This summer, Chicago’s Jay Pritzker Pavilion is cranking up the volume with a season full of free concerts, free movies, and serious lawn chair energy. From soulful gospel and sizzling jazz to Broadway hits and orchestral showstoppers, there’s a seat, or patch of grass, with your name on it.
1. Chicago Blues Festival
June 5–8, 2025
The world's largest free blues festival returns with a stellar lineup, including Mavis Staples, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, and a B.B. King Centennial Tribute. Experience four days of soulful performances celebrating Chicago's blues legacy.
2. Grant Park Music Festival
June 11 – August 16, 2025
This free classical music series features the Grant Park Orchestra and Chorus performing works by Holst, Ravel, Tchaikovsky, and more. Concerts are held Wednesdays and Fridays at 6:30 p.m., and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.
3. Millennium Park Summer Music Series
Mondays and Thursdays, June 26 – August 7, 2025
Enjoy a diverse mix of music from local, national, and international artists in this free concert series. Performances begin at 6:30 p.m., offering a perfect way to unwind on summer evenings.
4. Chicago Gospel Music Festival
July 12, 2025
Celebrate the power of gospel music with performances from top artists in the genre. This free, all-day event runs from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., bringing together audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
5. Millennium Park Summer Film Series
Tuesdays, July 1 – August 19, 2025
Grab your popcorn and pick your patch of grass, the Summer Film Series is back! Each Tuesday night, Pritzker Pavilion transforms into Chicago’s biggest (and breeziest) outdoor movie theater, showing fan favorites on a massive 40-foot LED screen. Whether you’re in a seat or on a blanket, the vibes are high and admission is free.
6. Chicago Jazz Festival
August 28–31, 2025
This Labor Day weekend tradition features a lineup of jazz legends and rising stars, including Esperanza Spalding, Kermit Ruffins, and Patricia Barber. All performances are free and open to the public.
Whether you're a fan of blues, classical, gospel, or jazz, the Jay Pritzker Pavilion offers a summer full of unforgettable musical experiences, all for free.
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