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The Best Chicago Concerts This Spring

Posted on April 16, 2024   |   Updated on September 30, 2025
Caroline Patton

Caroline Patton

Neil Young plays at Northerly Island

Neil Young returns to Northerly Island this spring. (Paul Natkin / Getty)

Caroline Patton is the founder of Chicago Show Calendar and City Cast's marketing director.

City Cast

How to Do Chi Music Fests Right

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Counting down the seconds until your favorite artists roll into town for summer music festivals? Get ready with shows at smaller venues this spring.

🗓️ Friday

📍 Lincoln Hall in Lincoln Park

Celebrate Minor Moon's new album at the release party celebrating the longtime Chicago artist.

🗓️ Saturday

📍 The Promontory in Hyde Park

Thaddeus Tukes is no newbie to playing live jazz shows in Chicago, but his new musical alter ego VybeKat brings a twist to the genre.

🗓️ April 24

📍 The Empty Bottle in West Town

TsuShiMaMiRe is a harder, faster play on J-pop, aka Japanese pop, with silly lyrics and outrageous stage presence. Plus, you can always count on the Empty Bottle to find new artists.

City Cast

These Are Chicago’s Best Music Venues

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🗓️ April 25

📍 Metro in Wrigleyville

There is no one doing hip-hop music like MIKE. Between alternative beats and real lyrics about real life, his songs hit different.

🗓️ May 1

📍 Sleeping Village in Avondale

Claire Rousay is one of the best up-and-coming talents that experimental pop has right now. Pre-game at Sleeping Village's outdoor patio!

🗓️ May 12

📍 Smartbar in Wrigleyville

This queer dance party’s dedication to preserving the true Chicago house music experience is unmatched. At the anniversary show this spring, you’ll see legends like DJ Derrick Carter and drag queen Kahmora Hall.

🗓️ May 15

📍 Fitzgerald’s in Berwyn

The west suburban venue is known for giving on-the-rise artists a place to refine their craft. That’s why you’re not going to want to miss seeing Zach Person, a modern blues rocker who takes the genre to a whole new level.

🗓️ May 17

📍 Ramova Theatre in Bridgeport

Since reopening in late 2023, the South Side venue backed by Jennifer Hudson and Chance the Rapper has not disappointed in its eclectic lineup. The Budos Band is no exception to this roster.

City Cast

Bring Chicago Home Ad Blitz, ShotSpotter Updates, and New COVID Guidelines

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🗓️ May 23

📍Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island

What better way to kick off the beginning of summer than with the outdoor amphitheater’s first show of the season! Neil Young doesn't need to be introduced, but it’s always worth it to see the legends live!

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