Your Bucktown Weekend Starts Tonight: First Friday Art Walk Returns and the Farmers Market Is Back This Sunday

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Bucktown · May 1, 2026

Bucktown neighbors, your social calendar just filled up fast — and in the best possible way. Tonight, Friday May 1, the beloved First Friday Art Walk kicks off at the Flat Iron Arts Building, 1579 N. Milwaukee Ave., starting at 6 p.m. The Flat Iron is one of the neighborhood's most storied creative hubs, and the monthly First Friday series is a true community tradition — a chance to stroll through working artist studios, discover new work, and connect with the creative people who make this corridor so special. Best of all, it's the kind of low-key, drop-in evening that's perfect whether you're bringing a date, the whole family, or just yourself.

And if you're already in a festive mood, mark your calendar for Sunday, May 3 — because the Wicker Park Farmers Market is officially returning for its 26th outdoor season at Wicker Park, 1425 N. Damen Ave., running weekly through October 25. To kick off the season, Chicago Tomato Man Bob Zeni will be on hand to share expert tips for growing healthier, more productive tomato plants. The market has also added more fruit and produce vendors this year alongside its beloved staples: locally made cheeses, baked goods, meats, eggs, flowers, crafts, and artwork.

From a buzzing art walk tonight to a Sunday morning market haul, this weekend is a textbook Bucktown spring moment. Head to the Flat Iron after dinner, then fuel up at the farmers market Sunday morning — and bring a neighbor along for both.

Sources:
1. https://allevents.in/chicago/bucktown
2. https://blockclubchicago.org/2026/04/30/23-things-to-do-in-chicago-this-weekend-may-day-celebrations-farmers-markets-and-fashion/