If you’re looking for a truly epic experience of food, crafts, and music, you must visit this international market in Illinois! The Argyle Night Market is a statewide favorite and is known as one of the best and biggest international markets in Illinois.
The Argyle Night Market is open every Thursday from early July to late August every year and brings together food, culture, art, music, and more from all over the globe.
The market stretches for two full city blocks, from Kenmore St. to Sheridan St. in the neighborhood of Sheridan Park in northern Chicago. It’s just a few blocks west of Montrose Beach.
Several cultural performances take place including a Chinese dragon dance, Balinese Gamelan performers, Pacific Islander musicians, Vietnamese lion dancers, and more.
There is so much delicious food on hand, like these freshly grilled skewers of meat and vegetables. Nothing is better than fresh, hot street food!
If you’re feeling adventurous, try a spicy Southeast Asian salad with chili paste, cilantro, celery, lettuce, and other fresh vegetables and herbs.
While you enjoy your meal, take in a performance of some entrancing Japanese Taiko drumming.
The most wonderful thing about the Argyle Night Market is that it brings together the diversity of humanity and fosters a sense of community with people of every culture.
You'll need some comfortable shoes for walking around the market, so check out REI for the very best options.
The Argyle Night Market has added a new Beer Garden and a trellised, al fresco dining area. Many local businesses, nonprofit organizations, food and craft vendors, and musicians gather here every year for an inclusive, fun experience at one of the biggest international markets in Illinois. There are several other fantastic street fairs all over the state of Illinois. Have you been to any of these? Let us know your favorites in the comments! Also, if you know of any other international markets in Illinois worth visiting, tell us about those, too.
If you're looking for more fun things to do in Illinois, exploring the historic river town of Galena is always a good time. See for yourself in our YouTube video:
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