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A.R. Shaw is an author and journalist who documents culture, politics, and entertainment. He has covered The Obama White House, the summer Olympics in London, and currently serves as Lifestyle Editor for Rolling Out magazine. Follow his journey on Twitter @arshaw and Instagram @arshaw23.

Culture

2 days ago

Why these 10 Chicago summ...

[caption id="attachment_1029123" align="aligncenter" width="960"] Silver Room Block Party 2017 - Photo Credit: Eddy "Precise" Lamarre[/caption] Chicago is the place to be in the summer, not only because of how beautiful it is but also because of how immersed you can get into the culture of the city. "Summertime Chi" is not just a phrase; it's a real thing. There are so many festivals and events that are jam-packed into the three tofour4 months of the summer that one can’t possibly make it to them all. We have compiled a list of the top 10 events we recommend while visiting Chicago this summer. Check them out; you won't be disappointed.

Hyde Park Brew Fest June 2-3, 2018

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HPBF 2017 - Photo Credit: Eddy "Precise" Lamarre[/caption] Hyde Park will be lit all summer and The Hyde Park Brew Fest kicks it off. You can head over to 53rd Street and indulge in your favorite beer and vibe out to world class DJs like Jazzy Jeff, DJ Clark Kent and Terry Hunter. http://hpbrewfest.com/

Ravinia, Anita Baker, June 10, 2018

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Photo Credit: Twitter @iamanitabaker[/caption] If you ever had the opportunity to go to Ravinia for any event, you know the unique setting, ample seating and lawn area make the ideal concert experience paired with your favorite glass of wine. Anita Baker will be headlining Ravinia this year and many are speculating that this is her farewell tour. If it is, make sure you make it out. https://www.ravinia.org/ShowDetails/?show=1515

Chosen Few Picnic & Festival Saturday, July 7, 8 am to 9 pm

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Photo Credit: chosenfewdjs.com[/caption] House music is embedded into the fabric of Chicago’s culture. The Chosen Few Picnic and Festival represents what is best about the South Side of Chicago. Families gather and fill Hayes Park to participate in good feelings and vibes. Alan King, DJ Terry Hunter, Jessie Saunders and Mike Dunn are a few of the select legendary DJs on hand who will be curating all of this greatness. http://chosenfewdjs.com/

Taste Of Chicago, Mos Def and Talib Kweli as Blackstar July 13, 2018

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Photo Credit: cityofchicago.org[/caption] If hip-hop or food mean anything to you, this event will be right up your alley. Taste of Chicago is an annual event the city of Chicago holds. It showcases different amazing foods from around the city. July 13 is special because one of hip-hop’s greatest duos, Mos Def and Talib Kweli, is joining forces again to provide a backdrop of classic rap. Don't miss this. https://www.ticketweb.com/event/black-star-madame-gandhi-taste-of-chicago-petrillo-tickets/8367605?pl=taste

The Silver Room Block Party July 21, 2018

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Pete Rock at Silver Room Block Party 2017 - Photo Credit: Eddy Precise Lamarre[/caption] The Silver Room Block Party is probably my favorite every summer. The southside becomes this transformed entity by way of Hyde Park and 53rd and the Silver Room owned by Eric Williams. This will be the 15th annual block party. Come out and experience how the vibe heightens your senses and see love in motion. https://silverroomblockparty.com/