Ravinia is the longest running and most programmatically diverse outdoor music festival in North America, welcoming about 400,000 guests to over 100 events each year. Passenger trains stop at our historic entrance during the summer, serviced by Metra’s Union Pacific North Line—a tie to our origin from a railroad company. Ravinia is the only private train stop in Illinois!

Schedule of Events

June 6, 2025

8pm: Heart - Pavilion

Five decades after the release of 1975’s Dreamboat Annie, “rock’s biggest sister act” (Washington Post) returns to the road, performing “An Evening with Heart.” Last seen at Ravinia in 2014, legendary rockers Ann and Nancy Wilson bring an electrifying evening of iconic hits like “Magic Man,” “Barracuda,” “Alone,” and “Crazy on You.”

With decades of chart-topping hits, the band’s fierce vocal power and musical prowess continues to captivate audiences. Named one of VH1’s 100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock, Heart’s five-decade legacy has influenced generations of rockers, selling over 35 million records worldwide. Their signature blend of hard rock and folk-infused ballads has cemented them as one of the most enduring acts in music history.

In addition to Ann (lead vocals and flute) and Nancy (rhythm, lead and acoustic guitar and vocals) Wilson, Heart also includes Ryan Wariner (lead and rhythm guitar), Ryan Waters (guitars), Paul Moak (guitars, keyboards and backing vocals) Tony Lucido (bass and backing vocals) and Sean T. Lane (drums and bike).

Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2013, Ann and Nancy Wilson have earned a place among VH1’s 100 Greatest Women in Rock and Roll. Their contributions to rock music were further honored with ASCAP’s Founders Award, celebrating their groundbreaking songwriting legacy.

Beyond their musical impact, Heart’s influence stretches into pop culture, inspiring countless artists and fans alike. Their anthemic sound and powerhouse performances have shaped the landscape of rock for over five decades. Of their highly anticipated return in 2025, Ann Wilson declared, “The best is yet to come!” This is a concert no rock fan will want to miss!

June 7, 2025

7pm: Grace Jones and Janelle Monáe

Featuring: QUEEN! at the Carousel in collaboration with Metro/smartbar

Grace Jones–the trailblazing icon of music, fashion, and film–takes the Ravinia stage for the first time this summer, delivering a mesmerizing performance that defies genre and expectation. Throughout her career, the multi-talented artist has woven music across styles, bringing together disco, new wave post-punk, art pop, industrial, reggae, and gospel, creating “a tight sound that is distinctly hers” (Vice). Rolling Stone celebrates her remarkable influence, writing, “So many performers are said to be larger than life, but the show biz cliché has never been truer than it is for Grace Jones.”

Jones is joined by Janelle Monáe–a trailblazer in her own right, making her own Ravinia debut–whose innovative spark has led to success in music and film, with ten Grammy nominations and performances in Glass Onion, Harriet, and Hidden Figures. NPR described her 2015 protest song “Hell You Talmbout” as “visceral” and “blistering,” highlighting its powerful message against racial violence, and Rolling Stone praised her 2013 album The Electric Lady, highlighting Monáe’s “sheer force of freakadelic will and a radical feminist’s sense of self-exploration.”

QUEEN! at the Carousel Stage at 4:30 p.m.
Queen! is a cornerstone of Chicago’s vibrant house music scene and a pioneering LGBTQ+ dance party, celebrating over 13 years of unrelenting energy and inclusivity. Hosted every Sunday at the legendary Chicago club smartbar, Queen! is one of the nation’s longest-running weekly events of its kind, renowned for its rotating lineup of house music icons alongside captivating performances by kings, queens, and artists across the spectrum.

Join smartbar sweethearts and musical contortionists Derrick Carter and Michael Serafini for the rawest Chicago house music, served up by the pros. And the Queen! hosts are as stellar and stunning as ever: the renowned but never-replicated Lucy Stoole and Nico are poised to take center stage, stealing the show, per usual.

Widely acknowledged as one of the world’s top DJs, with innovative productions, flawless technical skills, and an effortlessly joyful attitude of rocking a crowd, Carter has infiltrated the spectrum of dance music. From spinning disco and funk records at family reunions at age 9 to becoming one of the key players of Chicago’s house music wave in the ’90s, he freely travels outside standard club tastes, incorporating old-school disco, soul, jazz, new wave, and whatever else catches his fancy. Serafini got his start in Chicago nightlife in the ’80s working for Berlin nightclub as a video jockey and remixer, then began deejaying regularly in the early ’90s, soon taking position at one of Chicago house’s most famous institutions, Gramaphone Records. As his experience grew, so did his reputation, later landing a residency at Boom Boom Room, then the city’s longest-running house night. In 2007, Serafini took over ownership of Gramaphone Records, which he still operates today.

June 18, 2025

7pm: The Black Crowes

Call it brotherly love or music destiny, but one thing is certain: The Black Crowes are back, and they’re bringing their signature, no-holds-barred rock and roll to Ravinia this summer. Known for their raw, unfiltered sound and electrifying live performances, this legendary duo reunites to remind the world what real rock music is all about.

