After months of anticipation and wonder, the Hyde Park Summer Fest is finally here this weekend. Along the picturesque Midway Plaisance, thousands, literally thousands, of souls will be out. And it will be nothing but music, food, fun and more music.
Did we mention the music?
If you’re one of the fortunate souls who will get to attend, enjoy it and don’t brag too hard about it to your friends.
On the other hand, there are also plenty of other fantastic events this Juneteenth weekend. If you want those Juneteenth events, head here.
But here are some other cool, non-Juneteenth themed events happening in the city:
A Special Evening with Ms. Lauryn Hill at Ravinia (June 17)
We’ll just call it as we see it —Ms. Hill is still an icon. Though “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill” dropped nearly 25 years ago (!!!), the music still resonates. She is still a magnetic presence.
Chicago Pride Fest (June 17-18)
This landmark festival in Northalsted is all about music, fun, freedom and pride. It’s just a $15 suggested donation to experience it all.
Hyde Park Summer Fest (June 17-18)
Formerly known as the Hyde Park Brew Fest, this multicultural, multi-generational festival of food, music, culture and vibes returns to the Midway Plaisance. This event blew up, as evidenced by this year’s acts playing at the fest — Clipse, 2 Chainz, Lil Kim, Robert Glasper with Lalah Hathaway, Tobe Nwigwe, Jay Illa and Alex Isley. Wow.
Sunday Service with DJ Duane Powell (June 18)
DJ Duane Powell sets up at the Stony Island Arts Bank every first and third Sunday of the month and delivers a soulful, cosmic experience. Expect to be captivated by one of the best DJs you’ll hear. Yes, you might catch the spirit!
Taste of Randolph Street (June 16-18)
This iconic, three-day street festival upped the ante with some highly notable performers. This year, acclaimed acts like Digable Planets, Jamila Woods and Chicago House Legend Mike Dunn hit the stage. Count us intrigued.