ANDERSONVILLE — Sick of cold weather? Consider this: in a few months, Chicago will transform into a warm weather wonderland with outdoor markets and street festivals galore.
One festival to look forward to: the beloved Midsommarfest in Andersonville held June 12-14, which is expanding its programming this year in celebration of its 50th anniversary, according to Jessica Hammer, marketing manager for the Andersonville Chamber of Commerce.
Previously, the three-day fest, which traditionally takes place the second full weekend in June on Clark Street from Foster Avenue to Catalpa Avenue, has always thrown what Hammer calls a small "kickoff party" on Friday evening before a weekend of festivities. But for the first time this year the festival will be in full swing Friday evening with live entertainment, food vendors and more.
Throughout the festival weekend, expect both familiar acts like a performance by Sixteen Candles, a band that plays 80s hits, as well as some new attractions like "Party Like It's 1965." The latter is an idea being tossed around by Jason Cox, associate director for the chamber. He envisions a 60s-themed party complete with a Beatles cover band and residents dressed in 60s garb.
Also in the works are Swedish-themed acts that celebrate the neighborhood's roots and resurrecting Miss Andersonville, a pageant they envision as "less of a beauty contest and more fun" with ties to charity, Cox said.
The anniversary is doubly important because not only is it the 50th anniversary of the festival, but it's also been roughly 50 years since the neighborhood was officially named Andersonville, he said.
The chamber of commerce made the decision to make Friday night a full night programming after receiving approval from local businesses and block club East Andersonville Residents Council.
And they're looking for more feedback from residents. A meeting at Swedish American Museum, 5211 N. Clark St., on March 5 at 7 p.m., is open to the public. There, the chamber will introduce its ideas for the festival and celebrating the anniversary throughout the year.
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