River North LIVE! Is Coming: A Brand-New Festival Launches at theMART This June — And It's One for the Books

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Near North · June 1, 2026

Near North neighbors, summer just got a whole lot more exciting — and it's happening right in your backyard. The River North Residents Association (RNRA) is launching an all-new festival experience called River North LIVE!, set to debut on June 24–26 at theMART's River Park, adjacent to the iconic landmark building's South entrance. It's a reimagined celebration of neighborhood life, and organizers say they've built it from the ground up to be unforgettable — with on-stage entertainment, great food and beverages, and the kind of community spirit that makes River North one of Chicago's most beloved places to call home.

And the festival fun doesn't stop there. Just a week earlier, Near North's neighbor Old Town comes alive with the beloved Old Town Art Fair on June 13–14 at the Old Town Triangle Center, 1763 N. North Park Ave., showcasing more than 200 nationally acclaimed artists. Right alongside it, the Wells Street Art Festival takes over Wells Street from North Avenue to Division Street that same weekend — two art-filled days to soak in creativity steps from your front door.

With River North LIVE! kicking off a landmark summer and world-class art filling the streets of Old Town, June in Near North is shaping up to be one for the record books. Will you be heading out to River North LIVE! at theMART, or catching the art fairs on Wells Street? Tell your neighbors in the Socialhood comments below!

Sources:
1. https://rnrachicago.org/river-north-live/
2. https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/complete-guide-to-chicagos-2026-street-festivals-and-summer-events/3921357/
3. https://www.choosechicago.com/articles/festivals-special-events/chicago-festival-event-guide/