Mayfest: Countdown to This Weekend’s Street Fest Begins

Chicago’s outdoor festival season is already upon us, and kicking off the slew of parties peppered around the North Side this summer is Mayfest.

Going on its 17th year, Mayfest is a three-day street party planned for May 17-19 on the 3100 block of Ashland Avenue. Starting just south of the Belmont, Ashland and Lincoln avenue intersection, the event is ready rock with live music, cold beer and tasty food.

“Mayfest is the first kick-ass event of the season,” organizers write on their website. “Get off the couch and get ready to ROCK! This 3-day festival features Chicago’s finest bands performing throughout the weekend. We offer some incredible food options and ice cold beverages that will ultimately quench your thirst.”

Banks like 16 Candles, Too White Crew and The Personnel will perform, along with four other bands inside an oversized tent on Ashland. Combined with an outdoor beer garden and merchant’s square, the event is a quintessential Chicago street fest.

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Mayfest runs on Friday from 5-10 p.m. and on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Chicago Kids Day is Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. where local businesses are teaming up with organizers to have kid-friendly attractions. Kiddie boot camp, kids zumba and arts and crafts are all the list of fun things to do.

Animal lovers are given the star treatment on Sunday with a pet pageant and expo from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., presented by Higgins Animal Clinic.

To view more information or the full musical lineup, check out Mayfest’s website.