It’s the weekend Chicago’s been waiting for: fest season kick-off. This weekend’s fests are a celebration of culture, art and, of course, beer. Whether you head to Little Village to celebrate Cinco de Mayo or Soldier Field to pay homage to Chicago’s many breweries, this weekend will be jam-packed with everything that makes Chicago summers the best summers.
Cinco de Mayo Fest
When: May 5-7
Where: Little Village, 1900 S. Sacramento Blvd.
How much: Free
The skinny: On May 5, 1862, the Mexican army defeated the French in the Battle of Puebla. And how do we celebrate that anniversary? By drinking tequila, eating tacos and indulging in all other Mexican fare. Celebrate the roots of the holiday and pay your respects to the culture with plenty of margaritas.
Chicago Zine Fest
When: May 5-6
Where: Bridgeport, 3219 S. Morgan St.
How much: Free
The skinny: This two-day celebration of small press and independent publishers takes place at the Co-Prosperity Sphere. All events are free to the public and ADA/wheelchair accessible. Stop by for panels celebrating zines of all types, talks from various creators and activities like button making with Busy Beaver Button Co. or patch printing with Fata Morgana Press.
Chicago Beer Classic
When: May 6
Where: Soldier Field, 1410 S. Museum Campus Drive
How much: $65-$95
The skinny: Kick off summer the best way Chicago knows how—with copious amounts of beer. Head to one of two sessions of the Chicago Beer Classic, either from 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. or 4:30-7:30 p.m. Each session features tastings from local breweries—like Half Acre, Maplewood, Lagunitas and Goose Island—as well as breweries from across the country (and world)—like Ska Brewing in Colorado or O’Hara’s in Ireland.
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Pivot Arts Festival 2017
When: May 10-June 11
Where: Edgewater, Uptown, Andersonville (various locations)
How much: Free-$50
The skinny: This month-long celebration of theater, dance, music and puppetry—and any other art forms you can think of—kicks off May 10 at Francesca’s Bryn Mawr and then travels across various North Side neighborhoods. Shows are appropriate for all ages and celebrate the diverse community of artists in Chicago.
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Want even more fests? Check out our ultimate guide to 135+ Chicago summer festivals.