Formed in Atlanta, Georgia in 1984, The Black Crowes carved their own path in the rock scene, blending biting angst, Southern grit, and blues-infused swagger into a sound that’s both timeless and unmistakable. With nine studio albums, four live albums, and several chart-topping singles, their music stands as a testament to the enduring power of rock. Heavily influenced by local contemporaries like R.E.M., as well as 1960s psychedelic pop and classic Southern rock, they evolved into a revivalist force dedicated to keeping the spirit of 1970s blues rock alive.

No gloss, no glitter, just rhythm and blues at its very best—gritty, loud, and in your face. Since The Black Crowes reunited in 2019, they've made a triumphant return to form with over 150 shows spanning 20 countries worldwide, celebrating the 30th anniversary of Shake Your Money Maker, the album that put them on the map.

This summer at Ravinia, expect an electrifying setlist packed with fan-favorite anthems, deep cuts, and raw bluesy jams that hit just as hard today as they did decades ago. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer looking for an authentic rock experience, this is a night of music you won’t forget.

Playing the Carousel Stage at 6:00 p.m. is Scorched Waves, the indie rock and self-described “groove-punk” sensation from Stevens Point, WI, with introspective songwriting, groovy riffs, and expressive arrangements that earned comparisons to Arctic Monkeys, The Killers, and The Kooks. They were Grand Champions of the 17th Annual Bitter Jester Music Festival (1st place out of 24) where keyboardist Jaren Wojcik won “Instrumentalist of the Year” for keys and drummer Damian Kessler co-won “Drummer of the Year.” Scorched Waves has also won Runner-Up (2nd place) and Honorable Mention (3rd place) at Bitter Jester, making them the only band in the festival’s two-decade history to have achieved the full “trifecta” of wins three years in a row.

June 19, 2025

7pm: James Taylor and His All-Star Band

Following two sold-out concerts last summer, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and six-time Grammy Award winner James Taylor makes his highly anticipated return to Ravinia alongside his All-Star Band. One of America’s most cherished singer-songwriters, Taylor will once again captivate Chicago audiences with timeless hits like “Fire and Rain,” “You've Got a Friend,” “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You),” and “Sweet Baby James.” With a career spanning over five decades, Taylor’s signature warmth, storytelling, and masterful musicianship promise an evening to remember.  

Opening the show is Tiny Habits, the Boston-bred trio praised by the likes of NPR and The New Yorker for their breathtaking harmonies and fresh folk-pop sound. After making their Ravinia debut in 2023 on the Carousel Stage, they move to the Pavillion, continuing to draw audiences with their beautifully intimate three-part harmonies and exquisite sound. The group has toured with Gracie Abrams, Noah Kahan, and Vance Joy, collaborated with artists like Kacey Musgraves and Laufey, and made waves with their 2024 debut album All For Something. Their latest single, “For Sale Sign,” made in collaboration with Lizzy McAlpine, is out now.  

Don't miss this rare chance to experience James Taylor live at Ravinia—an intimate evening with one of America’s most revered singer-songwriters.

June 27, 2025

7pm: The Roots

Versatility, endurance, and longevity—traits that countless bands aspire to, but few ever achieve. With over three decades in the game, The Roots stand as one of the most successful and hardest-working groups of all time. This summer, the three-time GRAMMY-winning collective brings their electrifying, genre-defying sound to Ravinia, promising an unforgettable night of hip-hop, jazz, R&B, and rock-infused brilliance.

From their groundbreaking 14-album catalog to their reputation as one of the greatest live bands of all time, The Roots have never stopped evolving. Their jazzy, eclectic approach to hip-hop—infused with live instrumentation—has redefined the genre, setting a template for countless artists to follow. “They are not merely the world’s best hip-hop band,” Rolling Stone declares, “but one of the great musical outfits of our time.”

At the core of it all are Questlove and Black Thought, whose undeniable chemistry has driven The Roots to global acclaim. Known for their incendiary live performances and relentless touring, the band built a reputation as innovators, connectors, and cultural arbiters. Their Roots Picnic festival, founded in 2008, has become a Philadelphia institution and one of hip-hop’s most revered events.

Beyond the stage, The Roots’ influence extends into television, politics, and pop culture. As the house band for The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon for over 15 years, they’ve been a staple of late-night TV, backing up music legends and cultural icons alike. Their presence is felt everywhere—from headlining festivals to performing at historic events for presidents and global leaders.

In an era where fleeting virality often overshadows substance, The Roots remain a beacon of authenticity, musical mastery, and innovation. At Ravinia, expect nothing less than a thrilling, high-energy performance from a band that continues to push boundaries and redefine what live music can be.

