There are many food festivals to enjoy in July, and most are taking place outdoors, in the sunshine and fresh air, so go ahead, put on some sunscreen–and your feedbag–and indulge.
1 Roscoe Village Burger Fest (2000 West Belmont) They’re firing up the grills for the “Midwest’s best Patty Party,” with lots of beer and, we’ve heard, hamburgers. (July 7-9)
2 Windy City Smokeout (United Center) If you’re a fan of BBQ, this is where you want to be, with pit masters coming in from across the country to join barbecue royalty from local places like Soul & Smoke and Lexington Betty. (July 13-16)
3 Taste of Chicago (Pullman Park) The July installment of the satellite Tastes taking place around the city; this month, it’s in Pullman, offering a good excuse to also check out the historic Pullman Works. (July 15)
4 Tacos y Tamales Festival (South Peoria and West 16th Street) Chow down on quesadillas, birria, and other Mexican bites while viewing and supporting national and international artworks and listening to south of the border tunes. (July 21-23)
5 Chinatown Summer Fair (2200 South Wentworth) Many of us go down to Chinatown for the outstanding cuisine, and at the end of July, you can do that as well as watch dragon and lion dances in celebration of “Far East beauty and culture.” (July 29-30)
Dining and Drinking Editor for Newcity, David also writes a weekly food column for Wednesday Journal in Oak Park and is a frequent contributor of food/drink and travel pieces to the Chicago Tribune, Plate Magazine and other publications. David has also contributed chapters to several books, including Street Food Around the World, Street Food, and The Chicago Food Encyclopedia. Contact: dhammond@newcity.com
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