Lakeview Taco Fest

Details

Fri, August 21, 2026 | 4:00pm to 10:00pm
Sat, August 22, 2026 | 11:00am to 10:00pm
Sun, August 23, 2026 | 11:00am to 9:00pm
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Overview

Savor the Flavors: The Lakeview Taco Fest Returns!

With its eclectic mix of trendy stores, charming boutiques, and delectable restaurants, the Southport Corridor is one of Chicago’s most sought-after destinations. This August, it gets even hotter as tacos take center stage at the 13th Annual Lakeview Taco Fest, a celebration of flavor, fun, and community.

Prepare your taste buds for a three-day fiesta that pays tribute to everyone’s favorite tortilla-wrapped delight. Whether you’re a fan of traditional fillings like chicken, steak, chorizo, and beef or crave innovative creations, this festival has it all! Over 10 of Chicago’s finest eateries will compete to craft the city’s most mouthwatering tacos.

🌮 Highlights of the Fest:

  • Beer & Taco Pairings: Enjoy seasonal brews that perfectly complement the festival’s flavorful offerings.
  • Live Entertainment: Two music stages featuring talented artists and performers will keep the energy alive.
  • Lucha Libre Action: Don’t miss the thrilling spectacle of Mexican wrestling—always a crowd favorite!
  • Family Fun: Activities for kids ensure fun for the whole family.
  • Best Taco Competition: Cast your vote via text and help crown Chicago’s “Best Taco.”

This vibrant celebration is more than just a food festival—it’s a seasonal tradition and a beloved fixture of the Windy City’s culinary scene. Plus, your $10 suggested donation supports the Friends of Lakeview, giving back to the community while you indulge in the fun.

Mark your calendar and join us in the Southport Corridor for a taco-filled weekend you won’t want to miss!

For additional information for this year’s Lakeview Taco Fest, including schedule, entertainment, participating vendors, and directions, see below.

Friday
6:00pm – Y2K
8:00pm – Boy Band Review

Saturday
11:30pm – UpBeat Music & Arts Academy
1:00pm – The Strangers: Music of The Cure
3:00pm – Funky Monks: Red Hot Chili Peppers Trib.
5:30pm – The Rumours Five: Fleetwood Mac Trib.
8:00pm – 16 Candles

Sunday
11:30pm – Mariachi Los Palmeros
1:00pm – The Prisscillas
2:30pm – Chicago Latin Groove
4:30pm – The Divas
7:00pm – Rod Tuffcurls & The Bench Press

Friday
6:00pm – Super Creeps: Music of David Bowie
8:00pm – Too Fighters: Foo Fighters Tribute

Saturday
1:00pm – Mariachi Los Palmeros
2:30pm – RAVIV – Electric Cellos
4:30pm – Love In October
6:00pm – Into The Heart – U2 Tribute
8:00pm – Maggie Speaks

Sunday
11:30pm – School of Rock
1:30pm – Bucket Number Six
3:00pm – Cecy Santana Band
5:00pm – Rearview: Pearl Jam Tribute
7:00pm – iPop

Tickets coming soon!

 

The Lakeview Taco Fest VIP Experience offers an elevated taco-loving weekend in the heart of Lakeview, Chicago.

Ideal for those who want to taco-and-tequila without the usual festival hassle—VIP guests can focus on tasting top local tacos and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere in comfort and style.

For $50, you’ll receive:

– 2 complimentary drinks (choose from a variety of beers and specialty margaritas)
– Private Bar
– Seating and shade
– Private Bathroom
– Limited Taco and Mexican Food Samples from local restaurants

Banges
Known for bold flavors and crowd-pleasing street food, Banges brings the energy and creativity that make taco festivals so much fun. Their flavorful offerings are the perfect complement to a weekend dedicated to tacos, music, and summer in Lakeview.

Beat Kitchen
A longtime Lakeview favorite, Beat Kitchen is known for its eclectic menu, neighborhood charm, and live music roots. At Lakeview Taco Fest, they bring local flavor and community spirit to one of the neighborhood’s most anticipated summer events.

Cabos Tacos
Inspired by the flavors of coastal Mexico, Cabos Tacos serves up fresh ingredients, vibrant toppings, and authentic recipes that transport taco lovers straight to the beach with every bite.

