travel through music

WHO IS SAFIYA?

Pronounced S ah-fee-yah

I'm a musician, singer-songwriter, live sound engineer, playlist curator, budding ethnomusicologist, and traveler.

I created these subscription boxes to continue to bring music and culture to people who love culture, music, and travel.  I wanted to inspire an even more authentic musical and travel experience to listeners of my playlist. I wanted to create an experience one can have at home where they can support musicians, and small businesses, and travel simultaneously. As someone who was always performing live any opportunity I got, the drastic change of lifestyle due to the Carona Virus taking over my life affected me and everyone in the musical and the creative community in ways we could never imagine.  Many of us in this community found it hard to adjust to not being able to perform live in front of fans and feed off that energy. Releasing music without a live show was not what we imagined.  Performing without a band and just to a track made me feel unnatural. Lastly, imagine a world where our primary income source: touring and live shows has now hit a standstill...  It's been hard. 

And let's not even begin to dive into why travel. I used to travel internationally at least once every year. It's therapy, but it's also a way of life. I love going to the local parts of a country and experiencing the culture: the sounds, the smells, the moves. I love going to the local artisans and asking questions about how things are crafted and the art forms' importance. Last year, I was supposed to be on a plane the day before the shutdown to go to a music festival in Puerto Rico and film my first music video for my first single.  I was going to travel to do music festivals, and I was going to travel to network and collaborate with beautiful international artists. I was going to dance in the street like no one was watching. But that won't happen for a while, and after six months+ of waiting for normalcy... life has to continue.

So every month, I aim to bring you all the things I love in your box. What I love about music is that it can transform and bring you to another place. If you listen carefully, you can learn history through the instrumentation and the rhythms of a song. When you hear a new artist and you at their show, they tell you about the story behind a song. When you travel and you taste new food, it becomes a staple in your recipe book. Or your new favorite piece of jewelry that comes from a small village in Belize. And even though I can replicate this but imagine that humbling feeling when the flight takes off, then there's a little relieving moment that the journey is about to start. I hope you come on this journey with me on a world music tour from home. Traveling through music, here we go!

The most asked question.....How did I come up with this idea?

Travel Through Music With This Black-Owned Subscription Box

This bi-monthly subscription box allows you to travel through music as you experience music and culture from countries across the globe.

Ayah A. • Jul 5, 2022

Are you a lover of both travel and music? Then entrepreneur Safiya Leslie has something you will love. The 25-year-old is the creator of Safiya’s World Music Playlist, a bi-monthly subscription box that allows you to travel through music as you experience music and culture from countries across the globe.

Based in NYC and Boston , Safiya is a full-time musician, music manager, and booking agent. Born to a Trini mother and a father of African American and Nez Perce descent, Safiya’s background allowed her to grow up experiencing lots of diverse music and culture.

“My parents did a great job of allowing me to explore the world at a young age (18 countries and counting.) As a music lover and budding ethnomusicologist, all my life I’ve seen that music can break down so many walls, biases, and stereotypes about a place. It doesn’t matter if music is just instrumental or in a different language; anyone can relate to it.”

Safiya created her subscription boxes to continue to bring world music and culture to those who love it. Though these boxes allow people to “travel” without ever leaving their house or setting foot on a plane, she hopes to inspire people to see the world and seek out authentic musical and travel experiences.

As someone accustomed to frequently performing live, lockdowns brought on by COVID-19 were hard on Safiya and her fellow musicians. In addition, these creatives took a major hit on their incomes. With the creation of her subscription box, Safiya has been able to support musicians and small businesses affected by the pandemic. Each purchase gives proceeds back to the featured artist and supports small businesses and artisans.

Each box contains a travel guide, Spotify playlist, keychain, and postcards. Other items, such as travel gear and travel items may also be found inside. Past boxes have included a Bluetooth speaker bottle, a Bluetooth selfie stick/stand, waterproof speakers, a movable camera stand, and more.

