Wicker Park Fest returns to Milwaukee Avenue from July 25–27, lighting up Chicago with its signature blend of live music, local vendors, and neighborhood charm. The key phrase “wicker park fest” is now synonymous with one of the city’s most beloved summer events, attracting thousands of visitors every year.
For 2025, organizers have refined the festival layout, now focusing on two dynamic stages instead of three, optimizing space while maintaining the signature energy that has defined the event for over two decades. With over 50 musical acts scheduled across three days, Wicker Park Fest promises a packed lineup of indie rock, punk, electronic, and global sounds.
Table of Contents
What to Expect This Year
- Festival Dates & Hours:
- Friday, July 25: 5 PM – 10 PM
- Saturday & Sunday, July 26–27: 12 PM – 10 PM
- Location:
Milwaukee Avenue between Damen and Wolcott, in the heart of the Wicker Park neighborhood. - Admission:
Suggested donation is $10 at the gates. All proceeds support neighborhood programming, artists, and community initiatives.
Musical Lineup That Delivers
Each day features nationally recognized bands, rising indie stars, and beloved local performers. Two stages—North and South—will run simultaneously, offering back-to-back sets for festivalgoers to discover and enjoy.
Weekend Highlights Include:
- Hotline TNT
- Letters to Cleo
- Deep Sea Diver
- MSPAINT
- TimaLikesMusic
- Evening Elephants
- LustSickPuppy
Fans of rock, funk, alternative, and electronic will find their groove at Wicker Park Fest. The event has long served as a platform for emerging talent, often featuring bands on the cusp of national recognition.
More Than Just Music
Wicker Park Fest isn’t just about the tunes—it’s a full celebration of culture, food, and community.
- Art & Culture Zone:
Features local visual artists, interactive exhibits, and live mural painting. - Kids Fest:
Magic shows, face painting, mini-golf, and ladybug releases—perfect for families looking to enjoy summer fun together. - Pet Fest:
Includes doggy ice cream contests, paw painting stations, and pet photo booths, all while raising funds for local animal rescues. - Dance & Theater:
From hip-hop dance crews to Shakespeare-inspired performances, the Cultural Stage keeps the creative energy flowing.
Support Local and Shop Small
Over 150 local vendors and shops line the festival route. Whether you’re browsing handcrafted jewelry, snagging a vintage tee, or sampling dishes from Chicago’s top food trucks, there’s something for everyone. It’s an opportunity to support the small businesses that make Wicker Park unique.
- Artisan craft booths
- Secondhand fashion pop-ups
- Independent bookstores
- Vegan and global street food stalls
Challenges and Community Appeal
Despite its popularity, Wicker Park Fest faces increasing financial challenges. Rising production costs and shrinking donations have pushed organizers to scale back some elements this year. Community leaders are urging attendees to contribute what they can at the gates to keep this iconic event thriving.
The festival operates without city funding and relies heavily on volunteer support, local sponsorships, and community goodwill. Your $10 suggested donation directly funds the music, stages, and local nonprofit partnerships that keep the festival going year after year.
Why Wicker Park Fest Matters
For many Chicagoans, Wicker Park Fest is more than a summer tradition—it’s a cultural moment that highlights the soul of the city. The blend of live music, street art, family-friendly programming, and small business celebration makes this event a standout.
With beautiful weather on the horizon and an unbeatable lineup, Wicker Park Fest 2025 is shaping up to be the highlight of the season. Whether you’re coming for the music, the food, or just to feel the pulse of Chicago’s creative heart, this weekend has something for you.
Don’t miss it. And if you’ve got a favorite memory or artist you’re excited to see, drop a comment and let us know—because Wicker Park Fest is made by the community, for the community.