Plus - All proceeds support Green City Market’s sustainable farming and food education initiatives.
Website: Visit their website
2024 Dates: Thursday, September 5th.
Location: Green City Market in Lincoln Park (Check address / Plan route on Google Maps)
World Dumpling Fest
Could you ever have thought that there would be an entire food festival based solely on dumplings?
Check out the World Dumpling Fest!
This all-ages food event brings together neighborhood restaurants from across Chicago, offering delicious dumplings from around the world.
Enjoy food & music, and explore various cultures while supporting the Chicago Cultural Alliance.
Website: Visit their website
2024 Dates: Saturday, September 21st.
Location: Logan Square (Check address / Plan route on Google Maps)
Thai Festival Chicago
Now here’s a food festival with a bit of a kick!
Authentic Thai cuisine like stir-fries, salads and tropical fruit drinks, backed up by Muay Thai (kick-boxing) and music.
If that sounds like a fascinating afternoon, mark your calendar for Chicago’s Thai Festival.
Website: Visit their Facebook
2024 Dates: Saturday, June 8th, and Sunday, July 9th.
Location: 851 W Irving Park Rd (Check address / Plan route on Google Maps)
Uncorked: Chicago Wine Festival
Indulge yourself in this Windy City festival dedicated to fine wines at the Museum of Science and Industry.
Enjoy over a hundred and fifty wine selections, exclusive after-hours museum access, live DJ, and gourmet food vendors.
Uncorked: Chicago Wine Festival is epic fun—and not just for wine connoisseurs.
Pro tip: Admission tiers include General, Early, and VIP. Check the website for details.
Website: Visit their website
2024 Date: Saturday, March 9th.
Location: Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) (Check address / Plan route on Google Maps)
Blood Mary Fest
Blood Mary Fest is the ultimate brunch festival in Chicago—with a side of yoga!
Have a whiff of the city's finest Bloody Mary cocktails, enjoy brunch bites, and vote for the best mix.
The Fest also features an artisan market, lawn games, and fitness activities (including yoga) in the morning.
Website: Visit their website
2024 Dates: Although the 2024 dates are unknown as of now, their Instagram profile clearly says they’ll be back this year.
Location: Theater on the Lake (Check address / Plan route on Google Maps)
Festival of Wood & Barrel-Aged Beer
Experience the finest in barrel-aged brews at this beer fest in Chicago. The Festival of Wood & Barrel-Aged Beer is the largest festival of its kind in North America.
Sample from hundreds of beers, ciders, meads, and perries while enjoying live music and engaging events.
Note: While their website still shows the 2023 dates, they announced on their Facebook that it’s happening this year!
Website: Visit their website
2024 Dates: Friday, November 22nd, and Saturday, November 23rd.
Location: UIC Credit Union 1 Arena (Check address / Plan route on Google Maps)
Ravenswood On Tap
Ravenswood On Tap is a lively beer fest in the suburbs, held annually in the Ravenswood Corridor.
Enjoy craft beers from Malt Row breweries, KOVAL Distillery cocktails, live music, street food, and fun activities like axe-throwing.
A fantastic mix of local brews, entertainment, and support for local community and small business initiatives.
Website: Visit their website
2024 Dates: Saturday, July 20th, and Sunday, July 21st.
Location: 4200 N Ravenswood Ave (Check address / Plan route on Google Maps)
Top neighborhood food festivals in Chicago
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Given our numerous neighborhoods, each with a distinct identity, it’s no wonder that neighborhood food festivals in Chicago are favorites with food lovers.
From Taste of River North to West Loop Bavarian Block Party, prepare to experience the Windy City's diverse neighborhood dining scene.
Taste of River North
Taste of River North is a summer festival celebrating the neighborhood's culinary scene. Top restaurants like Chick-fil-A and Hubbard Inn take part.
Enjoy two full days of live music, wine tastings, and a lively dog parade.
It also features art installations and family-friendly activities, making it a must-visit for food lovers and culture enthusiasts in Chicago.
Website: Visit their website
2024 Dates: Friday, July 19th, to Sunday, July 21st.
Location: Wells Street between Ontario and Chicago (Check address / Plan route on Google Maps)
Taste of Randolph
Kind of fitting that Taste of Randolph is held in the West Loop—the Windy City’s hotspot for foodies and diners.
Enjoy the work of top chefs and renowned restaurants like The Publican, The Goddess & Grocer, and Gaijin.
You can also look forward to live music from premier artists and bands like Simoné and School of Rock.
Website: Visit their website
2024 Dates: Friday, June 14th, to Sunday, June 16th.
Location: Randolph Street between Peoria and Racine (Check address / Plan route on Google Maps)
Taste of Fulton Market
Taste of Fulton Market sees over 15 restaurants and bars come together at Morgan’s on Fulton for a premier dining event in Chicago.
