2008 Taste of Chicago

The Taste Fest of Chicago. Whenever I hear those words, I go insane with hunger. It may sound hilarious, but if you've ever attended the Taste Fest in Chicago, you'd understand what I'm talking about. An all day event, and taking up a complete week, filled with fun for everyone, the Taste of Chicago gives any visitor, resident of Chicago, or passer-by an extravagant taste of Chicago -- literally!

I was able and fortunate enough to have shared this experience, along with many, many others several times, and I plan to partake in the Taste Fest of Chicago many times more, if allowed and blessed to do so.

You have concerts throughout Grant Park, a concert for every person in your family, so-to-speak; You have the choice of some R&B, like Angie Stone for the parents, and Children concerts for the smaller visitors. And this is just the kick-off. Premierely on the first couple of days for the Taste Fest of Chicago.

And this doesn't include the many vendors set up to have on hand-some of the most finger-licking good dishes anyone could set their plates on! Now, Chicago is known for their rib-shacks and rib joints, along with Chicago Style Pizza; believe me when I say: You'll get more ribs and pizza, than at any other time in your life! Let's not forget the famous cheesecake choices that will be on hand. I'm getting a watery mouth by just typing all of this in.

The first year I attended the Taste Fest of Chicago, as an adult in 1990, there were at least 5-10 concerts going on at the same time. It could have been less, but it felt as if there were more. You have the main attraction going on in this shell-like stage platform, then you have other stages further to the left and right, then you have a main stage where the bigger acts do their thing.

But enough about the music. Let's talk about the real reason and season for the Taste Fest of Chicago-the food! With over 70+ vendors, ranging from anywhere thai cuisine, to good ole' Old Fashion, Hand-made Ice Cream, the choices are up to you! I remember that first year that I attend the Taste Fest of Chicago, I was sick for a week, not just sick from bad food, but sick from being a pig!-literally! I tried to eat all the ribs I could; there were so many different cooked varieties: you had BBQ, Sweet N' Sour, Lemon Pepper, Short Ribs, Baby Back, Fried Ribs...I felt like Bubba in Forrest Gump for a hot second there, but I'm back. But you get the idea, right? I know-sounds mouth watering!