With Chicago beaches now open, weekly fireworks shows back on at Navy Pier, and outdoor markets returning thick and fast, Chicago is about to enter its most magical months of the year.
Of all the euphoric summer experiences in Chicago, its festivals little and large are some of the most beloved outdoor events.
While the likes of Lollapalooza and Pitchfork offer fun yet frenetic large-scale festivals in Grant Park and Union Park, the smaller neighborhood celebrations offer more humble yet hearty days spent sipping drinks and savoring snacks in the sun.
Kicking off this Friday, June 7th, for its 58th year, Andersonville Midsommarfest is one such unique street festival offering the jubilance of a spirited Chicago street festival fused with the unequaled energy of Chicago’s most cosmopolitan neighborhood.
Once voted the second coolest neighborhood in the world, Andersonville began as a small village of Swedish immigrants back in the mid-19th century before flourishing into the vibrant and eccentric enclave of Chicago that we know today.
Having first begun in 1966 the Andersonville Midsommarfest returns this weekend to, according to ChicagoPride, “help kick off the Chicago summer neighborhood street festival season” for a 58th time.
For those unfortunate enough to have never partaken in the merrymaking at a previous edition of Midsommarfest, Andersonville’s quintessential yearly celebration channels Andersonville’s Swedish heritage by taking over Clark Street from Foster to Gregory with an abundance of food, entertainment, activities, and an eclectic mix of artisans and vendors.
The family-friendly event offers something for everybody transporting revelers back in time with charming old-world Swedish traditions and delectable Swedish snacks.
While older attendees are sampling foods and drinks, children of all ages can enjoy a pet parade and face painting as well as various other interactive activities.
A wide range of music artists will also be performing across 5 different stages throughout the weekend with acclaimed DJs, Abba tributes, and more from Friday through Sunday.
According to Andersonville.org, admission to Midsommarfest is a $10 suggested donation. Proceeds from donations and beverage sales go directly back to the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce and are put towards future neighborhood events, neighborhood beautification, and other special services year-round as well as over a dozen local non-profits.
The Andersonville Midsommarfest will run from Friday, June 7th through Sunday, June 9th, from Foster to Gregory on Clark Street.
More information can be found at Andersonville.org.