Live music in Chicago, IL

Enjoy a free outdoor jazz performance from Julian Davis Reid’s Circle of Trust, presented as part of a series sponsored by the University of Chicago. The music will fill Harper Court in Hyde Park, creating a lively setting for an afternoon outside. Seating is limited, so bringing a personal chair is recommended, and saving seats is not permitted. The Harper Court parking structure offers a limited number of free spaces, with standard rates applying at other times. Plenty of dining is close at hand, including Daisy’s Po-Boy & Tavern, Ja’ Grill, Chipotle, Deep Purpl, Roti Modern Mediterranean, Stan’s Donuts & Coffee, and Strugglebeard Bakery, along with other neighborhood options. Local shopping includes Recycled Modern and Suuri Design in Harper Court and The Silver Room nearby. Please note that smoking is not allowed at the venue, including cigars, cigarettes, pipes, and vapes.

YOTTO is set to play an electronic dance music show at Castaways in Chicago. Doors open and the show starts at 4:00 PM local venue time.

Enjoy an outdoor live music series featuring Chicago’s best bands plus regional and national acts. You can expect a mix of popular music genres and a great lakeside view throughout the evening. Note that the schedule may change. Admission is free and it’s drop-in, no registration needed.

Golden Hour at Epiphany Center for the Arts brings free live music to the Cafe Bar with a live DJ set from Hungu and free admission. Guests can take advantage of $16 house cocktails with buy one get one free, $4 craft beer, a half priced bottle of wine, $10 Epiphany spirits, and 2 for 1 lite bites. The specials conclude earlier, while the music continues. Hungu, a Chicago-based DJ, producer, and curator, spans the spectrum of dance music from basement classics to modern bangers with smooth blends and unexpected cuts.

Northalsted Market Days is an annual summer street festival in Chicago’s Northalsted/Lakeview neighborhood, with live music across four stages, food and drinks, dance exhibitions, drag performances, and 250+ vendors. The festival runs along Halsted Street between Belmont and Addison, with entry via multiple gates along the route. Expect an all-day lineup on Friday, plus vendor shopping and performances throughout the evening.

Tributosaurus brings a Woodstock tribute to FITZGERALDS Outdoors in a festival-style setting. The group morphs into a different rock band each month, joined by a roster of Chicagoland musicians to perform songs they have long wanted to cover. For this show, they will include at least one song from every artist who performed at Woodstock. The outdoor setup features a large stage with high-quality sound and lighting, plus a pavilion that provides cover in case of bad weather at this historic nightclub. BabyGold Barbecue will be available before, during, and after the music by reserving a table in the dining room, or by visiting the fast casual BBQ setup in the back corner of the patio. Admission is $35 and the event welcomes all ages.

Young the Giant is hitting the stage for a live show at Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island. The concert will start in the early evening, with additional lineup listed as Cold War Kids, KennyHoopla, and little image. Tickets are available via Ticketmaster.

Enjoy a Candlelight tribute concert featuring the music of Bad Bunny performed by a string quartet. The show runs about 60 minutes, and doors open 45 minutes before the performance, with no entry once it starts. This event is for ages 8 and up, and anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Artango Bar & Steakhouse hosts a Piano Jazz Night featuring Argentine pianist Mauro Frosio. Live piano jazz fills the space as the evening brings together music and dining in a lively atmosphere.

Singers take the stage at Konak Pizza & Grill in Andersonville for karaoke. Pair a Chicken Chop with a beer, choose a song, and sing along.

Las Fuentes in Lincoln Park hosts a weekly Latin dance night where authentic Mexican cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and a lively dance floor come together for a late night out. The evening begins with a beginner friendly lesson so first timers can feel comfortable, then DJ Frankie J and DJ Carlitos take over with bachata, salsa, cumbia, and tropical favorites, including a special Bachata Halftime set featuring today’s sensual bachata hits. DJ Frankie J carries the music through to closing. The kitchen serves Mexican classics and the bar highlights handcrafted cocktails, with Friday specials such as $8 gin and vodka mixed drinks, including Long Islands with a Red Bull option, and $6 Topo Chico Seltzers in strawberry and guava. Admission is a $10 cover. The venue operates cashless, accepting credit cards and digital payments only. Groups of five or more celebrating a birthday can reserve in advance to receive a complimentary bottle of champagne, a birthday cake with candle, a reserved table, and an optional birthday dance. No partner is required, and the weekly lesson makes it easy for all levels to step onto the floor and enjoy the night.

Catch Jaytech at Sound-Bar in Chicago for a night of electronic music. The show starts at 10:00 PM.

