Chicago is a city known for its great history and the numerous cultures that call it home. Chicago is a global place with a massive population, and because of that, there is always something going on. While the chilly winters typically signal a slow-down in the hustle and bustle of the city, spring and summer in Chicago are exciting times, filled with different community events and festivals. This year will be no different, as two exciting festivals are set to signal the start of Chicago’s summer.
Mayfest
One of the biggest ancestry groups in the United States is those that descend from German populations, and the Mayfest event is a significant celebration of this group. Mayfest, also known as Maifest, is a major German celebration that heralds the arrival of spring. Like Octoberfest, Mayfest is a rowdy occasion filled with delicious foods, strong German beers, music, and more.
Chicago is a city with one of the largest populations of people descended from Germans, so naturally the Chicago Mayfest is one of the best celebrations in the country. This year, Mayfest will occur at the end of May, lasting from May 30th-June 5th at Lincoln Square. Lincoln Square is known as the heart of Chicago’s German community, so it is a fitting setting. It will be a raucous festival with a little something for people of all tastes.
The 2022 iteration of Mayfest Chicago will be the 21st-anniversary edition, and it is a celebration of Germany, America, and the changing of the seasons. There will be German and American food and beer for sale, all set in a heated tent. Live music, including traditional German songs, will be played on two different stages, and there will be dancing, singing, and lots of drinking.
There will also be special entertainment and kids’ activities planned for children, so this is a festival that will appeal to all ages. Some classically German traditions will be done, like crowning the May Queen and keg tapping. Mayfest will be a weekend-long festival that ushers in the beginning of warmer weather for Chicago while celebrating the city’s German culture. There will be great food, drinks, entertainment, and a fun, community-oriented spirit. It is an event that will appeal to people of all ages.
Old Town Art Festival
Chicago’s artistic community is one of its greatest strengths, with many incredible art galleries and museums. Chicago’s artistic legacy is worthy of celebration, and one upcoming event is the perfect place to enjoy and celebrate the culture of creativity within the city. The Old Town Art Fair is an outdoor event that will bring out over 200 artists and thousands of art lovers to spotlight some emerging artists from Chicago and around the country.
The Old Town Art Festival occurs June 11th-12th at the beautiful Old Town Triangle Historic District. It is a juried art event, meaning the artists there will have been vetted and selected, ensuring attendees only see works from top-notch, acclaimed creators. Artists will sell and display works covering various mediums, ranging from paintings and photography to sculpture and carving. There will be different displays for all tastes.
The Old Town Art Fair has been voted among the best art festivals in America for years now, and it is an outdoor event with a lot to offer. Artists are selected by a group of acclaimed Chicago art professionals, with a mix of new and returning artists. A significant variety of art types ensures that this event will stay fresh throughout.
Even if you aren’t the biggest art lover, there is still a lot of fun to be had at this event. There will be live music, different food and drink areas, and even a calming garden walk. Bring the young ones, too, because the Children’s Corner has different activities and events to ensure your child has a great day.
Old Town Art Festival is an exciting event right at the onset of the summer, and it is one to circle in the calendar. With a significant number of talented artists showcasing their latest and greatest, as well as food, drink, music, and family-friendly events, Old Town Art Festival is an excellent Chicago tradition.
