Michael M. Edwards President & CEO | Chicago Loop Alliance
Chicago Loop Alliance has announced a shift in its programming focus with the launch of the "Falling for the Loop" campaign, which aims to highlight arts and culture throughout downtown Chicago. The initiative builds on the popularity of previous events like Sundays on State.
“Based on the success of Sundays on State, and the power of arts and culture on both the Loop’s economy and its recovery, we felt compelled to expand our programming to uplift Chicago’s plethora of cultural assets,” said . “For 20 years, our programming has celebrated the city's iconic culture with award-winning initiatives like Sundays on State, and we are excited to bolster that momentum with new events and programs, while supporting major existing events that enliven the Loop, like the Chicago Marathon; Open House Chicago; and State Street’s very own, Arts in the Dark Parade.”
Sundays on State will return this year as a free event open to all. It will be held along State Street from Randolph to Jackson. Registration is available at LoopChicago.com/Sundays. Those who register are entered into a drawing for a $1,000 staycation package in the Loop.
Applications are now open through June 16 for small businesses, local entrepreneurs, artists, non-profits, and food vendors interested in participating in Sundays on State. Performers scheduled include Collaboraction, Chicago Latin Groove Band, DLOW and Malik, Good Girls DJs, Matt Ulery, The Joffrey Ballet, O’Mys, The Rust Riders, The Strangers, and SKIRT The Band.
The event is organized by Chicago Loop Alliance in partnership with several organizations including the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events and Special Service Area #1-2015. Sponsors include Allstate Insurance Company, Macy’s, Target (supporting sponsors), Block 37 (event sponsor), as well as Faegre Drinker, Flyover, Millennium Garages and Walgreens (community sponsors). Additional sponsorship opportunities remain available.
Other upcoming activities include Lurking in the Loop—a Halloween-themed bar crawl scheduled for October 25 from 8 p.m. until midnight. This free event will feature nearly a dozen bars such as Bandol Brasserie and Bar Sotto among others. Registration is encouraged at LoopChicago.com/barcrawl.
Skeletons on State is another public art initiative featuring large skeleton installations decorated as tributes to local institutions along State Street planters. Residents and visitors are invited to engage with these displays by sharing their experiences online using #SkeletonsonState.
The Falling for the Loop series intends to celebrate local arts organizations while supporting commerce within downtown Chicago's business district.
According to information provided by CLA's website https://loopchicago.com/about/, Chicago Loop Alliance leads efforts that attract people and investment into downtown through inclusive programs. It serves as both a membership organization and service provider for Special Service Area #1-2015 while also producing free public art projects through its foundation.