A Guide to Jammin’ at the Windy City LakeShake Festival

It’s Time to Shake it Up. Country Style.

The Windy City LakeShake Festival is one of the most popular country music celebrations in the Midwest, and this year’s lineup is better than ever. If you’re ready to get your country on this weekend at the 3-day fest, here are some tips to do it right.

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Photo Credit: The Northwest Indiana Times

Where It’s At

It doesn’t get much better than music by the lake on a hot summer day. Head on over to FirstMerit Bank Pavilion at beautiful Northerly Island across from the Museum Campus. Shuttles are provided for attendees in need of special assistance.

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Entry Rules

LakeShake is an all ages fest, so bring the family along! Festival leave and re-entry is allowed up to twice daily. If you need a safe space for your belongings, locker rentals are available. Blankets, pocket-sized cameras, mini coolers, bug spray and sunscreen are some safe items to bring. We know you’re a superstar, but leave the instruments and hula hoops at home please.

What to Wear

Expect prime festival weather this weekend, with sunny and clear skies and temps ranging from the high 70’s to high 80’s. Shorts, tanks, t-shirts, and sundresses should be perfectly comfortable, and closed-toe shoes are recommended for safety. Rock your favorite cowboy hat to get in the spirit and stay in the shade.

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Photo Credit: Whiskey Riff

What to Do

There’s a ton to do if you want to leave your spot at the stage in between sets. Take a ride on the massive carnival swing and catch views of the city, or stop by the Blackhawks sports bar and lounge for games and merch. Grab a cold one from the Bud Light beer garden or get some temporary tats from Henna Envy. You can even cruise around on an RV, in true country fashion.

Where to Stay

Not from around here? Partnered hotels such as the Hilton on Michigan Ave, The Palmer House Hilton, the Congress Plaza Hotel, and the Best Western Grant Park are your closest options, conveniently located in the Loop and within walking distance of the shoreline. Check availability soon before rooms fill up!

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Lineup

Friday, June 17

Main Stage: Jana Kramer, Granger Smith feat. Earl Dibbles Jr., Kacey Musgraves, Sam Hunt, Lady Antebellum

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Next from Nashville Stage: Jameson Rodgers, Royal Bliss, Aubrie Sellers, Lanco, Mo Pitney, Aaron Lewis

Saturday, June 18

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Main Stage: Haley Georgia, Charlie Worsham, Jon Pardi, Martina McBride, Brooks & Dunn, Tim McGraw

Next from Nashville Stage: Walker McGuire, Ryan Hurd, Kelleigh Bannen, Jon Langston, Brett Young

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Sunday, June 19

Main Stage: A Thousand Horses, Chris Janson, Travis Tritt, Thomas Rhett, Brooks & Dunn, Jason Aldean

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Next from Nashville Stage: Seth Ennis, Runaway June, Clare Dunn, Brooke Eden, Tara Thompson, William Michael Morgan

Are you pumped for LakeShake? Tell us about it below!

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