The Northalsted Business Alliance plans to host Market Days August 6-8, adding a Friday night edition, the first in its 38-year history.
As vaccinations increase and Illinois begins planning for stage 5 reopening, organizers of the iconic event are in full preparation mode. Chairperson Mark Liberson commented, "The committee is hard at work selecting performers, signing contracts, and making plans for an exciting weekend in Chicago this summer."
Since the first Market Day in August 1982, the LGBTQ+-positive event has grown to a half-mile long, annual summer ritual on Chicago's North Halsted Street from Belmont Avenue to Addison Street, featuring all-day lineups of live music and international DJs on 5 stages, 300 vendors, arts, crafts, wares, summer food and drinks, dancing in the street, and more. A $15 recommended donation for entry supports the festival entertainment cost, local charities, neighborhood programming and maintenance in the community.
Northalsted Business Alliance President Ramesh Ariyanayakam shared his optimism for hosting this years' event: "We look forward to the possibility of welcoming neighbors and visitors alike to this iconic event. While planning is underway, we will remain in continual contact with the City of Chicago, the State of Illinois and monitor the CDC guidelines to be flexible in our approach to meet all necessary requirements to produce a safe event.