Pilsen: The What and Where

Chicago is a city of neighborhoods.Pilsen is one in which we have chosen to host the 2010 Fringe Festival. Like nearby Little Italy, Pilsen has a distinct character: In the late 19th century it was tamed by German and Irish, then later Czech immigrants who named the district in honor of the city Plzen back home in Bohemia or what is now the Czech Republic. In the 70's the neighborhood saw an influx of Mexican-Americans as UIC grew and construction took over neighboring areas. This combination of diverse nationalities has endowed Pilsen with a wealth of unique groceries, bakeries and restaurants. Now, the east side of the neighborhood along Halsted Street is one of Chicago's largest art districts and many Chicagoan artists can be found there in their natural habitat. Each month, a string of galleries on Halsted host the 2nd Friday Art Walk. You can also visit The National Museum of Mexican Art in Pilsen or check out the murals along 16th street. (Note: Many galleries including the Museum are closed on Mondays or open by appointment only during other times.) Pilsen's current main artery is a lively walking district along 18th street, which changes in character as the galleries and warehouses of the East Pilsen arts district between Halsted and Racine morph into the bustling business corridor between Blue Island and Ashland.

More Information/Visualizations:

A slideshow of art in Pilsen:

Pilsen News and Photos at the Chicago Reader:

Great Directions for Getting into Pilsen:

An Article With Some Interesting Comments on Pilsen "Gentrification" from Locals:

Time Out Chicago Tackles Pilsen:

Who Are the Muppies?:

Photos Streams from Pilsen:

Yelp Lists - Well Loved Local Pilsen Spots: