The city is extending its deadline for private firms to place bids on taking over the Taste of Chicago, and other festivals.They were due today.
Apparently officials are opening their minds, as well. Mayor Daley and his administration reversed course on their request to keep the events -- which include Taste, Viva Chicago and Blues, Jazz, Celtic, Country and Gospel Fests -- free, according to a report by the Chicago Sun-Times.
Now they will entertain bids from companies intent on charging entry fees. Bidders can also apply for naming rights, too.
“For example, you could have the name, ‘Acme’s Chicago Jazz Festival.’ But, you could not have Acme Fest or Acme’s Jazz and Heritage Festival,” the city wrote in a statement.
The city's seven festivals cost Chicago nearly $7 million over the last three years.
Bids are now due by 4 p.m. Monday.