June 28, 2025

7pm: Al Green

Let’s stay together and groove on the Ravinia lawn this summer with the smooth and silky vocals of Al Green! Rugged soul meets Motown polish in Al Green, whose music has bridged the gap between deep soul and smooth Philadelphia soul, incorporating elements of gospel with a tight beat, sexy backing vocals, and lush strings. The distinctive Hi Records sound that the vocalist and producer Willie Mitchell developed made Al Green the most popular and influential soul singer of the early ’70s, influencing not only his contemporaries, but also veterans like Marvin Gaye.

Robert Christgau declares Green to be the “finest vocalist rock & roll has ever known” and “a shifting amalgam of cream and grit, fluff and guts, feathery strings and power-packed beats, wayward promises and passionate truths.” Upon Green’s induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Natalie Cole praised Green’s unique style and expressive power: ”Al's voice—it bobs, it weaves … it gets you.”

After more than 60 years electrifying people all over the world, the mighty R&B/soul kings The O’Jays are on their final tour, featuring original members Eddie Levert Sr. and Walter Williams Sr., who have been singing together since they were kids. The O’Jays are not only a link to live music history, but a key part in the soundtrack of generations as icons of The Sound of Philadelphia.

WIth chart-topping pop and R&B singles like “Backstabbers,” “Love Train,” “Put Your Hands Together,” “For the Love of Money,” “I Love Music,” “Darlin’ Darlin’ Baby (Sweet, Tender, Love),” “Livin’ for the Weekend,” and “Use Ta Be My Girl,” The O’Jays became the first Black vocal group to perform in arenas throughout America during the ’70s and ’80s.

July 2, 2025

7:30pm: Nas - with Chicago Philharmonic + Stuart Chafetz, conductor

Experience hip-hop history reimagined as Nas makes his Ravinia debut, joining forces with the Chicago Philharmonic for a powerful symphonic performance of his groundbreaking debut album, Illmatic. More than three decades after its release, this genre-defining masterpiece—ranked by Billboard as the #1 Greatest Rap Album of All Time—takes on a new life with lush orchestration, elevating Nas’ poetic lyricism and raw storytelling to epic proportions.

Since his 1994 debut, Nas has shaped the sound and soul of hip-hop, releasing 14 subsequent albums—8 of which have gone platinum or multi-platinum, including Nastradamus, Stillmatic, God’s Son, and Street’s Disciple. A 16-time GRAMMY nominee, he secured his first win with King’s Disease in 2020 for Best Rap Album, followed by two sequels and his Magic trilogy, produced alongside Hit-Boy. His most recent release, Magic 3, marks the final chapter of this prolific creative partnership, closing an extraordinary era of innovation and influence.

Beyond music, Nas is a hip-hop mogul, actor, executive producer, and co-founder of Mass Appeal Records, whose impact on the culture is immeasurable. Now, this one-night-only collaboration with the Chicago Philharmonic brings his legacy to the concert stage like never before—an unforgettable fusion of hip-hop and symphony that honors one of the most influential albums of all time.

Don’t miss this monumental musical event—a rare chance to witness Nas and the Chicago Philharmonic unite for a live orchestral performance of Illmatic.

July 5, 2025

7pm: Chicago - with special guest Stevie McVie

Formed in 1967 in the city of Chicago, Chicago is one of the longest-running and best-selling music groups of all time. Over a nearly fifty-year recording career, the band has issued thirty-six albums, sold well over 100 million records, and released twenty Top 10 pop and twenty-two Top 10 adult contemporary singles (fifteen of which broke the Top 10 on both charts). Seventeen of their first twenty albums were certified platinum, nine of those multiplatinum, and Chicago 17 (1984) hit platinum a whopping six times.

With their unmistakable fusion of rock, jazz, and pop, Chicago has created some of the most enduring songs in modern music history. From the lush harmonies of “If You Leave Me Now” to the soaring ballad “You’re the Inspiration,” their music continues to resonate with generations of fans. As Rolling Stone writes, "Chicago has never been just another rock band. They are an institution."

Chicago is joined by tribute band Stevie McVie, which draws from the incredible legacy of Fleetwood Mac, taking its name from rock icons Stevie Nicks and Christine McVie. Bringing a fresh energy to every show, Stevie McVie infuses performances with passion, precision, and just the right amount of enchantment.

The setlist pays tribute not only to Fleetwood Mac, but also to the band’s incredible web of musical connections and influences. From Don Henley to Tom Petty, Stevie McVie explores the “six degrees of separation” that tie these legendary artists together, creating a truly unique experience that sets them apart from other tribute acts.

Enjoy this chance to experience the power, passion, and timeless appeal of one of America’s classic rock bands—live under the stars!

July 6, 2025

7:30pm: Kygo - with special guest Victoria Nadine

Tipped by Billboard as “the next EDM superstar,” Kyrre Gørvell-Dahll, a.k.a. KYGO, has gone from bedroom producer to one of the most hyped electronic artists on the planet. Having established himself as a household name thanks to his widely popular remixes and sold-out shows in North America and Europe, Kygo has headlined performances at festivals across the globe, including TomorrowWorld and Findings.

His first original track “Firestone,” released at the end of 2014, has now amassed over 7 million plays across SoundCloud and YouTube and over 40 million plays on Spotify, peaking at #4 in the worldwide Spotify chart.

