Much
more than a traditional church function and way bigger than a block party, St.
Benedict’s annual BenFest is one of the north side’s longest-running family
festivals and is quite unique compared to other community events. Hosted during
the weekend of July 18 - 20, more than 5,000 people attend the neighborhood celebration
that offers live entertainment from
great bands, a mouthwatering menu, craft beer and fabulous family fun for every
age group!
Regularly
held on the grounds of historic St. Benedict’s parish and school property, the 3-day party pulled out of the lot last
year to expand onto the street! While several activities remain in the vast courtyard,
Leavitt provides an open and casual street festival setting for singles,
couples and families to peruse a marketplace of artists and merchants while sampling
cuisine from local restaurateurs.
Find out what's happening in North Center-Roscoe Villagefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
As “Chicago’s best family-friendly summer
festival” (Chicago Tribune), BenFest
is legendary for its children’s element and makes every effort to cater to all
age groups; from tots to teens to the young-at-heart, there’s a variety of
activities and entertainment suitable to all.
Find out what's happening in North Center-Roscoe Villagefor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Clear the calendar and join friends and neighbors
for a huge weekend of camaraderie, great music, fabulous fare, tons of activities
for the kids and a chance to win great prizes.
WHAT: Originally a two-day event for more than
30 years, BenFest is an annual north side family-friendly event that was
expanded into three days, and highlights
a large menu of great food and
refreshments, beer selections, live music for adults and children, and quality family
entertainment.
The
festival has also expanded out onto the
street, and the all new market-place on Leavitt includes local vendors and
merchants of art, jewelry, clothing, gifts, crafts and games.
The renowned children’s
area features live music and dance for various ages, games, water slide, costumed
characters, inflatables, face-painting, arts and craft area, train rides and
more – you must see it to believe it!
$5 Donation requested at the gate.
More information
and band lineup is available at www.BenFest.com.
WHEN: Friday,
July 18 from 4 -10 p.m.; Saturday July 19 from 1 -10 p.m.; and Sunday, July 20
from 1 - 7 p.m.
WHERE: Benfest
is located on Leavitt Street from Irving Park Rd. to Byron St.
St. Benedict’s Church is located at 2215 W.
Irving Park Rd., Chicago, IL 60618. Public transportation: CTA buses (Irving Park or Western Avenue Routes) and the CTA Brown Line El (Irving Park stop).
WHY: BenFest
is St. Benedict’s largest annual fundraising event. Proceeds from the festival are
utilized to benefit local outreach, school programming, and fund church operations,
restoration and other Parish initiatives.
WHO: St Bendict’s Parish is in the heart of Northcenter, with
Roscoe Village to the south,
Albany Park to the west, and Lincoln Square to the north. St Benedict’s has been part
of these communities and their
families since 1902.
