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Ravinia’s 2026 season just dropped with stunning news. The Chicago-area festival unveiled 90+ concerts and 50+ artist debuts in a historic lineup that includes Paul Simon, Chance the Rapper, Ricky Martin, and Lizzo. The newly renovated Hunter Pavilion opens July 11 with an all-star cast ready to transform summer.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Total Shows: Over 90 concerts from June through September at the Highland Park venue
- Debut Milestone: More than 50 artists performing at Ravinia for the first time ever
- Renovated Venue: $75 million transformation includes the redesigned Hunter Pavilion with enhanced acoustics
- Ticket Sales: Public on-sale begins April 23, with donor presales starting March 17
A New Era Begins with the Hunter Pavilion Grand Opening
The Hunter Pavilion opening on July 11 marks a watershed moment for Ravinia. This state-of-the-art venue features upgraded sound systems, roomier seating, and expanded production capabilities that create an intimate atmosphere where audiences sit practically on top of the stage. The $75 million renovation project transforms the 36-acre Highland Park music park into a world-class destination. The inaugural night features South Korean pianist Yunchan Lim with conductor Marin Alsop, along with a special appearance by Lizzo playing flute with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.
According to Ravinia CEO Jeffrey P. Haydon, the pavilion’s enhanced design attracts world-class talent. The space represents a historic milestone for live music in the Midwest, combining classical elegance with contemporary performance standards.
Ravinia unveils 2026 lineup with 90+ concerts, 50+ artist debuts
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50+ Artist Debuts Reshape Summer Concert Season
First-time Ravinia performers headline this summer’s blockbuster lineup. Ricky Martin takes the stage August 20, while Labrinth, the British producer behind HBO’s “Euphoria” score, debuts September 2. Hugh Jackman performs with the Chicago Philharmonic August 9, and Billy Idol arrives July 12. Other notable debuts include St. Vincent performing with the CSO July 25, and Grammy-winning conductor Klaus Mäkelä appearing in a rare guest appearance August 6 and 8.
Alabama Shakes returns to concert performance for the first time in years August 21, featuring Chicago-based Liam Kazar. The diversity spans rock, pop, classical, jazz, and Latin music, ensuring something for every taste and demographic across the season.
Legendary Artists and CSO Residency Headlines
| Featured Artist | Date(s) | Genre/Notes |
| Paul Simon | July 17-18 | Rock Legend |
| Gladys Knight | August 11 | Soul/R&B Icon |
| Bonnie Raitt | August 22 | Folk-Rock Legend |
| Brandi Carlile | August 26 | Powerhouse Vocalist |
| Chicago Symphony Orchestra | July 11 – August 16 | 90th Summer Residency |
The Chicago Symphony Orchestra celebrates its 90th summer residency this season under conductor Marin Alsop. The six-week run features Dvořák’s Ninth Symphony, Mozart’s “The Abduction from the Seraglio,” and Stravinsky’s “The Firebird.” A special tribute to Chicago-born Quincy Jones airs August 13, celebrating his legacy across film, television, and music production spanning five decades.
Pop icons and returning favorites create something for everyone. Kool & The Gang, Rod Stewart, Miranda Lambert, Ziggy Marley, Deep Purple, and Los Tigres del Norte round out a season that balances nostalgia with discovery, proven superstars with exciting new voices.
“The grand opening of the Hunter Pavilion marks a historic milestone for Ravinia. It is particularly meaningful that this state-of-the-art venue will serve as the inaugural stage for our debut artists, including conductor Klaus Mäkelä, Ricky Martin, Miranda Lambert, Alabama Shakes, Rod Stewart, and many others.”
— Jeffrey P. Haydon, Ravinia President and CEO
Family Programs and Chicago’s Music Future
Beyond headliners, Ravinia offers family-friendly programming throughout summer. The Black Moon Trio performs “The Great Lakes” August 8, connecting children to environmental science through music. JAM Orchestra brings “Dr. Seuss Goes to the Opera” August 29, introducing young audiences to classical performance. Laurie Berkner, Okee Dokee Brothers, and “Grease” Sing-Along provide entertainment for younger concert-goers.
Ravinia CEO Haydon emphasized the venue’s commitment to music education, noting that artists like Lizzo were inspired by elementary school music teachers. The 2026 season demonstrates how live performance creates lasting cultural impact across generations and communities throughout the Chicago region.
When Can You Get Tickets and What to Expect This Summer?
Public ticket sales begin Thursday, April 23 at Ravinia.org, with donor presales starting March 17. The outdoor venue spans 36 acres in Highland Park, offering both pavilion seating and lawn admission. The season runs June through September, with indoor concerts starting early June and the outdoor Hunter Pavilion launching July 11. With 90+ concerts and 50+ debuts, this marks one of Ravinia’s most ambitious seasons since the venue’s founding, promising unforgettable performances under the stars.
