Dig into more than 50,000 pounds of ribs and BBQ at this year's Ribfest. Enter a rib-eating contest, jam out to live bands and watch chefs battle it out at the Bacon Throw Down. (Lincoln Ave/Irving Park Rd/Damen Ave intersection, Fri 5–10pm, Sat noon–10pm, Sun noon–10pm. $5 suggested donation)
The largest free blues festival kicks off in Grant Park for three days of soulful music. Headliners include singer Shemekia Copeland, trombonist Fred Wesley & The New JB’s as well as an all-star tribute to Chicago's own Otis Rush. (Grant Park, 337 E Randolph St, Fri–Sun 11am. Free)
Andersonville celebrates its Swedish heritage at this year’s Midsommarfest. Enjoy food from local restaurants, dance troupes, DJs and local bands. (Clark St and Foster Ave, 5200 N Clark St, Fri 5–10pm, Sat 11–10pm, Sun 11–10pm. $10 suggested donation)
4. Watch naked cyclists take over Chicago
The annual World Naked Bike Ride will roll out in Chicago this weekend. Join stripped-down cyclists to help raise awareness about positive body image or just admire from afar. (Location TBD, 8–11pm. Free)
The bookworm paradise that is the Chicago Tribune Printers Row Lit Fest kicks off this weekend with tons of merchandise, authors, panels and discussions. The kiddies can enjoy special activities at the Lil Lit Park while you check out awesome headliners like chef Rick Bayless and journalist Kim Barker. (Printers Row, Dearborn St, Sat–Sun 10am. Free)