Looking for summer fun at no price? The McAninch Arts Center (MAC) will host a variety of free outdoor concerts at the Lakeside Pavilion on College of DuPage’s (COD) campus. This series of concerts will take place on Wednesday and Thursday evenings throughout July and August, each beginning at 7:30 p.m.
Diana Martinez, director of the McAninch Arts Center (MAC), said audiences should get excited about the series’ lineup.
“We think this is going to be a spectacular lineup of entertainment to kick off the McAninch Arts Center’s 40th anniversary season. These are high-quality touring productions that go far beyond the typical festival act. Audiences can expect polished, professional performances featuring nationally and internationally recognized artists in a beautiful outdoor setting right here in DuPage County,” Martinez said.
In the age of full-paycheck concert tickets, this offers audiences an opportunity to enjoy live music for free. The eight concerts include a variety of talented acts spanning different genres, such as classic jazz, riveting showtunes, catchy pop and exciting tribute acts:
- Chicago Brass Band on Wednesday, July 8
- The New Philharmonic Orchestra on Thursday, July 9
- CJ Chenier & The Red Hot Louisiana Band on Wednesday, July 15
- Electric Avenue: The 80s MTV Experience on Thursday, July 16
- Eric Alexander & Vincent Herring on Wednesday, July 22
- The Barricade Boys on Thursday, July 23
- Uptown Soul on Thursday, July 30
- Rhinestone Cowgirls on Thursday, Aug. 6
After the eight initial concerts, the Summer Series will conclude on Aug. 23 with a festival celebrating the 40th anniversary of the MAC from noon to 5 p.m. The festival will serve as the ultimate reunion and mingling opportunity for current and former students, patrons and employees to commemorate 40 years of the MAC. Keeping in theme with the series, the festival is also completely free.
The 40th anniversary festival will feature live music from the ‘80s throwback band Sixteen Candles, food from local vendors and arts and crafts for all ages. Current MAC students will also be highlighted, performing Broadway musical and dance numbers for the crowds.
Employees and alumni of the MAC can request VIP parking for the event by calling the box office.
Local restaurants and food vendors, including Heavenly Hotdogs, 302 Wheaton, Santa Fe Mexican Restaurant and Mamie’s Toffee and Treats, will provide food and beverages available for purchase at each of the summer concerts.
Each concert also acts as an opportunity for the community to give back to those in need. Attendees are encouraged to bring nonperishable food items, which Glen House Food Pantry and College of DuPage Fuel Pantry will collect.
The pavilion opens 90 minutes before showtime. Guests are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and small blankets for a comfortable concert experience, although blankets should be no longer than 4-by-4 feet.
Guests with lawn chairs may sit in the area directly in front of the stage, while guests who wish to picnic on the grass can spread out on the lawn. This will allow the maximum number of people to enjoy the music within the pavilion.
Guests may not reserve spaces on the lawn ahead of time. Spots can only be obtained on a first-come, first-served basis. Pets, wagons, tables and coolers are also not allowed.
All concerts take place outside. In the event of inclement weather, concerts will be moved inside to the Belushi Performance Hall. If this happens, seating will be limited and will be restricted to two tickets per party starting at 5 p.m.
Whether you are planning a lively date night, a fun family outing or just looking to relax with live music under the summer sky, the Summer Series will surely lighten up your evening, entirely free of charge.
Follow the McAninch Arts Center (MAC) on Instagram and Facebook or visit the website to keep track of any updates. If you have any questions, call the McAninch Arts Center (MAC) box office at (630) 942-4000 or email [email protected].
