When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Mayfest

Why Mayfest is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Mayfest in Fort Worth stands out as the largest and most vibrant celebration of community, offering an outstanding venue for friends to gather and enjoy a rich variety of experiences over four days. Located in beautiful Trinity Park, the festival combines the excitement of live music performances, a wide array of festival foods, and thrilling carnival rides, all set within a lively outdoor environment. Attendees can explore more than 15 food vendors at three different food courts, where options range from classic festival fare like turkey legs and corn dogs to international delights such as gyros, plus sweet treats like ice cream. The festival also caters to beverage lovers with multiple Coke and Beer/Wine booths, including a dedicated Beer and Wine Garden featuring craft beers from local breweries and an assortment of wines, enjoyed alongside live music from the Hiley Buick GMC Oasis Stage. The carnival midway, situated near the South Entrance, delights visitors with numerous mechanical rides, and smaller children’s areas near the North Entrance ensure fun for all ages. With the convenience of unlimited ride bracelets and free water stations, Mayfest offers a combination of entertainment, community spirit, and comfort that makes it an ideal spot for group outings and social meetups.
Here's what people think of Mayfest
As of recent, Mayfest holds a 4.3-star rating based on 19 reviews.
Visitor feedback for Mayfest reflects generally positive impressions, with the overall rating around 4.3 out of 5 based on approximately 19 reviews, highlighting a well-received community event that offers something for everyone. Positive reviewers praise the lively atmosphere, diverse food options, and the quality and variety of carnival rides. Many appreciate the festival’s family-friendly environment, the live music stages, and especially the inclusion of local beers and wines, which add a sophisticated touch to the festive experience. The ease of access to unlimited carnival ride bracelets and the availability of free water stations also receive commendations. However, some less favorable reviews point to occasional logistical issues such as overcrowding, longer-than-expected wait times at popular attractions, and the variability in ride pricing being somewhat confusing. A minority mention that some attractions like bounce houses or rock-climbing walls are not included in certain ride passes, which can lead to frustration for visitors unaware of these details. Overall, though, the positive aspects—community spirit, entertainment variety, and food quality—dominate the narrative, positioning Mayfest as a thriving and enjoyable festival destination that successfully brings together people for a memorable celebration.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
A Red Dragon
One of the many fun little street fests Chicago has all across the summer. Local merchants and artisans, bards and foods. Good pit stop on a weekend adventure
Lauren Jones
This is a fun, silly, and beer drenched festival where the bands play WITH the crowd (you’ll be dancing to the Chicken Dance for a healthy part of the night.) and flower crowns are practically mandatory for several people. Expect: loud music, carnival games, fried Oreo’s, soft pretzels, and DELICIOUS honey cake. It’s absolutely amazing! There is only one vendor here. They sell soccer=Footballs, and sports clothing, as well as the aforementioned flower crowns. If you can’t make it to this event, come to October Fest. It’s the same thing, but cooler and you’ll need a jacket. See you there!
Robert Stone
A relatively small but nice festival with some very reasonable pricing for something of its type. I’m not a fan of the ticket scheme, but I understand why they use it. Street parking within a couple of blocks worked out well. However, I always suggest going early or late to avoid the worst of CHI traffic in trying to get there - 3-7:00p drive times are terrible!
Alejandro Perez
I went here with family and friends, just amazing! Great food! Amazing beer! And most of all, live German music!
Crystal Jones
Server/owner great personality. Great atmosphere. Great food
How to reach Mayfest
None
Website: None

Why Mayfest may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Mayfest with your friends? Mayfest is an exceptional destination for a group meetup because it combines fun, diversity, and a lively atmosphere in a setting that suits friends and families alike. With a strong rating of 4.3 out of 19 reviews, it demonstrates consistent visitor enjoyment and satisfaction. Whether you want engaging outdoor activities, delicious food, or live entertainment, Mayfest offers something for everyone, creating memorable shared experiences. The vibrant festival vibe naturally encourages connection and celebration, making it an ideal backdrop for bonding with your circle. Also, the location—whether in Fort Worth’s scenic Trinity Park, Poughkeepsie’s beautiful Waryas Park, or Historic Smithville—provides ample space to relax, explore, and enjoy the company of your friends in a safe and festive environment. When you come together at Mayfest, you’re choosing a dynamic event tailored to group fun, ensuring that every moment spent with friends is rich with enjoyment and variety.
What activities can you do at Mayfest? Mayfest is packed with diverse activities that cater to all ages and interests, making it perfect for group gatherings. You can enjoy live music performances spanning various genres, providing an exciting soundtrack for your meetup. For families or active groups, there are numerous carnival rides and bounce houses, which add thrilling options for fun. Kids will love the petting zoo and the plethora of free children’s activities, allowing parents to relax while kids are entertained. The artsy crowd will appreciate the art and gift market with unique offerings from local artisans, perfect for casual browsing or finding gifts. If you enjoy more physical activities, try paddleboats or rock climbing, both excellent ways to engage in fun exercise while spending time together outdoors. Food lovers will delight in the international food courts and diverse vendor offerings that span from savory meals to sweet treats like funnel cakes. Mayfest’s carefully curated list of attractions ensures everyone in your group can find something enjoyable.
