Upcoming Concerts in Chicago 2025: Your Guide to the City’s Best Live Music Events

Chicago is turning up the volume in 2025 with an incredible lineup of concerts across every genre. From pop powerhouses to indie legends and country stars, there’s a live show for every music lover. Here’s your ultimate guide to the biggest and best upcoming concerts happening all over the city.

Top Concerts in Chicago – Headliners to Watch

Chicago is set to host some of the most iconic names in music in 2025. From global pop royalty to chart-dominating K-pop, these major headliners are turning the Windy City into the center of the live music universe. Here’s a closer look at the must-see arena and stadium shows coming your way:

Beyoncé – United Center – May 2025

Beyoncé returns to Chicago with her genre-bending Cowboy Carter Tour, a bold fusion of country, R&B, and pop. The United Center will host two unforgettable nights of jaw-dropping vocals, cinematic visuals, and stage design that feels like a Western-meets-futurism fever dream. This isn’t just a concert—it’s an evolution of the Queen herself. With a setlist likely to include new tracks and timeless anthems, fans should expect everything from twang to trap—and a full arena singing along to every note.

Lady Gaga – Wrigley Field – August 2025

The Mayhem Ball Tour brings Lady Gaga’s theatrical brilliance to the heart of Chicago at Wrigley Field. Known for blending pop spectacle with avant-garde art, Gaga’s latest tour promises a stunning visual narrative, multi-act structure, and her signature flair for the dramatic. This open-air summer show is expected to include hits from all eras, plus new material from her upcoming album. Get ready for costume changes, wild choreography, and moments that blur the line between concert and performance art.

BLACKPINK – Soldier Field – July 2025

The global K-pop powerhouse BLACKPINK is hitting Soldier Field as part of their explosive Stadium World Tour. Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa will deliver a tightly choreographed, high-octane show packed with chart-toppers, solo stages, and visually stunning production. Known for their unmatched stage presence and loyal fanbase, this performance promises synchronized LED bracelets, multi-language fan chants, and jaw-dropping effects that rival anything in the West. If you’re a BLINK—or even just K-pop curious—this show will be a Chicago highlight of the year.

These three performances are more than just concerts—they’re full-scale cultural events. Be sure to grab your tickets early, because Chicago’s biggest nights of music in 2025 are already on everyone’s radar.

Upcoming Indie, Rock & Alternative Shows

Chicago’s indie and alternative scene is thriving in 2025, offering fans everything from intimate theatre gigs to arena-sized nostalgia bombs. Whether you’re into dreamy vocals, post-punk powerhouses, or throwback favorites, these upcoming shows are not to be missed:

Japanese Breakfast – Riviera Theatre – March 2025

Michelle Zauner, the creative force behind Japanese Breakfast, brings her dreamy, genre-defying sound to the Riviera Theatre this March. Known for her emotional storytelling, lush arrangements, and ethereal stage presence, she’ll be performing fan favorites like “Be Sweet” alongside newer material. With immersive lighting and visuals that complement her sonic style, this show promises an intimate experience perfect for indie lovers craving depth and atmosphere.

Paramore – Wintrust Arena – July 19, 2025

Paramore returns to Chicago with their explosive energy, alt-pop anthems, and Hayley Williams’ electrifying vocals leading the charge. Their 2025 set will include hits spanning from “Misery Business” to “This Is Why,” along with surprises from their evolving sound. Expect a high-octane performance filled with fan singalongs, fierce visuals, and the kind of emotional release only Paramore can deliver. Wintrust Arena’s modern setup will amplify every beat.

Queens of the Stone Age – Aragon Ballroom – March 22, 2025

Get ready for a gritty, guitar-fueled night as Queens of the Stone Age storm the Aragon Ballroom. Josh Homme and crew are known for tight musicianship, hypnotic grooves, and a commanding stage presence. This show will likely feature heavy-hitters like “No One Knows” and “Go With the Flow,” plus deep cuts for longtime fans. The Aragon’s ornate vibe and thundering acoustics make it a perfect match for QOTSA’s intense sound.

Death Cab for Cutie & The Postal Service – United Center – September 5, 2025

Two iconic indie outfits—Death Cab for Cutie and The Postal Service—join forces for a rare, co-headlining evening at the United Center. With Ben Gibbard at the helm of both bands, fans can expect a deeply emotional night weaving between the melancholic beauty of Death Cab and the electro-tinged nostalgia of The Postal Service. This is a dream bill for millennials and Gen Z alike—and a celebration of a generation’s soundtrack.

