2024 Entertainment Lineup
Tuesdays | June 11–August 6
7–8:30 pm | New start time for 2024
Independence Grove
June 11 | Peach Jam | Blues Rock
Peach Jam is a tribute to the iconic music of the legendary Allman Brothers Band. Let the tunes whisk you away to the Fillmore East, the historic music venue nestled in the heart of New York City, where the Allman Brothers Band frequently played. Expect a fusion of blues, rock, jazz and country to create a distinctive sound that’s both powerful and heartfelt.
The Real Pretenders, a Chicago-based band, blend rock, punk and pop with gritty guitar riffs and distinctive vocals, reminiscent of the iconic style of the Pretenders. Comprised of four seasoned music veterans, they deliver energetic performances filled with emotionally resonant lyrics and infectious melodies.
Brooklyn Charmers is a Steely Dan tribute band comprised of some of Chicago's top players. With a masterful precision and obsessive dedication to the music, Brooklyn Charmers injects a new energy into the beloved catalogue, bridging the gap between new and lifelong fans alike.
July 2 | Gizzae | Reggae
Gizzae, an acclaimed reggae band, blends diverse musical experiences from its global members. Over 35 years, they've won Grammys and Chicago Music Awards, sharing stages with icons such as the The Rolling Stones and Ziggy Marley. Their shows feature energetic guitar solos and mesmerizing keyboards, ensuring good vibes and moving rhythms for all.
Mackenzie O'Brien and Band stands as the hottest young country band in the area boasting a lineup of full-time musicians and led by the captivating talent known as Chicago's new country queen. The band covers a wide array of music from contemporary country stars such as Little Big Town, Miranda Lambert and Chris Stapleton, as well as classics from legends including Dolly Parton and Waylon Jennings.
American English has been named the best Beatles tribute band of our time. They were voted No. 1 in sound-alike contests at The Fest for Beatles Fans for three consecutive years. Their demand here and abroad, coupled with their fan base, anchored them in larger venues and theaters worldwide.
The Insiders, a band dedicated to honoring Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, offer authentic performances that evoke the spirit of the legendary rock group. Spectators are astounded by the band's talent and unwavering dedication. With 6 veteran musicians and decades of combined touring experience, the group is genuinely running down the dream.
July 30 | The Wayouts | Rock'n'Roll
The Wayouts, dedicated exclusively to garage rock hits from the 1960s, The Wayouts deliver an authentic revival of rock'n'roll's first generation with hits from The Kinks, The Animals, The Troggs, The Monkees, The Rascals and more. Veterans of the Chicago music scene, they have diverse musical resumes.
Mississippi Heat, led by Chicago Hall of Fame harmonica master and songwriter Pierre Lacocque, Mississippi Heat stands as a world-class Chicago Blues Band. They describe their style as “traditional blues with a unique sound” as they present a blend of fresh innovative musical concepts while remaining rooted in vintage blues traditions.
CONCERT DETAILS
-
For concert updates, view map here or call 847-968-3499. There is no rescheduling if a concert is canceled.
-
Concerts are open to all ages and are held at the preserve's outdoor amphitheater, Millennia Plaza, overlooking a 129-acre lake.
-
Bring blankets and lawn chairs. Pop up canopies and umbrellas are not permitted in the plaza or lawn. Arrive early to secure your spot.
-
Smoking is prohibited in the concert area and at the Beer Garden at Independence Grove.
-
Pack a picnic, or purchase a light dinner, snack or beverage from the preserve's walk-up café.
-
Before the concert begins, spend the afternoon at the preserve fishing, or boating on the 129-acre lake, or hiking, biking or in-line skating on nearly seven miles of trails. Stop by the Visitors Center to find information on the preserve and learn about rental space.
-
Pets Not Permitted: Dogs, horses or other pets are not allowed in the preserve or preserve facilities.
-
Service Animals: Qualified services animals are allowed throughout the preserve and in all preserve facilities.
-
Safety: For the safety of all guests, all items brought into the Forest Preserve (including, without limitation, coolers, picnic baskets, bags, backpacks and purses) are subject to search upon entry or reentry into the park and may also be inspected again upon entering Millennia Plaza.
VEHICLE ENTRANCE FEE: $10
Pricing includes drop-offs.
To help offset the cost to host these quality concerts, there is a nonrefundable vehicle entrance fee after 4:30 pm. No rain dates. Arrive early as parking is limited; cars are turned away when parking is full. Parking lots reserved for concert traffic are not available prior to 4:30 pm. For your safety, and as a courtesy to preserve neighbors, please park in the preserve only.
Starting this summer, the vehicle entrance fee will support the Preservation Foundation’s endowment fund. The endowment is a perpetual, dependable funding source. It enhances the ongoing care of restored lands, ensuring preserves such as Independence Grove remain healthy, restored landscapes for everyone to enjoy.
Pontoon Rentals & More!
To make your concert outing even more memorable, reserve a pontoon boat for your group of up to eight! Additional rental equipment is available. Call 847-968-3499 to reserve. Learn More »
Beer Garden
The Beer Garden at Independence Grove is open from 5–9 pm on Tuesday nights for Concerts in the Plaza. You can purchase a variety of Lake County craft brews on tap, along with packaged snacks and other beverages. Plenty of casual lakeside seating is available.
View the Beer Garden Menu