This event features Tony Romera, a French house music artist known for a breakout remix of Raw that ignited dance floors. His catalog is regularly supported by Michael Bibi, PAWSA, Chris Lake, Four Tet, Dennis Cruz, Marco Carola, Jamie Jones, Carl Cox, Joseph Capriati, Solomun and The Martinez Brothers, with releases on Solid Grooves, Black Book, COCO, Insomniac, Defected, Edible, Issues and Toolroom. He has delivered remixes for DJ Snake and J Balvin, Calvin Harris, Diplo, MØ, Kungs, Madeon, Four Tet and Fedde Le Grand. Recent highlights include the singles Como Se Llama and Back & Forth plus collaborations with Hugel, Eats Everything and Brothers Macklovitch. In 2025 he launched House Delivery, a label built for his own music and for artists who share a love of groove-led house. With more than 15 years of work behind him and broad DJ support, this appearance centers on an artist continuing to move French house forward.

Ashley McBryde performs live at Gallagher Way as part of the Budweiser Concert Series, bringing an exciting outdoor concert beside historic Wrigley Field. The exact start time will be announced later. General admission tickets are available for $38, and VIP tickets are available for $68. VIP access includes space at the front of the stage, a private terrace and bar, and priority restrooms.

Experience Tangible Sound: Arrival to a Higher Ground, an immersive exhibition that turns jazz-inspired music into visual color, texture, and movement. Featuring artists including photographer Lauren Deutsch, filmmaker Jonathan Woods, and the Tangible Sound Collaborative, the exhibit celebrates Chicago’s improvised music community through sensory storytelling. It also pays tribute to Ancestors Timuel D. Black and musician Fred Anderson.

BB & The Billies bring country and western tunes to Robert's Westside for a cover-free afternoon set with a day drinking vibe.

IVAN. is performing at Joy District in Chicago. The show is scheduled for Saturday afternoon, starting at 3:00 PM.

This contest features quartets in competition.

Enjoy an outdoor live music day at Navy Pier’s lakeside setting. Live on the Lake brings a variety of Chicago bands plus regional and national acts, with performances across countless popular music styles. The event is free and drop-in, so you can stop by and enjoy the summer views. Please note the schedule is subject to change.

Metro and Kickstand Productions are bringing together Good Hangs, When The Sun Sets, and Rematch for a live show. Tickets are $25 if purchased in advance and $29 on the day of the event.

Foo Fighters are bringing their rock-and-roll stadium show to Soldier Field, with Queens of the Stone Age and Mannequin Pussy joining the lineup. Plan for a big night of high-volume live music at Chicago’s Museum Campus.

An evening of art, live music, and spoken word featuring performances by Faith Howard, Deanna Withers Rallins, Cynthia Withers Turnquest, and Felix "D-RAT" Pollard. Tickets are available in advance for $35 with $7.23 in fees, including tax, or on the day of the show for $40 with $7.90 in fees, including tax. Service charges apply to all ticket purchases, whether online or at the box office, and the door accepts credit cards only. Golden Hour at Epiphany is offered before the concert with drinks and light bites, including half priced bottles of wine, buy one get one cocktails, and other specials. The art galleries are open beforehand and there is free entertainment prior to the main performance. Outside food or beverages are not permitted in the venue.

Catch Belmont along with Major League, Spite House, and all in ur head for a night of emo, pop rock, rock, punk, and pop punk live at House of Blues Chicago.

Jack Harlow takes the stage at The Salt Shed. Doors open before the show, giving time to get settled before the performance begins.

Celebrate the 25th anniversary of The Lord of the Rings with a Candlelight tribute concert featuring live string quartet music inspired by the film trilogy. The program highlights fan-favorite moments across The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers, and The Return of the King, performed in a candlelit setting for an immersive evening of Middle-earth melodies. Doors open 45 minutes before the show, and there is no entry once it starts.

Motel Breakfast brings There's Always This, an MB farewell show, to Thalia Hall.

Cumbia Cathedral VI brings a vibrant celebration of cumbia and community to The Epiphany in Chicago, highlighted by the debut of Sonido Kombi, an immersive sonidero experience that blends powerful sound, custom lighting, live MC energy, and theatrical moments to transform the dance floor. The program features a special live performance alongside Chicago’s leading cumbia DJs, creating an all-out night of dancing where festive attire and spirited moves are encouraged. Ticket options include Early Bird at $17.50 plus $4.65 in fees including tax, Tier 1 at $20 plus $4.72 in fees including tax, Tier 2 at $25 plus $5.13 in fees including tax, Tier 3 at $30 plus $6.57 in fees including tax, and Tier 4 at $35 plus $7.23 in fees including tax. VIP tables are available for two for $100 plus $15.36 in fees including tax and for four for $200 plus $18.36 in fees including tax, and include admission for the corresponding number of guests with a reserved table near the stage. Service charges apply to all ticket purchases, and payment at the door is by credit card only. Epiphany’s Golden Hour offers drinks and light bites with specials such as half priced bottles of wine and BOGO cocktails, and the venue’s art galleries are open with complimentary entertainment before the show. Outside food and beverages are not permitted.

