Maxwell Street Market is Chicago’s oldest market, with roots that date back more than a century.
This seasonal Sunday bazaar showcases a diverse mix of food, handmade crafts, housewares, clothing, live entertainment, and much more.
Located on Chicago’s historic Maxwell Street, the area became a melting pot of cultures from around the world and played a vital role in the development of Chicago’s signature blues music.
Chicago’s legendary 114-year-old Sunday market returns in a few weeks
The 2026 season will kick off on Sunday, May 17, on Maxwell Street between S. Halsted Street and S. Union Avenue, as well as on S. Union Avenue between W. Rochford Street and W. Liberty Street.
Visitors can explore a variety of handmade crafts and hidden treasures while enjoying live music and mouthwatering street food, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on six different summer market dates throughout the season.
The original Maxwell Street Market began as an informal, open-air market in the late 19th century created by newly arrived Eastern European Jewish immigrants, and was officially recognized by the City of Chicago in October 1912.
If you can’t make it on May 17, Maxwell Street Market will return on June 7, July 19, August 9, September 13, and October 4.