As for the music portion, a handwritten note from the featured artist is included, along with artist merch, and a USB cassette tape containing high-quality digital downloads of the musician’s music, photos, lyrics, bios, etc.

Destination items may include high-end bags, jewelry sets, home goods, destination snacks and foods, tea/coffee, mugs, keychains, and more.

Safiya’s World Music Playlist boxes are available in three tiers: General Admission($29.99), Bookbag Box ($59.99), and Suitcase box ($130), which comes with a VIP Artist Experience.

Past boxes have been dedicated to Madagascar, Singapore , Mexico, Colombia , Jamaica, the Philippines, Palestine, Haiti , India, Kenya, and China.

Safiya’s World Music Playlist will soon be undergoing a name change. At the end of the year, the company’s name will change to Travel Through Music®. They will be partnering with Sofar Sounds in Boston on July 16 for a surprise show featuring artists from their past boxes, and currently have a residency at The Jungle in Sommerville, MA. You can see Safiya’s and featured musicians from all over the world there every third Saturday of the month from 4 to 7 PM.

“Every month, I aim to bring you all the things I love in your box. What I love about music is that it can transform and bring you to another place. If you listen carefully, you can learn history through the instrumentation and the rhythms of a song.”

“When you hear a new artist and you’re at their show, they tell you the story behind a song. When you travel and you taste new food, it becomes a staple in your recipe book. Or your new favorite piece of jewelry that comes from a small village in Belize. I hope you come on this journey with me on a world music tour from home. Travel through music, here we go!”

For more information, visit www.travelthroughmusic.com . and follow @safiyasworldmusicplaylist on Instagram.

Related: Black Woman-Owned Subscription-Based Travel Boxx Launching This Month

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The Fenway Cohort 2023 Presents: Travel Through Music

Where: https://thefenway.com/events/travel-through-music The Station 1400 Boylston St. Boston , MA 02215

Admission: FREE

Categories: Festivals & Fairs, Food, Music, Social Good

Event website: https://thefenway.com/events/travel-through-music

Travel Through Music  invites you to embark on a rhythmic journey through the African Diaspora. Let the captivating beats transport you to the sweet voices of Africa, and a fusion of Caribbean sounds and engaging and interactive dance lessons will lift your spirits. This cultural festival will feature musical and dance performances, as well as food from local vendors.

A Berklee College Music alum, founder Safiya Leslie inspires people to explore the world and connect with other cultures through music. Safiya's passion for promoting cultural understanding through music is extraordinary and is changing the world, one note at a time.

Safiya Leslie is part of  The Fenway Cohort Class of 2023 , an intentional initiative designed to support entrepreneurs and practitioners in arts and culture, wellness and public health, and the LGBTQ+ community, each an important root of The Fenway’s DNA. Travel Through Music is intended to foster an inclusive environment that provides richer and better experiences open to all.

Follow  @travelthroughmusic  and  @safiya.music  on Instagram.

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During my live shows, I used to tell my audience we are "traveling through music." This project of mine, Which is now a business, was a way to keep that experience going through Carona Season and continue to bring the world to my fans. Every other week, I chose a country/city, and I do what I do best. I research, listen and discover artists from that region and curate a playlist. I hope you enjoy some of the past playlists below! 

 if you would like to learn more about my monthly subscription boxes.

What I have in my heart and soul, must find a way out. That's the reason for music...

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Contact / collaboration, [email protected]​​, copyright © 2020 travels through music . all rights reserved., developed by weblooq..

On The Red Carpet

'the greatest hits': grief, music and... time travel.

"The Greatest Hits" will take you on a wild journey through music and time.

LOS ANGELES -- Searchlight Pictures' new film, "The Greatest Hits," is a unique amalgamation of genres. Part love story, part sci-fi fantasy and part heart-wrenching drama, the movie is sure to take you on a wild journey through music and time.

After Harriet loses her boyfriend in a car accident, she finds that certain songs transport her back to different moments in the past. In her search for a song that will help prevent the accident, she can't help but get caught up in a new whirlwind of emotion when she meets David.

