The hottest event of the summer is returning to Chicago this weekend! Lollapalooza is coming back to Grant Park from August 1-4, 2024 and will feature headliners like SZA, The Killers, Blink-182, and more.
Lollapalooza already has so much to offer, but that doesn’t mean the party is confined to Grant Park. There are tons of places around the city with special events and deals for the perfect pre and post-game experience.
Lollapalooza Aftershows
Wednesday kicks off Lollapalooza Afters at Outset on Elston Avenue. For five days, incredible artists like Alison Wonderland, ZEDS DEAD, and Galantis will play at various venues across the city. Afters are a great opportunity for fans who are not able to attend the main festival to see their favorite musicians. Check out the full schedule here.
Hard Rock Cafe
Hard Rock Cafe is hosting its Festival Brunch Party for Lollapalooza attendees on Sunday, August 4, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Guests will be treated to a mouth-watering breakfast buffet, mimosas, and a live DJ set. There will even be an on-site glam team to enhance your festival look with a braid bar, henna artist, aura photographer, and more.
BODEGA TAQUERIA Y TEQUILA
Bodega Taqueria y Tequila will offer an exciting lineup of DJs during the Lollapalooza weekend in both the West Loop and River North locations, as well as drink specials, presented by Bacardi & Owen’s Craft Mixers, on Saturday, August 3 at the West Loop location.
I|O Godfrey
Celebrate Lollapalooza weekend with The Lolla Pop Fizz at I|O Godfrey, a vibrant cocktail crafted with Bombay Sapphire Premier Cru, Martini & Rossi Fiero, Coastal Rosé Spritz, raspberry sorbetto, and a fun pop of Pop Rocks. Available exclusively from August 1 to August 4, this refreshing drink is the perfect way to elevate your festival experience.
Londonhouse Chicago
Enjoy the refreshing Watermelon Red Bull Margarita, crafted with Don Julio Blanco, Watermelon Red Bull, Cointreau, lime juice, and agave nectar. Perfect for the festival weekend, this vibrant cocktail is available exclusively at LondonHouse now through Lollapalooza.
Barrio
Barrio is celebrating Lollapalooza with a special combo featuring their signature Walking Taco and Classico Margarita. For just $5, festival-goers can enjoy the Walking Taco, with ground beef, refried black beans, Fritos chips, onion, cilantro, cotija cheese, and Valentina sauce, and a refreshing Classico Margarita for $15.
Tanta
If you’re looking for more brunch, rooftop dining, or fantastic happy hour ideas Tanta is the place for you! With a globally recognized rooftop boasting some of Chicago’s best views, Tanta is a Peruvian restaurant serving classic dishes such as Cebiches, Tiraditos, and Empanadas along with the country’s signature drink, the Pisco Sour. Enjoy happy hour Monday – Friday from 4-6pm with bites starting at just $7 and drinks starting at $6 or weekend brunch featuring specials like Adobo Braised Short Rib Eggs Benedict, Peruvian-inspired French Toast, and Bottomless Mimosas.
Tzuco
If you’re looking for brunch, authentic Mexican cuisine, or shareable plates, Tzuco is the ultimate spot. From Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytan, Tzuco presents the best of Mexico through Chef Gaytan’s vision. Enjoy a myriad of dishes meant to be shared like the Carne Asada, Queso Fundido, or Barbacoa for dinner or stop by during weekend brunch to enjoy sweet and savory dishes from Chilaquiles to the Tzuco Shakshuka, Lobster Taco, and more! The cocktails stand out on their own as well with classic and seasonal options including the Rose Margarita, Mexican Negroni, or Mole Old Fashioned.
The Smith
Start your Lollapalooza weekend with Martini Hour or brunch at The Smith. During Martini Hour on weekdays from 3 PM to 6 PM, enjoy discounted specialty martinis and bites, including oysters and seafood platters. Try the signature Mac & Cheese and the infamous Smith Burger before heading to the festival. Enjoy Potato Chips with Blue Cheese Fondue, Black Truffle Arancini, and Fries for other light bites. Brunch options include The Smith Eggs Benedict, Shrimp & Grits, and Vanilla Bean French Toast. Brunch cocktails include Bloody Mary, Mimosa, and Sangria Royale.
General Festival Tips
To get the most out of Lollapalooza, festival goers should always keep their health and safety in mind. Here are some quick tips to keep in mind:
- Stay hydrated: While you can’t bring water into the fest, you can bring an empty refillable water bottle to fill at the free water filling stations across the venue. You can also purchase a hydration pack to wear around the fest.
- Use sun protection: Take frequent breaks to sit in the shade. Sunscreen lotion, hats, and sunglasses are your best friend. If you forget your sunscreen, you can purchase some at any Lolla Bodega.
- Look out for others: If you notice that someone around you needs help, check if they’re okay, and alert a staff member if necessary. Check on your friends often, and use the buddy system.
For more summer events in Chicago, check out our Chicago Summer Events Guide 2024.
