Grant Park Music Festival

One of THE BEST things you can possibly do in Chicago over the summer. I try to go to as many shows as possible each year. The The Grant Park Orchestra plays free shows at The Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday over the summer.
Bring a picnic dinner and some wine (really is BYOB), a blanket and some chairs. Sit on the lawn and enjoy yourself as The Grant Park Orchestra plays beautiful music as the sun sets. It’s a wonderful bonus is getting to enjoy great views of the Chicago skyline. Best part, it’s completely free!
If you don’t want to sit on the lawn you can pay to sit in the seating right next to the stage.
Pro tip: show up an hour or so before the show to make sure you get a space. Bring your dinner and enjoy Chicago’s backyard!

If I lived in the area and had time to just chill and listen to free music, this is the spot! The design of the festival area is awesome and the music sounded so nice. The grass felt cool enough and clean enough to lay on. Great spot for a first date or to chill with friends. Really awesome that the city offers this to the community to enjoy. «The Bean» is right next to it so don’t forget to look at that as well.

My first major in college was music composition. I studied with a German composer named Herbert Brün. He had a thick accent, an unwavering gaze and a cigarette burning between his fingers. He was incredibly intense and precise with the words that he used. I and two other students sat at a small, square, wooden table with him as he expounded on profound thoughts. His cigarette ash kept growing longer and longer. At 18 years old, all I could focus on was, «when is that ash going to drop?!?» «Ach scheiße!!!» he would say, sweeping the ashes with his fingers off the table onto the floor. Now that I’m older, I still remember snippets of his insights and apply them to my world. His words were, indeed, profound.
One interesting phrase he used was «serious music.» We weren’t listening to «classical» music. We were listening to «serious» music. And when we listened to serious music, we were doing nothing else but listening to it, making observations and analyzing it: Why was the melody in measures 5 — 8 required in order for measures 13 — 16 to sound as they did in the composition?
These days, I’ve found a happy medium with my memories of Professor Brün, may he rest in intense peace. I love listening to the Grant Park Symphony both as classical and as serious music. When I’m not channeling my inner Brünie, I’m there with a blanket, a bottle of wine and my friends to lie on the grass and chat as we «listen» to the music. (His imagined quotes, not mine.) It’s amazing – people from every age group, class, race, ethnicity and geography are there listening to the harmonies in harmony. One reason these diverse people might be able to chill is that it’s the only public place I know of in Chicago where you can legally BYOB.
I also like to seriously listen to the symphony in the seats near the stage. I’m not a member, but there are plenty of seats behind the member section, often up to show time. People are dead quiet and you can listen as intently as Herbert might have. My ideal is to go and listen «seriously» to the music and picnic afterward, but it’s tough to find good accompanists these days, as you soloists out there can attest.
Somewhere, deep in the burbs, I think I remember a place that was called… was it Ravinia? I remember taking the Metra train there… But it’s becoming a blur… What was required in 2004 in Chicago to make me forget that place?

For lovers of classical music, this is the best deal in town. Visitors to Chicago during the summer should definitely attend one concert. You can buy tickets, if you want, to sit closer and as support to great free concerts. Otherwise, you can sit in the free seats, or enjoy a picnic in the lawn. True, Grant Park Orchestra is not the best orchestra in Chicago, but there is no shame in it. Bring any other American orchestra to Chicago and it will still not be the best. This orchestra is, nevertheless, first rate, and I actually enjoy the experience more then the one at Ravinia, where the Chicago symphony plays during the summer. It is easier to get here, the sound system is better, you can see the orchestra, and it’s free (have I mentioned it before?). This season the programs were fantastic. Once in awhile you’ll hear an ambulance rushing on Michigan Ave. or Columbus Dr., but this is part of the charm. Few more points: 1. For non Chicagoans, although it is called Grant Park Music Festival, it is actually in Millennium Park. 2. If you want to sit in a chair, come early. 3. Alcohol is allowed, but buy it there, because to get there you have to cross the park where it is not allowed. One point of criticism: the new system of membership tickets (for those who pay) is idiotic!!! Here is hoping they’ll go back to the old system (by the way, I am a paying member)

Great venue except for 4^th of July concert. Concert ends as Navy Pier fireworks start and you cannot see fireworks from Pavilion.

Had a great time at Lolla here. There is a huge space for all the artists to perform. Just in case you get tired of walking from one concert to another, they have hammocks set up on the sidewalks.

Summer time greatness. Last time I went was for the Jazz Fest, sat down in my little chair with a bottle of wine and enjoyed the evening with relaxing music, perfect weather, great company and a marvelous view of Chicago’s amazing architecture. My little piece of heaven.
Plain awesome.

Wonderful free performances every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday evening mid June through mid August at the Frank Gehry bandshell in Millennium Park. You can even bring your own furniture, food and drink.