Carnitas Roldan
Specializing in traditional Mexican carnitas, Carnitas Roldan has built a reputation for slow-cooked, flavorful pork prepared the authentic way. Their tacos showcase a beloved Mexican classic that taco enthusiasts won’t want to miss.

Delicias Tacos
Delicias Tacos lives up to its name by serving delicious, authentic Mexican fare packed with fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Their menu celebrates the simplicity and quality that make great tacos unforgettable.

El Campeon
A Chicago favorite for authentic Mexican cuisine, El Campeon brings generations of culinary tradition to Lakeview Taco Fest with flavorful tacos, classic recipes, and a dedication to quality ingredients.

Fernando’s Blue Agave
Known for its welcoming atmosphere and authentic Mexican dishes, Fernando’s Blue Agave pairs fresh tacos with vibrant flavors that capture the spirit of a true neighborhood taqueria.

La Cebollita Grill
La Cebollita Grill is celebrated for its authentic Mexican cooking and generous portions. Their flavorful taco offerings highlight traditional recipes and fresh ingredients that keep customers coming back.

Mi Taquito
Mi Taquito specializes in authentic street-style tacos packed with bold flavors and traditional ingredients. Their straightforward approach lets the quality of every taco shine.

Naty’s Tacos and Catering
A local favorite known for authentic Mexican cuisine and outstanding service, Naty’s Tacos and Catering delivers flavorful tacos made from family recipes and fresh ingredients that embody the spirit of Mexican street food.

Tandoor Char House
Bringing a unique fusion of Indian and American flavors to the festival, Tandoor Char House offers a creative twist on traditional fare. Their bold spices and grilled specialties make them one of the most distinctive stops at Lakeview Taco Fest.

Taqueria Arceo
Taqueria Arceo serves authentic Mexican favorites rooted in tradition, offering flavorful tacos and classic recipes that showcase the rich culinary heritage behind every bite.

Taqueria Teotihuacan
Known for authentic Mexican cooking and time-honored recipes, Taqueria Teotihuacan brings bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and traditional taco craftsmanship to Lakeview Taco Fest.

Tuco and Blondie
A beloved Lakeview institution, Tuco and Blondie has been serving Mexican-inspired favorites and margaritas for years. Their festive atmosphere and flavorful tacos make them a perfect fit for a neighborhood celebration dedicated to tacos and summer fun.

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Join us each evening at 5pm at the intersection of Southport & Cornelia to see who will reign supreme!  This family-fun heart-stopping wrestling IN THE STREETS OF LAKEVIEW is guaranteed to go great with a taco and brew!

You be the judge … or leave it for the experts!

The People’s Choice text-to-vote for best taco throughout the weekend!  Winner will be announced at 4:45pm on Sunday at the Luche Libre ring located at Southport & Cornelia!

2025 Winner: Beat Kitchen

OR, have the critics decide!  The Critics Choice judging will take place on Saturday.  Winner will be announced at the South Stage located at Southport & Roscoe at 5:00pm!

2025 Winner: Cabos Tacos

A special thanks for this year’s judges:

  • Brian Seay – writer and producer for WGN Morning News
  • Josh Hernandez – News Desk Associate/CBS Chicago
  • Stephanie Biederman, board president of Lakeview Roscoe Village Chamber of Commerce

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fol newlogo horizontal fullcolor smallFriends of Lakeview is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and partner of the Lakeview Roscoe Village Chamber of Commerce and Special Service Area (SSA) 27. By leveraging individual and corporate donations, grants, and other sources of funding, it supports a resilient local economy and high quality of life for the benefit of businesses and residents in Chicago’s Lakeview community by improving and enhancing public streets and spaces, creating memorable experiences, and promoting the neighborhood. For more information, visit https://www.friendsoflakeview.org

 

Looking to connect with active consumers at this event? For pricing and a customized benefits package, please contact Karyn Terrones at karyn@chicagoevents.com or 773-584-6625.

 

We have reached capacity and are no longer accepting applications for this event. 

Please note that all applications are subject to acceptance and availability.

We do not provide guaranteed exclusivity to any participant/exhibitor or category. We work on a first come first serve basis when approving vendors. We would highly recommend everyone apply as early as possible. Do not wait until the last minute as sometimes the event will be completely booked and applications will close earlier than the deadline.