The Lakeside Pavilion Free Outdoor Summer Series returns to the McAninch Arts Center this July and August, bringing live music back to the lawn!

Now presented on Wednesday and Thursday evenings, the 2026 series features an exciting mix of American artists, jazz favorites, symphonic pops, Broadway hits and high-energy tribute bands in celebration of the MAC’s 40th anniversary and America’s 250th. All concerts are free and take place outdoors at 7:30 p.m., with a grand finale 40th Anniversary Festival on Sunday, Aug. 23. Bring a lawn chair, gather your friends and enjoy summer nights filled with music under the open sky.

Entry

  • All Lakeside Pavilion concerts are free.  
  • Audiences are encouraged to bring a nonperishable food item to benefit the Glen House Food Pantry and College of DuPage Fuel Pantry. 
  • The Pavilion opens 90 minutes before the event start time. To keep things fair for everyone, reserving space with unattended chairs, blankets or bags is not permitted. 
  • No pets

Seating & Space 

  • Please bring your favorite lawn chair or low-back seat. We want you to be comfortable throughout the concert. 
  • We ask that guests share the lawn generously. Please limit ground coverings to a small personal blanket (no larger than 4×4 ft). Tables, umbrellas and grills are not allowed. 

Food & Beverage 

  • Food vendors: Heavenly Hotdogs, 302 WHEATON, Mamie’s Toffee and Treats, Santa Fe
  • Our food and beverage vendors have you covered! Please leave the coolers and wagons at home. 
  • Outside alcohol is not permitted. 

Weather 

  • Events are scheduled to take place outdoors. In the case of excessive heat or inclement weather, concerts will be moved indoors to the Belushi Performance Hall and notice will be posted on the MAC website and social media platforms. 
  • In the case of concerts moving indoors, seating will be limited to the capacity of the Belushi Performance Hall. FREE tickets will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis beginning at 5p in front of the MAC building. A limit of two (2) tickets per person will be given away.

Wednesday, July 8 | 7:30p

  Chicago Brass Band Bold and dynamic brass performances that fuse classical tradition with modern energy and vibrant musical expression.  Part of the WDCB Jazz Series....

Thursday, July 9 | 7:30p

New Philharmonic Concert Under the direction of Maestro Kirk Muspratt, enjoy an inspiring evening of orchestral music.....

Wednesday, July 22 | 7:30p

  The Battle: Eric Alexander & Vincent Herring An unforgettable night of world-class jazz and masterful improvisation. Part of the WDCB Jazz Series....

Thursday, July 23 | 7:30p

The Barricade Boys Enjoy an exciting evening of Broadway favorites by The Barricade Boys, with powerhouse vocals and big energy.....

Thursday, July 30 | 7:30p 

  Uptown Soul Smooth vocals and irresistible grooves inspired by classic soul and R&B for a feel-good summer night.....

Thursday, Aug 6 | 7:30p

  Rhinestone Cowgirls A dazzling tribute to the women of country music, featuring iconic hits and high-energy performances.....

Sunday, Aug 23 | 12 - 5p

40th Anniversary Festival Fun for the entire family! Music, art, food, face-painting, and fun. Featuring live music by Sixteen Candles.....
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