NEAR WEST SIDE — With sunny, breezy and "not too hot" weather this weekend, you're going to want to be outside, soaking up the best of summertime in the neighborhood.
From a taco-themed street fest and farmers markets to a Field Day at Saint Lou's, here are our top picks of things to do and see in the West Loop, Pilsen and Near West Side this weekend.
We Are Hip Hop Festival in Pilsen — The youth-led event sponsored by Elevarte Community Studio celebrates hip hop culture and local talent while encouraging peace and anti-violence Saturday. The 11th annual fest brings hip hop artists to perform in Dvorak Park with a graffiti and break dance battle planned. A full schedule is available online. Free. 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dvorak Park, 1119 W. Cullerton St., Pilsen.
First Tacos & Tamales Festivale in Pilsen — Promising the best and most authentic tacos and tamales Chicago has to offer, the two-day street fest channels the sights and smells of the Tianguis — a Mexican open air market — with local vendors selling their food, artwork and wares. Live mariachi bands and other artists are expected to perform, too. Noon to 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 16th Street & Peoria, Pilsen.
Saint Lou's Field Day in West Loop — Your favorite bartenders from West Loop hot spots Honey's, Nosh & Booze and RM Champagne Salon will compete in the first-ever Battle of The Bartenders bocce ball tournament at Saint Lou's. The backyard barbecue, featuring food specials and a complimentary beer from Hopewell Brewing, benefits the West Central Association. Hopewell Brewing will also release their new "Field Day" beer at the bash. 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, Saint Lou's Assembly, 664 W Lake St., West Loop.
Tack Room First Anniversary in Pilsen — To celebrate the lively piano bar's first anniversary in Thalia Hall, the bar welcomes patrons to enjoy complimentary passed appetizers and beer from Hopewell Brewing Company and wine from Cream Wine Company. Simply Elton will take over the piano at 3 p.m. to perform a live tribute to the one-and-only Sir Elton John. 2 p.m. Sunday, Tack Room at Thalia Hall, 1227 W. 18th St., Pilsen.
Green City Market West Loop — The West Loop's outdoor farmers market brings fresh produce to the neighborhood and artisan treats every Saturday through the summer. Free. 8 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday, 211 S. Peoria St., West Loop.
Pilsen Community Market — Pilsen's weekly outdoor farmers market features homemade tamales, fresh produce and so much more. Free. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, 1800 S. Halsted St., Pilsen.
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