Sundays on State: Chicago’s vibrant block party is back for year five

CHICAGO (WGN) — Chicago’s legendary Sundays on State is back for its fifth year, transforming State Street into a vibrant, free block party celebrating art, culture, community and more.

“There’s music and performers, arts and culture, over 50 food vendors, 200 retail vendors and over 400 participants,” Ariella Gibson of the Chicago Loop Alliance, said.

The block party started as an initiative to revive the Loop’s economy after the COVID-19 pandemic, bringing vital foot traffic to local storefronts.

It has now grown into a citywide celebration of art, community, culture, food and connection.

“A lot of things to see. A variety of food, vendors and everything. Shopping at the same time,” Yvette Wheeler said.

For the Konkimalla family, the event has become a treasured tradition as they return year after year.

“I love that it’s so family oriented, like we can walk around and see the wonderful things about our city,” 13-year-old Vikram Konkimalla said.

Sundays on State is also close to Rosa Vasquez’s heart.

As the owner of Olga’s Aguas Frescas, she’s been sharing her flavors and story since the very first year.

“I was coming out of a difficult situation. I had breast cancer. I had stopped and heard about this, and it motivated me to keep going,” she said.

Everyone who comes together at the block party says they create memories while supporting businesses and the community.

The next Sundays on State is happening on Oct. 5 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, click here.