Chicago weekend events: Puerto Rican Fest, Blues Fest, James Beard Awards
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The 2019 Puerto Rican Pride Parade. Photo: Jim Vondruska/NurPhoto via Getty Images
This weekend in Chicago, celebrate Puerto Rican culture, enjoy four days of free live blues performances or eat a meal at a James Beard-nominated restaurant.
1. 🇵🇷 Puerto Rican Festival
Celebrate Puerto Rican culture at Chicago's festival and parade this weekend.
Driving the news: Officially called Fiestas Patronales Puertorriqueñas, the four-day event is returning to Humboldt Park.
What to expect: New art installations, music, artisan vendors, dominoes, traditional food and drinks, carnival rides and games and performances.
When: Thursday until 10pm, 4–10pm Friday, noon–10pm Saturday and Sunday
- The annual Puerto Rican People's Day parade will step off at 2pm Saturday.
Cost: $15 Friday, starting at $10 Saturday and Sunday
2. 🎵 Hip-Hop Is History
- Six-time Grammy winner Questlove will share anecdotes and stories from his new book with Open Mike Eagle at Thalia Hall 1–2pm Saturday. Tickets are $60
- If you go: A copy of the book comes with each ticket.
3. 🎷 Chicago Blues Festival
- Enjoy four days of blues at this free festival in Millennium Park featuring more than 250 artists including Buddy Guy, Shemekia Copeland, Mr. Sipp and Southern Avenue. Schedule
4. 🍺 Friday Night Flights
- Try beers from over 35 local breweries accompanied by food and live music at Gallagher Way. One tasting pass gets you 20 sample pours. Tickets are $30
- When: 5–7pm (session 1) and 8–10pm (session 2) Friday
5. 🇹🇭 Thai Festival
- Experience Thai culture and cuisine at this two-day festival featuring authentic food, live performances and Muay Thai demonstrations. Free
- When: 10am–9pm Saturday, 11am–7pm Sunday
- Address: 851 W. Irving Park Road
6. 🇸🇪 Midsommarfest
- This three-day festival in Andersonville celebrates Swedish culture and long days with over 50 music and entertainment acts, food stands, artisan vendors and free admission to the Swedish American Museum. $10 donations suggested
- When: 5–10pm Friday, noon–10pm Saturday and Sunday
7. 🏆 James Beard Awards
- The official James Beard restaurant and chef awards take place 6pm Monday at the Civic Opera House, but you can attend ancillary parties, tastings, panels and brunches throughout the weekend. Details