It’s the 11th hour of summer festival season. With only a few weekends left to live it up before the temperatures start dropping, the pressure is on to hit up every fest possible. Here’s where to start.
When: Aug. 17
Where: River North
How much: $10
The skinny: This block party honors and celebrates America’s military service members and their families while offering food, drinks and live music by cover band Sixteen Candles.
Festa Italiana
When: Aug. 18-20
Where: Illinois Medical District
How much: $5
The skinny: A celebration of all things Italian culture, from food—including pastas and pizzas and everything in between—to music. No Chef Boyardee here.
When: Aug. 18-20
Where: Rogers Park
How much: Free
More Top Picks Best Garden Hose
The skinny: This free arts festival features more than 100 artists, open studios and live entertainment on three outdoor stages.
When: Aug. 18-20
Where: Edison Park
How much: $5
The skinny: Edison Park brings summer on home by throwing a party on its streets with live entertainment, food vendors and a children’s area.
When: Aug. 19-20
Where: North Avenue Beach/the sky
How much: Free
The skinny: It’s baaaaack! Spectators can watch daredevil thrills in the air and on the water at North Avenue Beach and along the lakefront.
When: Aug. 20
Where: Humboldt Park
How much: $20-65
The skinny: Head to Humboldt Park and add a serving of fruit to your wine. Sip on sangria crafted by local mixologists while enjoying live music and dance performances in the park.
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Want even more fests? Check out our ultimate guide to 135+ Chicago summer festivals.