Thursday (July 19)

SummerBrew 2012
6:30 to 10 p.m.
This kick-off to Lincoln Square's Square Roots festival offers fifteen beers from the Great Lakes region, along with food from the Grafton Pub and Fountainhead. Admission includes a 9 oz. commemorative beer glass and one free beer. $20. 4533 N. Lincoln; event website

Friday (July 20)

Taste of River North
Friday 5 to 10 p.m.; Saturday noon to 10 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
This neighborhood fest features a range of food vendors, from steakhouses to burritos. Selections include Hubbard Inn, Zocalo, Taco Joint, Flemings Prime House, Sullivans, and 25 Degrees. Check out the full entertainment schedule and displays from art galleries and merchants. $5 suggested donation. Kingsbury & Erie; event website

Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival
Friday 4 to 11 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
This Logan Square festival may focus on art, but food and drink offerings are also notable. Festival sponsor Revolution Brewing will provide 4 beer selections, and Lula Cafe will offer its classic Sangria. This is also your chance to try some of Chicago's best food trucks, which will be parked throughout the event. $5 per day or $10 for a 3-day wristband. Milwaukee Avenue from California to Kimball; event website

Saturday (July 21)

Roscoe Village Burger Fest
Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m to 10 p.m.
At the sixth annual event, sample burgers from familiar spots, such as Hamburger Mary's, Goose Island Brewpubs, and Stanley's Kitchen & Tap, along with newcomers including Butcher & the Burger and Rockit Burger Bar. Vote for your favorite while jamming to Rusted Root or Freddy Jones Band. $6. Belmont between Damen and Leavitt; event website

Beyond the Weekend

WXRT and Supreme Lobster's Rockin' Lobster Bash
July 31, 6:30 to 10:30 p.m.
Tickets go on sale today for WXRT's 40th anniversary celebration at Red Door's spacious outdoor patio. Lin Brehmer will host, and guest chefs for the event include Mindy Segal, Ryan Poli, Mike and Patrick Sheerin, and Dirk Flanagan. Attendees also have a chance to win tickets to the New York Food and Wine Festival and Grand Cru access to Chicago Gourmet, among other prizes. $60. 2118 N. Damen; event website