Kygo is joined by Norwegian model and singer Victoria Nadine, known for her emotive vocals and heartfelt lyrics. After gaining national attention in Norway as a finalist on Idol, Victoria continues to make waves in the Scandinavian music scene and beyond. In 2019, she debuted under her stage name with the single “Want It Back,” and her 2020 ballad “Be Okay” marked her entry into the Norwegian charts.

Together, Kygo and Victoria promise Chicagoland an evening of high-energy EDM and pop as they make their Ravinia debuts!

July 11, 2025

7:30pm: 89th Residency Opening Night - CSO + Marin Alsop, conductor / Bruce Liu, piano

The Chicago Symphony Orchestra begins its 89th summer season at the Ravinia Festival under the dynamic leadership of Chief Conductor Marin Alsop. The opening-night program features a captivating lineup of music that blends contemporary brilliance with timeless masterworks, starting with Amen, a powerful and evocative work by American composer and Grammy nominee Carlos Simon. Inspired by the rich traditions of Black gospel music, Amen vividly captures the youthful energy and spiritual fervor of a Pentecostal church service, layering rhythmic vitality with lush harmonies to create an uplifting and deeply expressive experience.

Following this stirring opening, acclaimed pianist Bruce Liu—praised by Le Monde for his “magician’s fingers and soul of integrity”—takes the stage for his anticipated Ravinia and CSO debut. Liu offers his virtuosic interpretation of Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, a dazzling set of variations that explores the full spectrum of pianistic expression, from playful wit to thunderous intensity. The piece’s famous 18th variation, with its soaring, lyrical melody, stands among Rachmaninoff’s most beloved musical moments.

The evening reaches its climax with the mystic vigor of Igor Stravinsky’s revolutionary 1913 ballet score The Rite of Spring. With its bold harmonies, driving rhythms, and primitive energy, this work caused a riot at its Paris premiere and forever changed the course of music history.

July 13, 2025

6pm: Sutton Foster & Kelli O’Hara - CSO + Marin Alsop, conductor

Two of Broadway’s most celebrated stars, Tony Award winners Sutton Foster and Kelli O’Hara, join Chief Conductor Marin Alsop and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra for a spectacular evening of music and storytelling.

Making her CSO and Ravinia debut, Sutton Foster brings her signature charisma, impeccable comedic timing, and powerhouse vocals to the stage. A two-time Tony Award winner, she has dazzled audiences with her unforgettable performances as Reno Sweeney in Anything Goes and Millie Dillmount in Thoroughly Modern Millie.

Kelli O’Hara, celebrated for her luminous soprano, has enchanted audiences in some of musical theater’s most iconic roles. Her Tony-winning portrayal of Anna Leonowens in The King and I and her breathtaking performance in The Light in the Piazza have solidified her status as one of Broadway’s most beloved leading ladies.

Together, Foster and O’Hara offer an evening of songs that inspired them and proved their mettle as two of musical theater’s greatest performers.

July 15, 2025

7:30 pm: Juanes

Since releasing Fíjate Bien in 2000, Colombian musician Juanes—born Juan Esteban Aristizábal Vásquez—has become one of the best-selling Latin music artists of all time, winning 26 Latin Grammy Awards and selling over 15 million records worldwide.

Blending rock with folkloric Latin American rhythms and thoughtful lyrics, Juanes has delivered hit after hit, including “Es Por Ti,” “La Camisa Negra,” and “A Dios Le Pido.” Dubbed “a soulful poet with an electric guitar” (New York Times), his global appeal has solidified his status as one of the most influential Latin artists of the 21st century. After exploring a broader range of contemporary sounds, his 2023 album Vida Cotidiana marked a return to his guitar-driven roots, with Rolling Stone calling it “his best, most soulful album yet.”

This summer, Juanes makes his Ravinia Festival debut, bringing songs from his critically acclaimed new album as well as hits from throughout his career. Join us at Ravinia for a night of unforgettable music, where heartfelt storytelling and the rich rhythms of Latin America come together under the stars!

July 20, 2025

5pm: Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony

Chief Conductor Marin Alsop and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra open the program with the world premiere of Rhapsody for Orchestra by acclaimed Syrian-American composer Malek Jandali. Known for his ability to blend Middle Eastern modes and Arabic maqams with Western classical structures, Jandali’s music offers a distinctive fusion of cultural traditions, creating a rich and compelling soundscape.

Violin prodigy Himari then takes center stage in a pair of Spanish-dance violin showpieces. Kreisler’s La Gitana is a lively and evocative showpiece that transports listeners to Spain with its rhythmic energy and virtuosic violin flourishes. Waxman’s Carmen Fantasy is a dazzling and technically demanding work that weaves together the most passionate and dramatic themes from Bizet’s beloved opera.

