The end of August is here, but there's no reason to feel depressed. Sure, you may not have crossed every activity off of your summer to-do list, but you can still enjoy the warm-ish weather at a variety of festivals. Whether you're a film fanatic, a foodie or a fashionista, we've found the festivals you'll want to check out this weekend.
After some questionable bar dancing this weekend, you're ready to see some professionals
Sure, you and your friends can bust some decent drunken moves with Beyonce on the jukebox, but you'd love to see some trained dancers in action—and why not under the stars? Head to the closing night of the Chicago Dancing Festival in Millennium Park on Saturday for a free show featuring Chicago Human Rhythm Project, The Joffrey Ballet and talented troupes.
You're a film and TV buff who loves looking behind the scenes
Are you that person who must inform the people that The Dark Knight was filmed on Lower Wacker? You'll love the Cinefest Backlot Block Party, a three-day event that invites attendees to experience some of the movie magic that happens in its lots, including sets from shows like Empire, Chicago Fire, and Chicago PD as well as tributes to classic, locally shot films like The Blues Brothers. If you just want to listen to some tunes, performances by Blue Oyster Cult, Bret Michaels and Quiet Riot will provide a soundtrack fit for an '80s action flick.
You're a foodie-wino ready to geek out with fellow bon vivants
Tired of typical street festival food and beer fare? Every self-respecting, Bon Appetit-reading, pink Himalayan salt-loving gastronome will be at the Chicago Food + Wine Festival in Lincoln Park this weekend, which features world-class chefs, sommeliers, cocktail experts, culinary personalities, musical acts and more.
You missed all of the Wicker Park and Logan Square fests
Live in the holy trinity of hip? Did you somehow miss each neighborhood's various summer street festivals? You're in luck: The charming streets of Bucktown will host the Bucktown Arts Fest this weekend, a gathering of neighborhood artists, poets, musicians, theater performers and dancers. As with every street celebration, you'll find plenty of food and beer.
You're a style fiend who'd like to stick it to New York and Paris fashion weeks
New York and Paris are known as the centers for fashion, but Chicago is ready to prove it has more than enough to offer. The Chicago Fashion Festival aims to put our sartorial sensibilities on the map, with fancy fashion shows showcasing more than 50 local designers. The event also offers family and pet activities as well as music acts like The Mowgli's and the Black Lips.