For me, the Grant Park Music Festival is a welcome breath of fresh air in the ever so busy environs of Chicago. As a resident of the Loop, it’s conveniently located and I have been a resident here for the past 5 years never missing the annual treat for anything. Better still it happens during summer and I can’t think of a better way of unwinding after a long day.
The Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park is awesome and you’ll get the opportunity to listen to all kinds of music from classical to jazz and everything else in between. Enjoy a picnic while you’re at it and there are lots of snacks and drinks for those who want to sample what’s on offer.
You get top notch performances for free so you don’t need to worry about entrance fee et all. It’s definitely a place to spend your Sunday’s nights!

Love it. No where can you bring your own wine, food and relax under the stars as a symphony plays.

Perfection. It’s like Ravinia, except you don’t have to pay; it’s like the CSO, except outdoors; it’s like a picnic, except with thousands of like-​minded Chicagoans, also with beautiful music playing in the background (occasionally interrupted by an ambulance or car horn).
I attend the classical concerts every year. The orchestra itself, the Grant Park Orchestra, plays just as well as any orchestra you’d pay to see. The festival features a variety of classical tunes, ranging from popular classical hits like Beethoven’s 6^th to newly commissioned works by contemporary composers from around the world.
Before and after the program (and during intermission), don’t be afraid to chat with the people around you — I’ve only ever sat among friendly audiences. During the shows, however, people generally keep conversations below a whisper (there are, of course, exceptions). Unless you sit in the chairs towards the front of the pavilion, or unless you bring your own chair, you probably won’t be able to see the conductor. The Pritzker Pavilion, by the way, is GORGEOUS, and during concerts, there is a minimalist yet ethereal light show that plays against the pavilion’s shiny metal panels.
Hallelujah, there are bathrooms! Unlike indoor music experiences, it’s easy to sneak away to get to the bathroom. In terms of food, you should bring the bread, wine and cheese, otherwise you’ll get jealous of all the people around you who brought their own. There isn’t really anywhere within the park to buy fancy provisions — if you’re in a rush, hit up the Walgreens across the street on Michigan to grab some noms.
For the best possible experience, arrive a few hours ahead of time so you can relax, find a good lawn spot, and catch the orchestra practicing difficult passages so you can get a hint of the program. Also, bring your two favorite blankies — one to snuggle up with (hey, it can get a little chilly sometimes), and one to lie on as you look at the stars.

One of the great gems of Chicago, putting it on the cultural map above anything similar elsewhere in the country. A very extensive and well organized series of «classical» concerts – classical in quotes because that word does not quite apply here. EVEN MORE INNOVATIVE AND ORIGINAL PROGRAMMING THAN THE CHICAGO SYMPHONY, which blows my mind; I guess they have more leeway since the concerts are destined to be a hit by the (mostly non-​music listening) picnicking crowd who are there more for the ambience and aren’t paying a dime. Every concert has a rarely performed or modern piece, which is quite remarkable. The Grant Park Symphony is a summer orchestra but made up of professionals from Chicago and around the country, and they play with a high level of quality and intensity; sometimes this is hard to appreciate in an outdoor concert but when you hear them indoors you know they are a great group. Also other popular instrumental music concerts interspersed. Fits in nicely with the other nights of jazz, modern, electronic, popular music that are also free and go through the summer.

Excellent free classical music concerts at a gorgeous outdoor venue! This was one of the coolest things we did on our vacation to Chicago. The Pritzker Pavillion has an awesome setup — the stage is nicely covered and there are real seats up front (those at the very front do cost something for a ticket), while the back lawn caters to people with lawn chairs, picnic dinners and wine. Kids are welcome. I wish we had something like this in our city!

Monday August 6, 2012
There was a Broadway preview in Chicago at Millennium Park.
Admission was free, except the seats in front of the stadium.
We loved the plays, but we hated it when too many people where there and we couldn’t find seats with a good view.
If you want to go there prepare yourself. Get there 1 – 2 hours early before it begins.

Few things compare to the ability to relax on dog-​poop free grass and enjoy Mozart live in concert, while gazing up at the magnificent architecture of world class Chicago. For free? This is a wonderful perk of our great city and all who can should support it financially and physically, come out and be refreshed.
Many people make a picnic of the concerts and bring blankets, baskets and even picnic tables to dine on fruits, salads, sandwiches, cheeses and other assorted goodies.
You should arrive early and choose a spot wisely however, because as is routine of humanity, manners many time take their leave of people’s senses; and especially, in this case, talkers and people with children. Although there is stadium seating closer to the stage, I propose that there be designated a ‘quiet section’ for people who actually come to hear the music from the lawn (where the picnicking takes place).
It’s understood that many people simply want to hang out with friends and use the concert as a gathering place. However, when that turns into women in marathon blabbering sessions about their health insurance coverage, latest gynecological update and dating scene report, while I’m desperately trying to enjoy the Haydn symphony, we have a problem. The same goes for young parents who are still amazed by the beauty of their little sweet treasure and can’t understand why everyone isn’t as enamored as they are by Sarah’s cartwheel demonstration and Brenner and Connor’s tag/​wrestling session in the middle of a Mozart concerto.
Again, choose your spot wisely and enjoy the free concerts full of beautiful music.