The evening reaches its thrilling conclusion with the 2025 One Score® feature, Beethoven’s Seventh Symphony. Bursting with rhythmic drive and exuberant energy, this symphony is renowned for its infectious vitality and dance-like momentum. Its second movement has been widely used in film and TV, and the work as a whole represents Beethoven at his most uninhibited and innovative, despite his growing struggles with deafness and declining health.

July 23, 2025

7:30 pm: Beck - CSO + Edwin Outwater, conductor with support from Molly Lewis

“The band got a little bigger since last time,” jokes Beck. The Californian alternative icon and genre-blurring visionary brings his experimental style and symphonic reinvention to Ravinia in his festival debut, performing for the first time alongside the Chicago Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Edwin Outwater. An eight-time Grammy winner, Beck has continually redefined pop music, evolving from the slacker-anthem brilliance of “Loser” to a career that seamlessly fuses rock, folk, hip-hop, and electronic influences.

Beck’s 2025 tour pairs his dynamic artistry with orchestral grandeur, featuring some of his greatest hits, new music, and a special collection of works created in collaboration with his father, composer and arranger David Campbell. In addition to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Beck is joined onstage by longtime collaborators Jason Falkner, Roger Manning, and Joey Waronker.  

A truly visionary conductor, curator, and producer, Edwin Outwater regularly works with the world’s top orchestras and artists, and has toured alongside Beck since 2024. His effortless ability to cross genres has led to collaborations with a wide range of artists, ranging from Metallica to Wynton Marsalis, Renée Fleming, and Yo-Yo Ma. He is, in the words of his mentor Michael Tilson Thomas, “one of the most innovative conductors on the scene today.”

Joining the lineup is the uniquely captivating Molly Lewis, also making her Ravinia debut. Lewis’s mesmerizing whistling artistry has earned her a reputation as a singular talent. With influences spanning exotica, jazz, and film scores, Lewis transforms an often-overlooked skill into an enchanting musical experience.

July 31, 2025

7pm: Lang Lang’s The Disney Book - CSO + Edwin Outwater, conductor

Superstar pianist Lang Lang returns to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra for a captivating evening that celebrates the magical connection between animation and music in The Disney Book. This performance is an ode to the beloved Disney soundtracks that sparked Lang Lang’s early love for classical music, igniting his passion and creativity throughout his life.

Under the baton of Edwin Outwater, the CSO and Lang Lang are joined by an accomplished ensemble of guest soloists, each adding a unique layer of depth to the evening’s performance. Yimiao Chen, making her Ravinia and CSO debuts, brings the expressive sound of the erhu, a traditional Chinese instrument. Plínio Fernandes, also making his CSO debut, showcases the rich tones of the guitar, blending classical techniques with Latin influences. Celeste Morales and Edmond Rodriguez, both alumni of Ravinia’s Steans Institute, apply their considerable vocable talent to the beloved Disney tunes.

August 1, 2025

7:30pm: Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience

CSO + Martin Gellner, conductor

The Symphonic Blues Experience bridges the soul-stirring music of the blues with the vibrant sound of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Accompanying this performance is a multimedia narration by Oscar-winning actor Morgan Freeman, who provides a transformative journey through the music, culture, and legacy of the Mississippi Delta—the birthplace of the blues. Freeman’s captivating voice guides the audience through a rich exploration of the Delta’s profound impact on global music, telling the story of how this unique region shaped not only the blues but also rock, gospel, and other popular genres.

The performance blends the energy of blues music seamlessly with symphonic arrangements performed by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. It will be conducted by Martin Gellner and accompanied by blues artists from Ground Zero Blues Club, one of the top blues clubs in the world, located in the heart of the Mississippi Delta.

August 3, 2025

5pm: Tchaikovsky Spectacular - CSO + Laura Jackson, conductor / Zlatomir Fung, cello

Renowned conductor and 2004 Taki Alsop Fellow Laura Jackson, Music Director of the Reno Philharmonic, returns to lead the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in Ravinia’s 46th annual Tchaikovsky Spectacular.

A masterpiece of sweeping melodies and emotional intensity, Tchaikovsky’s Fourth Symphony takes listeners on a powerful journey through the composer’s struggle with fate and the search for free will. Its dramatic contrasts and stirring themes explore the inner turmoil and eventual triumph of the human soul, making it a deeply moving and personal work.

The program continues with a performance by the extraordinary young cellist Zlatomir Fung, who takes center stage to perform Tchaikovsky’s Rococo Variations. This work, known for its refined elegance and charm, is brought to life through Fung’s impeccable technique and emotional nuance.

Concluding the evening is the electrifying 1812 Overture, one of Tchaikovsky’s most iconic and dramatic compositions. With its exhilarating rhythms, soaring orchestral melodies, and thunderous cannon blasts, the 1812 Overture leaves audiences in a state of awe and celebration.

August 6, 2025

7pm: King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard - with Chicago Philharmonic + Sarah Hicks, conductor and music director

One of the most inventive and versatile rock bands to come out of Australia–possibly the world–King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard brings their wild, exploratory music to Ravinia for the first time this summer!