This event celebrates four decades of FitzGerald and McCormack working and writing together, tracing their path from Irish band days to 'the most famous band you never heard of.' It takes place in the Sidebar room, there is no cover, and a free will donation is encouraged.

Catch Chance the Rapper live at Ravinia Festival. The show is scheduled for 7:30 PM local venue time, with tickets available through Bandsintown.

Get set for a high-energy Chicago River to Lake Michigan cruise with front-row views of the Navy Pier fireworks. You’ll enjoy a sunset ride through the skyline, then head out onto Lake Michigan where a live DJ keeps the party going. There’s also a fully stocked bar for the night out feel.

A milestone celebration of ten years of performing with the Chicago community arrives at Distro Music Hall, paired with an EP release. Experience the first live performances of three new songs alongside material from earlier releases. DJ Saffiro sets the tone to start the night, and Ivan Vazquez contributes live art. General admission is $20. Table reservations are available, including a booth for $145 with six GA tickets and a table for $125 with four GA tickets. Early bird savings of $7 are available with the code ECMUSIC. Supported by The Mikey O Show, Taqueria Los Flacos, Evil Entertainment, and Blue Moon Media.

Riot Fest presents a dance party celebrating the movie everyone is obsessed with. Tickets are $22 Early Bird, $26 ADV, and $30 DOS. Taxes and fees are included in every tier, so the price you see is the full amount.

Carriers is performing at Space in Evanston, featuring indie, alternative rock, and indie folk sounds. The show starts at 8:00 PM.

Catch Hermanos Espinoza live at Rosemont Theatre for an evening of corridos and regional Mexican music. The show starts at 8:00 PM, with tickets available via Ticketmaster.

Saturday nights at Las Fuentes in Lincoln Park bring the sounds and spirit of Mexico, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic onto a single dance floor. A rotating lesson in Cumbia, Bachata, or Salsa sets the tone, followed by continuous music that carries the party into after hours with two DJs guiding the flow. DJ Double O leads the soundtrack with Salsa, Bachata, and tropical selections, including an all Cumbia highlight called Cumbia Happy Time, then keeps the momentum with tropical beats touched by Rock en Español, Latin dance, and reggaeton. Birthday groups can mark the occasion with a package that includes a complimentary bottle of champagne, a cake with candle, a reserved table, and an optional birthday dance. Available for groups of five or more with advance reservation, with limited tables each weekend. For details on birthday reservations, contact 312-427-2572 or info@LatinStreetMusic.com.

Magic Queendom transforms the iconic Aragon Ballroom with a celebration inspired by fairytales and Disney from CircuitFAM and its matriarch, created as a Market Days main event and designed to whisk partygoers away to Neverland. Entry is restricted to guests 21 and over, and a current, non-expired photo ID is required for admission, including a driver’s license, state ID, or passport. The venue is standing room only and tickets are general admission unless otherwise noted. Re-entry is not allowed.

Catch electronic music live with GSP at Aragon Ballroom. The show is scheduled for 9:00 PM, and tickets are available through Bandsintown.

Get ready for a Saturday night with JL3 and Friends at Loft 22. The show runs late into the night, starting at 10:00 PM and going until 3:00 AM.

Step into an immersive, sensory exhibition where jazz music comes to life through sound, color, and movement. Inspired by improvised music traditions, Tangible Sound: Arrival to a Higher Ground blends performances and visual experiences featuring taiko drum energy and the expressive sounds of instruments like saxophone, cello, and bass. The exhibition was created by photographer Lauren Deutsch, filmmaker Jonathan Woods, and the Tangible Sound Collaborative, celebrating Chicago’s creative community and honoring key figures in its history.

Catch Chris Luno live at Castaways in Chicago for an ARC at the Lake event focused on house and electronic sounds. Tickets are available via Speakeasy.

Enjoy live jazz as Frank Russell performs with his trio. The event is set for Sunday, August 9, with doors opening at 3:30 PM and the show starting at 4:00 PM. Free admission is available by RSVP, and the event will go on rain or shine. Ages 21+ are welcome.