Pop, R&B & Hip-Hop Concerts in 2025

Chicago’s 2025 concert calendar is bursting with powerhouse pop vocalists, soulful R&B stars, and genre-blurring icons. Whether you’re after soaring choruses, intimate storytelling, or stadium-sized spectacles, these upcoming shows will satisfy every playlist craving:

Sabrina Carpenter – Radius – May 2025

Sabrina Carpenter is riding the wave of her chart-topping success straight to Chicago’s Radius venue this May. Fresh off viral hits like “Espresso” and “Feather,” the pop starlet’s live show blends bubblegum hooks with sharp lyrics and a cheeky stage presence that’s undeniably Gen Z. With intimate production and high-gloss choreography, this is the show where rising pop energy meets full-blown star power. Expect a crowd ready to sing every word—loudly.

The Weeknd – Soldier Field – September 2025

The Weeknd returns to Chicago for a colossal stop on his global tour at Soldier Field this fall. With a career-spanning setlist that could stretch from “Wicked Games” to “Blinding Lights” and beyond, fans can expect a darkly cinematic experience filled with lasers, surreal visuals, and Abel Tesfaye’s unmistakable falsetto. Soldier Field’s open-air setting sets the stage for a moody, unforgettable night under the stars. For fans of modern pop and R&B spectacle, this is an unmissable event.

SZA – Allstate Arena – March 2025

SZA brings her genre-defying, emotionally rich live show to the Allstate Arena this March. Known for her vulnerability, poetic lyrics, and mesmerizing voice, she’ll be performing favorites from Ctrl and SOS along with potential new material. The vibe? Deep, dreamy, and full of moments where the crowd collectively gasps, sways, and sings their heartbreaks away. If you’re after a concert with soul, depth, and style, SZA’s set will hit every note.

EDM & Electronic Events

Chicago’s dance floors will be pulsing in 2025 as some of the biggest names in EDM and electronic music hit the city. From intimate venues like Radius to large-scale arena shows, these performances will keep the beats flowing and the bass booming all year long.

Zedd – Radius – March 2025

Zedd kicks off the spring with a high-octane night at Radius. Known for hits like “Clarity” and “Stay,” Zedd’s shows are a blast of energy, color, and perfectly timed drops. Expect dazzling visuals, seamless mixing, and a packed house moving in sync to one of EDM’s most mainstream masterminds.

Deadmau5 – Radius – May 3, 2025

The legendary Deadmau5 returns with his signature mouse-helmeted mystique for a night of pulsating techno, house, and progressive electronica. Performing at Radius, this show will lean more underground than commercial, with glitchy rhythms, haunting melodies, and a lighting rig that practically tells its own story. It’s not just music—it’s a sonic journey.

Above & Beyond – Huntington Bank Pavilion – July 19, 2025

Above & Beyond brings their transcendent brand of emotional trance to Huntington Bank Pavilion this summer. Their outdoor set promises to be both euphoric and intimate—filled with singalong choruses, group hugs, and the kind of melodic catharsis that only A&B can deliver. Expect sunset vibes and hands in the air all night long.

Illenium – United Center – October 4, 2025

Illenium will turn the United Center into an emotional rollercoaster of soaring drops and cinematic builds. Known for blending dubstep grit with heartfelt vocals, this show promises stunning production, immersive visuals, and a community vibe that’s as emotional as it is electric. Bring tissues and glowsticks—you’ll need both.

Porter Robinson – Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom – May 23, 2025

Porter Robinson returns to Chicago with a beautifully curated live show at the Aragon Ballroom. His fusion of electro-pop, anime-inspired aesthetics, and soul-stirring lyrics creates a wholly immersive experience. This isn’t a DJ set—it’s an artistic performance, layered with vocals, visuals, and vibes that stick with you long after the lights come up.

REZZ – Radius – April 18, 2025

If you’re into hypnotic bass, dark visuals, and otherworldly stage presence, REZZ is your must-see act. Her Radius performance will bring her signature glitchy mid-tempo sound to the heart of the city, paired with swirling strobes and eerie aesthetics. It’s edgy, heavy, and unlike anything else on the circuit.

Country & Americana Tours Coming to Chicago

Whether you’re into gritty outlaw ballads, modern country-pop hits, or soulful Americana storytelling, Chicago’s 2025 country concert lineup brings the heartland straight to the city. From stadium stages to historic ballrooms, these artists are ready to fire up crowds and stir emotions.

Chris Stapleton – Wrigley Field – June 2025

Chris Stapleton returns to Chicago with a headlining show at Wrigley Field, bringing his signature blend of Southern soul, bluesy grit, and powerhouse vocals to one of the city’s most iconic venues. With hits like “Tennessee Whiskey” and “Broken Halos,” his live set balances heartfelt ballads with rowdy anthems. Expect a night that’s as raw and real as country gets—backed by a tight band and a stadium full of devoted fans.

