Food, music, and summer vibes: Taste of Des Plaines returns June 19-20

Posted June 15, 2026 2:45 pm

Submitted by the city of Des Plaines

The Taste of Des Plaines returns to downtown as a two-day summer street festival from 5-11 p.m. on Friday, June 19; and from noon to 11 p.m. Saturday, June 20, along Ellinwood Street between the Des Plaines Metra Station and the Public Library.

Musical acts scheduled to take part in The Taste of Des Plaines include Rememories, Y2K and Sixteen Candles on Friday; the Lara Bell Band, Fearless: A Tribute to Taylor, Second Hand News and ARRA on Saturday. Courtesy of the city of Des Plaines

Admission is free, and attendees can enjoy live entertainment on two stages throughout the weekend. Friday’s music lineup features Rememories, Y2K and Sixteen Candles. Saturday’s lineup includes a Teen Summer Concert, the Lara Bell Band, Fearless: A Tribute to Taylor, Second Hand News and headliner ARRA.

Ten local restaurants will offer a wide variety of food options, including Italian, Mexican, Greek, Cuban, barbecue, and Asian cuisine from vendors such as Giuseppe’s Pizzeria, Mexico Restaurant, Serna’s Grill, Que Bola Cuban Cafe, Midwest Smoke BBQ, HD Cuisine and Karavan. Additional offerings include Hawaiian-Asian fusion from The Tiki Terrace, American classics from Charcoal Delights, and shaved ice from Kona Ice. Beer tents will serve beer, wine and seltzers.

Festivalgoers can also enjoy family-friendly activities, artisan and nonprofit booths, and a themed photo opportunity. Leashed dogs are welcome. The event will be held rain or shine and feature cashless payment for food and beverages.

Free parking is available in nearby municipal garages, and the festival is accessible via Metra.

Residents and visitors alike are invited to enjoy a weekend of live music, great food and community celebration in the heart of downtown Des Plaines.