Anthems of the red, white, and blue are not the only ballads that are going to be rocking downtown Chicago this holiday weekend as the Grateful Dead will make their final appearance at Soldier Field for three more performances. To celebrate the 50th anniversary of one of the greatest bands of the last half a century, the Field Museum of Chicago is hosting several events honoring these rock ‘n’ roll legends.
“All the Years Combine: Deadhead Treasures from the Grateful Dead Archive,” will be an exhibition of Grateful Dead memorabilia detailing material from every part of their illustrious career in the music industry. The exhibit will also document the unique bond between the band and their immense group of loyal followers with correspondences, newsletters, drawings, tickets, backstage passes, and ticket requests.
On the second of the three days that the Grateful Dead will be performing, Jazz and Colors: Wave that Flag will feature 10 local jazz ensembles covering the extensive Grateful Dead songbook. On Saturday July 4th, Deadheads and casual fans alike will have the chance to explore the “All the Years Combine” exhibit to the ambiance of the cover bands. The performers will go on between 12:30 p.m. – 3 p.m. leading up to the main show at Soldier Field later that night.
The Field Museum is also putting on the 50th Anniversary Party, which will be a 21 and over ticketed event on the southeast terrace of the museum. This will be the closest spot possible to the actual show in Soldier Field for those wanting to hear the show from close proximity while enjoying food, drinks, music, and celebrating the Grateful Dead’s landmark 50 years in music.
For those wanting an exclusive party to preface the actual show, Putting the Band Back Together: Dead Style, will be a VIP pre-show celebration starting five hours before each show in Soldier Field. Featuring craft beer selections from Two Brothers Brewery, Coppola wines and food, this event will include a $12 food voucher and the beer and wine is covered in the cost of a ticket. Tribute band Uncle John’s Band will be performing and singer songwriter David Gans is expected to make an appearance as well.
For more information on the Field Museum and the “All the Years Combine” exhibit, visit fieldmuseum.org/at-the-field/programs/everything-dead-field-museum. For ticketing and other information for the 50th Anniversary Party visit eventbrite.com/e/everything-is-dead-50th-anniversary-party-tickets-16766941373. Finally, for more information on the Putting the Band Back Together VIP party, go to eventbrite.com/e/putting-the-band-back-togetherdead-style-tickets-17210581312.
