About This Festival
Previous Location
North Center Neighborhood|2215 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL | Map
Everfest's Take
From the Organizer
BenFest 2215 W. Irving Park Rd., Chicago benfest.com https://www.facebook.com/BenFest/ “Chicago’s best family-friendly summer festival” (Chicago Tribune) – St. Benedict’s BenFest is one of the north side’s longest-running family festivals and is quite unique compared to other community events. This renowned Northcenter neighborhood celebration offers live entertainment, craft beer, a mouthwatering menu and fabulous family fun for every age group! After more than 35 years, BenFest has become legendary for its family element but caters to all age groups; from tots to teens to the young-at-heart, there’s a variety of activities and entertainment on two stages suitable for all. Clear the calendar and join friends and neighbors for a huge weekend of camaraderie, great music, fabulous fest fare, tons of activities and a chance to win great prizes. WHAT: North Side family-friendly event that highlights a tasty menu of great food and refreshments, craft beer, live music for adults and children, and quality family entertainment throughout the weekend. The festival marketplace on Leavitt includes local vendors and merchants of art, jewelry, clothing, gifts, crafts and games. “Rock the Fest” is BenFest’s youth band showcase hosted by School of Rock, which features budding young musical talent jamming on the main stage. Visit the website for details. The popular children’s area features live music and dance for various ages, games, waterslide, inflatables, face-painting, arts and crafts area, Sport Zone and more – you must see it to believe it! $5 Donation requested at the gate. More info and band lineup is available at BenFest.com. Like us: facebook.com/BenFest WHERE: Benfest is located on Leavitt Street from Irving Park Rd. to Byron St. St. Benedict’s Church is located at 2215 W. Irving Park Rd., Chicago, IL 60618. Public transportation: CTA buses (Irving Park or Western Avenue Routes) and the CTA Brown Line El (Irving Park stop). WHY: BenFest is one of St. Benedict’s largest annual fundraising events; proceeds from the festival are utilized to benefit local outreach, school programming, and fund church operations, restoration and other Parish initiatives. WHO: St. Benedict Parish & Preparatory School is in the heart of Northcenter, with Roscoe Village to the south, Albany Park to the west, and Lincoln Square to the north. St Benedict’s has been part of these communities and their families since 1902.