Join an upscale night of hip-hop and R&B aboard the Anita Dee 2 in Downtown Chicago. The evening features live DJs playing hip-hop, R&B, Afrobeats, throwbacks, and crowd favorites, with music and energy spread across multiple levels. Enjoy skyline and Lake Michigan views, premium bars throughout the yacht, and photo opportunities from the rooftop and interior spaces. Food is available for purchase onboard. Dress in upscale casual attire, and please note this is a 21+ event with ID required at boarding and security screening before you get on.

maryjo brings the I hope I Sell Tickets Tour to Ramova Loft. This event is open to all ages.

Steel Pulse brings the Reggae Against Racism Tour to Thalia Hall for a live concert.

At Garcia's Chicago, Grahame Lesh & Friends brings the collaborative spirit and song-centered energy of guitarist and singer-songwriter Grahame Lesh to the stage. Based in Marin County, he is known for work with Midnight North, Phil Lesh & Friends, and the Terrapin Family Band, and has performed alongside The Mother Hips, Twiddle, Amy Helm, The North Mississippi Allstars, Neal Casal, Jackie Greene, Eric Krasno, ALO, and others from the Terrapin Crossroads community. With Midnight North, co-led with Elliott Peck, Lesh has toured widely and released five studio albums, three live albums, and two digital EPs of original music since 2012. The latest studio record, Diamonds in the Zodiac, produced by Amy Helm, features contributions from Phil Lesh and takes its title from Robert Hunter’s lyrics for Jupiter, for which Grahame composed the music. Grahame Lesh & Friends serves as a space for reinvention, reviving rare and unfinished Grateful Dead material, exploring alternate versions of Midnight North songs, developing pieces written by Grahame’s brother Brian, and weaving in choice covers. Beyond this project, his work with Phil Lesh & Friends and the Terrapin Family Band has reached festivals and venues from Fuji Rock in Japan to London, Newport Folk Festival, and New York City, often welcoming guests such as Sheryl Crow, Benmont Tench, John Scofield, Rick Mitarotonda, Nicki Bluhm, Dawes, Warren Haynes, Eric Krasno, and Bob Weir. The music stays rooted in the present while touching rock, folk, blues, soul, and more. This event features a general admission dance pit at the front of the stage. Seating choices include Premium Tables closest to the band with table service, Reserved Tables on the main floor behind the Premium section with table service, and cabaret style arrangements that may seat you with other fans. Private booths are available for parties of 1 to 4, 5, or 6. General admission standing room runs along the sides of the room on an elevated level for clear views and quick access to the bar. All sales are final with no refunds or exchanges, and tickets can be transferred through your TM account. The venue offers wheelchair lifts and ramps between levels, assisted listening devices on request, and access for official service animals.

Enjoy a gospel performance featuring Lisa Knowles-Smith and The Brown Singers at City Winery Chicago.

Sixteen Candles brings an all-ages 1980s dance party to Northalsted Market Days on the Belmont Stage, with a suggested $20 donation at the gate. The festival fills Chicago’s Northalsted and Lakeview neighborhood with a weekend of live music across five stages, a half mile of activity, more than 250 vendors, food and drinks, dance showcases, drag performances, and plenty more, drawing huge crowds for a lively celebration. Since 2003, Sixteen Candles has toured internationally and kept the spirit of the 80s alive with a fully live show that skips backing tracks, delivering high energy, nostalgia, and the kind of onstage chemistry that gets everyone moving.

CircuitMOM Air takes the party skyward at Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom, with Mother in the cockpit for an overnight, cross-continental ride that channels an in-flight dance experience. Stow personal items under the seat in front for takeoff and landing, then celebrate the winning idea from Jacoby Clingman as the music lifts off and keeps the cabin moving. This event is for ages 21 and over. A valid, unexpired photo ID is required, such as a driver’s license, state ID, or passport. The venue is standing room only, and tickets are general admission unless noted otherwise. Re-entry is not permitted.

Experience an immersive sensory exhibition that turns improvised jazz art into color, texture, and movement. The show blends powerful sounds from instruments like taiko drums, saxophone, cello, and bass with a visual landscape designed to resonate with your body as you take it all in. It was created by photographer Lauren Deutsch, filmmaker Jonathan Woods, and the Tangible Sound Collaborative, and it’s inspired by Chicago’s boundary-breaking creative community.

Broadway In Chicago presents its free annual summer concert in Millennium Park at Jay Pritzker Pavilion. The concert is sponsored by ABC 7 Chicago and is presented in partnership with the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE).

