Northalsted Market Days | Festivals | Events | Lakeview | Chicago | LGBTQ+
The Northalsted Business Alliance hopes to host Market Days August 6-8, adding a Friday night edition, the first in its 38 year history. While vaccinations increase and the world begins to see some light in the pandemic fight, organizers are in full planning mode to produce the iconic event.
Since the first Market Day in August, 1982, the LGBTQ+ positive event has grown from a handful of folding tables and chairs on the sidewalk, to a half-mile long, annual summer ritual on Chicago’s North Halsted Street from Belmont to Addison, featuring all-day lineups of live music on 5 stages, 300 vendors, arts, crafts, wares, summer food & drinks, hot international DJs, dancing in the street, sponsor activations and more. A $15 recommended donation for entry supports the festival entertainment cost, local charities, programming, and maintenance in the community.
Northalsted Business Alliance President Ramesh Ariyanayakam shares his optimism for hosting this years’ event. “We look forward to the possibility of welcoming neighbors and visitors alike to this iconic event. While planning is underway, we will remain in continual contact with the City of Chicago, the State of Illinois and monitor the CDC guidelines to be flexible in our approach to meet all necessary requirements to produce a safe event.”
Organizers also are hopeful of producing Chicago Pride Fest. No date has been set, but September is a possibility.
About Northalsted Business Alliance (Northalsted):
Since 1980, the Northalsted chamber represents more than 100 businesses along Chicago’s Halsted Street corridor from Belmont to Irving Park/Broadway. The organization works to enhance economic vitality, foster a welcoming community, celebrate LGBTQ+ culture, and promote tourism through programs, services, and events including Chicago Pride Fest®, Northalsted Market Days®, the Haunted Halsted Halloween Parade and more. For information visit northalsted.com.
What: Northalsted Market Days®, street festival est. 1982
Where: Halsted St. from Belmont to Addison
When: (anticipated) August 6, 7, and 8, 2021
Why: Celebration of community and culture in Chicago’s Proudest Neighborhood
Who: Northalsted Business Alliance & Chicago SSA#18
Admission: suggested donation, all ages
Website: marketdayschicago.com
Contact: [email protected] (773) 883-0500
