Ravinia music festival announces star-studded 2026 lineup

Tickets go on sale soon for the popular outdoor concert series in Highland Park, featuring over 100 shows this summer.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 1:21am

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An abstract, high-contrast close-up image featuring a dazzling array of glittering sequins and shattered disco ball fragments, conceptually capturing the glamour and energy of Ravinia's summer music festival.Ravinia's vibrant summer concert series returns with a star-studded lineup, promising an electrifying celebration of music and community.Chicago Today

The Ravinia music festival in suburban Chicago has unveiled its highly anticipated 2026 lineup, featuring a diverse array of over 100 concerts spanning jazz, pop, rock, country, and classical music. Tickets for the summer festival will go on sale starting April 23, with the outdoor concert season kicking off in July and running through September.

Why it matters

Ravinia is one of the Chicago area's most beloved summer traditions, drawing music fans from across the region to its picturesque lakeside venue. The festival's eclectic programming caters to a wide range of tastes, making it a must-visit destination for both casual concertgoers and dedicated music enthusiasts.

The details

The 2026 Ravinia lineup features a mix of returning favorites and first-time performers at the venue. Highlights include jazz and blues acts like Terence Blanchard, Stella Cole, and Joe Bonamassa, pop and Latin stars such as Billy Idol, Ricky Martin, and Los Tigres del Norte, and rock, country, and folk artists including Paul Simon, Bonnie Raitt, and Miranda Lambert. The Chicago Symphony Orchestra will also be in residence for six weeks, presenting a diverse array of classical programs.

  • Tickets go on sale beginning April 23 at Ravinia.org.
  • The outdoor concert season runs from July through September 2026.

The players

Ravinia

A popular outdoor music festival held annually in Highland Park, Illinois, featuring over 100 concerts across multiple genres.

Chicago Symphony Orchestra

The resident classical music ensemble at Ravinia, performing a six-week residency during the summer festival.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

Ravinia's diverse 2026 lineup showcases the festival's enduring appeal as a premier summer music destination, offering something for every type of music fan in the Chicago area and beyond.