Chicago will enjoy unprecedented global attention this spring when it hosts several major events: the G-8 and NATO summits and the World Summit of Nobel Peace Laureates – and in September the City of Chicago transforms into a global center for the best of today’s international music when the annual World Music Festival: Chicago 2012 returns.
And here’s just a sampling of other major fairs and festivals in Chicago this year.
One of the most important visual art events in the Midwest, NEXT Art Chicago 2012, provides collectors, curators and art enthusiasts with an opportunity to experience the most compelling art of our day from April 27 to 29. Next Art Chicago 2012 is a merger of Art Chicago, the longest running contemporary art fair in the United States, and NEXT – The Invitational Exhibition of Emerging Art.
From June 21 to 24, the 2012 Chicago Gospel Music Festival takes a cue from the Chicago Jazz Festival by providing free entertainment in several different locations, including Chicago’s Bronzeville, the south side neighborhood where the genre finds many of its roots.
The free admission Taste of Chicago festival from July 11 to 15
in Grant Park on Chicago’s lakefront will emphasize Chicago’s status as a “foodie” destination and feature classic Chicago favorites as well as offerings from Chicago’s new and emerging culinary scene, entertainment such as cooking demonstrations from noted chefs, and local and national musical acts.
in Grant Park on Chicago’s lakefront will emphasize Chicago’s status as a “foodie” destination and feature classic Chicago favorites as well as offerings from Chicago’s new and emerging culinary scene, entertainment such as cooking demonstrations from noted chefs, and local and national musical acts.
The inaugural EXPO CHICAGO, the International Exposition of Contemporary/Modern Art and Design, brings art dealers, collectors and curators to the Navy Pier from across the country and the world for a four-day event (September 20 to 23) featuring 100 leading international galleries and a curated blend of contemporary/modern art and design.
For more information please visit www.ExploreChicago.org.
For more information about top events in Illinois take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Illinois.