Sample bites from top vendors like Avli, Carnivale, and The Oakville Grill & Cellar while enjoying an open bar.
This event supports Kitchen Possible and celebrates the rich culinary history of the West Loop.
Website: Visit their website (currently unavailable)
2024 Dates: Thursday, June 27th, and Friday, June 28th.
Location: Morgan's on Fulton (Check address / Plan route on Google Maps)
West Loop Bavarian Block Party
Want to enjoy the Oktoberfest spirit, but while remaining sober? Or want to have your kids with you?
Check out the West Loop Bavarian Block Party!
Gorge on delicious German brats and bretzels, traditional Oompah music, and family-friendly activities.
Alongside the fun, the party also fundraises for substance use and mental health treatment initiatives.
Website: Visit their website
2024 Dates: Friday, September 20th, and Saturday, September 21st.
Location: W Washington Blvd & N Sangamon St (Check address / Plan route on Google Maps)
Global food festivals in Chicago
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Explore Chicago's cultural diversity through its global food festivals.
Enjoy Italian fare at Little Italy Festa, savor Latin cuisine & culture at the Pilsen Taco Fest, and a whole lot more!
Little Italy Festa
Given the long history of the Windy City’s Italian communities, it’s no wonder that Little Italy Festa is one of Chicago’s top culinary events.
The event’s centerpiece is mouthwatering Italian dishes from family-owned and new neighborhood restaurants.
Looking for music and games? Don’t worry—bands like The Bronx Wanderers perform live. You can also play Italian games like bocce ball, and enter cannoli-eating contests.
Website: Visit their Facebook
2024 Dates: Thursday, August 20th, to Sunday, August 11th.
Location: W Taylor Street (Check address / Plan route on Google Maps)
Tacos y Tamales (a.k.a. Pilsen Taco Fest)
Pilsen’s Tacos y Tamales is a cheerful Latin food festival in Chicago, inspired by traditional Mexican markets (Tianguis).
Indulge in authentic tacos and handmade tortillas from local vendors. Top that up with cerveza, micheladas, and margaritas from street cantinas.
Gaze at the art installations, and groove to traditional acts and interactive dance performances, followed by Latin rock at night.
Website: Visit their website
2024 Dates: Friday, July 19th, to Sunday, July 21st.
Location: 16th & Peoria, Pilsen (Check address / Plan route on Google Maps)
Lincoln Square Greek Fest
Experience the best of Greek culture and hospitality at The Lincoln Square Greek Fest.
Event highlights include traditional dishes, pop/rock tribute bands like the Mosquitos Jam Band and the Ormi Orchestra, and dancing.
While beer & wine will be in full flow, this family-friendly Chicago Greek festival also offers activities for kids, making it a perfect weekend outing.
Opa!
Website: Visit their website
2024 Dates: Friday, June 7th, to Sunday, June 9th.
Location: St. Demetrios Church (Check address / Plan route on Google Maps)
Ginza Holiday Festival
Fans of Chicken Teriyaki…prepare for the Ginza Festival in Chicago.
This celebration of Japanese culture includes food, Minyo dancers, martial arts exhibitions, and even a ukulele performance!
Foodies can expect Chicken Teriyaki (a festival staple), Udon noodles, corn on the cob, and other items.
Website: Visit their website
2024 Dates: Friday, July 26th, to Sunday, July 28st.
Location: Midwest Buddhist Temple (Check address / Plan route on Google Maps)
Taste of Polonia
Chow down on pierogi, gawumpki, and other Polish delicacies at Taste of Polonia, the oldest and largest Polish festival in the U.S.
This September event also offers over 30 live bands, cultural performances, a casino, and a beer garden.
Got kids? There’s a children’s area with a live stage and multiple activities.
Website: Visit their website
2024 Dates: Friday, August 30th, to Monday, September 2nd.
Location: Copernicus Center in Jefferson Park (Check address / Plan route on Google Maps)
Oktoberfest Chicago
Ah, Oktoberfest Chicago—the Bavarian Beerfest!
This ode to Chicago’s German communities and heritage is held annually at St. Alphonsus during the mild September weather.
Have you fill of bratwurst, pretzels, and of course…beer!
Website: Visit their website
2024 Dates: Friday, September 27th, to Sunday, September 29th.
Location: St Alphonsus Church (Check address / Plan route on Google Maps)
Chinatown Summer Fair
Hankering for Asian cuisine over and above the Ginza Festival dishes?
Then make sure you’re at the Chinatown Summer Fair to sample offerings from the neighborhood’s best restaurants!
