ChillFest Returns This Weekend: 60+ Musicians to Transform Wicker Park Shops for Small Business Saturday

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Wicker Park · November 30, 2025

Wicker Park shoppers will experience a unique soundtrack to their holiday shopping this weekend as ChillFest returns on Small Business Saturday, November 30. The popular community event invites residents to "rock, shop and chill" as more than 60 musicians transform neighborhood businesses into impromptu performance venues throughout the afternoon.

Attendees can stroll from venue to venue across Wicker Park and Bucktown, enjoying live acoustic performances while supporting local businesses during one of their most critical revenue periods. According to American Express' 2025 Shop Small Impact Study, small business owners expect nearly 20% of their annual revenue to come from the Small Business Saturday weekend. The festival, running from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., will feature diverse musical styles from folk and R&B to chillwave carefully matched to each venue's atmosphere. Many participating businesses are also part of the #LocalsForLocalBusiness social media campaign highlighting Chicago businesses throughout the holiday season.

With the potential for winter weather in the forecast, local business owner Amanda Kezios of Mojo Spa encourages residents to brave the elements if possible. "This is one of the most challenging times for small businesses," Kezios noted. For a complete list of participating musicians and venues, visit the ChillFest website, and consider checking out the event before heading to the WPB Winter Wonderland & Tree Lighting scheduled for the following weekend.

Sources:
1. https://chicago.suntimes.com/small-business/2025/11/28/shoppers-wicker-park-sales-small-business-saturday
2. https://mo2properties.com/community-events-in-bucktown-and-wicker-park/