The 1st Annual 79th Street Renaissance Festival took place on July 29, 2006, and featured a parade, live music, food vendors, and activities for kids. The festival celebrated the history and cultural diversity of the Auburn-Gresham community and aimed to revitalize the area by attracting businesses and investment.

The 2nd Annual 79th Street Renaissance Festival was held on September 8, 2007, and expanded on the previous year's success with even more activities, including a health fair and a job fair. The festival also showcased local artists and performers and provided an opportunity for residents to connect with community organizations and resources.

The 3rd Annual 79th Street Renaissance Festival took place on September 13th, 2008, and featured a new "Taste of Auburn-Gresham" food court, where attendees could sample dishes from local restaurants. The festival also included a fashion show, a talent competition, and a youth basketball tournament.

The 4th Annual 79th Street Renaissance Festival took place on September 12, 2009, and featured live music, performances by Jessie White Tumblers and South Shore Drill Team, a Green (eco-friendly) corner, and a “Taste of 79th Street local eateries,” on one of Chicago’s busiest retail corridor and thoroughfare – 79th Street, aka, the Magnificent Nine.

The 4th Annual 79th Street Renaissance Festival was held on September 11, 2010, and attracted over 20,000 people to the neighborhood. The festival featured a petting zoo, a classic car show, a children's area with bounce houses and face painting, and performances by local musicians and dance groups.

The 6th Annual 79th Street Renaissance Festival took place in 2011 and the streets of Auburn Gresham were filled with an estimated 10,000 people!

The 7th Annual 79th Street Renaissance Festival was held in September 2012 and featured some of the best of Chicago's south side culture with fun for the entire family from tots (petting zoo, pony rides, games) to teens (youth DJ in the Park, dancing, games) to Adults (great food, great entertainment, dancing) and seniors (seniors DJ, free special luncheon, games, and giveaways)

The 8th Annual 79th Street Renaissance Festival took place on September 7, 2013, and featured a carnival with rides and games, as well as a "Gresham Idol" singing competition. The festival also included a health fair, a business expo, and a fashion show showcasing local designers.

9th Annual Auburn Gresham 79th Street Renaissance Festival was held September 6, 2014.

The Greater Auburn Gresham Development Corporation's annual festival has been a staple on the south side since it's inception nearly seven years ago. This annual event brings a great neighborhood street festival to the Southside, right here on 79th Street between Racine and Loomis.

The 11th Annual 79th Street Festival was held on September 10th, 2016, and was a huge success with nearly 15,000 attendees enjoying local food, retailers, organizations, and performers. This festival is an opportunity for the Greater Auburn-Gresham area to showcase its community and have a great time while supporting local businesses. The event provides real resources that make a difference in local residents' lives, such as free dental services, college application assistance, foreclosure services, and feeding more than 500 senior citizens.

In addition to providing social services throughout the year, the festival also provides a fun and safe environment for families, children, and adults. Attendees were entertained with the soulful sounds of rhythm and blues, gospel, jazz, and classical music, including performances from local celebrities such as Farley “King of House Music”. The festival line-up for entertainment also included several unnamed celebrities.

The 79th Street Festival is organized and supported by the Greater Auburn-Gresham Development Corporation and Special Service Area #32, which is comprised of the Auburn Gresham business district, extending from the Dan Ryan Expressway to 79th & Marshfield.

Participants were reminded to support south side businesses by shopping responsibly and locally on the Southside of Chicago. This event brings together all types of partnerships for the betterment of the Auburn-Gresham community, making it the best it can be.

The first time in its history, the 79th Street Renaissance Festival was hosted on multiple days from September 9-10 in 2017.

The 79th Street Renaissance Festival was hosted on multiple days from September 8-9 in 2018.

14th Annual Renaissance Festival, September 13-14, 2019

Click here to view the recap video.

After a year hiatus, the 79th Street Renaissance Festival returned in 2021 featuring Auburn Gresham tours.

Doug E. Fresh and Slick Rick are legends in hip-hop, known for their electrifying performances and undeniable chemistry on stage.  Slick Rick, on the other hand, is a storytelling genius with a signature flow, unmistakable voice, and effortless cool

Anthony Hamilton’s vibe is pure soul—raw, heartfelt, and deeply authentic. His voice carries that Southern grit, blending gospel roots with classic R&B and a touch of blues. Whether he's singing about love, struggle, or triumph, you can feel every note as if he's lived the story himself.

Adina Howard is the definition of confidence, sensuality, and raw talent. She burst onto the scene in the '90s with Freak Like Me, bringing a bold and unapologetic energy to R&B that set her apart. Her sultry vocals, combined with her fearless attitude, made her a trailblazer for female artists embracing their power and sexuality in music.

Raheem DeVaughn is the ultimate R&B gentleman, known for his smooth vocals, heartfelt lyrics, and deep connection with his fans. One of his most beloved signature moves is his romantic rose giveaways during performances. It’s not just a gimmick—it’s an extension of his music, which is all about love, passion, and appreciation for women.