How to Attend the Chicago Blues Festival

The Chicago Blues Festival is not only the largest event of its kind in the country, but it's also the only one offered for free to visitors from all over the world. Every year, more than 80 performers (including soloists, bands and groups) gather in Chicago to offer fans the best of the blues. With its great mix of established and new artists, the festival has seen many stars over the past few years, including B. B. King, Bobby Rush, Willie Dixon, Etta James and Johnnie Taylor. Read on to learn how to attend the Chicago Blues Festival.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Check the lineup in advance, so you can choose which events you want to attend when visiting the Chicago Blues Festival. As the festival stretches for three or four days (depending on the year) during the month of June, you need to plan in order to get tickets, arrange transportation and accommodations and decide whether you want to attend outdoor or indoor venues.
2. Stop by Grant Park (300 S. Columbus Drive) before the Chicago Blues Festival starts. Most of the events, including the larger concerts and shows, happen here, and many are free, which means the place gets packed quickly on certain nights. By visiting the park in advance, you can pre-select the best areas for viewing, sitting or standing near an exit.
3. Visit the Chicago Blues Festival's official website to find detailed information (see Resources below). There you will find opening night celebration information, a complete lineup, details on venues and tickets and even an interactive map to help you find your way around the city when searching for the appropriate locations.
4. Arrive early, as the celebration of blues and jazz music actually starts in May and consists of four weeks of small events and concerts throughout the city. If you can afford to stick around for a few extra days, take the time to enjoy the city and the numerous entertainment opportunities available for free.
5. Attend the opening ceremony if you want to see the big name artists. Opening acts often include big name stars and unique shows.

Tips & Warnings

• The first and the last days of the festival are the busiest because most people want to take part in the opening or closing ceremonies. If you want to avoid large crowds and still enjoy the festival, attend concerts on the other days.