The film is written and directed by Ned Benson and stars Lucy Boynton, Justin Min and Austin Crute. On The Red Carpet had the opportunity to speak with them about the story.

"I've always been very tethered to my past and I never quite clocked how detrimental that can be, so I really do empathize with where she's at and the way she justifies it," Lucy Boynton, who plays Harriet explained.

Harriet meets David at a grief therapy group, where he too has suffered the loss of a loved one. The role resonated with Justin Min, who portrays David.

"As I was experiencing grief myself and sort of getting into the mindset of David, it helped me to process and heal a lot of my own personal things. So, I'm very grateful in that regard," he said.

Austin Crute, who plays Harriet's friend Morris, explained "I think music is, scientifically, it's sound to say that music is a marker for you to remember your life by."

Benson took this idea and ran with it. "It's really about the emotional power of music in our lives and how it affects us, both by throwing us back into the past, and sort of reminding us to live our lives."

"The Greatest Hits" is streaming now on Hulu.

The Walt Disney Company is the parent company of Searchlight Pictures, Hulu and this ABC station.

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The Solo Traveler’s Guide to Going to a Music Festival Alone

Music festivals are typically a group activity. but there’s no reason why you can’t go by yourself—and enjoy it, too..

Published on 4/16/2024 at 9:55 AM

Sometimes grabbing dinner or going to the movies by yourself can feel like a tall order. But going to a music festival alone? Many people would never consider it—but they should. As an experienced festival-goer who’s also a travel writer and DJ, I can assure you that it's a more enriching and enjoyable experience than you might think.

Rolling solo at a festival shares common perks with solo travel , enhanced with experiential elements you won’t find in real life. Festivals serve as hedonistic rabbit holes of music, activities, and art, adult playgrounds where it’s easy to let loose—a statement that’s especially true when your crew is a party of one. That’s because while festivals are traditionally considered an experience to be shared, they can also bring out the worst in group travel . The pressure of “doing things together” goes sideways when everyone wants to do different things… not to mention all the time spent looking for one another in crowds, without any reception, worrying about who’s got the room key or is inebriated and stuck in a bush. For solo festival-goers, there’s unlimited freedom in doing what you want, when you want all while trying new things on a path to escapism and self-discovery.

Choose the right festival and go into it with the right attitude and preparations, and one will never be a lonely number. Here is everything I’ve learned about how to go to a festival alone and get the most out of the experience.

Choose the right festival

Selecting a festival with care is key—this can’t be stressed enough. Some festivals are much better suited to solo travel than others. A few factors can help you decide.

It’s always smart to opt for small- to mid-sized festivals (around 7,000 people or less). Anything less than a thousand may feel constraining if you don’t gel with anyone. Anything bigger makes it more difficult to bump into the same folks again ( Coachella , you’re out).

Pick a festival with no more than a baker’s dozen of stages and a total grounds area of an acre, max. That’s a solid way to ensure you’ll see the same faces again—and that you won’t get lost.

Of course, there are always exceptions. Hot take: the more niche-interest a festival is—and the more you dig that niche—the more fun you are guaranteed to have, regardless of the festival’s size.

Find your scene

Music matters immensely. A DJ’s advice: Certain genres have friendlier dance floors. For example, on the spectrum of electronic beats, upbeat styles like house and disco will make it easier to relax and chat with others in the crowd. Faster genres, like hard techno, can put people in more of a trancelike state.

For some of the world’s most beloved festivals, like Garbicz Festival in Poland and Germany’s legendary Fusion Festival , tickets are super difficult to come by. These festivals, therefore, tend to see more solo attendees, such as pilgrims following their favorite DJ, and lend to a less cliquey and more welcome, open-minded vibe.

Festivals that draw a lot of travelers from afar are also friendlier for solo travelers. Take Thailand’s Wonderfruit , for example. Though the festival is among Southeast Asia’s largest, it attracts an incredibly diverse, region-spanning crowd that includes European and North American tourists. Generally, Thailand’s party scene is well-defined by tourist comings and goings, which makes meeting new people an easy affair.

