Food and Music Paired in Chicago this Weekend

For anyone looking for something to do in Chicago this weekend, there are lots of things on their plate (literally!). This weekend’s offerings are centered around a combination of food and music.

Taste of Chicago

The Taste of Chicago started on Wednesday July 10 and runs through Sunday, July 14 in Grant Park. Admission is free and food tickets may be purchased at the site.

TOCbrochurecoverAlongside Taste of Chicago’s classic favorites, such as Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria, Billy Goat Inn and Eli’s Cheesecake, the 2013 event welcomes several newcomers, including Bombay Spice Grill & Wine, featuring healthful Indian fare; French Market favorite Flip Crepes; Lao Ma La Chinese by acclaimed Chef Tony Hu; and the decadent, Southern-inspired Wishbone Restaurant. Additionally, after taking part in last year’s crowd-pleasing pop-up pavilion, both Beat Kitchen and Caffe Gelato return in 2013 as five-day participants.

As for music, the lineup at Petrillo Music Shell Concerts includes the Rock ‘n Roll legend Robert Plant and Grammy Award winner Jill Scott and more. Concert seating is sold out but lawn seating around the pavilion is free.

The Bud Light Stage at Taste of Chicago features 30 bands for a dynamic showcase of local talent, from up-and-coming to established Chicago artists.

For a complete schedule and more information, click here.

Windy City Smokeout

Only a few short blocks from the Taste of Chicago, visitors can enjoy BBQ, beer and country music at the first annual Windy City Smokeout. Located in the River North area at Illinois Street and Rush Street, the Windy City Smokeout runs from July 11 to 14.

Bastille Day

For the Francophiles in the city, this weekend also marks Le quatorze juillet, also known as La Fete Nationale in France and Bastille Day most other places. Bastille Day commemorates the July 14, 1789, storming of the Bastille, a French fortress famed for holding political prisoners. The day is honored with a fest at Daley Plaza. In addition, Chicago Tribune restaurant critic Phil Vettel lists area restaurants that offer special deals throughout the weekend.

Musically, on Sunday, July 14 at 2 PM, at SPACE in Evanston Martha Carés and Robert Swan will bring the audience back in time to the era of WWII France through the inimitable music of Edith Piaf. Piaf (“the little sparrow”) captured France in the forties and America in the fifties with her compelling renditions of some of the most moving and nostalgic songs ever written.

So bring your appetite and listening ears and enjoy the midsummer weekend in Chicago.