Wicker Park Fest rocks on, but needs more than vibes to survive

Wicker Park Fest—deemed "Chicago's Best Street Festival of the Summer" by the Chicago Tribune—is set to continue its tradition of vibrant entertainment from Friday, July 25, through Sunday, July 27, running the first night from 5-10 p.m. and over the weekend from 12-10 p.m. As the festival draws crowds with its rich musical heritage, vibrant nightlife, and diverse gastronomy, it stands as a favorite of Chicago's neighborhood summer festivities.

This year, Wicker Park Fest promises over 50 original music performances, enriching the atmosphere with unique talents on two main stages: the North Stage sponsored by Goose Island and the South Stage by Wake N Bakery. Alongside music, festival-goers can explore a variety of arts and culture initiatives, including art installations and international dance performances. The festival caters to food enthusiasts with a vast array of local dishes from acclaimed restaurants and cafés. According to the website, attendees will also have the chance to explore more than 150 local shops, turning the fest into a shopper's paradise filled with bookstores and vintage sellers. 

View the lineups for music, arts & culture, and vendors. 

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Keeping neighborhood street fests going with donations

A suggested $10 entry donation plays a crucial role in sustaining the festival. According tothe Wicker Park Bucktown Chamber of Commerce (WPBCC), these donations help offset the rising costs of the festival and support nonprofit entities, such as the Friends of Burr Elementary School, through activities such as the Kids Fest experience. The festival does more than entertain; it impacts the community by raising funds for charitable causes, including the Chicago Rescue Authority, One More Dog Rescue, and the Wicker Park Dog Park through its Pet Fest activities.

Nonprofit festivals, including Wicker Park Fest, face increasing challenges such as soaring expenses and declining donations, the website states. This urgent issue has led to the formation of the Save Our Street Fests Coalition, spearheaded by WPBCC Executive Director Pamela Maass, to raise urgent awareness and find solutions. This coalition consists of over 30 nonprofit street fest organizers across the city, all working towards securing the future of these beloved events.

As Chicago enjoys the thrill of Wicker Park Fest, festival supporters can champion the cause by learning more and offering support on the Save Our Street Fests Website.