Events

News

Driving the news: Chicago Grit, a high-speed cycling series once known as the Intelligentsia Cup, returns for its 13th summer—bringing not just races, but full-blown community block parties to 10 towns across Chicagoland starting July 18.

Details: The series kicks off with West Dundee’s notoriously hilly opener, “Leg Breaker Hill,” and wraps with the Fulton Market Grand Prix in Chicago on July 27. In between: stops in Glen Ellyn, Winfield, Mundelein, Lombard, Brookfield, Northbrook, Elgin, and Lake Bluff.

Each event features:

• Up to 10 criterium-style races on closed city street loops.

• Family fun rides on the course.

• Local food, music, vendors, and kids’ zones.

Last year’s series saw 4,272 riders from 44 states and 15 countries.

Why it matters: Chicago Grit is more than a sports event — it's an economic and cultural spark plug for local communities. It brings thousands of visitors to local businesses, celebrates neighborhood pride, and transforms ordinary streets into summer festivals.

The big picture: The races have evolved into hyper-local celebrations. From superhero-themed parades to vintage fire trucks and local craft beer tents, towns are turning race day into the day of the summer.

By the numbers:

• 10 towns, 10 days

• 4,272 riders in 2023

• 1,500+ visitors expected at Elgin alone

• 35 bikes donated to Elgin kids

• 40+ local businesses represented in West Dundee

Between the lines: Communities like Elgin and Mundelein are taking extra steps to make the events inclusive — from offering local housing to recruiting bilingual hosts for Hispanic athletes. It’s about bikes, but it’s also about belonging.

What’s next: The first race zooms through West Dundee on July 18. Bring your cowbells and costumes — or just come hungry and ready to cheer.

The bottom line: Chicago Grit is where elite cycling meets small-town pride. Whether you race, volunteer, or just watch, you’re part of something big and local.

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Food

BREAKFAST

☕️ Prairie Cafe (Elmhurst)

Here at Prairie Café, our daily goal is to create, serve and enjoy delicious food. We love fresh food, flavorful food, food that’s in season, and food that’s distinct. Every morning before opening our kitchen, we stock our shelves with market fresh ingredients, so that the food we serve you is as fresh and flavorful as can be. We welcome you to our restaurant, and wish you a hearty appetite. 

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LUNCH

🐸 Hugo's Frog Bar (Naperville)

Hugo’s Frog Bar & Fish House opened its doors in February 1997 in the heart of Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood, next to sister restaurant Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse.

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DINNER

🍣 Sushi Ukai (Glen Ellyn)

Dong began his restaurant career at the age of 20 after moving to Manhattan from China. While in Manhattan, he learned the art of sushi from a Japanese Chef and proceeded to perfect his sushi-making skills in New York for several years before arriving in Chicago with the goal of opening his own sushi restaurant.

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Watch This

Explore the contrasting lifestyles of old money and new money as we dive into where Chicago's wealthiest residents choose to live in the suburbs.

Market

The real estate market in the Chicago suburbs (especially Naperville, Elmhurst, Wheaton, and Glen Ellyn) remains active and competitive. Whether you're planning to buy or sell, having the right local expert makes all the difference.

Thinking of selling? I’ll craft a strategic marketing plan and help you price your home to attract serious buyers and get the best return.

Ready to buy? With today’s interest rates and available inventory, now could be the perfect time to make your move. I’ll help you find the right home and navigate every step of the process with confidence.

🗞️ In Other News…

• Ding! Ding! Celebrating 30 years of the Naperville Trolley

• ‘A historical world record course': How fast is the Chicago Marathon?

• Dick Wheeler honored for 50 years with Naperville Municipal Band

🏠 Are you thinking of buying, selling, or investing in the Chicago Suburbs? We’d love to be your Real Estate Resource of Choice. Get started here!

Brandon Blankenship Real Estate Broker
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