Luke Combs – Soldier Field – May 10, 2025

Luke Combs is set to bring his stadium-sized charisma to Soldier Field this spring. Known for his gravel-rich voice and relatable, beer-soaked lyrics, Combs draws massive crowds for a reason. His 2025 tour is packed with fan favorites like “Hurricane” and “Forever After All,” and promises a high-energy show with moments that feel both massive and personal. Grab your boots—this one’s going to be big.

Lainey Wilson – Aragon Ballroom – April 25, 2025

Lainey Wilson is riding high on critical acclaim and award wins, and her stop at the Aragon Ballroom offers fans a more intimate chance to see a country star on the rise. With her bell-bottom style and heartfelt storytelling, Wilson’s set blends traditional country vibes with modern swagger. Expect hits like “Heart Like a Truck” alongside newer cuts that showcase her range and charm.

Jelly Roll – Allstate Arena – May 2, 2025

Jelly Roll brings his genre-blending sound—a mix of country, rock, and hip-hop—to Allstate Arena for one of the most unexpected and emotionally honest shows on the country calendar. His songs are raw, reflective, and deeply personal, making for a concert experience that’s equal parts raucous and redemptive. Fans can expect big vocals, big emotion, and a whole lot of heart.

Chicago Music Festivals in 2025

Few cities party like Chicago in the summer, and 2025 is already stacking up to be a banner year for music festivals. From all-genre giants to alt-rock blowouts and electronic playgrounds, these annual events are more than concerts—they’re cultural moments that bring fans from all over the world into the heart of the city.

Lollapalooza – Grant Park – August 2025

Lollapalooza is Chicago’s crown jewel of festivals, transforming Grant Park into a four-day celebration of music, fashion, food, and community. With eight stages, 170+ artists, and a genre mix from pop to punk to EDM, it’s the ultimate melting pot of sound and style. Expect massive headliners, breakout acts, and an unbeatable skyline backdrop. Whether you’re front-row or lounging on the lawn, Lolla is a rite of summer.

Riot Fest – Douglass Park – September 2025

For those who like their music loud, nostalgic, and a little rebellious, Riot Fest brings the punk, emo, alt-rock, and metal heat every fall. Hosted in Douglass Park, Riot Fest is known for jaw-dropping reunions, full-album sets, and one of the most devoted fanbases in the game. From My Chemical Romance to Nine Inch Nails in past years, 2025 promises another stacked lineup of crowd-surf-worthy chaos.

North Coast Music Festival – SeatGeek Stadium – Labor Day Weekend 2025

North Coast is Chicago’s homegrown answer to the electronic festival scene—perfectly timed for Labor Day Weekend. Held at SeatGeek Stadium, it features top-tier EDM, house, and hip-hop acts alongside stunning stage production, interactive art, and late-night after-parties. If you’re into lasers, bass drops, and dancing till your feet beg for mercy, North Coast is your end-of-summer escape.

Best Venues in Chicago for Live Music

From historic halls to stadium-sized spectacles, Chicago is blessed with an incredible variety of live music venues that match every vibe and genre. Whether you’re catching a rock legend, a rising indie act, or a pop megastar, these are the spots where unforgettable nights begin:

United Center

As Chicago’s largest indoor arena, the United Center hosts arena tours from the world’s biggest artists—think Beyoncé, The Weeknd, and Coldplay. With state-of-the-art sound, giant screens, and seating for over 20,000, it delivers the epic, high-production experience fans expect from blockbuster acts.

Aragon Ballroom

Known for its ornate Spanish-style architecture and grand ballroom vibe, the Aragon Ballroom is a mid-sized venue with massive character. Perfect for rock, EDM, and alternative acts, it’s hosted everyone from Arctic Monkeys to REZZ. The sound is loud, the lights are dazzling, and the energy? Always electric.

Riviera Theatre

Just up the street from the Aragon, the Riviera Theatre offers a more intimate experience while still drawing major indie and alt artists. The standing-room setup puts fans up close, and its old-school charm makes even modern acts feel timeless.

Metro

For a true Chicago institution, look no further than the Metro. This legendary Wrigleyville venue has helped launch careers—from Smashing Pumpkins to Chance the Rapper—and remains a go-to for discovering next-gen talent. It’s gritty, loud, and loaded with local pride.

House of Blues

Located downtown in Marina City, the House of Blues blends southern charm with modern acoustics. It’s a favorite for soul, blues, hip-hop, and smaller pop acts, with multiple levels and a cozy vibe that feels both upscale and personal.

Radius

One of Chicago’s newer additions, Radius in the Pilsen neighborhood is a sleek, industrial-style venue perfect for EDM, hip-hop, and alt rock. With customizable space and next-level production capabilities, it’s quickly become a favorite for both artists and fans looking for a club-meets-concert vibe.

