Cost: Free

Organizer: Eli's Cheesecake

What to expect: Live music, kids' activities and, of course, lots of cheesecake.

Why to go: If you're a glutton for, well, gluttony, you'll love the cheesecake eating contest.

Additional info: The festival celebrates the 12th anniversary of Eli's Cheesecake World, the 62,000 square foot state-of-the-art bakery, café, retail store and visitors' center where Chicago's favorite dessert is made. Admission is free and open to the public. Eli's will hold its special anniversary dock sale Saturday, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. A large variety of cheesecakes will be available at special birthday prices.

Centerstage Reviewer: Ben Rubenstein