Northalsted Market Days®

Market Days

Get ready to sashay down the streets of Chicago's Northalsted neighborhood for Market Days, the rainbow ribbon in the city's summer hat! This isn't just any festival; it's a glittering extravaganza of love, music, and pride, where over 150,000 fabulous souls from around the globe come together to celebrate under the sunny skies of early August.

History

The journey begins in 1982, when Market Days first unfurled its colorful wings. Now, it's not just a party; it's a historical bash stretching from Belmont to Addison on Halsted Street - right in the heart of America's first recognized gay village. Imagine dancing where history was made!

When Is It

Mark your calendars for early August! From 11 am to 10 pm on Saturday and Sunday, the streets are alive with the sounds of celebration. And for those early birds, the pre-party shenanigans start on Friday night.

Circuit Mom and popular gay spots like Hydrate, Roscoe's, and DS Tequila set the stage for an unforgettable weekend.

Location

It's all happening on Halsted Street, between Belmont and Addison. There will be five stages pulsating with live entertainment, over 250 vendors offering everything from artsy crafts to delicious eats and drinks, plus DJs, dancing, sponsor booths, and more, on this 1/2 mile stretch of joy.

Crowd & Music

Crowd during the festival is a mix of the LGBTQ+ community and allies, ages of all kinds welcome (bar and clubs require 21+)! After the event finishes, the gay bars and clubs will be ready to keep the party going. Music varies depending on stage and venue, ranging from dance, EDM, hip hop, techno, circuit beats and remixes to kick those heels up to!

Charity Benefits

A $20 suggested donation gets you in and your generosity not only fuels the fun but also supports local non-profits and community projects like the fabulous Chicago Pride Crosswalks.

How To Get There

Hop on the CTA Red Line to Addison or Belmont, catch a bus, or grab a ride share. You may want to research hotels near the CTA Red, Brown and Purple Line Stations. The event is 2 blocks from the Belmont station on these trains.

Market Days in Chicago is so special, because Northalsted is one of the first recognized villages in the United States and has brought much of the LGBTQ+ community together!

So, grab your sunglasses, your dancing shoes, and your sense of adventure, and join us at Market Days in Chicago. It's not just a festival; it's a celebration of who you are and who you can be. See you there!

Popular Chicago Gay Bars

Bobby Love's, Scarlet, Wang's, Sidetrack, Splash, and Replay.

Other LGBTQ+ Events in Chicago

International Mr. Leather, Chicago PrideFest, QUEEN!, and Andersonville Midsommar Fest.