Satisfy Your Appetite in River North, Chicago’s Hottest Neighborhood
Photo Credit: RNRA Chicago
We’re in the heat of street festival season and the Taste of River North is next on our schedule. This street fest is seriously one of the best because it’s full of delicious neighborhood food vendors that serve generous portions, exciting live music acts, and it’s all set against the backdrop of the beautiful Chicago Riverwalk.
Ready to eat your heart out in downtown Chicago’s best ‘hood? Here’s everything you need to know for the Taste of River North.
Where It’s At
Photo Credit: Chicago Real Estate Forum
The three-day event from July 22-24 will take place at scenic Ward Park, between North Kingsbury and West Erie along the riverwalk. There are parking facilities along nearby streets like Ohio and Ontario, and Larrabee and Chicago. If you’re taking the CTA, the Red Line or Brown Line to Chicago Avenue and the Blue Line to Grand Avenue are recommended.
Entry Rules
Taste of River North is an all-ages event and has kid-friendly sites so the whole family can have a good time. While the street festival doesn’t have any official entry rules, be sure to exercise common sense and only bring in safe, compact items that won’t cause any distraction or harm to other attendees and won’t disrespect the vendors. Make sure to donate $5 for admission.
What to Wear
Friday and Saturday are expected to be particularly hot with temps in the 90s, so be prepared! Loose clothing is recommended. Shorts, tank tops, and t-shirts would probably be best to stay cool. The fest is expecting a high attendance, so closed-toe shoes are good for not getting trampled on. Sunday might have some scattered storms, so bring an umbrella just in case.
What to Do
Most people will be busy scarfing down tasty eats, but there are a few other activities you can enjoy at the event. If you want to feel less guilty about all the food you’re about to consume, the neighboring East Bank Club is hosting morning workouts on Saturday and Sunday from 10:30am – 11:15am. There’s also a kid zone for little ones to play, and a dog-friendly area if you want to bring your furry friends. Beer, wine, and sangria tents are located throughout the park as well.
Where to Stay
River North is a prime destination for hotels, so there are tons to choose from. The Godfrey Hotel, Hotel Felix, and the Best Western River North are all within walking distance of the festival and are super close to River North’s nightlife if you’re looking for somewhere to go after the fest ends.
Photo Credit: Chicago Now
Menu Lineup
The Kerryman, El Hefe, Pranzi, The Motel Bar, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Taco Joint, Farmhouse, Kinzie Chophouse, Da Lobsta, Starfruit Cafe, Fannie May, Sholado
Music Lineup
Friday, July 22
Lucky Boys Confusion, Sidewalk Chalk, Sleep On It, Armitage
Saturday, July 23
Sixteen Candles, Boy Band Review, Run Forrest Run, Nick Lynch, Band Called Catch
Sunday, July 24
Rod Tuffcurls & The Bench Press, Stache, Funk Crusaders, Chris Buehrle Band, Fletcher Rockwell
Festival Map
Official Taste of River North Festival Map
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