Enjoy an evening of live music aboard the 148-foot Tall Ship Windy with Michael Charles and His Band. The cruise offers Chicago skyline views from Lake Michigan, and the experience includes a full bar and a friendly, knowledgeable crew. The event is part of the Tall Ship Windy Monday Music Concert Series, bringing a mix of guitar-driven sounds.

Jac Ross is performing at City Winery Chicago. The show is scheduled for 7:30 PM.

Enjoy a summer concert on the MCA terrace with AKENYA. This weekly Tuesday series features free live music from Chicago’s music community, with a relaxed outdoor vibe on the lawn. Bring your own picnic or grab snacks and drinks available for purchase, then you can head inside afterward to catch the museum’s summer exhibitions since the MCA stays open late on Tuesdays.

Step into an immersive, sensory experience celebrating jazz-inspired art forms. Inspired by improvised music in Chicago, the show blends the energy of taiko, saxophone, cello, and bass with visual color, texture, and movement. Created by photographer Lauren Deutsch, filmmaker Jonathan Woods, and the Tangible Sound Collaborative, this exhibition explores the influence of boundary-breaking early experimenters and honors Ancestors Timuel D. Black and Fred Anderson.

See THE NOTEBOOK onstage, based on the bestselling novel and the iconic film. The musical follows Allie and Noah as they navigate different worlds and lasting love, even when outside forces try to keep them apart. Expect heartfelt storytelling and original music and lyrics brought to life through a full theatrical production.

Live jazz fills Shedd Aquarium during the popular midweek Jazzin' at the Shedd series, blending music, mingling, and marine life. Stroll through the exhibits to jazz sounds from around the world while encountering animals from every corner of the map. Enjoy food and drinks and spend time with friends exploring the aquarium in the evening. Admission is $29.95 for adults, $24.95 for children ages 3 to 11, and $19.95 for members, with free entry for members on designated Members Jazzin' nights.

Food Truck Summer returns to Bridgeport at Antique Taco Bridgeport. A selection of food trucks sets up in the parking lot to serve a range of bites, and the restaurant is open with tacos and drinks, with DJ Pete providing music on the patio. It is a relaxed summer evening centered on food, music, and the Bridgeport neighborhood.

Catch Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness for an evening live show at Garcia's. Doors open for a 6:00 PM start, featuring indie pop and pop rock vibes.

American Vanity will perform live at Cobra Lounge in Chicago. The show is listed with a 6:00 PM start time, with tickets available via DICE.

mArt in the Park returns alongside Concerts in the Park with a free outdoor market featuring local vendors and creators. Explore a variety of handmade and locally crafted goods while enjoying live music. Bring a picnic blanket and settle in for an evening of local art, music, and community. The vendor lineup includes JansGemWorld, Cutsie Store, Alma Ruiz, Death & Glitter, Antojitos Chapis, Vesna Carrasquillo, Sandy byrnes, Karen Childs, Steve Metro, Dallas Bow Tie Co., Maverick Leather LLC, Melissa Hurley, Cameron Wilson, Jillie’s Joy, 3D4U, M.A.G. KReative Studio, and Nannette Abate.

Agalloch headlines a concert at Thalia Hall, joined by Barren Heir and a solo set from John Haughm. All three appear on the same stage for one evening of live music.

The Fall-Off Tour, headlined by J. Cole, arrives at United Center. Attendees of all ages are welcome. Tickets roll out in phases, including presales for the artist, VIP packages, Live Nation, and local, venue, and radio partners, followed by a general public sale and a separate onsale for VIP packages.

Little Italy Festa returns to Taylor Street for four days of music and celebration, presented by Onesti Entertainment and L.I.C.N.A. The Xplosive Sounds Entertainment DJ area will feature Italian classics and oldies during the day, then shift to nonstop dance music in the evening. Additional details will be announced.

Lincoln Square’s free summer concert series returns to Giddings Plaza for a limited run, featuring live performances by local Chicago musicians. Attendees can enjoy beer and wine available for purchase from local vendor Ricochet’s Tavern. All concerts are weather permitting, offering a relaxed neighborhood gathering centered around live music.

Recess hosts a karaoke night with professional sound and a catalog of over 65,000 songs. Enjoy food and drinks between turns at the mic, whether singing solo or teaming up with friends. Bring a superstar crew for crowd-pleasing hits and plenty of fun.

Get ready for GASOLINA THURSDAYS, a 21+ night featuring reggaeton and Latin beats, a full bar with specialty and group drink options, and a kitchen that stays open all night. There is a welcome shot, and you’ll need a valid ID to enter. Dress code is casual upscale with dress-to-impress styling, and baggy clothing is not allowed. Tickets must be purchased or redeemed online or in person, and the venue accepts cash, debit, and credit cards.