September in Chicago is the month of festivals; communities from Hyde Park to Evanston are rolling out the barrel, grilling up the meat, and laying down a spread of local food and drink that attracts foodists from all over the country.
1 Taste of Polonia Festival (Copernicus Center) Do you like beer? How about pierogi? If you answered yes to either of these questions, you really want to spend at least one day at this four-day Jefferson Park celebration of Polish culture, food, drink, dance and music. September 1-4
2 Taste of Chicago (Grant Park) You’ve been teased with satellite pop-ups of Taste of Chicago, but this is the real thing, in Grant Park, with no admission, free music, and loads of food provided by almost forty local restaurants. September 8-10
3 Chicago Beer and Wine Fest (The Promontory, 5311 South Lake Park) The inaugural presentation of Chicago Beer and Wine Fest takes place not on the North Side, but at Hyde Park’s Promontory, a beautiful location to sip brews and vintages. September 10
4 Taste of Evanston (225 Greenwood, Evanston) Evanston is home to so much more than a great university, and this festival showcases North Shore restaurants, breweries, and wine shops. September 17
5 Chicago Gourmet (Millennium Park) What many consider to be the premier culinary event in Chicago if not North America, Chicago Gourmet brings together chefs, food, and big crowds to celebrate Chicago’s culinary achievements and culture. September 21-24
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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