With a colorful career that spans psych, krautrock, thrash, prog, folk, experimental synth, and jam rock, the “most audacious band in rock” (GQ) rocks a sound that is “explosively ambitious” (NPR). AllMusic’s Tim Sendra claims their album Nonagon Infinity “may be the best psych-metal-jazz-prog album ever!”

With 26 albums to date, 13 of them charting the Top 20 in Australia, KGLW’s experimental style and psychedelic flair has created a fervent worldwide fanbase who share endless memes, mixes, videos, graphics, theories and discussions, all through which they explore and expand what they have termed “The Gizzverse.” The “most interesting and boundless rock band in the world right now” (GQ), KGLW is comprised of Stu Mackenzie (vocals/guitar), Ambrose Kenny-Smith (harmonica/vocals/keyboards), Cook Craig (guitar/vocals), Joey Walker (guitar/vocals), Lucas Harwood (bass) and Michael Cavanagh (drums).

This summer, KGLW will collaborate with conductor Sarah Hicks and the Chicago Philharmonic to perform music from their latest album, Phantom Island. A dynamic and versatile musician, Hicks has worked with artists across genres, including Hilary Hahn, Jennifer Hudson, Dessa, and Sting. She is Principal Conductor of the Minnesota Orchestra’s Live at Orchestra Hall series and an Emmy Award-winning artist whose live concert recordings are featured on Disney+ and ABC.

DJ Crenshaw opens the set with an electrifying mix of beats, blending hip-hop, electronic, and classic funk, setting the tone for an unforgettable entry into the “The Gizzverse.”

August 7, 2025

7:30pm: Earth, Wind & Fire

Since the 1970s, Earth, Wind & Fire has had audiences grooving with the band’s unique fusion of jazz, R&B, and pop. Founded by drummer, bandleader, songwriter, kalimba player, and vocalist Maurice White, EWF combines high-caliber musicianship, wide-ranging musical genre eclecticism, and ’70s multicultural spiritualism.

Speaking on the band’s legacy, White explained, “I wanted to do something that hadn’t been done before. I wanted our music to convey messages of universal love and harmony without force-feeding listeners’ spiritual content.”

Last seen at Ravinia in 2018, EWF will return for an electrifying evening of iconic hits, including “September,” “Let’s Groove,” “Boogie Wonderland,” and “After the Love Has Gone.” With a sound that remains as dynamic and uplifting as ever, the band’s current lineup includes Philip Bailey (vocals, kalimba, conga, percussion), Verdine White (bass, percussion, vocals), and Ralph Johnson (vocals, drums, percussion), alongside a powerhouse ensemble of musicians bringing their legendary catalog to life.

Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2000 and honored with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Earth, Wind & Fire continues to influence generations of artists and fans. Their timeless grooves, rich harmonies, and infectious energy make every performance an unforgettable celebration of music and movement.

August 15, 2025

Cynthia Erivo - CSO + Edwin Outwater, conductor

The “blazing star power” (WTTW News) of Cynthia Erivo—a Grammy, Emmy, and Tony Award-winning actress, singer, and producer—lights up the Ravinia stage for an unforgettable evening of music! Fresh off a triumphant year as Elphaba in Wicked: Part One, Erivo brings her breathtaking vocals, unmatched artistry, and electrifying stage presence to Ravinia, returning after her star turn in the 2021 Ravinia Gala.

Erivo burst onto West End and Broadway stages in The Color Purple and has since taken the world by storm. Erivo most recently starred as Elphaba opposite Ariana Grande’s Glinda in Universal’s record-breaking film adaptation of the hit musical Wicked from director Jon M. Chu, which opened at number one and has since become the highest-grossing movie ever at the domestic box office based on a Broadway musical. Erivo has received widespread critical acclaim and rave reviews for her performance as Elphaba, including Golden Globe, SAG, Critics’ Choice, NAACP, BAFTA, and Academy Award nominations.

In 2021, Erivo was nominated for an Emmy for her critically acclaimed portrayal of Aretha Franklin in National Geographic’s Emmy-winning global anthology series Genius: Aretha. In addition to her illustrious acting career, Erivo is a Grammy-nominated songwriter and performer, often headlining sold-out shows, symphonies, and music spaces, including the Kennedy Center Honors, the 2020 Academy Awards, the 2017 Governor’s Ball, and the 2017 Grammy Awards. Erivo released her debut album, Ch. 1 Vs. 1, in 2021.

August 21, 2025

8pm: Lenny Kravitz

Regarded as one of the preeminent rock musicians of our time, Lenny Kravitz has stylishly transcended genre over the course of a three decade-plus musical career. Reveling in the soul, rock, and funk influences of the sixties and seventies, the writer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist has won four GRAMMY® Awards and sold over 40 million albums worldwide.

Lenny Kravitz was recently honored with the “Music Icon Award” at the 2024 People’s Choice Awards and was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2024. He was additionally recognized by the CFDA with their “Fashion Icon Award” for his role as not only one of rock's most esteemed musicians, but also a major fashion influence.

