The Chicago History Museum's third annual Chicago Hot Dog Festival brings the beef to Lincoln Park this weekend with a bevy of hot dog vendors serving up the traditional Chicago-style dog, a full lineup of bands and, perhaps most interestingly, a throng of hot dog history speakers to give colorful lectures. To make sure you have plenty of time to obsess over encased meats, the family-friendly event is extending to three days this year.
The fest will host a substantial music lineup for a variety of tastes, including Kashmir, the Led Zeppelin tribute band, and Guitarra Azul for some Latin grooves. Chow down on the Vienna Beef classic Chicago dog as well as numerous other tasty delights from popular vendors like Boricua Dog, The Abbey Pub, Fatso's Last Stand and Frank Meats Patty, among others.
In between rocking out and devouring sausages, pull up a seat to some of the most interesting lectures you'll probably ever hear about Chicago-style hot dogs. Highlights include avid discussions on condiments, like Mustard Museum founder Barry Levenson's talk "Mustard: The King of Condiments" and Northwestern University professor Bill Savage's "Ketchup: The Condiment of Controversy." Museum curator John Russick will also take the stage with his talk, "Hot Doggin' Chicago Style" and a promised special treat for the audience.
Admission to the fest is free and discounted food packages are available through August 6 online. You can also purchase Dog Dollars for food, alcohol and non-alcoholic beverages to be sold at the festival.
The festival will run from 11am to 9pm on Friday, August 7 and Saturday, August 8, and from 11am to 8pm on Sunday, August 9.