Need a little culture in your life but find yourself short on dough? If it’s summertime in Chicago, you are in luck. Head on down to Millennium Park and park yourself on the lawn of the Jay Pritzker Pavilion to enjoy the free concerts by the Grant Park Orchestra.
There’s something for everyone– from classical, to jazz, to Broadway hits (one of the most popular concerts, so get there early to get a spot on the lawn), you’re bound to find some type of music that fits your fancy.
Bring a picnic with you. Not sure what to bring? Wrap up a sandwich and grab a bottle of vino. Once you get situated, wander around the park to see the patrons that made picnic dining a fine art in its own right. Not up for sitting in the lawn? Seats are available in the front bowl. The closest seats are reserved for members, which is a great incentive to donate if you find a little extra green in your pocket (and helps ensure future concerts with wonderful talent) .
The facilities are immaculate and plentiful. There’s food and beverages on site for purchase if need be. The park is well staffed with friendly people trying to help you have a wonderful time.
Can’t make the concerts? Wander in for open rehearsals where Grant Park docents give lectures on the music selection, guest conductors and history.

Of all the great things about living in Chicago, this definitely on my top ten list. What? A gorgeous stage designed by world-​class architect, Frank Gehry with world class musicians playing music on beautiful summer evenings for. .. FREE?!
Yes, and you can BYO wine. It does not get better than this. Farewell, Ravinia — you are too complicated and expensive. My urban culture haven is free, stylish and easy to get to.
I went to see Penderecki himself conducting his Concerto Grosso No. 1 for 3 Cellos and Orchestra. Three cellists, one super sexy Israeli cellist. Gorgeous music and gorgeous eye candy. Penderecki was one of the 20^th century composers that was NOT torturous to listen to wayy back when I was studying all that. And to see the man himself conducting his work. Surely the Ultimate Penderecki Experience.
Me sittin’ in the audience drinkin’ my cheap bottle o’ Pinot Grigio out of a super stylish paper cup and basking in an aura of utter civility.
The other selection was Beethoven’s Eroica, Symphony No. 3, another favorite.

I make it a point to pack a picnic and go to a few concerts here every summer. The performances are always great; the ambiance is always relaxing, and it makes for a great summer evening.

What a great festival. And I’m not just saying that because it’s free, or because I know half the musicians in the orchestra. It really is something special.
The GP Orchestra is made up of musicians from Chicago and around the country who have auditioned and won positions for the 10 week festival. It’s an excellent group of talented performers who put on two completely different shows a week with very little rehearsal time, sometimes doing rarely heard works, contemporary pieces, or old war-​horses like Beethoven and Brahms.
The Pavillion is free for these concerts (3x a week, Wed — Fri — Sat — usually at 6:30 or 7:30), save for a few reserved seats up front for those who choose to give money in support of the organization.
The plushy, well-​maintained grass «seats» are ALL free, of course. Bring a blanket and a picnic and make yourself at home!
Needless to say the Pavillion is close to the loop and public transportation… the restroom facilities are also pretty impressive and can handle the sometimes 10,000+ crowds that come out to hear the orchestra. This may sound like a lot of people… but when you’re in the midst of this sea of humanity, it is an incredible feeling to know that you’re all witnessing and experiencing the same thing, together, with all of these wonderful strangers.
Leave the cellphones off, though, and keep the chatter to a minimum. There is also no smoking or dogs allowed.
If you’re wary of classical music, this is a great place to try it out for free. And if it’s not your cup of tea, you can just leave — no harm done. :)

It’s easy to love something when it’s free, especially when it’s as good as the Grant Park Music Festival. This is the perfect place to relax are a long day’s work in the loop.
Every June — August, the Grant Park Orchestra and Chorus play classical music in Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park, with performances typically taking place Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.
I’ve gone alone and with groups of friends. And while conversation flows freely before the performance, once it begins, the diverse crowd is respectful of the music.
I love classical music, but CSO tickets are a bit pricy for my budget, so the Grant Park Music Festival fulfills my need for music perfectly. The performances are top notch (I typically go for symphonic performances instead of chorus), and the sound system on the lawn surrounds you with music. It’s like being wrapped in a cozy blanket.
A picnic of some sorts is a must. I often get takeout from a local restaurant, but some people go crazy and bring mini tables set with gourmet homemade meals. The most popular picnic option seem to be wine, cheese, and bread.