Your guide to Chicago Live! 2024 at Navy Pier

Chicago’s summer festival season may be coming to an end, but there is still another outstanding event on the city’s cultural calendar: Chicago Live! at Navy Pier.

This multidisciplinary festival is the largest free performing arts event in the Midwest and takes place Saturday, September 21 and Sunday, September 22 at the lakefront Navy Pier.

Now in its fourth year, the festival is the largest edition yet, with more than 100 local groups performing in back-to-back performances on five stages – all surrounded by the breathtaking skyline views that can only be found at the legendary Navy Pier.

The extensive program includes Chicago-based dance groups, orchestras, theater groups and DJs. The festival is a microcosm of the city’s rich and diverse artistic spirit. Performances span the entire pier and include five stages, ensuring one entertainment after another that captivates and enchants.

This year’s festival also places a special emphasis on House musicin honor of the 40th anniversary of the Chicago-born genre. Experience sets from iconic names such as DJ Lady D, Shawn Christopher, DJ Ca$h Era, Andrea Love, DJ Derrick Carter and more.

Check out this year’s headliners and start planning your visit to Chicago Live!

Chicago Live! Program 2024

This year, Navy Pier has landed an epic headliner – Jeff Tweedya Chicago native and prolific contemporary musician. Tweedy, known for his work with legendary Chicago band Wilco, will play a solo acoustic set that promises to be a highlight of the weekend. Catch him on Saturday night, September 21, on the Lake Stage at Polk Bros Park.

And those aren’t all the acts you can’t miss. The full Chicago Live! lineup represents the depth and diversity of Chicago’s performing arts scene, with 111 groups spanning all genres and including emerging talent as well as established stars. The 2024 lineup includes 64 new artists and organizations making their Chicago Live! debut.

Don’t miss your chance to enjoy free performances by popular local groups and individuals such as Deeply Rooted Dance Theater, Black Ensemble Theater, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Joffrey Ballet, The Second City, Teatro ZinZanni, Red Clay Dance Company, DJ Lady D, Chicago Philharmonic and more.