Just when you finally recovered from all your summer Pride celebrations —it’s time for Market Days. The three day street festival in Chicago’s aptly named Boystown neighborhood takes place over the weekend of August 8th, and features dozens of acts across four separate stages.
Although today Market Days counts itself as one of many nationally renowned queer-centric festivals, it was started by local businesses and artists hoping to create a community event.
The first Market Days was relatively limited in scope—a few vendors over a couple days meant to drum up business for local business owners. Over the years it’s grown to be a three day affair that attracts hundreds of thousands of attendees. Now, more than 40 years since its founding in 1982, Market Days is one of the best known queer-centric events in the country. You’ll find booths featuring foods, art, and other vendors to check out. This year’s celebration features DJ’s, drag queens, and performances from artists like Keke Palmer and David Archuleta.
Much of Market Days’ programming is scheduled for afternoons, so the vibe is more friendly and fun, than dark and cruisey. But that doesn’t mean Cruisers can’t find their own fun later. Well known Chicago venues like Sidetrack, Hydrate, DS Tequila, and Roscoe’s will have parties going on. But if you’re intent on cruising, you’ll probably be more interested in Jackhammer, Cell Block (try the sling), or the local Steamworks branch which is open 24 hours a day.
Stop by Hollywood Beach if you’re looking to escape the crowds—who knows, you might find a cruiser or two looking your way. Or, check the Sniffies map to find other popular cruising spots near you. There are no shortage of groups, too—at the time of publication, there are no less than four Sniffies groups scheduled in the Boystown neighborhood alone.
If you’re looking for a club environment to cruise, Market Days plays host to a few circuit events. Meat XXL is one of the biggest, but if you’re on the hunt for something more music focused try Furball at Metro or Queen at Smartbar.
Wherever you end up, make sure you stay hydrated and stay safe. Remember: good cruisers are discreet and clean up after themselves. Happy hunting, Cruiser!
