Villarte Chicago is a collective of artists and organizers in Little Village that has a long tradition of celebrating local arts and culture by transforming neighborhood spaces into opportunities for art expression. Since 2006, Villarte Chicago’s main event, the Little Village Arts Festival, has been a beacon of pride on Chicago’s Southwest Side.

Every November, Villarte Chicago collaborates with local Artists, organizations, businesses and volunteers to create a weekend art-walk composed of pop-up galleries that celebrates the talent and culture of the community. This entire effort is guided by volunteers. The festival is a critical component for local artists, youth and families to show artwork and discuss the important art practices and opportunities available both in and outside the community.

We collaborate with local business owners to transform their storefronts into pop-up galleries and/or commission local artists to create a Day of the Dead altar in their window to create an art walk along 26th Street. There are also workshops taught by local artists.

Community members participate in the Little Village Arts Festival by visiting the various pop-up galleries and installations as well as taking part in workshops taught by local artists. Entrance to the festival is free and participation in all workshops and events are free.

This year's festival will be held November 2nd and 3rd.