Blades of Steel Metalfest

Smoking area

Parking

First aid station

Info desk

Toilets

Electronic

Rock

Metal

Blades of Steel Metalfest returns in 2026, a formidable three-day assault on the senses designed for the truest metal warrior. From September 17th to 19th, immerse yourself in an unparalleled celebration of heavy music, echoing through the very foundations of sound. Nestled within the sprawling, industrial grounds of Iron Peak Forge, the festival promises an atmosphere as raw and unyielding as the music itself. Prepare for a sonic onslaught spanning the spectrum of metal, from the blistering speed of thrash and the intricate aggression of death metal to the soaring anthems of power metal and the innovative depths of progressive titans.

This isn't just a concert; it's a pilgrimage where thousands of like-minded headbangers converge, forging unbreakable bonds amidst thunderous riffs and earth-shaking bass. Witness legendary acts and discover emerging forces across multiple stages, each meticulously crafted to deliver an unforgettable auditory and visual spectacle. Beyond the mosh pit, explore unique festival offerings like the 'Forge of Champions' artisan market, featuring custom metalwork and exclusive band merchandise. Experience interactive workshops demonstrating the art of metal craftsmanship, connecting the music's essence to its industrial roots. As twilight falls, the main stage ignites with pyrotechnics and blinding light shows, elevating each performance to an almost mythic scale. Blades of Steel Metalfest 2026 is an essential journey for anyone craving authentic power, community, and the unadulterated spirit of heavy metal. Join the legion and carve your name into the annals of metal history. Secure your place for an experience that will resonate long after the final chord fades.

City festival

Culture/Arts

Gourmet food & beverages

Blades of Steel Metalfest 2026

Small

Club Garibaldi

Winnetka Music Festival

Food court

Water station

Vegan/vegetarian

Get ready for an unforgettable weekend of incredible tunes at the Winnetka Music Festival! This vibrant 2-day indie rock celebration takes place right in the heart of downtown Winnetka, just a short and breezy drive from downtown Chicago. Music lovers of all ages can soak up the sun while enjoying stellar live performances across two dynamic stages featuring over 25 amazing artists. Beyond the incredible soundtrack, festival-goers will find plenty of delicious food vendors, cool local crafts, and fun activities designed for the whole family. Whether you are discovering your new favorite band or singing along to indie anthems with old friends, the atmosphere is pure electric joy. Make sure to bring your crew and immerse yourself in one of the Midwest's most charming community music events. It is the ultimate way to kick off your summer concert season with great vibes and fantastic music. Grab your tickets, pack your dancing shoes, and prepare for an incredible weekend in downtown Winnetka!

Family-friendly

Winnetka Music Festival 2027

Medium

Downtown

Mad With Power Fest

Cashless payments

Credit cards accepted

Lost & found

Wheelchair access

Other

Jazz

Mad With Power stands proudly as Madison’s premier destination for epic power metal and traditional heavy metal chaos. Every year, passionate fans and dedicated metalheads descend upon Wisconsin to embrace a weekend of pure sonic energy. The atmosphere is electric, fueled by blistering guitar solos, soaring vocals, and relentless crowd momentum. Whether you are a seasoned battle-tested warrior or a newcomer to the scene, this festival offers an unforgettable community experience. Prepare your vocal cords to sing along and your head for non-stop banging. The lineup consistently delivers top-tier underground acts alongside legendary heavy metal titans. Beyond the music, attendees can immerse themselves in a welcoming environment celebrating all things metal. It is an absolute must-attend gathering for anyone looking to let loose and rock out hard. Grab your gear, connect with fellow fans, and get ready for an extraordinary weekend.

