Drone footage by On the Real
photos by Anjali Pinto + Natasha Moustache
Important Notes
No alcohol consumption outside on the Arts Lawn
We encourage bringing your blanket or a low-profile lawn chair to relax in the front seating on the grass.
Important Notes
No alcohol consumption outside on the Arts Lawn
A pre-show reception will be held inside of the Green Line Performing Arts Center. Light snacks will be available on the Arts Lawn during the performance.
First Monday Jazz: Ascendant
Monday, July 1 | 7:00-9:00PM | Seats open at 6:30PM
Our beloved First Monday Jazz series kicks off July on the Arts Lawn with powerhouse band Ascendant! A staple in the city's jazz scene for over 20 years, Ascendant will uplift your spirits with their soaring vocals, heartfelt harmonies, and soulful rhythms. Experience an evening of live jazz under the summer sky!
Rear View Mirror Sessions: Minnie Riperton
Thursday, July 11 | 6:30-9:00PM
Don’t miss out on the last installment of 2024’s the Rear View Mirror Sessions!
We will start at the Green Line Performing Arts Center with a presentation by renowned music historian and DJ Duane Powell, as he brings to life Minnie Riperton's music and legacy. Afterwards, we will move to the Arts Lawn for a live performance under the stars from our featured musical guest Meagan McNeal.
This program is presented in collaboration with the Center for the Study of Race, Politics, and Culture (CSRPC), Soundrotation, the Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts, and BrainTrust Management.
Vends + Vibes
Saturday, July 20 | 1:00-7:00PM
Celebrate South Side art & soul at Vends + Vibes! Find unique art, apparel, jewelry, home decor, and more from L1 Fellows joined by a selection of talented South Side vendors. Support local artists and entrepreneurs while enjoying a day of art, music, and fun.
Check out the full list of vendors and learn more about the activities!
Unwind and Recharge with Community Yoga!
Friday + Saturdays | 9:30-10:30am
Every Friday and Saturday in July, rejuvenate with an hour of yoga suitable for all levels on the beautiful Arts Lawn. Feel the gentle summer breeze and soak in the golden glow of the sun as you flow through a sequence of standing and seated poses, focusing on stretching and healthy alignment, led by Latipha Rivers
Leave feeling refreshed, invigorated, and ready to take on the weekend!
Homecoming
Tuesday, August 20 + Wednesday, August 21 | 4:00-7:00pm
As part of Gertie’s Next Stop: Chicago campaign, Arts + Public Life invites Washington Park residents and neighborhood commuters to unwind between work and home in Washington Park’s newest “third space,” the Arts Lawn, just steps from the Garfield Green Line CTA stop and the #55 bus route.
Reclaim leisure on Chicago’s South Side with a unique soundscape, refreshments, and card and board games. Experiment and play with the new sound sculpture created by Chicago artists ebere agwuncha and Josué Esaú and relax on the new suite of outdoor furniture designed by APL’s Design Apprenticeship Program II.
Kick back and make new memories on the Arts Lawn, rain or shine!
Presented with generous support from the Gertie Foundation, MacArthur Foundation, and Traubert/Pritzker Foundation.
Learn more about all programs for Next Stop: Chicago.
Join us for the first full season on the new Arts Lawn! This summer marks the debut of signature Arts + Public Life (APL) programs in this beautiful outdoor setting, offering a vibrant calendar of live performances, arts markets, morning yoga and activities for all ages that offer equitable access to outdoor arts experiences for the entire community.
Unwind and connect under the summer sky with APL’s signature programs reimagined for the Arts Lawn.
The Arts Lawn is a uniquely Chicago summer destination. Whether you're looking to enjoy live jazz at the Pavilion, pick up hand-crafted gifts at the arts market, start your summer weekend with yoga on the grass, or relax in the shade with a good book,, this peaceful green space offers a welcoming environment for everyone.
We can't wait to see you on the lawn this summer!
This project is partially supported by a CityArts grant, and a Covid Arts Recovery Program grant from the City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.