Chicago street festival guide

The street festival has grown up. Just a few years ago, attendees could expect to find the same spread of high-calorie food, fried candy-bar desserts and hippie-inspired jewelry at the majority of local gatherings, whether in Lincoln Park or Lincoln Square. No longer.

Looking in their own backyards, neighborhood organizations have since brought local restaurants, services and boutiques into the fold and have, in some cases, paired with area music venues to book entertainment. The result? Chicago overflows with diverse celebrations that offer unique experiences, gourmet-style eats and family-related amusements. Better still, admission to most fests remains affordable. So break out the flip-flops and sunscreen. Here are some oversized block parties to help you maximize summer. -- Bob Gendron