It’s that time of year, when it seems like everyone in Chicago is outside. Go forth and check out Bantu Fest, adult summer camp, cocktail cruises, beer and cider and a big Pilsen party this weekend.
All together now
The multicultural Bantu Fest brings together food, drink, music and other artwork from more than 30 different countries to create one of the city’s largest multicultural festivals. The free, daylong event runs from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday at 1130 Midway Plaissance (near 60th Street and Ellis Avenue) with activities and performances happening throughout. Music headliners include Amara La Negra, Aleph Beatz, Sandy Redd and Obi Soulstar. RSVP: eventbrite.com
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Sips in the Sloop
Chicago is lousy with amazing craft beer and cider, and this weekend’s South Loop Beer & Cider Fest puts them all in one place: Chicago Women’s Park and Garden (1801 S. Indiana Ave.). The festivities begin at 4 p.m. Saturday and finish by 7:30 p.m. Along with a stellar lineup of local libation favs — Begyle, Pipeworks, Northman, Right Bee Cider — guests can dine from local food trucks and soak in some live tunes. Tickets: $49. eventbrite.com
Big kid summer camp
Even adults can use a quick summer retreat. On Saturdays throughout the summer, Cerise (203 N. Wabash Ave.) attempts to offer just that on its rooftop, with Camp Cerise, a pseudo-summer-camp celebration to help kill some of that stress. The 2 p.m. celebration features a grill menu and small bites, a rosé and regular bar, boozy popsicles and more novelty treats. The attire theme is “Dazed and Confused,” because of course it is. Tickets: Free with a la carte purchases, $60 unlimited food and drink. eventbrite.com
Una gran fiesta
Pilsen’s massive, free, four-day festival for families, Fiesta Del Sol, takes over Cermak Road from 5 p.m. Thursday through 10 p.m. Sunday this weekend. The sprawling event takes on a carnival-esque aesthetic, with more than 100 showcase booths as well as a Ferris wheel and other rides. There will also be a pair of stages for live entertainment. Unlimited ride passes are available for purchase on-site at $60. Details: fiestadelsol.org
Cocktail floats
Shoreline Sightseeing recently introduced a literal booze cruise: the Summer Cocktail Cruise, a 75-minute float along the Chicago River with some sips, music and views. Boarding begins at 6:15 p.m. at the Shoreline dock near the Apple Store on Michigan Avenue, and the cruise finishes by 7:30 p.m. Full beverage service will be available. Tickets: $37. tickets.shorelinesightseeing.com