Last but not least, choosing a festival with a solid program of activities and workshops, from yoga to crafting, is great for meeting people. Mental health-focused workshops (an increasing trend) are especially great for getting deep right away with new pals.

Make preparations before you go

Still feeling weird about going solo? Help yourself shed those initial fears by laying some groundwork for building connections ahead of the festival.

After you’ve secured a ticket, do some research on Facebook to find groups dedicated to the event and upcoming activities. These days, there are plenty of participant-led Telegram and WhatsApp groups for finding and sharing accommodations, scoring planning advice, and so on.

You could also consider going to a festival solo, but as a volunteer. With a free ticket, you’ll meet new people by working closely together, plus you’ll enjoy an intimate peek behind the scenes of the event. Valuable memories can include building mega-art installations and stages, or karmatically helping fellow partiers get around or find their friends—and the hours can even count towards school credit or go on resumes.

Let connections happen organically

The most important advice: Always let friendships and connections happen organically. Sometimes, friend groups are keen to welcome strays; sometimes not. Being able to take a hint is key.

After all, the art of building connections at festivals is a multi-dimensional experience; it can be fulfilling whether you meet a vast quantity of strangers or connect with just a few on a deeper level. Some new connections might last a lifetime, while others could just linger for the festival season—don’t put too much pressure on them, okay?

Spend some time alone—safely

When you go solo, you have to be prepared to depend on yourself. Flying solo at a festival is no exception. Be sure to stay hydrated, use sun protection, and carry emergency supplies. Meeting new people or experimenting at a festival can lead to all kinds of memorable experiences, but always know your limits and your way around (use a map app to set pins for your tent and important places), and—most importantly—listen to your instincts.

And while it might be tempting to focus on the new friends and the music, don’t forget that going alone to a festival is a wonderful way to get to know yourself. Spend some time communing with nature, observe how you handle different scenarios, and have a solo dance party. As much fun as you’ll have, the best part is the chance to enjoy your own company.

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The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time. The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time. The life and music of Amy Winehouse, through the journey of adolescence to adulthood and the creation of one of the best-selling albums of our time.

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‘The Greatest Hits’ Review: Yes, She Could Turn Back Time.

A high-concept movie about music and grief lacks follow through.

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By Alissa Wilkinson

“The Greatest Hits” literalizes the familiar heartache: You’re driving down the road, radio blaring at full tilt. Suddenly that song comes on, the one that reminds you of your ex, or of a time that was joyous but now is a sadness-tinged memory. Plunged back into that head space, you feel as though you’ve traveled through time. And the longing it prompts can be unbearable.

This is where Harriet (Lucy Boynton) finds herself, except instead of feeling as if she’s moving through time, she is truly hurtling through the fourth dimension. Since having lost her boyfriend, Max (David Corenswet), in a tragic accident, any song Harriet hears attached to memories of him catapults her, quite literally, back to the moment in their relationship when that song was playing. When she leaves the house, she wears noise-canceling headphones to protect against unexpected time travel provoked by radios and errant Spotify shuffles.

At home, though, she spends her nights trying to slip backward. Harriet has become obsessed with trying to return to a moment where she can set the world straight and ensure that Max won’t die, which means, even two years after his death, that she is still “hiding out in her grief,” as another character puts it. In the midst of this, at her grief support group, Harriet meets a nice guy named David (Justin H. Min), who’s dealing with loss of his own.

Ned Benson, who wrote and directed “The Greatest Hits,” has explored this territory before. His previous work, “The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby,” was a trilogy, made up of two films that explored a couple’s grief-stricken, tumultuous relationship from each of their individual perspectives, and a third that combined them. (As the title suggests, music was part of the story, too.) That film felt personal, and so does this one. It earnestly evokes the way grief mires us in memory, making us feel as if our personal timelines are slip-sliding and looping, eternally arrested in the past. Moving forward seems impossible.

