German Fest In Lincoln Square Chicago

Gemütlichkeit is a German word that does not directly translate to English.  The general interpretation of the word is that it speaks of coziness, warmth, sociability.  There is plenty of that to be had every German Fest held in Chicago’s northside neighborhood of Lincoln Square.

Mayor Daley and local Alderman of the 47th ward, Gene Schulter make an appearance in the Von Steuben Parade.  The parade celebrates Baron Friedrich von Steuben, who came to this country as a volunteer offering his services to General George Washington.  General von Steuben converted the revolutionary army into a disciplined fighting force, instilling in them much needed inspiration, confidence and competence.

The annual Von Steuben Parade is the German American Event of the year.  It is held in September, when hundreds of participants march, dance, play music or ride the many beautiful floats on Lincoln Avenue and join the festivities later at the German-American Fest.

Lincoln Square is known for its long-time German roots and heritage with institutions like the DANK House, the Chicago Brauhaus and other shops and bars lining Lincoln Avenue.  The neighborhood is accessible by the Brown Line elevated trains with Western being the major transportation hub.  The neighborhood historically was known as Ravenswood and still retains that name in the surrounding areas of wood single family homes, apartment buildings and condos.  The Ravenswood Metra stop is just east of Lincoln Square proper and gives residents quick access to downtown Chicago.

The Lincoln Square chamber of commerce is very active in the community and features its member businesses on its website.   Friends of Lincoln Square is a grass roots organization founded by Tim Downing, a local resident, who hopes to start more public dialogue of issues and concerns of its citizens.  Lincoln Square is a fantastic neighborhood filled with bright entrepreneurs and concerned individuals who care deeply and passionately about their little neighborhood on the far northside of Chicago.  Visit this destination neighborhood on your next trip to Chicago!