Chicago Theatre

The iconic Chicago Theatre is as much about the ambiance as the music. With its glowing marquee and lavish interior, it’s perfect for theatrical performances, solo acts, and acoustic sets. Everyone from Adele to Bob Dylan has played here—and the magic still lives on.

Soldier Field

When artists want to go big—really big—they head to Soldier Field. This massive lakefront stadium has hosted U2, Taylor Swift, and BLACKPINK, and offers unmatched views of both the stage and the city skyline. It’s a bucket-list venue for fans and performers alike.

Huntington Bank Pavilion

Situated on Northerly Island with stunning views of Lake Michigan, the Huntington Bank Pavilion is ideal for summer shows. The open-air setup creates a festival-like feel, and its seasonal calendar is packed with rock, EDM, and pop favorites looking to close out a night with a waterfront breeze.

How to Get Concert Tickets

Scoring tickets to your favorite concert in Chicago doesn’t have to be a hassle—if you know where (and when) to look. Whether you’re buying early or hunting down a last-minute seat, here’s how to land the best spots without falling for the fakes.

Official Platforms

Start with the source. Most concerts at major venues like the United Center, Soldier Field, or Chicago Theatre will release tickets via Ticketmaster or Live Nation. Some artists and tours may sell directly through their own official websites or dedicated venue pages. Buying here means verified seats and refund policies you can actually rely on.

Resale Sites

Can’t find face-value tickets? Don’t panic—turn to trusted resale platforms like StubHub, SeatGeek, and Vivid Seats. These sites offer buyer guarantees and transparency about seat location and pricing. Prices can spike close to the event, but you might also score a deal at the last minute when sellers slash prices to offload tickets.

Presale Tips & Scam Avoidance

• Presales: Join artist fan clubs, subscribe to venue newsletters, or check your credit card benefits (like Amex or Citi Entertainment) for early access codes. Presales often offer better seats at lower prices before the general public can buy.
• Scam Red Flags: Avoid random social media sellers and sketchy third-party sites. If it’s not HTTPS secure or looks off-brand, back away. And never, ever pay with wire transfers, gift cards, or apps like Venmo or Zelle for ticket purchases from strangers—you’ll have zero protection if things go sideways.

Best advice? Act fast when tickets drop, use official channels whenever possible, and if you’re buying resale, stick with platforms that have your back. That way, the only thing you’ll be sweating is how fast you can get to your seat once the lights go down.

Concert Tips for Chicago Visitors

Planning a concert trip to the Windy City? Smart move—Chicago’s music scene is unmatched. But with its sprawling layout, unpredictable weather, and buzzing venues, it pays to know a few local tricks. Here’s how to make your night out (or weekend-long fest) smooth, fun, and frustration-free.

Getting Around: CTA, Rideshare & Parking

Skip the car if you can. Chicago’s CTA system (trains and buses) is your best friend for concert nights. The Red Line gets you near Wrigley Field, Aragon, Riviera, and House of Blues. The Blue Line connects to the United Center and downtown. Download the Ventra app and grab a pass—it’s way cheaper than parking.

If you’re using rideshare (Uber, Lyft), expect surge pricing and delays near big venues. Pro tip: walk a few blocks away from the venue after the show before calling your ride. You’ll skip the gridlock and get picked up faster.

Driving? Reserve parking ahead with apps like SpotHero or ParkWhiz, especially for spots near United Center, Soldier Field, or Chicago Theatre. Last-minute parking in the city can be brutal—and pricey.

Where to Stay and Eat Near Major Venues

For downtown venues like Chicago Theatre, House of Blues, or Radius, stay in River North or the Loop for quick access to both shows and iconic eats. Grab deep-dish at Lou Malnati’s or hit up RPM Italian for something swankier.

Heading to Wrigleyville for the Aragon, Metro, or Wrigley Field shows? Check out boutique hotels like Hotel Zachary. Pre-show bites and beers are easy—hit up Smoke Daddy or Big Star.

For United Center shows, staying west of the Loop gives you easier access. Eat before you go—West Loop spots like Girl & the Goat or Green Street Smoked Meats are ideal for pre-concert fuel.

Weather Prep (Especially for Festivals)

Chicago’s weather? Let’s just say she’s moody. In spring and fall, bring layers. For outdoor shows and summer festivals like Lollapalooza or North Coast, pack sunscreen, a light poncho, and comfy shoes. It might be blazing at noon and storming by 5—be ready for both.

Also: stay hydrated (most venues allow sealed water bottles or have refill stations), and don’t forget to charge your phone fully before heading out—it’ll be your ticket, your map, and your flashlight all in one.

With a little planning and a lot of excitement, you’ll be dancing through the city like a local in no time. See you in the crowd!