One of Chicago's most iconic summer events kicks off in Friday.

The Taste of Chicago, in its 45th year, will kick off its foodie celebration starting at 11 a.m. in Grant Park. The festival will be open until 9 p.m. through Sunday, according to organizers.

Prior to 2023, the long-standing culinary celebration occurred in early-to-mid July. But 2 years ago, it shifted to September to accommodate the NASCAR Chicago Street Race .

As the popular event gets underway, here's what to know.

Do you need tickets to the Taste of Chicago?

Admission is free and all vendors at the festival take credit cards, though the city warns that very few take cash.

Unlike previous years, no Taste tickets will be sold, according to the city's website. Instead, all food and beverage can be purchased from ve

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