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

Caution: Crazy Busy Weekend Ahead

By Rachelle Bowden in News on Jun 16, 2005 8:21PM

2005_06_sun.jpgIf you thought there was a lot to do last weekend, you ain't seen nothin' yet, baby. This weekend if you can't find something to do you just aren't livin in the city the way you should. Deep breath, ok here goes:

46th Arts Experience: Paintings, hand-made jewelry, photography and other arts and crafts on display and for sale from 8am - 6pm on June 16-17 at the Plaza of Americas. Free admission.

Festa Pasta Vino: Celebrate Italian culture in Little Italy by gorging yourself on Italian wine and food. Also, entertainment, cooking demos, and activities for the kiddies. June 16 - 19, free parking & admission.

Taste of Randolph Street: Can't wait for Taste of Chicago? How about a little taste of Randolph St? And it doesn't taste like asphalt. June 17 - 19, suggested $10 admission.

Fiestas Puertorriqueñas: This event runs from June 18-19 and showcases Puerto Rican music, art, dance and food. There's a parade on the 18th.

Rotary Centennial Parade: Supposedly the "greatest celebration in Rotary's history." This parade commemorates the organization's first 100 years and downtown Chicago is where it all began so it's only appropriate to have the parade here on the 18th. Other festivities take place June 18-22.

Beverly Arts Fair: The Beverly Arts Center hosts this event on June 18 - 19 and features live music and fine arts and crafts in ceramic, sculpture, collage, glass, jewelry, painting, photography, works on paper, and 3-D. Admission is free.

Custer's Last Stand Festival of the Arts: This art fair's in Evanston and features arts, crafts and antiques. It's Evanston's largest and oldest outdoor event. Also, like every fest, there will be live music and food... but unlike every fest, there will also be a Native American powow. Event runs June 18-19.

Lincoln Park Fest: This fest features Trixies, Trixies, beer, music, and Trixies and runs June 18-19. 7 bucks to get in.

St. George Festival: Get your Greek on June 18 - 19. Probably worth going for the baklava alone!

Halsted Tastes Better: If Randolph Street wasn't enough for you taste and you're not too tired from the weekend, head over to get a taste of Halsted on Monday. Lots of great restaurants are involved, but this event will cost you $25 - $30.

We also had noted the Backyard Bash but Metromix says it's cancelled, which would explain why we couldn't find any info on it. Let's hope the weather holds up for all these outdoor activities.. it's supposed to be HOT HOT HOT! And don't forget to hug your sweaty dad!