FOUR SEASONS OF FESTIVALS & EVENTS CAN’T-MISS LGBTQ+ EVENTS CHICAGO PRIDE FEST/ CHICAGO PRIDE PARADE Each June, the Chicago Pride Fest takes over Northalsted for an epic two-day celebration, followed by the Chicago Pride Parade on the last weekend of the month. PRIDE IN THE PARK This two-day June event in Grant Park features a stellar lineup of musical acts that include DJs, along with drag queens and kings, ending with a spectacular Pride-themed fireworks display. NORTHALSTED MARKET DAYS Hailed as the largest street festival in the Midwest, this August festival spans six city blocks, with art and food vendors, live performances, and dancing. REELING FILM FESTIVAL Held in September, this multiday event is one of the oldest film festivals dedicated to international LGBTQ+ films, screening shorts, documentaries, and narrative features. HAUNTED HALSTED HALLOWEEN PARADE Hundreds of goblins, witches, and zombies march in this Halloween night parade. A panel of drag queens votes for the prize-winning best costumes. Chicago Pride Parade Pride in the Park FOODIE FESTS CHICAGO GOURMET Savor the flavors during this chef-driven September foodie event in Millennium Park. Look forward to attending Tacos & Tequila, the Hamburger Hop, the Grand Cru tasting event, and the German-themed Prost! In the Park in honor of Oktoberfest. FIRST BITES BASH/CHICAGO RESTAURANT WEEK Over 50 celebrated Chicago chefs bring excitement to each bite at the festive First Bites Bash held at the Field Museum. This is the perfect time to sample food paired with beer, wine, and spirits. Jot down your favorites, then visit them for a meal during the ensuing Chicago Restaurant Week. WINDY CITY SMOKEOUT Four days of barbecue, beer, and big-name bands bring out the crowds to this mid-July event held in the United Center parking lot. See country music stars, taste barbecue from world-class pitmasters, and top it all off with an ice-cold craft beer. TASTE OF RANDOLPH This popular neighborhood food festival is held every June along Randolph Street, dubbed Restaurant Row, in the city’s trendy West Loop. Taste of Randolph features dishes from some of the city’s hottest restaurants, along with live music. 12 choosechicago.com/tools ADAM ALEXANDER PHOTOGRAPHY (ALL PHOTOS)
Chicago Travel Professionals Guide 2023: Page 12
