This is a guide to the Grateful Dead shows. If you’re looking for a recap, check out this article.
Almost 20 years ago to the day, the Grateful Dead performed their final concert with Jerry Garcia at the helm. The venue? Soldier Field. It’s fitting then that their final shows with the original four surviving members would take them back to the home of the Chicago Bears. It’s also pretty crazy to think that the infamous jam band has been around for 50 years, and with expected crowds of over 70,000 for each night of the shows, it’s sure to be a memorable finale. Here’s what you need to know:
Tickets
Tickets for the July 3-5 shows have been in incredibly high demand. You may be able to still find some on Stubhub, but be prepared to fork over at least $300, if not more.
Stadium Entry
Deadheads can start lining up for General Admission spots as early as 7 am at the southeast corner of the field. There will be bathrooms and vendors in the area. For those with seats, you can access the grounds at 10 am, and vendors will be selling commemorative merchandise.
Can’t Make it?
Don’t worry, you can watch the concert on TV, the web, or listen on the radio. It’s a bit expensive though. There will be Youtube broadcasts for 29.95 each night. TV viewers can purchase live broadcasts through their providers, and SirusXM subscribers can tune into the Grateful Dead channel.
None of those sound appealing? How about checking out a broadcast party? Park West in Lincoln Park will be live streaming the Friday/Saturday shows, while City Winery in West Town is showing all three for $18 a night.
Parking
As for parking/tailgating, many show goers have already purchased parking passes for Soldier Field already, but note that these are on a first come first serve basis for those who haven’t. These lots open at 3 pm. You also can’t park overnight here, so be aware of that.
If you’re looking for a cheaper/overnight option, you can buy & reserve parking online from our garage at 318 S Federal. It’s a bit of a hike, but $25 for 24 hours of parking may be worth the walk. Plus, you can use the lot instead of paying for ridiculously overpriced hotel parking. We’ve got you covered!