(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Ravinia Festival revealed its full 2024 schedule on Thursday. This year’s season boasts performances from over 100 artists, including Jason Isbell, The Roots, Ben Platt and more.
Thursday’s announcement also included details of the annual six-week residency of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Ravinia’s Breaking Barriers festival, which began in 2022 to highlight women in classical music, will see its presence at the venue drop from the three days to two.
Read on for important dates and answers to key questions. Looking for the full Ravinia 2024 schedule? Check it out here.
What are the dates for Ravinia’s 2024 season?
Ravinia’s 2024 season will begin on June 7 and end on Sept. 15.
When will 2024 Ravinia tickets go on sale to the public?
Ravinia’s public ticket sales will begin on April 24.
What’s new for the 2024 Ravinia Festival season?
In addition to first-time Ravinia performers such as Ben Platt, Samara Joy, Violent Femmes, Big Boi, Abel Selaocoe, Gaelic Storm and Meshell Ndegeocello, the festival is also debuting a new experience called the Tree Top Lounge.
The lounge will feature a full-service cocktail bar and two large screens that will be broadcasting each show on the Pavilion stage. Officials said the Tree Top Lounge will be reserved for a $300 per person VIP dining experience on Ravinia’s busiest evenings.
Do I need to reserve seats for Ravinia shows?
As has been the case in years’ past, seats for shows at Ravinia’s main-stage Pavilion will need to be reserved. Other reserved seating options for the festival include spaces on the South Lawn, which are sold for groups of two, four or six people and feature a dedicated screen showing the stage.
General admission spaces will also be available on Ravinia’s North Lawn on a first-come, first-served basis.
Can I get free Metra rides with my 2024 Ravinia tickets?
Fortunately, Ravinia will again partner with Metra to give festival attendees a break on ticket fares. Festival officials said Metra will honor Ravinia tickets as train fares on all Union Pacific North Line trains. Simply show your dated concert tickets for a free ride to and from the Ravinia Park Station on the event date.
As for other transportation options, remote parking will be available in downtown Highland Park. Park-and-Ride buses will be in use only on designated concert days.
Is outside food and beverage still allowed at Ravinia?
Although food and drinks are sold at the venue, Ravinia encourages its patrons to bring chairs, tables, blankets and — per its website — “as much food and beverages as you want, including alcohol” for those who are over the age of 21.
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