Taste of Greektown: A celebration of Greek culture and cuisine

The 35th annual Taste of Greektown festival returns to the heart of Chicago’s West Loop from Friday, August 22 to Sunday, August 24. This beloved event transforms Halsted Street into a lively showcase of Greek heritage, where visitors can enjoy authentic food, traditional music, cultural exhibits and family-friendly activities.

Festival Overview

• Dates and Hours:

  • Friday, August 22: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM

  • Saturday, August 23: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

  • Sunday, August 24: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM

• Location: 315 S Halsted St., Chicago, IL

• Admission: Free entry, with a suggested $7 donation at the gate

Hosted by the Greektown Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Special Events Management, the festival invites everyone to celebrate the vibrant Greek-American community that has shaped this historic neighborhood.

Greek Cuisine and Local Restaurants

The festival features a delicious lineup of traditional dishes served by some of Greektown’s most iconic restaurants:

• Athena Restaurant: Known for classic Greek recipes and a scenic rooftop patio

• Mr. Greek Gyros: A 24/7 favorite for fast, flavorful Greek street food

• 9 Muses Bar & Grill: A social hub for Greek food, drinks, and nightlife

• Spectrum Bar & Grill: A fusion of Greek, American, and Cypriot flavors

• Ilios Estiatorio: A newer addition bringing upscale Mediterranean flair

Guests can expect staples like gyros, souvlaki, spanakopita, dolmades, baklava, and more.

Live Music and Entertainment

Entertainment runs throughout the weekend and highlights the sounds of Greece:

• Greek bands including Hellas 2000 will perform live on the South Stage

• A gyros eating contest presented by Devanco Foods takes place Saturday at 5:00 PM (on-site registration opens at 3:00 PM)

• Family activities and games make the festival fun for kids and adults alike

Cultural Features

Taste of Greektown is also a cultural celebration that honors Greek traditions and art:

• The Little Wise Owls Art Exhibit features 28 painted 3D owl sculptures, inspired by Athena, the Greek goddess of wisdom. These works are created by artists and students from nine local Greek language schools and line Halsted Street during the event.

• The vendor market includes Greek-themed merchandise and local businesses like Athenian Candle Co., a spiritual and cultural fixture in Chicago since 1909Plan Your Visit

Whether you’re a lifelong Chicagoan or just visiting for the weekend, the Taste of Greektown offers a rich immersion into Greek-American culture through food, music, and tradition. Bring friends, family, and an appetite for a celebration unlike any other in the city.

For more info, visit: https://chicagoevents.com/event/taste-of-greektown/ 

Sources

• https://chicagoevents.com/event/taste-of-greektown/

• https://greektownchicago.org

• https://www.spotlightonlake.com