Introduction to Summer Food Fests

It’s finally feeling like summer, and that can only mean one thing: street festivals! Chicago has an abundance of street festivals throughout the city, and while not all of them have interesting food, a lot do. Here are four of our favorite food festivals you need to add to your calendar.

Rogers Park Taco Crawl

Event Details

Everyone loves tacos, right? If you want to try lots of them all in one spot, head to the Rogers Park Taco Crawl on July 17. There are 22 neighborhood restaurants participating, including Taqueria El Chorrito and Taqueria El Charro. The way it works is that you pick a route (cleverly named Cilantro and Maiz; each has 11 restaurants), you pay a flat fee ($25 in advance, $35 day of), and get to try each restaurant’s signature taco. Tickets and a full list of restaurants are available online.

Roscoe Village Burger Fest

Competition and Fun

Currently in its 18th year, Roscoe Village Burger Fest brings together 10 Chicago restaurants to compete for the title of Best Burger in Chicago. On July 18, 19, and 20, restaurants will be trying to impress with their best, while local celebrity judges taste and pick the winner on Saturday, with a people’s choice award on Sunday. There’s also live music, a kids zone, and even a dog zone (with pools for pups!).

Veggie Fest Chicago

A Celebration of Vegetarian Lifestyle

Ok, before you yell at me, despite the name, Veggie Fest Chicago is actually held in Lisle. That said, it’s worth the trip for one of the largest vegetarian festivals in North America. On August 9 and 10, you can enjoy a huge variety of food vendors, live music, and speakers on wellness and vegetarian lifestyles. Best of all, admission is free.

Great American Lobster Fest

Lobster and More by the Lake

What could be more fun than eating seafood while looking at the water? Eating lobster plus sides plus Goose Island beer while looking at the air and water show! On August 16 and 17, attendees at the Great American Lobster Fest festival will enjoy fresh lobster, sides, drinks, vendors, music, and reserved seating with a view of the Lake. Tickets run between $65 and $75 a person.

Conclusion

Summer in Chicago is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors and indulge in some delicious food from around the city. With these four food festivals, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a fan of tacos, burgers, vegetarian cuisine, or seafood. Mark your calendars and get ready to taste the best of what Chicago has to offer.

FAQs

When and Where are These Festivals?

• Rogers Park Taco Crawl: July 17, Rogers Park
• Roscoe Village Burger Fest: July 18-20, Roscoe Village
• Veggie Fest Chicago: August 9-10, Lisle
• Great American Lobster Fest: August 16-17, by the Lake

How Much Do Tickets Cost?

• Rogers Park Taco Crawl: $25 in advance, $35 day of
• Roscoe Village Burger Fest: Varies, check the official website
• Veggie Fest Chicago: Free admission
• Great American Lobster Fest: $65-$75 per person

What Can I Expect at These Festivals?

Each festival offers a unique experience, from trying signature tacos and burgers, to exploring vegetarian options, and enjoying lobster by the lake. There will be live music, vendors, and activities for all ages at most of these events.