But “The Greatest Hits” lacks the imagination of “Eleanor Rigby” and, at times, seems like it might be in the wrong genre. It’s easy to imagine a rom-com version of this movie, since the elements are all there — the hip location (mostly the Silver Lake and Los Feliz neighborhoods of Los Angeles), the meet-cute, the queer best friend (a mainstay of the genre , for better or worse), the crates of vinyl records, the pining, the hot guys, even the chemistry. But this movie lacks the lightness and humor of a rom-com, which might balance out all the dreary moments and make it feel more watchable. The version that exists feels more suited for lovelorn teens just off their first breakup than adults moving through profound loss and sorrow, more acquainted with the ways life can’t just stop when tragedy strikes.

“The Greatest Hits” proceeds slowly and repetitively, which doesn’t have to be a problem: The gentleness of the pace and storytelling gives the cast space to breathe and react to each other, to build relationships that feel reasonably authentic. Similarly, the music choices (which are all over the map both in genre and era) are fun and fresh, lacking the on-the-nose quality that a film with more bang-on choices might have provoked. But as it goes on, the movie begins to feel mired in its own high-concept conceit without space to develop it further. Is there a reason the only music that triggers time travel for Harriet is connected to Max? Are there tunes that throw her back to times she prefers not to remember? Why is it important to recall that she used to be a music producer?

There’s an interesting film dancing around the edges of “The Greatest Hits,” but there’s both too much sentimentality and not enough thought, and that’s too bad. For audiences in search of a good cry, it may still do the job. But for those of us for whom the music-driven time travel experience is still metaphorical, it’s cold comfort, a fantasy with no hope of fulfillment.

The Greatest Hits Rated PG-13 for some language and innuendo, plus conversations about death and grief. Running time: 1 hour 34 minutes. Watch on Hulu.

Alissa Wilkinson is a Times movie critic. She’s been writing about movies since 2005. More about Alissa Wilkinson

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‘Harmonies and Memories’: Inside Music Travel Love’s Asia Tour 2024 with friends

• 15 April, 2024
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Canadian brother duo Music Travel Love (MTL), consisting of Bob and Clint Moffatt, brought their signature blend of musical prowess and brotherly charm to the SM Skydome Manila on April 12, 2024. The event, part of their Asia Tour 2024 with Friends, showcased not only their own hits but also featured a lineup of talented guest artists, making it a night to remember for fans of all ages.

Kicking off the evening with the classic ‘Every Breath You Take’ by The Police, MTL set the stage for a journey through iconic songs that have shaped generations. From Ed Sheeran’s ‘Perfect’ to John Denver’s ‘Take Me Home, Country Roads’ and Rod Stewart’s ‘Have You Ever Seen The Rain,’ the duo captivated the audience with their soulful renditions and infectious energy.

One of the highlights of the night was when MTL brought their ‘Friends’ on stage for collaborative performances. Anthony joined them for a heartfelt rendition of Bee Gees’ ‘How Deep is Your Love,’ showcasing the seamless harmony between the artists.

The spotlight then turned to Francis Greg, who delivered a dynamic performance of Backstreet Boys’ ‘I Want It That Way’ before enchanting the crowd with Bruno Mars’ ‘It Will Rain.’ Each guest artist brought a unique flavor to the stage, enhancing the concert’s diversity and appeal.

Bugoy Drilon’s appearance elicited thunderous cheers as they sang George Benson’s ‘Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love for You,’ followed by his own hit ‘Paano Na Kaya’ and Matisyahu’s ‘One Day.’ The camaraderie between MTL and their guest performers created an atmosphere of celebration and shared musical passion.

Not to be outdone, Dave Moffatt, the brothers’ own sibling, joined them for Bon Jovi’s ‘It’s My Life’ and Richard Marx’s ‘Right Here Waiting,’ showcasing the familial bond and musical synergy that define MTL’s performances.

The night culminated in a memorable rendition of ‘Stand By Me’ by Ben E. King, infused with humor and a twist as they seamlessly transitioned into ‘Banyo Queen’ by Andrew E., leaving the audience laughing and dancing in equal measure.

