Old St. Pat's World Largest Block Party: Old St. Pat's is formally called "Old St. Pat's World's Largest Block Party." The block party attracts close to 30,000 people each year and hosts food, beer, and music. Old St. Pat's is also known to locals as one of the biggest "singles parties." Close to 75 couples have said they have met there. Old St. Pat’s Church, Chicago’s oldest public building, hosts the block party each year. This year will mark its 28th year. Proceeds support the mission and outreach activities of Old St. Pat’s including the Career Transitions Center of Chicago.
When is Old St. Pat's:: 5:30-10:30 p.m. Saturday, June 30
Where is Old St. Pat's:Old St. Patrick's Church, entrance at Madison and Des Plaines streets
Admission Price:$45 at gate per night for general admission
Also worth reading: Celebrating the Fourth of July in Chicago and Your Guide to the Taste of Chicago 2012
Craft Beer Fest at St. Mike's:This inaugural fest is aiming for the feel of a Belgian beer fest with food, music, and arts booths. Music includes such feature bands as Empires, Civil Twilight, and Shiny Toy Guns on Saturday night. Those interested in the craft beer portion of the festival can enjoy a separate beer tasting area that features breweries such as Arcadia, Flying Dog, Goose Island, and Half Acre.
When is the Craft Beer Fest at St. Mike's:11 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Sunday.
Where is the Craft Beer Fest at St. Mike's:St. Michael's, 1711 N. Cleveland Ave. in Old Town.
Admission Price:$5 entry fee, $35-$50 for access to beer tasting tent, which includes a VIP tasting with rarer brews, a souvenir glass, and 25 beer tickets for 3-ounce samples.
Tip: One other festival to keep on your radar is the Wavefront Music Festival Saturday June 30 and Sunday July 1 at Montrose Beach. It's the first year for this beachfront electronic dance music fest with music at four different stages, including a local stage featuring some of Chicago's popular DJs. Free busses will run between the fest and the Wilson Red Line station from 9 - 11 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $109.99 for a two-day pass.
