Much more than a traditional church function and bigger than a block party, St. Benedict Parish & Preparatory School's annual BenFest is one of the north side's longest-running family festivals and is quite unique compared to other community events. Hosted during the weekend of July 17 - 19, this renowned neighborhood celebration offers live entertainment from great bands, craft beer, a mouthwatering menu and fabulous family fun for every age group! Regularly held on the grounds of historic St. Benedict, the 3-day event continues to grow; several activities take place in the vast courtyard while Leavitt Street provides an open and casual festival setting for singles, couples and families to peruse a marketplace of artists and merchants while sampling cuisine from local restaurateurs. As ?Chicago's best family-friendly summer festival? (Chicago Tribune), BenFest is legendary for its children's elements but caters to all age groups; from tots to teens to the young-at-heart, there's a variety of activities and entertainment on two stages suitable for all. Clear the calendar and join friends and neighbors for a huge weekend of camaraderie, great music, fabulous fare, tons of activities for the kids and a chance to win great prizes. WHAT: Originally a two-day event for more than 30 years, BenFest is an annual North Side family-friendly event that was expanded into three days, and highlights a large menu of great food and refreshments, craft beer, live music for adults and children, and quality family entertainment. The festival has also expanded out onto the street, and the marketplace on Leavitt includes local vendors and merchants of art, jewelry, clothing, gifts, crafts and games. The popular children's area features live music and dance for various ages, games, water slide, inflatables, face-painting, arts and craft area, the all new Sport Zone and more ? you must see it to believe it! $5 Donation requested at the gate. More info and band lineup is available at www.BenFest.com. WHEN: Friday, July 17 from 4 -10 p.m.; Saturday July 18 from 1 -10 p.m.; and Sunday, July 19 from 1 - 7 p.m. WHERE: BenFest is located on Leavitt Street from Irving Park Rd. to Byron St. St. Benedict's Church is located at 2215 W. Irving Park Rd., Chicago, IL 60618. Public transportation: CTA buses (Irving Park or Western Avenue Routes) and the CTA Brown Line El (Irving Park stop). WHY: BenFest is one of St. Benedict's largest annual fundraising event. Proceeds from the festival are utilized to benefit local outreach, school programming, and fund church operations, restoration and other Parish initiatives. WHO: St. Benedict Parish & Preparatory School is in the heart of Northcenter, with Roscoe Village to the south, Albany Park to the west, and Lincoln Square to the north. St Benedict's has been part of these communities and their families since 1902.