Gaming

Chill zone

Mad With Power 2027

The Sylvee

Tomorrow Never Knows

Brave the brutal Chicago cold and dive into the heart of indie music and comedy at Tomorrow Never Knows! Since 2005, this five-day festival, hosted by Lincoln Hall and Schubas, has been a beacon for music lovers seeking fresh sounds and laughs. Each January, TNK curates an exceptional lineup, showcasing both burgeoning local talent and nationally recognized acts. From captivating musical performances to side-splitting comedy sets, there's something to enchant every attendee. This multi-venue event transforms Chicago into a vibrant hub of artistic expression, offering an intimate yet expansive festival experience. Discover your new favorite band or comedian while enjoying the cozy atmosphere of iconic local venues. Tomorrow Never Knows is more than just a festival; it's a winter escape where the warmth of creativity shines brightest. Don't miss your chance to be part of this beloved Chicago tradition, celebrating the best in alternative and indie rock.

Eco-friendly

Workshops

Tomorrow Never Knows 2027

multi-venue

ARC Music Festival

Hip Hop

European

Alternative

Get ready to groove at ARC Music Festival 2026, where the global house music scene converges in its birthplace, Chicago! This premier event is set to ignite Union Park with three days of electrifying beats and unforgettable performances from September 4th to 6th. Imagine yourself immersed in the heart of the city, surrounded by fellow music enthusiasts, as world-class DJs and artists take the stage. ARC Music Festival celebrates the rich history and vibrant future of house music, creating an atmosphere that is both nostalgic and cutting-edge. Explore diverse soundscapes, dance under the open sky, and experience the true essence of Chicago's music culture. Beyond the music, indulge in local culinary delights and immerse yourself in art installations that capture the spirit of the city. Join us for an unparalleled experience that will leave you with lasting memories and a deep connection to the pulse of house music. From sunrise to sunset, let the rhythm guide you on a journey of sonic exploration and pure celebration. Don't miss your chance to be part of this iconic festival where the global music community unites!

Park festival

Sightseeing

ARC Music Festival 2026

Union Park

Chicago Blues Festival

Get ready to experience the largest free blues festival in the entire world right in the heart of downtown Chicago! Over the course of four incredible days, music lovers can immerse themselves in soulful performances spread across multiple vibrant stages. As the undisputed Blues Capital of the World, the city has previously welcomed iconic legends like Ray Charles, B.B. King, Bonnie Raitt, Bo Diddley, and Buddy Guy. Fans can also groove to the unforgettable sounds of legendary acts such as Koko Taylor, Shemekia Copeland, and Gary Clark Jr. Millennium Park transforms into an absolute haven for rhythm and blues enthusiasts looking for world-class live entertainment. Bring your dancing shoes, soak up the vibrant community atmosphere, and enjoy an unforgettable weekend celebrating rich musical heritage. Whether you are a lifelong devotee of the blues or just discovering the genre, this iconic event guarantees endless good times. Best of all, admission is completely free, making it the ultimate summer destination for music fans everywhere. Join thousands of fellow enthusiasts for an epic celebration under the open Chicago sky!

Chicago Blues Festival 2027

Mega

Millennium Park

Lollapalooza

Phone charging station

Shuttle service

Country

Punk

Classical

Asian

Folk & Traditional

Instrumental

Get ready to immerse yourself in the electrifying atmosphere of Lollapalooza Chicago! This legendary music festival will be held in the heart of the Windy City, promising an unforgettable experience. Nestled in the scenic Grant Park, Lollapalooza offers a diverse range of musical genres, catering to every taste from rock to hip-hop to electronic. Beyond the music, indulge in a wide array of culinary delights and explore interactive art installations. As a vibrant cultural hub, Lollapalooza draws fans from all corners of the globe, creating a unique sense of community and camaraderie. Whether you're a seasoned festival-goer or a first-timer, Lollapalooza Chicago guarantees an exhilarating adventure filled with music, art, and unforgettable memories. Make sure not to miss out on one of the most anticipated festivals of the year, where the energy is infectious and the vibes are always high. Experience the magic of Lollapalooza and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Lollapalooza Chicago 2026

Grant Park

Sueños Music Festival

Lockers

Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Latin music at Sueños Festival 2027! This annual reggaeton extravaganza brings together top-tier Latin talent for an unforgettable weekend in the heart of Chicago. Experience two days of electrifying performances, infectious rhythms, and a celebration of rich cultural heritage. Dance under the city skyline, surrounded by fellow enthusiasts, as the energy of reggaeton takes over. From established stars to rising sensations, the festival promises a dynamic lineup that will keep you moving. Beyond the music, Sueños offers a lively atmosphere, delicious food, and a chance to connect with a passionate community. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to celebrate Latin culture and create lasting memories. Join us for a spectacular fusion of sound, spirit, and unparalleled fun!

