What it is: Not only is this long celebrated music fest held on my birthday, but it turns out they actually have some pretty amazing music as well.  Due to the amazing lineup this year, the 3 day passes have already sold out!  You can still get 1 day passes though and come see some of your favorite bands such as the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Black Sabbath, Jack White, Passion Pit and more.  You’ll also find some of the best food in Chicago represented – our personal recommendation is not to leave until you’ve tried a burger from Kuma’s!

Dates: August 2 – 4, 2013

Hours: All Day

Neighborhood: The Loop

Address: Grant Park, Chicago, IL

Cost: $230 three-day pass, $95 daily pass – get passes HERE.

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What it is:  This Labor Day Weekend, check out the Chicago Jazz Festival down in Millennium Park.  Whether you’re a jazz junky, or want to check if it might be something you’re into – the festival promotes awareness and appreciation for all forms of jazz through free, quality live musical performance. The festival, which has been running now for 34 years, strives to showcase Chicago’s vast jazz talent alongside national and international artists to encourage and educate a jazz audience of all ages.

Dates:  August 29 – September 1, 2013

Hours: Shows are scheduled all day

Neighborhood: The Loop

Address: Millennium Park, Chicago, IL

Cost:  Free

Official Website

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What it is:  The Chicago Blues Festival is the largest free blues festival in the world AND Chicago! Spanning three days on five different stages, more than half a million fans prove that Chicago still remains the “Blues Capital of the World.” Past performers include Bonnie Raitt, Ray Charles, B.B. King, the late Bo Diddley, Buddy Guy and the late Koko Taylor.

Dates:  June 6 – 9, 2013

Hours: 11 am to 9:30 pm

Neighborhood:  The Loop

Address: Grant Park, Chicago IL

Cost:  Free

Official Website

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