Your best bets for the weekend:
1. Hang out with urban farmers
At the Closed Loop Food Festival, enjoy local DJs and live bands while chowing down on bites from the likes of the Bruges Brothers food truck, Corner Farmacy, Pleasant House, Ste. Martaen and more. As you wander around The Plant, an experimental space dedicated to building closed-loop, zero-waste food systems, take part in mini-workshops on composting, aquaponics and mycology (study of fungi), or shop local vendors. $10 donation includes one drink ticket, $15 includes a tour of The Plant. 1-6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6, at 1400 W. 46th St., 773-847-5523, www.plantchicago.org
2. Inhale your weight in tacos and tamales
Inspired by Mexican and Central American tianguis — pre-Columbian open-air markets — the inaugural Tacos and Tamales Festivale will descend on Pilsen this weekend with an array of different styles of both foods. Expect handmade tortillas and more from Cemitas Puebla, Dia de los Tamales, Mas and Cafe Monsivais. To drink, Model, Tacayo and micheladas will be on offer, while music and dance performances will provide the party vibe. $5 suggested donation. Noon to 10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 6, and Sunday, Aug. 7, at 16th and Peoria streets, www.chicagotacofest.com
3. Visit the Chicago Hot Dog Festival
Presented and hosted by the Chicago History Museum, the Chicago Hot Dog Festival celebrates the city’s favorite encased meat with an outdoor celebration offering traditional and inspired versions of the hot dog — all made with Vienna Beef franks. Sample dogs from Byron’s, Fatso’s Last Stand, Edzo’s and Chubby Wieners, among others. Live music and craft beer round out the fest’s lineup. Free admission; visit the website for discounted “Dog Dollars” you can spend on food. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5 and Saturday, Aug. 6, until 8 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 7, at 1701 N. Stockton Drive, www.chicagohotdogfest.com
4. Eat oysters on a patio
In celebration of the noble bivalve, Frontier is hosting a patio party with oysters galore. Rosé slushies ($5) pair beautifully with $2 char-grilled oysters, or $1 raw ones. Go big with the bacon-wrapped grilled oysters (4 for $12). 5-9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 5, at 1072 N. Milwaukee Ave., 773-772-4322, www.thefrontierchicago.com
5. Snack local
Stop by the West Loop’s Made in Chicago Festival this weekend to try food and drink from local businesses Robert’s Tamales, Terry’s Toffee, Farmer’s Fridge and Time Machine juice. Chicago-made clothing and other locally crafted items will be for sale as well. Free admission. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 7, at Plumbers Hall, 1340 W. Washington Blvd.
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