As winter starts to fade and spring is around the corner, summer plans are being made. In Chicago, fests are a huge part of summer. I already marked a few on my calendar.

The Taste of Chicago (July 8–12) is the world’s largest food fest. Debuting in 1978 as ChicagoFest, Taste will attract more than 1 million attendees.

In its 35th year, the Printers Row Lit Fest (June 6–7) is the largest literary fest in the Midwest. More than 100 authors will be appearing, along with vendors and exhibitors. A couple years ago, I had the pleasure of talking to Chef Amanda Freitag.

Since I am always on the lookout for excellent cannoli, I will head to Chicago’s Little Italy Fest (Aug. 13–16). I plan on sampling every variety I find there. Of course, I will also enjoy some pizza and gelato.

I will join Global Traveler colleague Lou Atsaves and his family at Taste of Greektown (Aug. 21–23). In its 31st year, it is a celebration of Hellenic pride.

Held a block from my place, Skokie’s Backlot Bash (Aug. 28–30) is one of my favorites. I always meander through the fest, sampling the various food offerings, followed by watching the bands from my balcony.

Late in the summer is the Sam Adams Lakeview Taco Fest (Sept. 19–20). Held near Wrigley Field, Taco Fest is the place to try all sorts of unique taco creations. Scallop tacos, marinated mushroom and goat cheese tacos and grilled fruit tacos were just a few varieties I tried last year.

Looking at the fest calendar, there is at least one fest every weekend through September. I will add a few more as time permits.

— John Wroblewski, online writer