Sueños Festival 2027

Huge

Riot Fest

Grocery store

Latin

Get ready to rumble at Riot Fest Chicago 2026! This isn't your average music festival; it's a full-blown collision of punk rock energy, alternative vibes, and a lineup that's unapologetically unique. Since its humble beginnings as a showcase festival in Chicago in 2005, Riot Fest has evolved into a legendary multi-day extravaganza that's expanded to Toronto and Denver. But let's be real, the original in Chicago remains the crown jewel, boasting the most insane and solid lineup of them all. Riot Fest is where you'll discover unforgettable performances from iconic artists who don't typically grace other festival stages. 

Set against the backdrop of Chicago's vibrant Douglass Park, Riot Fest invites you to dive headfirst into a world where the music is loud, the energy is infectious, and the sense of community is undeniable. Whether you're a seasoned punk rocker or a curious newcomer, you'll find yourself right at home among the mosh pits and melodic mayhem. With a stacked roster of alt-rock heroes, punk pioneers, and even a few hip-hop surprises, Riot Fest is a sonic smorgasbord that caters to every taste. Immerse yourself in the raw energy, connect with fellow music lovers, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

So, mark your calendars for September 18-20, 2026, and prepare to unleash your inner rebel at Riot Fest Chicago. It's more than just a festival; it's a cultural phenomenon that celebrates the spirit of individuality, creativity, and the power of music to unite us all. Don't miss your chance to be a part of something truly special – get your tickets now and get ready to riot!

Hotels

Pet-friendly

Amusement park

Riot Fest Chicago 2026

Douglass Park

Summer Smash

Public Wi-Fi

Get ready for the absolute peak of hip-hop culture as the Midwest's premier music festival makes its epic return to Chicago! Fans can expect an unforgettable weekend packed with over 75 powerhouse artists tearing it up across multiple massive stages. The energy will be completely unmatched, surrounded by groundbreaking art installations and thousands of fellow music lovers. From massive crowd sing-alongs to jaw-dropping performances, every single moment is designed to be legendary. Explore the vibrant grounds, discover fresh sounds, and immerse yourself fully in the ultimate summer celebration. Epic headliners will bring their absolute A-game to deliver memories that will last a lifetime. Secure your tickets early because you definitely do not want to miss out on this incredible experience. Join the ultimate community of hip-hop enthusiasts for three days of pure magic in the Windy City. Get your crew together, plan your festival fits, and get hyped for the best weekend of the year!

Camping

Summer Smash Festival 2027

Seatgeek Stadium

Mile of Music Festival

Blues

Religious

Get ready to groove in the heart of Appleton, Wisconsin, at Mile of Music 2026! This isn't just a festival; it's an immersive experience where a one-mile radius of Downtown Appleton transforms into a haven for music lovers. Imagine strolling through the streets, discovering 200 up-and-coming artists ready to electrify your senses with their original tunes. With over 900 shows spread across four days, you're guaranteed a weekend packed with rhythm, melody, and unforgettable moments. Mile of Music is more than just a series of concerts, it's a celebration of creativity, community, and the power of music to bring people together. Whether you're a seasoned music aficionado or simply looking for a fun-filled getaway, this festival promises something for everyone. Come be a part of the magic as Downtown Appleton comes alive with the sounds of Mile of Music, an experience that will leave you energized, inspired, and humming along long after the last note fades away. The event is free, making it accessible to everyone who wants to enjoy the diverse range of musical performances. Embrace the vibrant atmosphere, explore new genres, and make memories that will last a lifetime at Mile of Music 2026!

Mile of Music 2026

Various Venues

Milwaukee

City festival near Milwaukee