Ravinia Schedule 2026: Full Festival Season, Artists, Dates, and Ticket Details
The iconic summer music season at Ravinia Festival is returning in 2026 with a lineup that blends legendary performers, orchestral music, jazz, rock, and contemporary artists. Held every summer in the scenic outdoor venue of Highland Park, the festival remains one of North America’s longest-running outdoor music festivals. Music fans from across the country gather on Ravinia’s lawn and pavilion each year to enjoy live performances under the stars. The 2026 Ravinia season is expected to run from June through September, offering dozens of concerts and cultural events.
Ravinia Festival 2026 Overview The Ravinia Festival has been entertaining audiences since 1904, making it one of the most historic music festivals in the United States. Located just north of Chicago, the festival’s open-air setting allows visitors to enjoy concerts while picnicking on the lawn or sitting in the pavilion. Classical music Rock and pop concerts Jazz and blues performances Broadway shows Family and educational events The festival is also the summer home of the renowned Chicago Symphony Orchestra, which performs multiple concerts during the season.
Confirmed Ravinia 2026 Artists and Concert Dates While the complete schedule continues to be released, several major artists have already been confirmed for the 2026 season: Paul Simon — July 17–18, 2026 Joe Bonamassa — August 12, 2026 Bonnie Raitt — August 22, 2026 Ray LaMontagne — August 29, 2026 (with The Weather Station) Alison Krauss & Union Station — September 12, 2026 More artists and performances are expected to be announced in the coming weeks as the festival finalizes its full schedule.
What Makes Ravinia Unique The Ravinia Festival offers a concert experience unlike most venues in the United States. Visitors can bring picnic baskets, wine, and blankets to enjoy performances on the expansive lawn. Outdoor lawn seating with giant video screens Intimate pavilion seating near the stage Pre-concert dining and picnic culture Family programs and music education events For many Chicago-area residents, attending Ravinia is a beloved summer tradition.
Ravinia 2026 Ticket Information Tickets for the festival typically go on sale in stages: Donor Presale: March 2026 General Public Sale: April 2026 Concert Season: June – September 2026 Early ticket purchases are recommended for popular shows, especially performances by legendary artists like Paul Simon or major orchestral nights featuring the Chicago Symphony Orchestra How to Attend the Ravinia Festival The venue is easily accessible from downtown Chicago via car or public transportation. Many visitors take the Metra train directly to the Ravinia Park station
which drops passengers near the festival entrance. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure lawn space, enjoy food vendors, or set up picnic arrangements before the show begins. Ravinia Festival 2026: A Summer Music Highlight With legendary performers, classical masterpieces, and a relaxing outdoor atmosphere, the Ravinia Festival continues to be one of the most anticipated music events in the United States. As more artists and performances are announced, the 2026 Ravinia schedule is expected to feature over 100 concerts, ensuring a diverse and unforgettable summer music season
