The Taste of Chicago is back: Mini neighborhood festivals debut before the big event

Pop-up festivals with food and live music are coming to the Chicago neighborhoods of Austin, Little Village, and Pullman starting June 11th.

Photo by Ambitious Creative Co. - Rick Barrett

(CHICAGO) Get your appetites ready, because the Taste of Chicago is back this summer. The three-day food extravaganza and live music festival will be held in Grant Park from July 8th to the 10th.

But before the main event, Chicagoans can sample neighborhood foods during pop-up events around the city.

"Taste of Chicago is a celebration of our city's incredible culinary scene and cultural vibrancy that attracts thousands of residents and tourists alike," said Mayor Lori Lightfoot in a press release. "I cannot wait to welcome everyone to this iconic festival and enjoy classic Chicago eats alongside new cutting-edge dishes. Year after year, I discover something new and have a great time, and I hope our revelers do too.”

The Taste has expanded into the neighborhoods

This year is a little different, with foods from various Chicago neighborhoods being highlighted each week in a mini-festival.

DCASE Commissioner Erin Harkey said, "After an all-virtual Taste in 2020 and community pop-ups in 2021, we are thrilled to bring Taste back to Grant Park and back into our neighborhoods in 2022."

She continued, "We are excited to showcase the food and music of Pullman, Austin, and Little Village this summer, and spotlight other DCASE summertime traditions like Blues Festival and SummerDance in our programming. There’s something for everyone to enjoy at this year’s Taste, throughout the city.”

June 11: Taste of Chicago Austin

On Saturday, June 11th, from 12 PM to 8 PM, Chicagoans can enjoy local food vendors and live Blues music in the Austin neighborhood. Featured restaurants include Cynthia's Gumbo Express, Doom Street Eats, Robinson's No.1 Ribs, and Whadda Jerk.

For a complete list of vendors and the live music schedule, go here.

June 18: Taste of Chicago Pullman Park

On Saturday, June 18th, the pop-up event in the Pullman neighborhood will feature local food vendors, live music, and Chicago SummerDance classes. Restaurants include Taco Sublime, Chicago's Doghouse, Southside Grinds, and Don Paleta.

For a complete list of vendors and the live music schedule, go here.

June 25: Taste of Chicago Little Village

On Saturday, June 25th, from 12 PM to 8 PM, in the Little Village neighborhood, Chicagoans can enjoy live music and local food vendors, including Prime tacos, Mr. Quiles Mexican Food, Carnitas Y Tacos, Maravatio, and Ann's Flavored Cheesecakes.

This event will be held at the Ortiz De Dominguez School, and no alcohol will be served.

For a complete list of vendors and the live music schedule, go here.

Taste of Chicago in Grant Park

And in July, the main event in Grant Park will feature over 30 local food vendors, live music, DJs, and dance lessons.

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