Chicago Deep Dish Pizza

Taste of Chicago Festival – Food, music and giant pickles!

Discover Chicago’s secret recipe on how to create the largest food festival in the world. With crowds of over 3 million expected this year, this gastronomic event has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 1980. Savoured over four days from July 10-14, Grant Park comes alive showcasing the city’s finest food stalls, restaurants, pop up food vans and entertainment.

Food glorious food

All the Chicago food classics are featured during the festival – deep dish pizza, Chicago hot dogs, Italian beef, traditional cheesecake and so much more. With hundreds of food stalls waiting to serve, the menus are as diverse and delicious as the city itself! Chicago’s multi cultural community serves up many ethnic tastes, all with their own unique twist.

Taste of Chicago Pop-up Vans - Photo Credit: City of Chicago
Taste of Chicago Pop-up Vans – Photo Credit: City of Chicago

If there is one thing that shouldn’t be missed it has to be the giant pickles. Essentially we are talking a pickled cucumber on a stick. These are fresh, crisp and tasty and just right on a Chicago summers day. Also try the freshest, tastiest corn on the cob you will ever experience. With countless seasonings, sweet and savoury, they are the perfect walk around treat. Many taste plates are available and often the hardest part is deciding what not to eat. Pace yourself though as the choices are endless.

Enjoying the food stalls. Photo Credit: City of Chicago
Enjoying the food stalls. Photo Credit: City of Chicago

New upmarket dining options

In 2013 a new air-conditioned area has been included to facilitate a sit-down, 3-course-meal crafted by famed chefs such as Graham Elliot and Stephanie Izard. Separate tickets are available and able to be purchased on the day.

Music for all

No world famous festival is complete without a delicious line-up of entertainment. This year promises to be spectacular with some big music names announced. Tickets are $25 for seated areas or free on lawn areas. Performances this year will take place in the renovated Petrillo Music Shell plus the Bud Light Stage, located at the southern end of the festival.

Petrillo Music Shell. Photo Credit: City of Chicago
Petrillo Music Shell. Photo Credit: City of Chicago

So far this year’s line-up includes:

Wednesday, July 10 – 5:30pm

  • Delta Spirit
  • fun

Thursday, July 11 – 5:30pm

  • Estelle
  • Robin Thicke

Friday, July 12 – 5:30pm

  • The Lone Bellow
  • Robert Plant Presents The Sensational Space Shifters

Saturday, July 13 – 11am

  • Chloe and Hallie
  • IM5

Saturday, July 13 – 5:30pm

  • Maxi Priest
  • Jill Scott

Sunday, July 14 – 4pm

  • The Mowgli’s
  • Neon Trees

Have you paid a visit to Taste of Chicago? If so let us know your favourite food stalls. More information on Taste of Chicago.

About the author

Jason Dutton-Smith is a professional nomad, first-class-wannabe and curious adventurer who enjoys travel that's two parts planned, to one part self-discovery. When at home, chief tea maker.