About Grant park music festival
Grant Park Music Festival: Experience Classic Chicago on the Lakefront
If you're looking for a unique and unforgettable summer concert experience in Chicago, look no further than the Grant Park Music Festival. This annual event takes place on the beautiful lakefront in Grant Park and features performances by the renowned Grant Park Orchestra & Chorus, under the direction of conductor Carlos Kalmar.
With free seating available to all attendees, this festival is a great way to enjoy world-class music without breaking the bank. Whether you're a lifelong classical music fan or just looking for something new and exciting to do this summer, there's something for everyone at the Grant Park Music Festival.
History of the Festival
The Grant Park Music Festival has been a beloved tradition in Chicago since its inception in 1935. Originally known as "The Pageant of Progress," this outdoor concert series was created as part of Chicago's Century of Progress Exposition.
Over time, it evolved into an annual event that showcased some of the world's most talented musicians and composers. Today, it remains one of Chicago's most popular summertime attractions, drawing thousands of visitors each year from around the city and beyond.
Performances
Each year, the festival presents a diverse lineup of performances that includes everything from classical masterpieces to contemporary works by up-and-coming composers. Some highlights from recent seasons include:
- Beethoven's Ninth Symphony
- Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake
- A tribute to Leonard Bernstein featuring selections from West Side Story
- A performance by Grammy-winning jazz vocalist Kurt Elling
In addition to these mainstage performances, there are also plenty of other events happening throughout each season. These might include pre-concert talks with guest artists or special family-friendly concerts designed specifically for younger audiences.
Venue Information
All concerts take place at Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park (201 E Randolph St), which is located just steps away from Lake Michigan and offers stunning views of both downtown Chicago and Navy Pier.
Seating is available on both lawn areas surrounding Jay Pritzker Pavilion as well as within its seating bowl area (which includes fixed seats). Lawn seating is free on a first-come-first-served basis; however, if you prefer reserved seating within Jay Pritzker Pavilion itself then tickets can be purchased online or at any box office location throughout Millennium Park.
Getting There
There are several ways to get to Jay Pritzker Pavilion depending on where you're coming from:
- Public transportation: The closest CTA train station is Washington/Wabash (Brown Line/Pink Line/Green Line/Orange Line/Purple Line Express). From there it’s about an 8-minute walk east towards Michigan Avenue.
- Driving: If driving into downtown we recommend parking at one our recommended garages such as Millennium Lakeside Garage located at 5 S Columbus Dr.
Conclusion
In conclusion if you want an unforgettable summer experience filled with classic music then look no further than The Grant park music festival! With free admission available for all attendees along with stunning views over Lake Michigan what more could anyone ask? So come join us this summer season!