The Chicagoist will be launching later but in the meantime please enjoy our archives.

This Week In Street Fests: West Fest, International Festival Of Life

By Samantha Abernethy in Arts & Entertainment on Jul 6, 2012 6:20PM

West Fest

Empty Bottle books the stages, so you know the music at this West Town festival will be good. Headliners on the main stage are Black Lips and Mates of State. Over on the DJ stage, headliners are Flosstradamus and Derrick Carter. Unfortunately the "Tour de West Town" isn't happening, since organizers weren't able to get a permit for the bike tour. But there will be activities for kids and dogs, plus foods, goods and arts from local artisans.

West Fest is Saturday and Sunday from noon to 10 p.m. on Chicago Avenue between Damen and Wood.

African/Caribbean International Festival of Life

This is the 20th year for the International Festival of Life. The festival of African and Caribbean music kicked off Wednesday and goes strong through the weekend. Musical acts range from reggae to rock to R&B. Headliners include Tarrus Riley, Queen Ifrika and Third World.

International Festival of Life is Friday from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from noon to 10 p.m. at Washington Park at 55th and Cottage Grove.

Lincoln Park Arts and Music Festival

This juried art festival also features music from local bands with headliner Sister Hazel. More than 80 art vendors will have their works on display for purchase.

Lincoln Park Arts and Music Festival is Saturday and Sunday from noon to 10 p.m. on Racine between Fullerton and Webster

Rock Around The Block

Rock Around The Block is a Lakeview street festival featuring cover bands and tribute bands like 16 Candles, Guns 4 Roses, Too White Crew and more. Food, crafts, vendors and the best of Lakeview will line the streets. Children are welcome in the Rock's Family Area.

Rock Around The Block is Saturday from noon to 10 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 9 p.m. on Lincoln Avenue north of Belmont.