If there’s one thing Chicagoans love about summer, it’s the fact that music festivals, big and small, are on their way back to our beloved city. We’re finally defrosting, we’re soaking up the sun at every chance we get, and we’re so ready to listen to the loudest music possible while knocking back a few Goose Island 312’s (anyone else just think this is a staple beer of summer?). No matter what genre you’re most into, here are the must-see summer music festivals in Chicago!
Lollapalooza
337 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601
WHEN: August 3-6, 2023
While you already have our full lineup breakdown, it would be simply criminal to not include Lollapalooza in one of the must-see festivals this summer. Back at Grant Park this August, you’ll find the city’s most notorious music festival. Personally, I would just about die for Billie Eilish, so if you want to find me, I’ll see you on Thursday.
Pitchfork
1501 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60606
WHEN: July 21-23, 2023
Chicago’s annual summer rock festival is back this year at Union Park. From July 21st through the 23rd, find your favorite chill-rock artists like The Smile, Big Thief, and the big one, Bon Iver. 3-day and single tickets are available online now!
Riot Fest
1401 S Sacramento Dr, Chicago, IL 60623
WHEN: September 15-17, 2023
I will be the first one to say I am pissed I missed Riot Fest last year. I mean the resurgence of My Chemical Romance? I regret it everyday. This year, Riot Fest will be back at Douglass park from September 15th to the 17th. The lineup hasn’t been announced quite yet, but we’re betting its going to be just as incredible as 2022’s lineup was.
Heatwave
1300 S Linn White Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
WHEN: June 10 & 11, 2023
Now, Heatwave is a festival I actually did attend last year and I can say, I get the hype! If you’re into EDM, outdoor festivals, and kick-ass food vendors, this fest is certainly for you. Moving from Douglass Park to Northerly Island, this year’s fest is bound to be even more electric.
Chicago Blues Festival
201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602
WHEN: June 8-11, 2023
For a relaxing music-filled weekend, the Chicago Blues Festival is of course coming back this summer! As the largest free blues festival in the world, each attendee is certainly in for a treat. This year, enjoy artists like Los Lobos, Blind Boys of Alabama, and Chicago blues legend, John Primer.
Sueños Festival
337 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601
WHEN: May 27 & 28, 2023
Are you a fan of reggaeton? Sueños Festival is the place for you! Taking place again this year at Grant Park, you can head to Sueños Fest Memorial Day weekend. Artists include Groupe Firme, Nicky Jam, and Feid. Tickets are available online now.
Chicago Jazz Festival
201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602
WHEN: August 31-September 3, 2023
Towards the end of the summer (we don’t want to think about it yet) is the Chicago Jazz Festival. The festival originated in 1979 and has been a staple to a Chicago summer ever since. This year’s festival is, of course, free and the perfect way to spend a sunny end-of-summer afternoon in the park.
Windy City Smokeout
1901 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60612
WHEN: July 13-16, 2023
Okay, I’m not really a huge fan of country music, but I loved Windy City Smokeout. There’s truly just nothing like country music in the summer and a cold beer in your hand. Not to mention, the food at the Smokeout is absolutely incredible. The Windy City Smokeout is back at the United Center this July 13th through the 16th, and I guarantee you won’t want to miss it.
Summer Smash
7000 S Harlem Ave, Bridgeview, IL 60455
WHEN: June 23-25, 2023
Love Kid Cudi, Future, or the ever-popular Ice Spice? You gotta get your tickets to Summer Smash! Summer Smash returns to Chicago this year from June 23rd through the 25th at the SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview. 3-day tickets are on sale now!
The post Must-see Music Festivals in Chicago This Summer (2023) appeared first on UrbanMatter.
