The best way to celebrate the end of August’s relentless humidity in the Midwest? By pouring onto the streets of Chicago with a hotdog in one hand and a sloshing beer in the other. Known to locals as “The Taste,” this beloved food festival is coming back to Grant Park this year, bringing together roughly a million people for a weekend of local food, dancing and musical performances. Taste of Chicago will take place over Labor Day weekend after some serious local gossip; the festival got kicked from the July 4th weekend by a NASCAR race last year.
Rows of colorful booths from over 35 local, soon-to-be-announced vendors representing Chicago’s varied culinary scene will be posted up. In the past local favorite restaurants like Lou Malnati’s Italian Beef Deep Dish Za, Real Urban BBQ, Manny’s Corned Beef. Cumin Club Indian Kitchen, The Original Rainbow Cone and Sapori Trattoria have all made appearances. The event is free for all, and many nearby streets shut down. People pour out and around the festival, as a local DJ plays in the background.
While food is the star, there is entertainment beyond the grub. Chicago SummerDance will give dance lessons, from jazz to hip hop to partner dancing (don’t worry, all levels are welcome). And, for those who like to be secured by a seat belt when they gyrate, there will be carnival rides like a Ferris wheel and a carousel. A dedicated space for live music performances will have a large screen for clear viewing, too. While the music schedule has yet to be announced at the time of this writing, last year had performances by the likes of Slick Rick, Whitney and Proyecto Uno — as well as a new DJ every day. You can stop by anytime between 12 and 8 p.m. or make it a long park day. Check their website for the best place to bike or park a car.
The Specs
- Roughly 1 million people are expected to attend this year.
- Check out some of the best things to do in Chicago while you’re there.
- Admission is free.
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FAQs
What is the closest airport to Taste of Chicago?
You can fly right into Chicago O’Hare International Airport.
Where does the foodie event take place?
In Chicago’s Grant Park. Millennium Park, Buckingham Fountain, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Museum Campus are all within Grant Park.
Where does it happen exactly?
In Grant Park, go to Buckingham Fountain. For GPS purposes you can use: 301 S. Columbus Drive, Chicago, IL 60605
What are the event dates?
Fri, Sep 6, 2024 – Sun, Sep 8, 2024.
Who can attend the fest?
Anyone and everyone. Hot dogs and deep-dish enthusiasts are encouraged. Remember, there is free admission.
Where should I stay?
The festival is close to downtown Chicago, so any and all local hotels and home rentals are a good option.
Where should I park if I’m driving to the event?
You can look at Millennium Garages. If you want to check out the public transportation options visit this site.
Who are the Taste of Chicago festival organizers?
The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) produces the event in coordination with the Illinois Restaurant Association. DCASE is part of the City of Chicago.
What will I find at the event?
There will be food vendors (obviously), food trucks, a karaoke competition, a beer hall, a wine garden, a cocktail lounge and much more. The known lineup of Chicago restaurants is below.
Can I bring a tent into the festival?
Personal tents are not allowed at any lakefront event. (This is a lakefront event.)
Is this the same as the neighborhood pop-up events, the ones in Pullman and Marquette Parks?
It’s not. These neighborhood pop-up events led up to this festival.
When is the Millennium Park 20th anniversary celebration?
There was a four-day celebration that happened July 18-21.
When is the Chicago Blues Festival?
The Chicago Blues Festival was held June 6–9.
When is the Chicago Gospel Music Festival?
The Chicago Gospel Music Festival also already happened on June 1.
When is the the Chicago Air and Water Show?
The Chicago Air and Water Show is from August 10-11.
Where can I find all of the summer festivals, Chicago events or neighborhood events produced by the City of Chicago?
What restaurants will be at Taste of Chicago?
The lineup of restaurants and vendors includes:
- 90 Miles Cuban Café
- African Food Palace
- Arepa George
- Arun’s Thai Restaurant
- Badou Senegalese Cuisine
- Banato
- Billy Goat Tavern
- BJ’s Market & Bakery
- Chicago Eats Market
- Chicago’s Doghouse
- Churro Factory (Xurro)
- Connie’s Pizza
- Cumin Club Indian Kitchen
- Donut Dudes
- Doom Street Eats
- Eli’s Cheesecake
- Esperanza Kitchen Delights
- Franco’s Ristorante
- Frannie’s Café
- Gaby’s Funnel Cakes
- Harold’s Chicken
- JJ Thai Street Food
- Josephine’s Cooking
- Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
- Mano Modern Café
- Moore Poppin Chicago Gourmet Popcorn
- Oooh Wee It Is Restaurant
- Ponce Restaurant
- Porkchop
- Robinson’s No. 1 Ribs
- Sapori Trattoria
- Seoul Taco
- Star of Siam Thai Restaurant
- Tacotlán
- Tandoor Char House
- The Original Rainbow Cone
- The Sole Ingredient Catering
- Yum Dum
- Yvolina’s Tamales
- Zeitlin’s Delicatessen
You can learn more at the chicago.gov site.
