Clinée Hedspeth has been the Commissioner of the city’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) for slightly more than a year.
DCASE produces some of the city’s most iconic festivals, markets, events, and exhibitions at the Chicago Cultural Center, Millennium Park, and in communities across the city—serving a local and global audience of 25 million people.
In short, when you pack up a lunch, a couple of lawn chairs and your favorite beverage to cool out downtown at the Blues Fest, the Jazz Fest, Millennium Park Summer Film Series, the Gospel Fest or even buy your favorite foods or dare to experience other cultural treats at the Taste of Chicago, it is Hedspeth’s department that is responsible for putting these events on.
And DCASE events aren’t just downtown, there are also dozens of farmers’ markets and community events happening throughout the city each summer and well into the holiday season.
To accomplish this, DCASE supports artists and cultural organizations, invests in the creative economy, and expands access and participation in the arts throughout Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods.
These events are aimed at expanding communities’ appreciation of the arts in all forms.
Mayor Brandon Johnson appointed Hedspeth to the position in March 2024.
The Chicago Crusader reached out to Hedspeth to find out how she has been adjusting to her new position and what is on tap for the upcoming summer season throughout the city’s vast and diverse communities.
“The amazing events and festivals organized each year by the dedicated team at DCASE truly energize Chicago every spring and summer,” said Hedspeth. “There’s no better way to welcome the season of renewal and warmth than with festivities that bring everyone together to celebrate arts, culture, and entertainment in the way that our city does so uniquely.”
Hedspeth, who is originally from Seattle, majored in philosophy and African American studies at Dominican University in River Forest, and previously was Director of Curatorial Services and head of Archives and Exhibitions at the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center.
She says that Chicago has the best of everything for people who want to enjoy the summer and beyond, but there is a process for getting these events up and running.
“Some are long running and hallmark events, and with
community activations, we respond to community members and look at what’s happening in the private sector and how we can replicate these,” Hedspeth said.
These “activations” are simply community events that could be block club parties, farmers’ markets and even knitting classes or performances put on by trusted community groups.
And, of course, the upcoming events like those listed above.
“We promote these events in different ways; our website, social media, through the alders’ offices, and making sure we are involved in non-traditional ways, as well,” Hedspeth added.
Promotion, promotion and promotion is the key, she said, while adding that support for these events comes from city funding and through benefactors who sign on to provide resources for specific events.
“We have a division that goes out and informs foundations and for profits to make sure they are aware and to ensure they are part of this conversation—this is their city, including businesses that are not based here but do business here,” Hedspeth said.
And for those artists who want to participate in one of the many events, the DCASE website has a quick link for information and staff dedicated to navigating people through.
“The city has a Cultural Grants Program where an artist can go to the website and see what offerings we have. Under my leadership, we have rolled out ‘Experience DCASE,’ and Mayor Brandon Johnson is dedicated to meeting people where they are and has challenged us to be more intentional, as we present opportunities in communities.”
She noted that even for a block party, you need a permit.
“We are the processors of the permit. The police need to be notified about street closures, to ensure crowd control; if there are going to be food vendors, public health has to be considered,” Hedspeth said.
DCASE is just the first step in the process, entire agencies need to be aware of what is happening, the alders (who are a pivotal part of the process), even the Chicago Fire Department if there is going to be propane, etc.
Many moving parts and steps are needed to put on fun, safe, successful and relevant experiences. “The city of Chicago functions well in that process, considering marginalized communities and promoting multigenerational attendance,” she added.
DCASE is heavily funded through the hotel and motel tax taken in by city businesses. Hedspeth is delighted with the events that cross all areas of the city. “We are a driver of tourism through our special events and arts and cultural offerings.”
You cannot beat Chicago in the summer, we both agreed. “That is 100 percent correct, the only challenge is that the summer isn’t longer,” Hedspeth said.
The 2025 lineup of spring and summer festivals and events started this May, all showcasing the city’s vibrant arts, culture and community spirit.
To note, in addition to the traditional ones are the Grant Park Music Festival (presented by the Grant Park Orchestral Association with support from the Chicago Park District and DCASE), which takes place Wednesdays, Fridays and most Saturdays, June 11 – August 16, at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park.
The Chicago House Music Conference & Festival (Chicago Cultural Center, Millennium Park, Spirit of Music Garden and Riverwalk) – Friday, August 22 – Saturday, August 23. The Conference will take place at Chicago Cultural Center, Friday, August 22.
For more information about events, vendor or artist opportunities or available grants, visit https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/dca.html.
Elaine Hegwood Bowen, M.S.J., is the Entertainment Editor for the Chicago Crusader. She is a National Newspaper Publishers Association Entertainment Writing’ award winner, contributor to “Rust Belt Chicago” and the author of “Old School Adventures from Englewood: South Side of Chicago.” For info, Old School Adventures from Englewood-South Side of Chicago (lulu.com