Chicago Italian Beef Fest

Details

Friday, July 31, 2026 | 5pm to 10pm
Saturday, August 1, 2026 | 12pm to 10pm
Sunday, August 2, 2026 | 12pm to 8pm
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Overview

Back in the early 1900s, Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to Chicago—and from their kitchens came a masterpiece now beloved across the city: the Italian Beef Sandwich. 🇮🇹🥖 Whether you prefer it dipped, dry, or loaded with hot and sweet peppers, it all starts with tender, slow-cooked beef piled high on fresh bread. 🤤

Now it’s time to honor this local legend at the inaugural Chicago Italian Beef Fest! 🎉 Taking over Jefferson Memorial Park, this mouthwatering celebration will feature some of Chicagoland’s favorite restaurants serving up their unique takes on the iconic sandwich. Attendees can sample, savor, and cast their vote for the Best Italian Beef Sandwich. 🗳️🥩

And because great food deserves great fun, the fest will also feature two stages of live music 🎶, a huge kids zone 🎈, and plenty of good vibes for an unforgettable day in the park. 🌳✨

For see below for updated information on participating restaurants, music lineups, and vendors for the Chicago Italian Beef Fest.


CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS IN ADVANCE

 

Tickets are $10 per day per person.  Your ticket will allow you to gain access to the 8+ beef vendors, crafters, sponsors, 2 stages of entertainment and the huge kids area!  Chair and blankets are welcome at this event.  Kids 17 and under are free with a paid parent/guardian!

Friday
6:00pm – The Birkenrocks
8:00pm – Bostyxx

Saturday
1:00pm – School of Rock
3:00pm – The PriSSillas
4:30pm – Without U2
6:00pm – Simply Billy
8:00pm – Sixteen Candles

Sunday
1:00pm – Bucket Number Six
2:30pm – The Wild Chicago
4:00pm – Simply Elton
6:30pm – The Chicago Experience

Friday
6:00pm – Ian McKinley
7:30pm – Dexter
9:00pm – Emily Jane Powers

Saturday
2:30pm – DJ Sliam
4:00pm – 8-Bit Creeps
5:30pm – The Prime
7:00pm – Salisman
8:30pm – Little Church

Sunday
3:00pm – Chicago Music and Acting Academy
5:30pm – Jefferson Park Songwriters

Bust Outs
Bust Outs brings bold Chicago flavor to the fest with hearty Italian beef sandwiches packed with juicy, seasoned beef and classic toppings. It’s the kind of no-frills, flavor-loaded bite that feels right at home at an Italian beef celebration.

Byron’s Hot Dogs
A Chicago favorite known for classic street food, Byron’s Hot Dogs adds Italian beef to the mix with a satisfying, local twist. Their menu is built for fest-goers craving comfort food, big flavor, and true Chicago tradition.

Carm’s Little Italy
Carm’s Little Italy is bringing a true Chicago classic to the Chicago Italian Beef Festival. Known for its juicy Italian beef sandwiches piled high and served with flavorful peppers, Carm’s delivers the bold, comforting taste that has made it a neighborhood favorite for generations.

Chef Ciccio
Chef Ciccio serves up Italian-inspired comfort food with a focus on rich flavors and satisfying bites. Their take on Italian beef brings together tender meat, savory seasoning, and the kind of hearty flavor Chicago food fans love.

Frannie’s Beef and Catering
Frannie’s Beef and Catering knows its way around a classic Italian beef sandwich, serving up tender, flavorful beef made for serious Chicago cravings. Their catering roots shine through in every generous, crowd-pleasing bite.

Genoa Italian Concessions
Genoa Italian Concessions brings old-school Italian festival flavor with beef sandwiches that are savory, satisfying, and made for eating on the go. Their Italian beef is a natural fit for anyone looking to enjoy a true Chicago-style classic.

Leona’s Restaurant
A beloved Chicago name, Leona’s Restaurant brings its Italian roots to the fest with flavorful, comfort-driven dishes. Their Italian beef offering delivers the hearty, saucy, satisfying flavor fans expect from a longtime local favorite.

Trogo Kitchen Market
Trogo Kitchen Market adds a fresh, modern touch to Italian beef while keeping the focus on bold, satisfying flavor. Their menu brings a creative market-style approach to a Chicago classic that fest-goers will want to try.

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 operate on a first-come, first-served basis and do not provide guaranteed exclusivity to any participant, exhibitor, or category.

We recommend applying as early as possible for future events, as applications may close prior to the deadline once the event is fully booked.

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