Chicago gay market days

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Many local establishments offer discounts and promotions during the festival presenting an excellent opportunity to explore the neighborhood and discover new shops, restaurants and services.

Although specific dates and performers may vary each year you can consistently expect Northalsted Market Days to be a weekend filled with enjoyment, enthusiasm and communal pride.

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.

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42nd Annual Northalsted Market Days®

CHICAGO —The Northalsted Business Alliance is thrilled to announce the return and expansion of this year’s Northalsted Market Days® with four stages featuring headliners Keke Palmer, David Archuleta, Monét X Change, Joe Dombrowski, RuPaul’s Drag Race winner Sasha Colby and Saucy Santana taking place August 8-10 in the iconic Northalsted neighborhood between Addison and Belmont.

Other artists appearing include Kiesza, this season’s RuPaul’s Drag Race finalist Sam Star, Brooke Eden as well as international DJs and producers: Ralphi Rosario, Alex Acosta, Danny Verde, Joe Gauthreaux, Jesus Montanez, Sam Gee, J Warren and Ron Carroll.

Check Availability and Prices: Link

  • The Peninsula Chicago - This luxurious hotel in the Magnificent Mile neighborhood offers top-notch amenities and exceptional service. 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.

    The festival is thoughtfully organized by the Northalsted Business Alliance—an organization dedicated to fostering economic development while promoting and uplifting the Northalsted community.Part of the proceeds generated by the event are utilized to support community projects and initiatives.

    Throughout the years this event has gained a reputation for its ambiance that brings together inclusivity, celebration and a wide array of entertainment choices.

    Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, a spa, and panoramic views of the city. This year’s event will continue that tradition with an exceptional lineup of live performances, over 300 LGBTQ+ vendors, including local food and drinks, artisans, merchants and nonprofits.

    New Gold and Platinum VIP Weekend Experience for 2025! Check Availability and Prices: Link

  • The Talbott Hotel - Situated in the Gold Coast neighborhood, The Talbott Hotel provides a classic and sophisticated atmosphere.

    In addition, local favorites Sixteen Candles, Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute, Too Much Molly Band are returning plus many more.

    By popular demand, Market Days has extended to three days this year and kicks off Friday, August 8th from 5:00 p.m-10 p.m and continues Saturday and Sunday daily from 11 a.m to 10 p.m.

    This festival has been an integral part of Chicago’s cultural tapestry, drawing crowds from around the globe to experience the unique spirit of Northalsted, the historical center of Chicago’s LGBTQ+ community.

    Drag shows daily will include legendary performers Mimi Marks, Mz Ruff n Stuff, DiDa Ritz, Veronica Pop, Gina Belle, Serena Fiierce as well as a new local dance party stage that will feature local DJ talents from Northalsted venues. With elegant rooms and stunning views of the city, The Peninsula Chicago is a popular choice for discerning travelers.

    It boasts stages offering live music performances and entertainment that showcase an eclectic mix of artists ranging from local bands to nationally acclaimed performers.

    Upcoming Mega Events Nearby

    Northalsted Market Days, also referred to as Chicago Market Days or simply Market Days is a street festival that takes place during the summer in the Northalsted neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois.

    From 11 am to 10 pm on Saturday and Sunday, the streets are alive with the sounds of celebration. Imagine dancing where history was made!

    When Is It

    Mark your calendars for early August! Visitors can anticipate a family setting alongside a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars and clubs in the vicinity.

    With its offerings this event attracts over 100,000 enthusiastic participants each year.

    One noteworthy aspect that sets Market Days apart is its strong emphasis on celebrating and supporting the lgbtq+Q+ community since it takes place within one of the most prominent lgbtq+Q+ neighborhoods, in the nation. Check Availability and Prices: Link

  • The Robey - Located in the Wicker Park neighborhood, The Robey is a boutique hotel known for its stylish design and rooftop lounge.

    Guests can experience a blend of classic and modern aesthetics. Alongside the captivating music attendees can indulge in a selection of food vendors representing diverse cuisines explore arts and crafts booths brimming with creativity and discover local business exhibits. To obtain the up to date information about the event such as schedules, performers lineups or any changes due, to weather or other circumstances it is advisable to follow the Northalsted Business Alliances website and social media channels.
    Official Website

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    Here are some details on 6 men-only or gay-friendly hotels in Chicago, IL :

    1. The Guesthouse Hotel - Located in the vibrant Andersonville neighborhood, The Guesthouse Hotel offers stylish accommodations and a welcoming environment for all guests.

      Now stands as one of the largest and most popular street festivals in the Midwest.

      This lively festival stretches along a half mile section of North Halsted Street between Belmont Avenue and Addison Street. 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.

      Limited number of Gold VIP Market Days experiences will be offered for the weekend that include VIP Lounge with private air conditioned restrooms, private bar service, covered lounge seating areas, and convenient in/out festival access for $50, or select the Platinum VIP experience for $100 and enjoy 6 complimentary beverages at the VIP bar.

       

      Festival Entry:  General entry each day of the event is available for a $20 suggested donation that helps pay performers, event workers, and funds community programs.

       

       

      Entertainment Schedule:

       

      Friday August 8

      Addison Stage

       

      Cornelia Stage

      Roscoe Stage

      Hosted by Robyn Banks Fiierce

       

      Belmont Stage

       

      Saturday August 9

       

      Addison Stage

      Cornelia Stage

      Roscoe Stage

      Hosted by Robyn Banks Fiierce

      Belmont Stage

      Hosted by DJ X-tasy

       

      Sunday August 10

      Addison Stage

      Cornelia Stage

      Roscoe Stage

      Hosted by Robyn Banks Fiierce

      Belmont Stage

      Hosted by DJ X-tasy

       

      For more information and updates, visit marketdayschicago.com and marketdaysvip.com.

       

       

      About the Northalsted Business Alliance

      Founded in 1980, the Northalsted Business Alliance represents one of the nation’s oldest and last remaining LGBTQ+ business districts including more than 100 small businesses along Chicago’s Halsted Street corridor from Belmont to Irving Park/Broadway.

      With comfortable rooms and exceptional service, it's an excellent choice for a memorable stay. After the event finishes, the gay bars and clubs will be ready to keep the party going.