Why is Mayfest perfect for a group meetup? Mayfest’s layout and offerings are inherently designed to accommodate groups by combining spacious outdoor settings with a rich variety of activities to suit everyone’s tastes. Being spread over scenic parks such as Trinity Park or Waryas Park, there’s plenty of room to roam freely without feeling crowded, which is ideal for groups who want to chat, explore, and engage at their own pace. The wide range of entertainment options—live shows, performances, and interactive experiences—means that groups can split up or stick together and still have a great time. Eating together is a breeze with the assortment of vendors and international food courts offering different cuisines, satisfying diverse taste preferences within your group. For families or mixed-age groups, the presence of children’s areas, petting zoos, and safe, kid-friendly rides means younger members are cared for in a fun and secure environment while adults can enjoy other festival attractions nearby. Additionally, events like Mayfest often host special zones or activities that encourage socializing and shared experiences, making it easier for group members to bond.
How does Mayfest accommodate different interests in a group? One of Mayfest’s strongest appeals is its ability to cater to varied individual preferences while keeping the group connected. For music lovers, multiple stages and performances mean you can catch your favorite styles and discover new artists together. Meanwhile, the adventurous among you can challenge themselves with rock-climbing walls or carnival rides, adding an element of thrill. Food enthusiasts can embark on culinary adventures sampling food from a diverse array of vendors, including international dishes and festival classics like funnel cakes. Artisans and shoppers will appreciate the craft and gift markets where they can engage with local creators and pick up unique items. Families with kids won’t be left out—the children’s activities, bounce houses, and petting zoo provide safe, entertaining spaces for children to be lively and social, giving parents peace of mind. This range of attractions ensures that everyone, regardless of their interests or energy levels, will find something rewarding at Mayfest.
What practical conveniences make Mayfest group-friendly? Mayfest understands the needs of groups by providing practical conveniences that enhance the overall experience. The festival location in well-known parks often includes ample parking and easy public transport access, helping groups arrive and depart with minimal stress. Entrance fees are generally affordable and sometimes cover multiple days, allowing flexible planning for friends and families. Many Mayfest locations also partner with nearby hotels to accommodate out-of-town group members. Plus, there are usually well-organized vendor areas for food and shopping, reducing long waits and enabling smooth group dining. The presence of dedicated spaces for children’s activities and relaxing zones for parents ensures that groups can spread out without losing track of each other. On-site staff often facilitate easy navigation and support, making it simple for groups to make the most of their time together. These logistical features ensure that your meetup is enjoyable from start to finish.
What makes the atmosphere at Mayfest special for reunions or celebrations? Mayfest offers an energetic, friendly, and colorful atmosphere that naturally fosters connection and celebration within groups. The live music and art performances set a festive tone that uplifts spirits and encourages dancing, singing along, and shared fun. The mix of vendors selling handcrafted goods and ethnic foods introduces cultural richness, sparking conversations and appreciation among friends. Family-friendly elements like children’s zones and petting zoos not only support families but also add a cheerful, communal vibe for all attendees. Whether it’s a casual reunion, birthday, or a special occasion gathering, the vibrant yet relaxed setting of Mayfest creates moments that linger in the memory. Being outdoors in beautiful green spaces adds a refreshing element that large indoor venues often lack, giving groups a chance to enjoy nature as well as entertainment. This positive and inclusive environment is ideal for groups looking to strengthen bonds and celebrate together.
How does Mayfest support creating memorable shared experiences? Mayfest is designed with sharing in mind, making it an ideal place for group memories. The variety of group-friendly activities encourages interaction and collaboration—whether it’s riding paddleboats together, cheering during live shows, or exploring mercado-style art and food vendors as a team. The event’s schedule often includes community-centric features like contests, specialty performances, and children’s activities that involve participation, enhancing the sense of belonging among group members. The festive food courts and picnic areas provide perfect settings for relaxing and recapping the day’s highlights with friends. Interactive experiences like rock climbing or carnival rides promote fun challenges and laughter, deepening the shared joy. This emphasis on interactive and diverse entertainment means groups leave with stories and moments they cherish. Mayfest isn’t just an event to attend; it’s an experience that strengthens friendships and family ties through enjoyment and discovery.
What should you know before planning your meetup at Mayfest? Before heading to Mayfest, it’s helpful to know that the event typically runs over a weekend or holiday period, allowing groups to plan around their schedules for maximum attendance. Admission policies vary slightly by location but are generally affordable, often with free access for children under 12 or discounts for group memberships. Ride prices at the carnival may vary depending on vendors, so it’s wise to budget accordingly if your group includes thrill-seekers. It’s also smart to check the festival’s official website or social media for the latest updates on performances, food, and vendor lists to tailor your day specifically to your group’s preferences. Some Mayfest locations encourage early arrival to beat crowds and better engage with artisans and vendors. Additionally, bringing comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and water ensures your group stays comfortable throughout the day. Preparing for these details helps make your meetup seamless and stress-free, focusing on fun.
Why is Mayfest a top choice for diverse group fun? Ultimately, Mayfest stands out as a top choice because it balances variety, convenience, and ambiance so well for groups. Its proven popularity and positive reviews underscore a consistent track record of visitor satisfaction. The richness of activities—from lively music and food markets to kid-friendly zones and adventurous rides—means the entire group can remain engaged without feeling segregated or bored. The festival’s open, green settings foster a relaxed but festive atmosphere perfect for socializing and celebration. Supportive logistics and thoughtful planning from organizers ensure a smooth visit even for larger groups with varying interests. Whether you want to celebrate a special occasion, connect with friends, or spend a weekend immersed in culture and outdoor fun, Mayfest provides an entertaining, inclusive platform where every group member can contribute to and enjoy the experience. This mix of qualities makes it a compelling venue to rally your friends and family.