Pitchfork Music Festival is one of the most anticipated events in Chicago, and it brings in crowds from all over. This fest is always ahead of the game, with eclectic lineups that feature diehard favorites and newcomers you’ll be glad to discover.
We’ve got all the important deets on this amazing festival because we know you want in on the fun.
Where It’s At
The fest takes place every year in the Near West Side at Union Park, propped right in the middle of the triangular intersections of Ashland, Lake, and Ogden. If you’re taking the El, the Green or Pink Line to Ashland/Lake station is right on the northwest corner of the park. Parking availability is highly unlikely, so bikes or Lyft is recommended as well.
Entry Rules
Pitchfork is an all-ages fest. Make sure you’ve got everything you need from home because there’s absolutely no re-entry into the fest if you choose to leave. Feel free to bring non-professional cameras, backpacks, sealed bottled water, and lawn chairs. Tents, flags, musical instruments, selfie sticks, and your pets are big ‘No.’ Lockers are available for your belongings.
What to Wear
Pitchfork is a rain or shine event. We’re currently slated for scattered storms on Friday and Sunday with a partly cloudy day on Saturday, but maybe some rain dances during your favorite set will help turn that around. Shorts, tank tops, short sleeves, and sundresses are appropriate for this peak summer month, but hats, closed-toe shoes, and raincoats are advised for bad weather. If you get wet, stop by the Buffalo Exchange, Futurgarb, or Transit Tees booths to pick up something dry.
What to Do
When you need a break from jammin’ at the stages, check out some of the many tasty food vendors on site, such as Black Dog Gelato, Wishbone, Leghorn Chicken, and Wow Bao. Learn about a good cause at a non-profit booth, like Girls Rock Chicago or Tree House Humane Society. Want to make a difference in the community? Rock your vote at the Pitchfork Music Voter Engagement and Mobilization Project. Plenty of local artists will be displaying their work as well. Talk about sensory overload!
Where to Stay
If you don’t live in Chicago, first of all – we’re sorry. You’re missing out. Second, don’t worry because we’ve got great places for you to crash. Partnered hotels include the Chicago Marriott at Medical District, which is closest to the fest. Others are the Hyatt Regency and the Hard Rock Hotel. Maybe you’ll run into one of the headliners after it ends!
Lineup
Friday, July 15
Beach House, Broken Social Scene, Carly Rae Jepsen, Shamir, Julia Holter, Twin Peaks, Mick Jenkins, Moses Sumney, Car Seat Headrest, The Range, Whitney
Saturday, July 16
Sufjan Stevens, Brian Wilson performing Pet Sounds, Blood Orange, Super Furry Animals, Digable Planets, Savages, ANDERSON .Paak & the Free Nationals, Holly Herndon, BJ the Chicago Kid, Jenny Hval, Martin Courtney, Kevin Morby, Royal Headache, Girl Band, Jlin, RP Boo, Circuit Des Yeux
Sunday, July 17
FKA twigs, Miguel, Jeremih, Neon Indian, Kamasi Washington, Holy Ghost!, Empress Of, Oneohtrix Point Never, Porches, Thundercat, Woods, The Hotelier, LUH., Sun Ra Arkestra, NAO, Homme
For tickets and more info, head to the Pitchfork Music Festival website. Are you going this year? Tell us what you’re excited about below!