Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some typical questions about the Grant Park Music Festival.
What is the Grant Park Music Festival?
The Grant Park Music Festival is a series of free classical music concerts and events featuring the Grant Park Orchestra and Chorus, resident ensembles of the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park.
How can I buy a single ticket for a single performance?
You don’t need a ticket. All of our concerts offer free seating available to the public! If you would like to sit in seats close to the stage, consider ordering a Festival membership or single-concert Experience Pass.
What to do in case of rain or dangerous weather?
Concerts are rarely canceled due to rain. In the event of dangerous weather, such as lighting or tornado warnings, patrons are advised to exit the park. If shelter is needed immediately, you can enter the parking garage on the northeast side of the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Visit our Rain Policy page for more information.
What time should I arrive to get a free seat?
The free seating in the Seating Bowl opens 90 minutes before the scheduled concert time. Vist our Venues and Opening Times page for more information.
May I bring a picnic basket?
The Festival encourages you to bring a picnic for a perfect night of music and dining al fresco! You can also order a picnic for any night of your choice from one of our Favored Festival Restaurants. Visit our Dining in the Park page for more information.
Where can I smoke?
Smoking is prohibited in the Jay Pritzker Pavilion.
I am coming with a group. How can I reserve seats?
Group seating is available for groups of 10 or more. Please call us at 312.742.7638 for more information.
What other events are happening in Millennium Park?
For information about Millennium Park programs and events other than the Grant Park Music Festival, visit millenniumpark.org. Please note: Grant Park Music Festival membership privileges do not extend to other concerts held in Millennium Park.
Where do I find information about other Chicago festivals?
For other events coordinated by the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, visit cityofchicago.org/dcase.
Where can I dine before or after a concert?
Grant Park Music Festival concertgoers will find special offers and great dining experiences at many fine restaurants, conveniently located near the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. See our map of recommended restaurants and bars!
What’s the best way to get to the Festival?
Visit our Getting to the Festival page for public transit, car, and bicycling information.
Can I get there by bicycle?
One of the easiest ways to get to Millennium Park is by bicycle. For everyone’s safety, bicycles must be walked in the park. Free bicycle parking is available at the Bike Station at the northwest corner of the park on Randolph Street and Columbus Drive. For more information visit chicagobikestation.com.
Is the Pavilion accessible to people with disabilities?
The Jay Pritzker Pavilion is accessible for those with disabilities. Visit our Accessibility page for more information.
May I bring my dog along?
Dogs are not allowed in Millennium Park.
Privacy Policy
The Grant Park Orchestral Association (GPOA) is a nonprofit organization. GPOA may use information collected through its services and website for research and development purposes. We only use your information for its intended purposes. GPOA will also use your information to provide you with a donation record and may occasionally send you updates about the Grant Park Music Festival. The GPOA does not sell or rent your information, but may share information you provide to the GPOA with other local arts organizations for marketing purposes.
If at any time you would like to correct or your information, discontinue receiving updates, or have questions regarding this website or privacy policy, please contact us at info@grantparkmusicfestival.com.
Refund Policy
Membership contributions to the Grant Park Orchestral Association are tax deductible to fullest extent allowed by federal law. As such, refunds cannot be made on memberships, guest passes, or single-concert pass orders. We do not accept returns or exchanges of Festival merchandise purchased in Millennium Park.
