Chicago Country Music Festival: A little bit of country in the big city
Published: Sep 2, 2009
Chicago may not be well known for its country music scene, but an annual summer festival aims to change that. On October 3 and 4, big name country acts will attract thousands of local fans to Grant Park for the Chicago Country Music Festival.
Originally begun in 1991, the Chicago Country Music Festival is the brainchild of country music fan Mayor Daley. For 16 years the festival took place on the first weekend of Taste of Chicago, with performances by such heavyweights as Faith Hill, Keith Urban and Loretta Lynn.
In 2008, the festival branched off from Taste and moved to Soldier Field, with an all-star line-up including Gretchen Wilson and Taylor Swift. This summer brings the festival back home to Grant Park, with two jam-packed days filled with amazing country performers on three main stages.
Headlining this year’s festival is country star Miranda Lambert, who will hit the Petrillo Music Shell stage the evening of October 3. Other terrific acts to catch that day include Jamey Johnson, the Coy Taylor Band and Joe Pug. October 4 brings performances by John Rich, The Flatlanders and Colin Gilmore.
Besides the three main music stages, visitors can check out the dance tent for tips on line dancing and square dancing. The Kids Corral features performances by Little Nashville, Super Stolie and Patti Ecker. Guests can also peruse offerings at the festival’s nearby farmer’s market and art fair.
With free admission and so many activities for visitors of all ages, the Chicago Country Music Festival is an ideal end-of-summer event for music fans. It’s a taste of country right in the city, and a whole lot of fun to boot.
- by D.J. Siegel, Chicago Reporter for HelloMetro
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