Chicago’s South Loop will host the first Black on the Block marketplace in the city this Sunday, turning Stadium Green at Soldier Field into a bustling family‑friendly festival. From 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., more than 100 Black‑owned businesses will line the field with booths selling apparel, jewelry, health and fitness products, and a variety of food options.
Event details and ticket information
Admission is $17 and tickets can be purchased through the Black on the Block app or the ticketing platform Universe. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets for a picnic‑style atmosphere, and a photo‑booth installation from FX will promote the new series “The Drop: A Snowfall Saga.”
Entertainment lineup
Local musical acts SHANØ, Yaya Marceline, Ryan Alexander and Antoinae will perform alongside Chicago’s favorite DJs—including Francesca Eva, Ryan Moses, DJ Ca$h Era and Eviethecool. Artist Taylor Bennett will serve as emcee for the day.
Mayor’s support
Mayor Brandon Johnson, who is presenting the event in partnership with the city, Live Nation Urban and the Mayor’s Office, said the market aligns with his administration’s focus on strengthening small businesses. “As my administration continues to invest in and strengthen our small businesses, opportunities like this are essential to helping local entrepreneurs expand their businesses and thrive,” Johnson said in a statement.
Founders’ vision
Founders Lanie and Char Edwards, sisters from Pittsburgh, created Black on the Block to give Black‑owned businesses a platform for visibility, customer connection and revenue generation. The sisters noted that the market generated more than $4 million in revenue for participating vendors last year and now supports over 2,000 vendors nationwide.
What began as a single Juneteenth event in Los Angeles grew into a monthly series that later expanded to Washington, D.C., Dallas, Houston and Charlotte. Chicago marks the first stop in the Midwest, a milestone the Edwards sisters described as “meaningful” given the city’s rich history of Black entrepreneurship and culture.
Expected turnout
The organizers anticipate over 4,000 attendees at Soldier Field, the highest demand they have seen for a new city. More than 400 vendor applications were received, with the final roster featuring a diverse mix of products and services.
Family‑focused activities
Beyond shopping, the festival will offer games, interactive activities and ample space for families to relax on the grass. “There’ll be a whole picnic vibe going on. People can bring their blankets and everything. It’s going to be a fun time,” Char Edwards said.
Black on the Block provides a tangible boost to Chicago’s local economy while celebrating Black culture and entrepreneurship. The event underscores the city’s commitment to supporting small businesses and creating vibrant community experiences for families.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
