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April 22, 2025

Why Are Chicago Street Festivals Struggling? Plus, New Restaurants We’re Watching

City Cast Chicago

Why Are Chicago Street Festivals Struggling? Plus, New Restaurants We’re Watching

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As street festival organizers struggle with rising costs, a coalition is urging Chicagoans to donate at the gate this summer. Host Jacoby Cochran and producer Michelle Navarro discuss the hurdles facing the city’s (mostly) free street fests and the future of summertime Chi. Plus, new restaurant openings and how to get our new City Cast Chicago Neighbors mug. 

Good news: The Moth in Chicago: GrandSLAM

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Learn more about the sponsors of this April 22 episode:

Babbel – Get up to 60% off at Babbel.com/CITYCAST

Cozy Earth – Use code COZYCHICAGO for 40% off best-selling sheets, towels, pajamas, and more.

Aura Frames – Get $35-off plus free shipping on the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST

Moats Entertainment – Save $5 with code CityCast

Paramount Theatre – Save $5 off each ticket with Code CityCast. Offer is good for up to 4 tickets 

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