Taste of Chicago returns to Grant Park from September 5 to 7. The longstanding festival, started in 1980 by influential former mayor Jane Byrne, once again brings a diverse group of food vendors and musical performers to the city for free.
Starting in 2023, the annual fest was pushed from July to September—much to Chicagoans’ dismay—as a result of the city’s completely packed roster of summer events. The NASCAR street race was one of those major happenings, but a recent announcement confirmed that the street race will not be returning in 2026. Could Taste of Chicago reclaim its mid-summer status next year? We shall see.
Just like the past few years, the Taste of Chicago is preceded by a series of day-long fests throughout the summer (at Marquette Park, Pullman Park and Albany Park) before heading to Grant Park for the three-day main event.
As usual, you can expect plenty of food, live music and performances. Curious about what else you need to know? Take a look through our guide to the Taste of Chicago 2024.
When is the Taste of Chicago 2025?
The Taste of Chicago returns September 5–7.
Where is the Taste of Chicago 2025?
The main Taste of Chicago fest is in Grant Park near Buckingham Fountain.
What is the Taste of Chicago 2025?
Historically, a lineup of local restaurants and food vendors set up booths in Grant Park and offers a variety of dishes to purchase. The Taste of Chicago also books a robust lineup of concerts, with free entry to shows.
Who is at the Taste of Chicago 2025?
This year's festival will host 39 traditional food booths, an expanded Snack Shack section with four featured vendors and 15 food trucks. Approximately 20% of vendors are new this year, which includes Beat Kitchen Cantina, Dao Thai Restaurant and Lexington Betty Smoke House.
Musical performers include Chicago native Lupe Fiasco (Friday), JoJo (Saturday) and Elvis Crespo (Sunday).
The full list of vendors and performers can be found here.
How much does it cost to get into Taste of Chicago 2025?
Entry to all Taste of Chicago events is free. Food is available for purchase using a card only.