Music Travel Love’s Asia Tour 2024 with Friends was not just a concert but a testament to the power of music to unite, inspire, and create lasting memories. As the lights dimmed and the applause echoed, it was clear that MTL had once again left their mark on the hearts of their fans in Manila.

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Grateful For The Gift of Music

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Matt Weihmuller has been blind his whole life. However, he knows a thing or two about turning a disadvantage into an advantage.

Janice is joined by  Jazz Instructor at the Patel Conservatory Matt Weihmuller f or a conversation about his passion for music. Matt shows that through hard work and dedication, you can achieve anything you put your mind to.

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Chicago summer festivals 2024: Music, food, street festivals happening across the city | See list

C hicago summers are perfect for outdoor activities, whether it is exploring a street festival in a new community, or a free concert in Millennium Park.

Dozens of festivals happen every year in the city to celebrate culture, communities and genres of music.

The list below contains a variety of free and paid festivities happening across the city through September.

This list will continue to be updated as events are announced.

Chicago Salsa and Bachata Festival

April 18-21

Become immersed in Afro-Latin culture at this music and dance festival in Rosemont. Attendees of all skill levels can actively engage in the festival's activities through social dances, performance camps and workshops.

Ravinia Festival

Dates from April 20 through Sept. 15

Ravinia Festival is a series of over 100 summer concerts from artists like The Beach Boys with John Stamos and TLC. The outdoor venue has concert seating as well as a lawn area, where you can bring your own food and drinks for a concert picnic.

Summer at Gallagher Way

Dates from May through September

3635 N. Clark St., Chicago

Gallagher Way, located next to Wrigley Field, has a variety of family activities planned throughout the summer. Events like free movie nights, markets, concerts and more will be free and open to the public. View the schedule here .

SEE ALSO: Gallagher Way announces summer events lineup for lawn area outside Wrigley Field

The Patio Theater, Chicago

Solar Tide is a bass music and arts festival in Portage Park. Featuring 19 artists over two days, tickets start at $50.

Chicago Mayfest

West Armitage Avenue from Sheffield Avenue to Racine Avenue, Chicago

Mayfest returns for the 27th year in Lincoln Park. The street festival will have a variety of music performances, artisan and food vendors. A pet parade and a glassblowing workshop will also take place over the weekend.

Belmont-Sheffield Music Fest

3200 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago

This annual street festival will kick off summer in Lakeview with music, food and artisan vendors. The festivities are conveniently located steps away from the Belmont "L" station.

Randolph Street Market Festival

1341 W. Randolph St., Chicago

Randolph Street Market brands itself as a "fancy, European-style flea market." The market will have antiques, décor, vintage fashion, art and much more. Tickets start at $12, and children under 12 can attend the event for free.

Grant Park, Chicago.

This reggaeton and Latin music festival is celebrating its third year in Grant Park. Featuring dozens of vendors, activities and headliners like Peso Pluma and Rauw Alejandro, Sueños is a celebration of Latin culture in Chicago.

Do Division Street Fest

May 31, June 1-2

Division Street, between Damen Avenue and Leavitt Street, Chicago

This Wicker Park street festival has events planned for all ages. Local food and retail vendors will be featured, along with music performances and a fashion show. "Family Fun Fest" is a part of the festivities, focused on children's entertainment. There will be a petting zoo, an inflatable slide and kids' music.

Chicago Gospel Music Festival

Millennium Park, Chicago

Gospel music lovers of all ages are welcome to attend this free music festival at Millennium Park. Entrances for the event will be located at Randolph Street and Monroe Street. More details can be found here .

Beyond Wonderland Chicago

Huntington Bank Pavilion, Chicago

Beyond Wonderland is an "Alice in Wonderland" themed electric genre festival. This year's headliners include popular artists like Diplo and Benny Benassi.

Chicago House Music Festival

The Chicago House Music Festival is an annual celebration to recognize the roots of house music in the city. A series of conferences and events will lead up to the festival in Millennium Park. Admission is free and open to all ages.