In 2023, Kravitz debuted the anthemic “Road To Freedom,” a song he wrote, performed, and produced specifically for the much-buzzed-about Netflix film, Rustin. The track, which can be heard HERE, plays over the film’s end title credits. In conjunction with the release of the song, Kravitz secured a Golden Globe nomination for “Best Original Song - Motion Picture”, a Critics Choice Award nomination for “Best Song”, and the Guild of Music Supervisors Award nomination for “Best Song Written and/or Recorded for a Film” for the soul-stirring anthem.

Kravitz returns to Ravinia this summer, performing 90s classics like “It Ain’t Over ‘Til It’s Over” and “Fly Away” as well as hits from his latest album Blue Electric Light.

August 22, 2025

7:30pm: Maren Morris

The Dreamsicle Tour with special guest Miya Folick

Maren Morris has broken boundaries, smashed records, and affirmed herself as a dynamic vocalist, prolific songwriter, and showstopping performer on her own terms. Among numerous accolades, she has garnered a GRAMMY® Award, five ACM Awards, five CMA Awards, and three Billboard Music Awards. She has earned dozens of multi platinum and gold certifications worldwide and tallied billions of streams.

Her catalog encompasses a trio of acclaimed albums, namely Hero (2016), Girl (2019), and Humble Quest (2022). Speaking to her versatility, she’s the rare force of nature equally suited to collaborating with Zedd on the 6x-platinum “The Middle” or duetting with everyone from Taylor Swift, Stevie Nicks, and Sheryl Crow to Teddy Swims, Hozier, and Jessie Murph on tracks.

Morris has sold out tours on multiple continents, gracing hallowed stages in the process. Along the way, she also co-founded The Highwomen with Brandi Carlile, Natalie Hemby, and Amanda Shires. In September 2023, Maren shared The Bridge, an EP featuring "The Tree" and "Get the Hell Out of Here," and followed with a cover of Billy Idol’s classic track “Dancing With Myself” in February 2024.

She entered a bold new era with the release of her Intermission EP in August, which features “cut!” (feat. Julia Michaels) and the MUNA-produced and playful single “push me over”. Making her Ravinia debut, Maren promises to be unapologetically herself – and it shows in this music and in what is next to come.

August 23-24, 2025

7:30pm: John Legend - 20th Anniversary of Get Lifted

Multi-platinum, 12-time Grammy Award-winning artist John Legend brings his signature soul and storytelling to Ravinia for a special night honoring the 20th anniversary of his debut album, Get Lifted.

Since its release in 2004, Get Lifted has cemented its place as a modern R&B classic, introducing the world to Legend’s velvety vocals, timeless melodies, and heartfelt lyricism. Now, two decades later, he’s revisiting the album with a special anniversary edition, featuring 11 bonus tracks, including eight brand-new remixes and rare B-sides.

As part of this landmark celebration, Legend takes the stage to deliver an evening of soulful crooning, melodic introspection, and musical nostalgia, bringing fresh energy to the songs that launched his legendary career. Reflecting on the album’s legacy, Legend shares, “I’m so thrilled to be celebrating 20 years of the album that introduced me to the world. Get Lifted has always meant so much to me and to so many of my fans and supporters. I’m so grateful for the career that this album launched. These last 20 years have taken me far beyond my wildest dreams.”

Legend continues, “Revisiting the original album and some of the unreleased songs from that era has been such a meaningful experience. Reinvigorating the music with fresh remixes and collaborations featuring some of my favorite artists makes this celebration even more special.”

Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime concert experience, as John Legend takes Ravinia audiences on a journey through the music that started it all—a night of nostalgia and soul under the stars.

August 28, 2025

6pm: Rodgers & Hammerstein’s The Sound of Music Sing-Along

Ravinia is alive with The Sound of Music! Pack a picnic basket, warm up your vocal cords, and get ready to sing your heart out with Rodgers & Hammerstein’s beloved classic. Whether you know every word by heart or just love a good musical, this interactive screening is the perfect way to experience one of the most cherished films of all time.

Before the film begins, test your knowledge with movie trivia and learn how to participate throughout the screening during some of the film’s most memorable moments. Then enjoy the movie with your fellow attendees—costumed nuns, Maria look-alikes, and von Trapp children—all singing their hearts out to the classic Rodgers & Hammerstein tunes. Costumes are not obligatory but highly recommended!

Follow Julie Andrews as the free-spirited Maria, who brings music, joy, and a little mischief to the von Trapp family—led by the dashing Christopher Plummer as Captain von Trapp. From the rolling hills of Austria to the grand halls of the von Trapp estate, this unforgettable tale of love, courage, and music has enchanted audiences for generations.

So, how do you solve a problem like Maria? With song, of course! Gather your favorite people to sing about your favorite things, with musical classics like “Do-Re-Mi,” “Edelweiss,” and “Climb Ev’ry Mountain.”

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or introducing the next generation to the magic of The Sound of Music, this is a night of pure joy, nostalgia, and community spirit. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind sing-along experience under the stars!

