Venturing out to a music fest? Here are a few tips to make your outing rock even more.
Val’s Fest Tips:
- Bring: sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, water-bottle strap, comfortable shoes, backpack/crossover bag for hands-free carryall, pen (to mark the lineup), layered clothing, earplugs, Advil, snacks, cell phone portable battery charger, bandana (many uses) and a Chilly Pad to keep you cool.
- Get to the fest early! The “baby” bands (emerging artists) who play at 1 p.m. are the acts to know about!
- Cell coverage is spotty, so plan meeting spots beforehand. This saves time and eliminates frustration.
- Social media and sending photos drains your phone battery; a portable charger is a must.
- Do your homework: listen to bands online; make a list of who you really want to see.
- Stay hydrated. You can bring in one unopened water bottle and fests provide refill stations.
- If rain is predicted, bring Ziploc bags for phones and a trash bag for bigger stuff; remember, flip-flops are very slippery in the mud, so wear rainboots with tread.
- Take advantage of the anonymity of a music fest—no one cares what you look like; just enjoy the music and the ride.
Can’t-Miss Chicago Music Festivals
Everything listed includes live music. For some it’s the main ingredient; for others it’s the spice on top. Here’s a taste of each:
Larger Fests
- Spring Awakening, June 12–14: Electronic dance music (EDM) festival at Soldier Field (your kids will want to go—it’s a scene, so know the facts)
- Chicago Blues Fest, June 12-14: FREE at Grant Park, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
- Pitchfork Music Festival, July 17-19: Presenting more than 40 acts at Chicago’s Union Park (draws a younger crowd)
- Lollapalooza, July 31-Aug. 2: Three days of the hottest bands at Grant Park
Neighborhood Street Fests (* the music is big)
- *Taste of Randolph, June 19-21: 900 W. Randolph St.; suggested donation is $10
- *Square Roots Festival, July 10-12: Lincoln Avenue between Montrose and Wilson avenues; suggested donation is $10
- Wicker Park Fest, July 25-26: Milwaukee Avenue, from North Avenue to Paulina Street; Noon-10 p.m., suggested donation is $5