Billed as a true celebration of Far East beauty and culture, this food festival also includes dragon and lion dances, K-pop & BBoy competitions, and more!
Website: Visit their website
2024 Dates: Saturday, July 27th, and Sunday, July 28th.
Location: Wentworth Avenue from Cermak Avenue to 24th Place.
Food truck festivals in Chicago
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Food trucks are an integral part of the city's culture, offering a delicious array of street food from local vendors.
And food truck festivals in Chicago not only let Chicagoans savor diverse culinary delights but also support food entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Chi Food Truck Fest
A long-running initiative of the Business Affairs Department, Chi Food Truck Fest takes place every Friday from May to October at the Daley Plaza.
Food truck and street food fans will enjoy delightful offerings from a rotating selection of food trucks from around Chicago.
Website: Visit their website
2024 Dates: Various dates from May till October. The final event is on Friday, October 4th.
Location: Daley Plaza (Check address / Plan route on Google Maps)
Chicago Food Truck Festival
Although similarly named, this is a different food truck festival that takes place in the South Loop in July.
As per their website, over 150 food trucks take part. They offer catering services for nearby businesses as well.
Website: Visit their website
2024 Dates: Saturday, July 20th, and Sunday, July 21st.
Location: In the South Loop
Chicago’s top 2 food events (you can guess what they are, can’t you?)
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No list of food events in Chicago is complete without a look at the most popular ones—Taste of Chicago and Chicago Gourmet.
Taste of Chicago
Taste of Chicago is the prima donna of food shows in Chicago.
This lakeside party sees top restaurants from the city share space with food trucks and stalls. You can even expect live chef demos.
All backed up by live concerts at the Petrillo Music Shell.
Website: Visit their website
2024 Dates: Friday, September 6th, to Sunday, September 8th.
Location: Grant Park (Check address / Plan route on Google Maps)
Chicago Gourmet
On the other hand, if you’d prefer a slightly more refined (as in, five-star) experience, head for Chicago Gourmet.
This ‘culinary fashion show’ will see you savoring exquisite food and fine wines while enjoying the fall breeze atop the Harris Theater.
Expect to be face-to-face with top-tier chefs, TV food personalities, master sommeliers, and more!
Popular events include Hamburger Hop and Rise & Shine Gourmet.
Website: Visit their website
2024 Dates: Thursday, September 26th, and Sunday, September 29th.
Location: The Harris Theater Rooftop (Check address / Plan route on Google Maps)
Former Chicago food festivals
Before wrapping up, let’s take a look at some Chicago food festivals that have shut down. Food enthusiasts may remember some of these.
Seriously, if anyone from these festivals is reading—thanks for the memories.
Strange Food Festival
A truly fascinating event, with items ranging from ant egg drop soup to grilled pig brain. With plenty of beer available to wash it down.
As far as I can tell, their final show was back in 2017.
Website: Visit their Facebook
Beer & BBQ Challenge at Old Irving Park
A combination of food festival and fundraiser, Beer & BBQ Challenge used to see local pitmasters and craft brewers team up to offer BBQ and beer pairings.
Funds raised were used to support St. Viator School & Parish.
Its 9-year run came to an end in 2022.
Website: Visit their website
Pilsen Food Truck Social
The Pilsen Food Truck Social used to feature over 25 food trucks, live music, and Revolution Brewing beer samples.
It's remembered for its $20 sampler ticket that got you sample-sized portions from six different food trucks.
Their final event seems to have been in 2019.
Website: Visit their Instagram
Baconfest Chicago
Chicago’s top event for bacon lovers fell victim to the COVID lockdown and hasn’t been held since.
It was known for its innovative bacon-themed offerings, like bacon-infused cocktails.
They do sometimes respond to comments on their Facebook page, so you can head there and ask for updates on the revival (don’t get your hopes up, though).
Website: Visit their Facebook
6 Corners BBQ Fest
6 Corners BBQ Fest was a community-focused event at the Six Corners shopping district.
Attendees could enjoy a variety of grilled delicacies such as baby back ribs, pulled pork, turkey legs, and beef brisket, from top-tier barbecuers.
Performers and bands like Akasha and Junkyard Groove Chicago would rev up the occasion with live music.
The last show was in 2018.
Website: Visit their Facebook
Which food festivals are you signing up for?
Hope some of the events in this blog post caught your attention.
Which do you prefer—premier festivals like Taste of Chicago, or underrated ones like Pizza City Fest.
Let us know on Facebook!
And do bookmark this—I’ll update it next year with the latest dates, and include more events like burger & hotdog fests, and maybe even some food eating challenges in Chicago!
BLOGS
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