5. Chicago Gourmet
#6 Festival (up from #9)
Though a relative newbie to the festival scene, Chicago Gourmet has quickly built a reputation the city’s most prestigious food and wine event, and now attracts crowds of 10,000-plus. (In 2008, its first year, the festival drew 6,000 guests.) Showcasing 100 high-end restaurants and hundreds of international vintners, breweries, and spirit makers, the gathering also offers celebrity chef cooking demos, book signings, and popular events such as the "Hamburger Hop." Next: September 28-30, 2012
Photo: Courtesy of Chicago Gourmet