READ MORE: Chicago House Music Festival lineup announced, celebrating 40th anniversary of music genre

Chicago Blues Festival

June 6- Ramova Theatre, Chicago

The opening night performances of the Chicago Blues Festival will take place at Ramova Theatre in Bridgeport. Online RSVPs can be made for free admission.

June 7-9- Millennium Park, Chicago

Three stages around Millennium Park will host 35 performances celebrating the history of blues music. Buddy Guy will headline the last day of the Chicago Blues Festival in one of the final performances of his "Damn Right Farewell" tour.

Puerto Rican Fest

Humboldt Park, Chicago

Puerto Rican Fest , or Fiestas Patronales Puertorriqueñas, is an annual cultural celebration in Humboldt Park with carnival rides, music, food, a parade and more.

Andersonville Midsommarfest

Clark Street from Foster Avenue to Gregory Street, Chicago

This community event is an annual celebration of Andersonville. Local vendors, food and music will take over Clark Street from Foster Avenue to Gregory Street.

Old Town Art Fair

1763 N. North Park Ave., Chicago

On this June weekend, the Old Town Triangle Historical District is transformed into a fine art wonderland. More than 200 fine artists from around the country will be at the Old Town Art Fair to sell and display their art.

Wells Street Art Fest

Wells Street between North Avenue and Division Street, Chicago

Art lovers can venture down the Wells Street corridor in Old Town and shop from artists from around the continent. The Wells Street Art Festival features food and drink vendors, music, entertainment and a children's play area.

The Grant Park Music Festival

Dates from June 12 through Aug. 17

Grant Park, Chicago

The Grant Park Music Festival brings free concerts and activities to the park throughout the summer. Artists and performance schedules can be found at grantparkmusicfestival.com .

Sundays on State

June 16 and July 14

State Street from Lake Street to Adams Street

Two Sundays a year, downtown State Street closes off traffic for a "free, interactive block party." Sundays on State gives the community an opportunity to shop from local businesses, engage in family activities and enjoy food from local vendors.

Lyrical Lemonade Summer Smash Festival

SeatGeek Stadium, Bridgeview

Three stages will host dozens of hip-hop performances over three days during the Lyrical Lemonade Summer Smash Festival . This festival is an all-ages event.

Chicago Pride Fest

Halsted Street from Addison Street to Grace Street

Chicago Pride Fest is a weekend street festival in the Northalsted neighborhood. Halsted Street will be buzzing with live music, drag performances, parades and more.

Butler Field, Grant Park, Chicago

The plant-based food festival returns to Chicago with new innovative food options and lively entertainment. Attendees will have the opportunity to try vegan food from over 100 vendors from around the world, and enjoy performances from Saweetie, 2 Chainz and NLE Choppa.

The Opera Festival of Chicago

Dates from June 27 through July 14

The fourth season of the Opera Festival of Chicago will host performances at venues around the Chicago area. Show details can be found at operafestivalchicago.org .

Millennium Park Summer Music Series

Mondays and Thursdays, July 1-Aug. 8

The Jay Pritzker Pavilion will be the site of multiple free concerts during summer as a part of the Millennium Park Music Series .

Rose on the River

The Salt Shed, Chicago

One stage will be the site of 16 performances during this all-ages festival at the Salt Shed Fairgrounds. Rose on the River 2024 is headlined by My Morning Jacket, Tash Sultana, Thundercat and more.

NASCAR Chicago Street Race

The Chicago Street Race is a unique two-day sports and entertainment event with a festival-like atmosphere. This year's headliners include Keith Urban, The Chainsmokers, The Black Keys and Lauren Alaina. Visit NASCARChicago.com for more information.

Windy City Smokeout

United Center, Chicago

Windy City Smokeout brings the sounds and flavors of the South to the city. The festival includes four days of country music from artists such as Thomas Rhett, Carrie Underwood and Cody Johnson.

