Cost: $5 suggested donation.

Organizer: River North Association

What to expect: Live music, food, kids' activities and more.

Why to go: Beloved River North eateries like Ai Japanese, Kitsch'n and Zocalo will dole out primo fare; bands like the John Wade Quartet keep the mood going; and the festival fever gives you an excuse to indulge in wacky excesses like psychic readings, portraiture and public massages.

Additional info: The spankin' new Erie Park Farmer's Market will be set up for your browsing pleasure; there's a pet adoption area full of furry critters waiting for your love; and there will be raffle prizes aplenty. The fest runs on Erie from Kingsbury to Larrabee.

Centerstage Reviewer: Ben Rubenstein