Chicagoans pack Oktoberfest, Riot Fest and prepare for Bears home opener during busy weekend

From Oktoberfest celebrations in Old Town to Riot Fest in Douglass Park and the Bears’ upcoming home opener at Soldier Field, Chicago is hosting a packed weekend of entertainment and events despite the possibility of rainy weather.

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In Old Town, the second annual Old Town Oktoberfest got underway on Wells Street, drawing attendees with German food, live music and festive activities.

The steins were full as crowds gathered for the festival, which featured food, music and a stein-holding competition.

“It’s bringing a bunch of people together that are getting to know each other and just hanging out in Old Town and it’s super fun,” said Marcy Huttas, executive director of the Old Town Merchants and Residents Association.

One of the festival’s featured attractions was a competition to see who could hold a full stein the longest, drawing cheers from spectators.

“The music has been super fun. The music, the beer stein holding competition was really fun to watch. That was really exciting,” attendee Abby Kugler said.

Elsewhere in the city, Riot Fest kicked off its three-day run in Douglass Park, attracting punk and alternative music fans. The weekend lineup includes Twenty One Pilots, Iggy Pop and Alanis Morissette.

By Sunday, attention will shift to Soldier Field as the Bears return home for their home opener.

Fans expressed optimism ahead of the game following the team’s record-setting win last Sunday.

“We’re very hopeful. We made the playoffs last year. So go Bears!” said Bears fan Ida Roldan.

The excitement surrounding the home opener comes as head coach Ben Johnson and quarterback Caleb Williams return to Chicago with momentum from last weekend’s performance.

“Everybody’s saying he’s dropped into the groove and that last game was just. I don’t even know if that covers it. It was so impressive. Absolutely, what an athlete to watch,” Bears fan Brian Penoyer said.

While the weather forecast may present challenges for outdoor plans, festivalgoers and sports fans alike appeared undeterred as Chicagoans filled city streets, parks and venues throughout the weekend.

Whether raising a stein in Old Town, enjoying live music in Douglass Park or preparing to cheer on the Bears at Soldier Field, residents have no shortage of ways to spend the weekend.

ESPN’s David Kaplan takes a look ahead at the Bears-Vikings matchup.

Excited does not begin to describe the vibe in the Windy City as the team gets set for their home opener against the Minnesota Vikings.

For Chicago Bears fans, victory is already in the air for the team’s home opener. Some diehards are already saying this could be the year.

“We’re very hopeful,” Bears fan Ida Roldan said. “We made the playoffs last year. So go Bears!”

The excitement is palpable following the team’s trouncing of the Carolina Panthers last Sunday.

The Chicago Bears looked unstoppable in their decisive 59 to 37 road win last week.

This Sunday will be the first-time fans at Soldier Field will get to see a squad re-imagined by head coach Ben Johnson and led by quarterback Caleb Williams.

“Everybody’s saying he’s dropped into the groove and that last game was just,” Bears fan Brian Penoyer.” I don’t even know if that covers it was so impressive. Absolutely, what an athlete to watch.

Opinions about what could be an early battle for the top of the NFC North aren’t just driving up interest and ticket prices too, which according to several online websites Friday morning range anywhere from $250 to $400.

Little difference to those ready for the team and Chicago to win.

“Any team that’s successful is good for spirit, wise and pride,” fan Merle Tillery said.

Soldier Field is definitely the place to be. Kickoff is noon on Sunday.