August 29, 2025

7:30pm: Marvel Studios’ Infinity Saga Concert Experience

Experience the thrill of Marvel Studios in concert as Anthony Parnther leads the Chicago Philharmonic in an epic celebration of the Marvel Cinematic Universe! This film concert takes you on an epic on-screen journey spanning 23 films, bringing the most iconic moments to life with a full symphony orchestra.

Revisit the earliest days of Iron Man, Captain America, and Thor as they forge their heroic destinies, each accompanied by their unforgettable, soaring musical themes. Then, relive the exhilaration as Earth’s mightiest heroes assemble for the first time, paving the way for the next generation of Avengers, including Black Panther, Doctor Strange, and Captain Marvel. Even the Guardians of the Galaxy crash the party, delivering a high-energy taste of their legendary mixtape, backed by the full power of the orchestra. The spectacle culminates in a breathtaking revisiting of the Infinity Saga, bringing the emotional highs and ultimate trials of the MCU to the concert stage like never before.

One of today’s foremost film conductors, Anthony Parnther has led recording sessions for some of the most celebrated film and television scores of our time, collaborating with Oscar, Grammy, and Emmy-winning composers. His extensive credits include the Academy Award-winning score for Oppenheimer, Grammy-winning Encanto, and the soundtracks of The Mandalorian, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Avatar: The Way of Water, Ghostbusters: Afterlife, Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, and more. He is currently in his sixth season as Music Director of California’s San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra

For fans new and old, this once-in-a-lifetime concert experience is the ultimate way to relive the defining moments of the Marvel Cinematic Universe—with the Chicago Philharmonic performing the legendary scores live. It’s time to assemble!

August 30, 2025

7pm: Ray LaMontagne

Trouble 20th Anniversary Tour with special guest The Weather Station

Ray LaMontagne’s vast catalog spans nine full-length records, many chart-topping radio singles, and a Grammy win, in addition to multiple Grammy nominations. This year will prove to be an exciting one for LaMontagne as he heads out on the road celebrating the 20th anniversary of his first full-length album, Trouble, playing the album in its entirety as well as songs from across his catalog.

LaMontagne has written the following personal note about the milestone:

Last September was the 20th anniversary of the release of Trouble. Twenty years. Two decades. That’s a lot of water under the bridge. Every cell in my body has changed three times over in that time. I have been three times reborn.

There are moments in your life when you need to place a marker. Some people think that it is brave, or fearless, to never look back. I don’t believe that. For the simple reason that if you never look back you will never see how far you have come. This year I place a sign post: 20 years of Trouble.

When Trouble was initially released, vinyl was considered a dead format, never to breathe again.

Digital audio was the new king. As we know, this has proved untrue. Each year, more and more music lovers are listening to vinyl and appreciating it for its depth and breadth of sound, for its physical heft, for its tangible realness. Over the past few months Brian Lee and Bob Jackson at Waygate Mastering have remastered the album, for the first time specifically for vinyl. And I have to say, it sounds incredible. They have managed to bring out subtleties in the vocals, the instrumentation, that were somehow lost previously. It sounds as if a sonic veil has been lifted. I cannot thank them enough.

To further honor this moment, I am hitting the road this summer for the Trouble 20th Anniversary Tour, playing the album top to tail for the first time since it was released. I hope you will come out and join me and my friends and help us celebrate this moment in time. It wouldn’t be the same without you.

August 31, 2025

6:30pm: Fiesta Ravinia

La Original Banda El Limón / Grupo Cañaveral / Como La Flor: The Ultimate Selena Tribute / and more!

The ninth annual Fiesta Ravinia is the grand finale of the 2025 Ravinia Festival season, celebrating Mexican culture with a day of family performances and activities throughout the park included in the ticket! Food trucks sell authentic gourmet street bites, and traditional mariachi, dance, and other performance groups pop up at every corner. As the afternoon turns to evening, the music move into the Pavilion for the headline concert.

Setting the standard for regional Mexican music, La Original Banda El Limón has been a defining force since its founding in 1965. As the first Sinaloan band to revolutionize the genre with sound equipment and a dedicated vocalist, they paved the way for modern banda. Their rich history and powerful performances prove why they remain one of the most influential groups in the genre today.  

Bringing the magic of Selena to life on the Carousel Stage, the Como La Flor Band recreates the energy and excitement of the late tejano superstar’s most unforgettable performances. From her final Houston concert to the early hits that made her a legend, this tribute act delivers an authentic, high-energy experience, keeping Selena’s spirit alive with every note.

And among the afternoon performances, the Lake County student orchestra of our Reach Teach Play Sistema Ravinia program—featuring musicians from Waukegan and surrounding communities—gives a concert for the whole park to celebrate the joy of learning and making music.

Don't miss this unforgettable night of cumbia, banda, and tejano hits at Ravinia!

Date:
June 6-Aug 31, 2025

Location:
Ravinia Festival, 201 Ravinia Park Road
Highland Park, IL 60035

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