Pitchfork Music Festival is one of the most anticipated events in Chicago, and it brings in crowds from all over. This year, Pitchfork 2020 is ahead of the game, with eclectic lineups that feature diehard favorites and newcomers you’ll be glad to discover.
We’ve got all the important deets on this amazing festival, scheduled for July 17 – 19, because we know you want in on the fun.
Where It’s At
The fest takes place every year in the Near West Side at Union Park, propped right in the middle of the triangular intersections of Ashland, Lake, and Ogden. If you’re taking the ‘L’, the Green or Pink Line to Ashland/Lake station is right on the northwest corner of the park. Parking availability is highly unlikely, so biking or taking a Lyft are recommended as well.
Entry Rules
Pitchfork 2020 is an all-ages fest. Make sure you’ve got everything you need from home because there’s absolutely no re-entry into the fest if you choose to leave. Feel free to bring non-professional cameras, backpacks, a sealed bottled water, and lawn chairs. Tents, flags, musical instruments, selfie sticks, and your pets are a big ‘NO.’ Lockers are available for your belongings.
What to Wear
Pitchfork 2020 is a rain-or-shine event, but don’t let a little drizzle get you down; some rain dances during your favorite set are sure to help turn it around for you. Shorts, tank tops, short sleeves, and sundresses are appropriate for this peak summer month, but hats, closed-toe shoes, and raincoats are advised for bad weather. If you get wet, stop by the Buffalo Exchange, Futurgarb, or Transit Tees booths to pick up something dry.
What to Do
When you need a break from jammin’ at the stages, check out some of the many tasty food vendors on site, such as Black Dog Gelato, Bang Bang Pie, Leghorn Chicken, and Wow Bao. Learn about a good cause at a non-profit booth like Girls Rock! Chicago or One Tail at a Time. Want to make a difference? Spend time talking with Pitchfork’s partner this year, RAINN, the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization. Plenty of local artists will be displaying their work, as well as a pop-up craft festival, book fair, and record shop. Talk about sensory overload!
Where to Stay
If you don’t live in Chicago, first of all—we’re sorry. You’re missing out. Second, don’t worry because we’ve got great places for you to crash. Partnered hotels include the Chicago Marriott at Medical District, which is closest to the fest. Others are the Chicago Athletic Association, Hyatt Regency, and the Hard Rock Hotel. Maybe you’ll run into one of the headliners after it ends! If those are a little out of budget, you can always rent an Airbnb in the area.
Pitchfork 2020 Lineup
Friday, July 17
Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Angel Olsen, The Fiery Furnaces, Jehnny Beth, Deafheaven, Waxahatchee, Tim Hecker & The Konoya Ensemble, SOPHIE, Fennesz, Hop Along, Dehd, SPELLING, KAINA, Femdot
Saturday, July 18
Run the Jewels, Sharon Van Etton, Twin Peaks, Danny Brown, Thundercat, Cat Power, Tierra Whack, BADBADNOTGOOD, Dave, Oso Oso, Diving Niño, Boy Scouts, Ezra Collective, Margaux
Sunday, July 19
The National, Big Thief, Kim Gordon, Phoebe Bridgers, Yaeji, Caroline Polachek, DJ Nate, Maxo Kream, Rapsody, Faye Webster, Mariah the Scientist, Dogleg, The Hecks, Dustin Laurenzi’s Snaketime
For tickets and more info, head to the Pitchfork Music Festival website. We can’t wait to see you at Pitchfork 2020!
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