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

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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  

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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!

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