Chicago’s State Street comes alive this weekend with the free Loop Arts Fest

A free Chicago festival will turn part of State Street into a public stage this weekend, bringing local artists, cultural groups, live performances, and neighborhood activities to the Loop. The Loop Arts Fest is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 17, from noon to 6 p.m. State Street will close to vehicle traffic between Jackson Boulevard and Madison Street for the day-long event.

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Three blocks of arts and culture

The festival is designed to connect Chicago artists and arts organizations from across the city while highlighting the Loop’s concentration of cultural institutions and creative businesses.

Organizers describe the event as three blocks of programming with two stages and one featured headliner. Performances and activities will take place on the street, while additional cultural programming will extend to nearby Loop venues, according to the website.

Visitors can expect live music and dance, art vendors, food trucks, a beer garden, and activities involving local businesses. Other reported programming includes Joffrey Ballet student performances, a World Fashion runway show, a line-dancing workshop from the Second City Outlaws, and a ballet lesson with excerpts from “The Nutcracker” by Ballet Chicago.

The festival is also expected to feature more than 20 art vendors, along with performances representing several styles and traditions. 

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Simone Green to headline

Chicago vocalist, songwriter and producer Simone Green will close the festival’s main stage at 5 p.m. Her work spans soul, R&B and contemporary music, and she has performed for more than two decades, the website confirmed. Green’s sound draws inspiration from artists including Prince, Aretha Franklin and Patti LaBelle. She will headline the event with a performance on State Street.

The festival is presented by Chicago Loop Alliance. Admission is free, and organizers encourage visitors to plan for a pedestrian event along State Street between Jackson and Madison.