The Full T' about Northalsted Market Days
Whenever I travel during the summer and I mention that i'm from Chicago, one of the first things I hear is "OMG I love that city" and if they're gay, the second thing I hear is "Market Days!" To be honest, when I talk about Chicago summers, i'm guilty of always bringing up Market days as well. It's my favorite festival weekend in the city. So What & When is it? Market Days is held on August 10-11, 2024, this year. It's am amazing and outright chaotic, fun, colorful street festival in Chicago's Northalsted/Lakeview neighborhood (PKA: Boystown.) us locals like to think of Market days as the Pride for the gays, where Pride is just corporate sponsorship and a time for suburban kids to come to the city. But Market days? oh, that's for the adults, the homos, the queers, partiers, shoppers, circuit gays, queens, the lezzies and everyone who likes to be outside in the streets partying it up.
While market Days is known for its lively outdoor atmosphere, featuring live music on every side street, with stages set up for DJ's and performers, local vendors who usually identify on the LGBTQ+ spectrum themselves, food, and yes, you guessed it- drag performances, it's also Chicago's biggest circuit weekend. (If you're into that)
Event Highlights
- Live Music: Enjoy diverse music on five stages, with headliners like Billy Porter and Big Freedia.
- Vendors: Over 250 vendors offering unique goods and delicious food.
- Performances: Drag shows, dance exhibitions, and fitness workouts.
- Family-Friendly: Open to all ages with a suggested $20 donation.
-Circuit Productions: CircuitMom (and CircuitSon) puts on an amazing production at the Aragon Ballroom. This production is THEATER. It gives, drama, glam, and a story all under the beat of the hottest international DJ. )This year main headlining Saturday DJ's will be Isis Muretech, Thunderpuss, and Brett Osterhaus.
If you're unfamiliar with Isis, check out her soundcloud for a treat to your ears. She does a great job at integrating the lyrics of popular songs with a deep electronic beat that will have you excited and dancing throughout the night.
Getting There
Y'all take it from me, if you can avoid it. Don't uber. You can easily access the CTA Red, Brown, and Purple lines, by bus, rideshare, or by our city bike rentals, Divvy, which you can use if you have the Lyft app on your phone. Street closures and parking restrictions will be in effect, so public transport is recommended.
Additional Information
- Location: Halsted St. from Belmont to Addison.
- Hours: 11am – 10pm.
- Donation: $20 suggested to support performers and community programs.
- Weather: Rain or shine, though severe weather may delay events.
Conclusion
Northalsted Market Days is a celebration of community, culture, and entertainment, offering something for everyone. Join the festivities for an unforgettable weekend in Chicago.
For more details, visit [Northalsted Market Days](https://northalsted.com/main-events/northalsted-market-days/).
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