Established in 1980, this uniquely-Chicago summertime tradition returns with an impressive array of eateries showcasing the city’s culinary excellence and diversity.
All events are free admission and open to the public.
“Taste of Chicago is a celebration of everything that makes our city vibrant—our neighborhoods, our food and our music,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. “This year’s Taste honors our communities, while also bringing the city together at our beautiful lakefront.”
This year’s Taste Main Stage will feature an electrifying mix of Grammy-winning and chart-topping talent: Lupe Fiasco, the Chicago-born rapper and cultural voice, headlines Friday; JoJo, the pop-R&B singer with powerhouse vocals, performs on Saturday; and international Latin superstar Elvis Crespo brings his high-energy merengue hits to close out the weekend on Sunday. Evening performances begin at 5 p.m. each night.
This year’s Taste of Chicago will feature a total of 44 vendor booths, including 39 traditional food boothsand an expanded Snack Shack section with four featured vendors — one more than in 2024. Additionally, 15 food trucks will be serving up diverse, on-the-go culinary experiences throughout the weekend. Of the total food participants, approximately 20% are new to Taste this year, including nine new food booth vendors and two new food truck vendors, offering fresh flavors and unique bites to explore.
“Taste of Chicago is a celebration of the restaurants, chefs and cultures that shape our city’s vibrant food scene,” said Sam Toia, President and CEO of the Illinois Restaurant Association. “It’s a beloved tradition that brings together neighbors and visitors alike to experience the flavors of all 77 neighborhoods — reminding us why Chicago continues to lead as the culinary capital of the world.”
New food vendors for Grant Part include Beat Kitchen Cantina, ChefLife19, Chillafry, Crave Cookies, Dao Thai Restaurant, Hubbard Inn, Khmai, Lexington Betty Smoke House and Thimi’s Empanadas. Returning food vendors include Eli’s Cheesecake, African Food Palace, BJ’s Market & Bakery, Churro Factory, Connie’s Pizza, Franco’s Ristorante, Harold’s Chicken #55, JJ Thai Street Food, Porkchop, Prime Tacos, Moore Poppin Gourmet Popcorn, The Original Rainbow Cone, Yum Dum, and so many more.
Taste of Chicago 2025 is made possible through the generous support of its sponsors and partners, whose contributions help enhance the festival experience for all attendees. Featured sponsored areas include the Goose Island Stage, showcasing local and emerging musical talent, and the Disney Resorts Family Village, a lively destination offering family-friendly activities and entertainment throughout the weekend. Additional support is provided by Capital Vacations, Chicago Transit Authority, Disney Resorts, Eli’s Cheesecake, Goose Island Beer Company, Illinois Lottery, Millennium Garages, NRG Energy, and Pepsi— each helping to bring this beloved Chicago tradition to life.
For more information and the full event lineup, visit Chicago.gov/Taste and follow this flavorful festival on Facebook at the Taste of Chicago.
