Summer Music and Arts Festivals in Chicago

A Preview of the Many Events of 2006

Like blossoming flowers, a sure sign of summer in Chicago is the annual profusion of festivals and outdoor events. Food, fireworks, music and art can be found in parks and street festivals across the city all summer long. These events range from sprawling, week-long extravaganzas like the Taste of Chicago to concentrated gatherings focused on one neighborhood, such as the Bucktown Arts Festival. With so much to see, hear and eat, here is a brief guide to some of the most unique, interesting and popular summer events in the Windy City.

Gospel Music Festival
Taking place June 2nd, 3rd and 4th in beautiful Millennium Park, the 22nd annual Gospel Music Festival is a lively kick-off to the summer festival season. On Friday night, five acts will perform at the Pritzker Pavilion. Saturday and Sunday, performances will be held at the Walgreen's Day Stage from 12:30 to 4:30 pm, followed by more music from 5 to 9:30 pm back at the Pritzker Pavilion. Over forty performances will take place during the three-day festival, including recent Grammy winner CeCe Winans, Dottie Peoples, Bishop Neal Roberson, New Direction, and Latin gospel singer Joann Rosario. Not only is this one of the premier gospel festivals in the country, but admission is free and Millennium Park, now entering its sophomore year, is an expansive oasis of gardens, winding paths, and elaborate fountains located in the heart of the city's vibrant downtown.