Square Roots Festival

Lincoln Avenue from Montrose Avenue to Wilson Avenue, Chicago

Square Roots is a Lincoln Square street festival that gives community members and visitors the opportunity to enjoy local food, vendors and music.

Pitchfork Music Festival Chicago

Union Park, Chicago

Pitchfork is a music festival featuring dozens of artists from a range of genres. This year's headliners include Black Pumas, Jamie xx and Alanis Morissette.

SEE ALSO: Pitchfork Music Festival 2024 lineup includes Alanis Morissette, Carly Rae Jepsen, more

Chicago Food Truck Festival

2300 S. Indiana Ave., Chicago

For the 11th year, the city's top food trucks will gather in the South Loop for the Chicago Food Truck Festival. For the 2024 season, the fest is joining forces with the Chicago Margarita Festival to create a special drink menu. Claim free tickets at chgofoodtruckfest.com .

Taste of Lincoln Avenue

2500 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago

The best food and drinks of Lincoln Park are showcased during Taste of Lincoln Avenue . The busy street will close for the weekend for live music, drink tastings and a children's carnival.

Fiesta Del Sol

Cermak Road from Ashland Avenue to Morgan Street, Chicago

Fiesta Del Sol is a free street festival and carnival in the Pilsen neighborhood. The festival features local food vendors, artisans and live performances.

Wicker Park Fest

Milwaukee Avenue from North Avenue to Ashland Avenue

Explore the food, art and culture of Wicker Park at this annual street festival . The live music lineup of pop and alternative bands includes artists like The Regrettes and Built to Spill.

Chinatown Summer Fair

Wentworth Avenue from Cermak Avenue to 24th Place, Chicago.

This annual cultural celebration will return for its 45th year. The festival opens with a lion dance procession, followed by a variety of other performances. The Chinatown Summer Fair will also have plenty of food and merchandise vendors.

Lollapalooza

Once a year Grant Park is transformed into the site of one of the biggest music festivals in the country. Over 170 bands and performers take the stage over the four day festival. Headliners for 2024 include big names like SZA, The Killers, Future and Metro Boomin.

READ MORE: Lollapalooza 2024 lineup day-by-day released, featuring headliners SZA, Tyler the Creator, Blink-182

Retro on Roscoe

200 W. Roscoe St., Chicago

Roscoe Village is a picturesque setting for live music, food, antique vendors and other merchants. More events will be taking place during Retro on Roscoe , like an antique car and motorcycle show.

Northalsted Market Days

Halsted Street from Belmont Avenue to Addison Street, Chicago

Market Days is a weekend street festival with food, music and vendors in the Northalsted neighborhood. From 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. performances will take place across five stages down Halsted Street.

Chicago Jazz Festival

Aug. 29-Sept. 1

Chicago Cultural Center and Millennium Park

The Chicago Jazz Festival is a weekend of free performances from the best local and international jazz talent.

North Coast Music Festival

Aug. 30- Sept. 1

North Coast is an electric genre music festival featuring over 100 artists, interactive art installations and activities.

ARC Music Festival

Aug. 30-Sept. 1

For the fourth year, ARC Music Festival is bringing dozens of house and techno artists to Union Park.

Taste of Chicago

Grant Park and other locations around Chicago

Taste of Chicago is a free city-wide event showcasing the best food and drinks in the city. The main event is located in September in Grant Park, but pop-up events will be taking place in neighborhoods around the city throughout summer.

Chicago German-American Oktoberfest

Lincoln Square, at the corner of Lincoln Avenue and Western Avenue, Chicago

Oktoberfest is a free festival celebrating German heritage. The celebration is a chance to enjoy authentic German food, drinks, music and entertainment.

World Music Festival Chicago

Sept. 20-29

Chicago Cultural Center and Citywide

Performances by global artists will play at venues around the city during the World Music Festival . The festival will showcase sounds from Brazil, South Korea, Senegal and more.

Sept. 20-22

Douglass Park, Chicago

Riot Fest is an annual music festival specializing in punk, rock, alternative, metal and hip-hop. The lineup for Riot Fest has yet to be announced.