Wicker Park Fest is making a comeback this July, bringing a vibrant mix of music, local businesses, and family-friendly activities to the heart of the neighborhood. Scheduled for July 24-26 on Milwaukee Avenue, the festival is organized by the Wicker Park Bucktown Chamber of Commerce.

This year’s headliners include the beloved Ryan Davis & The Roadhouse Band, surf-punk rockers The Frights from San Diego, and Connecticut’s indie staple Ovlov. The lineup also features R&B artist Devon Gilfillian, the Shannon Shaw Band, Mexico’s Austin TV, Australia’s Georgia Maq, and Chicago’s own folk rock quartet The Back Alley, among others. The full schedule will be released on June 23.

Beyond the music, the festival will showcase over 150 local shops and a variety of food options from neighborhood restaurants and cafes. Families can enjoy the Kids Fest, which includes ladybug releases, mini golf, arts and crafts, and magic acts, with proceeds supporting Friends of Burr Elementary School. Additionally, a Pet Fest will feature paw painting and a dog ice-cream-eating contest, benefiting local animal charities like Chicago Rescue Authority, Whiskers and Tails, and Live Like Roo.

As in previous years, attendees are encouraged to donate $10 at the gate to support the festival. The Wicker Park Bucktown Chamber of Commerce, along with other street fest organizers, formed the Save Our Street Fests coalition in 2025 to boost donations after a decline in post-pandemic years. Chamber Director Pamela Maass expressed optimism about the festival’s future, citing increased support from last year’s attendees as a positive sign for 2026 and beyond.

Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.