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Five Chicago food events heating up the July calendar
As summertime heats up in Chicagoland, our real estate agents know that sunny skies and rising temperatures can only mean one thing: It's festival season. And here in one of America's great food cities, there's much to sip and savor across the Chicago area this summer.
Top July food events in Chicagoland
Lovers of barbecue, tacos, and the multitude of other foods Chicago is known for will find no shortage of opportunities to indulge this season. Here are some of the most exciting upcoming food fests in Chicagoland's unique neighborhoods.
Taste of Chicago - Chicago, IL
Address: 301 S. Columbus Drive, Chicago, IL 60605
The city's flagship food festival, Taste of Chicago, returns to Grant Park on July 8-12. This sprawling celebration of Chicago's culinary delights is centered on the Buckingham Fountain area of the park, within walking distance of the Downtown Loop and Printer's Row. In addition to games, demonstrations, and live music on an outdoor stage, this beloved summertime festival is an incredible showcase for Chicago's homegrown and global cuisine. Here's what foodies can expect:
- 40 food tents representing Chicago's most revered restaurants, from Billy Goat Tavern burgers to Chicago Doghouse hot dogs.
- Around 20 special food pop-up events
- An assemblage of Chicago's finest food trucks serving everything from tacos to lobster rolls
Windy City Smokeout - Chicago, IL
Address: 1901 W. Madison St., Chicago, IL 60612
Chicagoland's premier country music and BBQ festival is Windy City Smokeout, which takes place July 8-12 on the grounds of the United Center in the Near West Side neighborhood. This year's musical lineup includes Blake Shelton and Lainey Wilson, and the food offerings are just as exciting. More than 20 pitmaster teams will set up at the festival, including locals like Lexington Betty Smokehouse and Bub City as well as nationally known BBQ giants like Terry Black's Barbecue from Austin, TX, and Pappy's Smokehouse from St. Louis, MO.
Square Roots Festival - Chicago, IL
Address: Lincoln Avenue Between Montrose and Wilson Avenues, Chicago, IL 60625
Encompassing a lengthy stretch of Lincoln Avenue through the lively Lincoln Square neighborhood, the annual Square Roots Festival is a roots music celebration first and foremost. Still, it also includes a wide array of exceptional food and drink offerings. Margo Price, Dehd, and Nick Lowe & Los Straitjackets headline this year's festival on July 10-12. It also includes a market, kids' zone, craft beer and cocktail tents, and dozens of favorite local food vendors like 5411 Empanadas, Byron's Hot Dogs, and Chills Italian Ice.
Tacos y Tamales Festival - Chicago, IL
Address: South Blue Island Avenue and South Paulina Street, Chicago, IL 60608
Celebrating Chicago's rich Latin culture, the Tacos y Tamales Festival returns at a new Pilsen location July 17-19. The festival is free to enter—a suggested donation helps support local community organizations—and this year brings the festivities to an exciting new location. Expect an incredible array of authentic food, street cantinas, live music, dance performances, and more.
Taste of River North - Chicago, IL
Address: 627 N. Wells St., Chicago, IL 60654
The Taste of River North festival spotlights the specific culinary offerings of one of Chicago's most exciting neighborhoods: River North. The outdoor festivities will span a long stretch of Wells Street on July 17-18, with food booths serving gourmet bites from neighborhood eateries such as Fogo de Chão, Lure Fishbar, and Mercadito. Live music, wine tastings, and a dog parade round out the offerings.
What to know before visiting Chicago food festivals this summer
Which July food festivals in Chicago are best for families?
Taste of Chicago and Square Roots Festival are both strong options for families because they include food vendors, live entertainment, and activities beyond eating and drinking. Square Roots Festival also typically includes a kids' zone, making it a good fit for visitors with younger children.
Do Chicago food festivals require tickets?
It depends on the event. Some festivals, like Tacos y Tamales Festival, are free to enter with a suggested donation, while larger events like Windy City Smokeout require tickets. Always check the event website before heading out, since pricing, entry rules, and VIP options can vary.
What should I bring to a summer food festival in Chicago?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a payment card are smart basics. Many festivals take place on city streets or in open park areas, so it also helps to check the forecast and review the event's bag and water bottle policy before you go.
Find your place in Chicagoland
Contact us today to learn more about life in Chicagoland, and ask our real estate agents how Baird & Warner can help you explore Chicago's unique neighborhoods this summer.
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