Chicago Blues Festival 2026 Lineup Announced

Free performances across the city from June 4-7 feature top blues acts

Apr. 15, 2026 at 7:21pm

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A striking abstract composition of bold, jagged shapes and silhouettes in high-contrast red and black, conceptually representing the energy and spirit of the Chicago Blues Festival.The vibrant 2026 Chicago Blues Festival will bring the city's rich musical heritage to life with a diverse lineup of legendary performers and rising stars.Chicago Today

The 2026 Chicago Blues Festival will take place June 4–7 with free performances across multiple venues in the city. The event begins at Ramova Theatre, continues at Millennium Park, and finishes with a Maxwell Street celebration. Performers include Taj Mahal, The Phantom Blues Band, Dexter Allen, Jaye Hammer, and more.

Why it matters

The Chicago Blues Festival is one of the city's most beloved annual events, celebrating the rich history and enduring legacy of the blues genre. As the birthplace of modern blues, Chicago takes great pride in hosting this free festival that showcases both legendary and up-and-coming artists.

The details

The festival kicks off on Thursday, June 4 with a ticketed (but free to reserve) event at Ramova Theatre featuring a Mississippi Blues Trail panel discussion and performances by John Primer and Willie Clayton. From Friday, June 5 through Sunday, June 7, the festival moves to Millennium Park with daily performances from noon to 9 p.m. Highlights include a tribute to Alligator Records' 55th anniversary, a celebration of Billy Branch's 75 years in music, and a special tribute honoring Mama Yancey and Big Mama Thornton.

  • The festival opens Thursday, June 4, with a ticketed (but free to reserve) kickoff event at Ramova Theatre.
  • From Friday, June 5, through Sunday, June 7, the festival moves to Millennium Park, where performances run daily from noon to 9 p.m.
  • The festival concludes on Sunday, June 7 with a celebration on Maxwell Street.

The players

Brandon Johnson

Mayor of Chicago.

Taj Mahal

Legendary blues musician performing with The Phantom Blues Band.

Dexter Allen

Blues artist performing on the Mississippi Crossroads Stage.

Jaye Hammer

Blues performer featured on the Mississippi Crossroads Stage.

Alligator Records

Independent blues record label celebrating its 55th anniversary at the festival.

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What they’re saying

“Chicago is the birthplace of modern blues. This festival reflects the sound, soul and resilience that define our city.”

— Brandon Johnson, Mayor

What’s next

The 2026 Chicago Blues Festival will continue its tradition of free, world-class blues performances across the city from June 4-7.

The takeaway

The Chicago Blues Festival remains a beloved annual celebration of the city's rich musical heritage, bringing together legendary artists and the next generation of blues musicians for a vibrant, community-driven event that is free and open to all.