Holla at Lolla
Perhaps you’ve heard of a little festival called Lollapalooza? You know, eight stages, 170-plus bands, multiple days of artists you’ve been dying to see? There’s a reason why 400,000 people descend upon Grant Park for this four-day festival, this year from Aug. 2-5. It’s ideal for seeing big names and discovering up-and-comers — in other words, a must-attend for music fans.
Tips for Attending
- At the end of the night, the quickest exits are toward Michigan Avenue at Jackson or Balbo.
- Bring an empty reusable water bottle or a Camelbak and fill it up at the free water stations throughout the day.
- Leave backpacks and bags with multiple pockets back at the hotel — they’re not allowed in.
- Pack sunscreen (but not the kind that comes in an aerosol can — it’s prohibited) and reapply liberally.
Getting There
From Kimpton Hotel Monaco Chicago, it’s about a mile to Grant Park, home of Lollapalooza. This is the best way to go if you’re able, as trying to pull up in a car can be hectic. There’s also parking for bikes if you happen to have two wheels.
Drinking & Dining
Take a break from the festivities with a lunch of mussels and beer at Fisk & Co., or stop by after the show is over at 10 p.m. to relive the highlights over a glass of wine or a hand-crafted cocktail.
What’s in a Name?
First used in 1896, the term “lollapalooza” means an exceptional example of a person, place, or thing. Lollapalooza founder Perry Farrell, frontman for Jane’s Addiction, heard it in a Three Stooges film.