This weekend is bittersweet.

For the last time, we will have the Silver Room Sound System Block Party, the unapologetically Black celebration of love, music and harmony.

Since businessman Eric Williams started the festival in 2002, it has become thee destination event for the summer. People met at the Silver Room Block Party and got married. Friendships, memories and being turned on to good music, this event served as the setting for all of that for many.

But, as Williams articulated in this video, the cost to put on the event became too much, financially and relationally.

“This went from being 90 percent fun and 10 percent business to 90 percent business 10 percent fun,” he said in the video.

We do understand. But a big shoutout to Williams for gifting us this beloved event all these years. We can’t wait to see what you will do next.

With that said, the final Silver Room Sound System Block Party, which takes place Saturday and Sunday at Oakwood Beach on 39th, should be legendary.

It is one of several thrilling activities to get into this weekend.

51st annual Fiesta del Sol (July 27-30)

This four-day festival is another destination event that showcases the best Latin American food, drinks, music, dancing, crafts and more. Sign us up.

Pier 31 Restaurant (July 28-30)

Pier 31 Restaurant, and the adjoining 31st Street Beach, are the central headquarters for live entertainment, whether it is house, old-school Hip-hop, R&B or Afrobeats. The party doesn’t stop, even on school nights.

18th Annual Silver Room Sound System Block Party 2023 (July 29-30)

The multigenerational block party has always been a Chicago summer staple. Expect more of the same for this year’s edition, which takes place at Oakwood Beach — beautiful people, fantastic live music, great food and really swell energy.

Bantu Fest 2023 (July 29-31)

Another summertime destination event for Black Chicagoans. This event brings people from 30 countries to the Midway Plaisance to celebrate love, unity, music and fun. You have to get in on this one.

THE ATTIC PICNIC 20-Year Anniversary Part 2 (July 29)

House music in the park, Calumet Park, that is. This family-friendly event has been going strong for decades and ain’t slowing down soon.

From The ‘Go Fest (July 29)

This FREE event, taking place at the DuSable Museum, is brought to you by the talented youth of True Star, the innovative media arts and youth development program. This 3rd annual festival will feature the city’s best young creatives, so come out and support.

Deon Cole at Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana (July 29)

A homecoming event for one of the most accomplished comedians around. Cole is truly Chicago’s own, and few of the new guys have reached his level of stardom. Plus, the dude is hilarious.

The 35th Annual GhanaFest (July 29)

The Ghana National Council of Metropolitan Chicago and its affiliates present its flagship event at Washington Park. Expect a parade featuring an array of cultural performances. There will be delectable Ghanaian foods, live music and various activities.

The 17th Annual Better Love Yourself Trunk Party (July 30)

Terisa Griffin’s long-running program is about uplifting the next generation of college students. Thanks to this trunk party event at Malcolm X College, over 100 college-bound students will get the resources they need to excel on campus.

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Chicago Defender Staff

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