The Belmont-Sheffield Music Festival marks forty years of bringing live music and community to Lakeview. The festival features three full days of nonstop tribute band performances and DJ sets this year. Attendees can browse artisan booths while enjoying Chicago street-food favorites. Celebration marking the unofficial beginning of summer. Expect lively crowds from May 23 to May 25, 2025.
Highlights
- Signature Tribute Acts: Rock-and-roll classics performed by Chicago’s top tribute bands
- Culinary Row: A diverse selection of food stalls featuring Chicago street food, beer, and wine.
- Artisan Marketplace: Local artists and makers display original artwork
Festival Overview: Celebrating Music and Community in Lakeview
This 40th-anniversary edition highlights the neighborhood’s volunteer spirit and grassroots energy. Sheffield Avenue shuts down to traffic and transforms into a bustling festival street each May.
Dates & Times:
May 23, 2025 | 5 PM–10 PM;
May 24–25, 2025 | 11 AM–10 PM
Location:
3200 N. Sheffield Avenue, Chicago, IL 60657
Admission:
Free admission; a suggested $10 donation benefits festival operations and performances.
Music and Community: Four Decades of Musical Legacy
Since its inception, the Belmont-Sheffield Music Festival has been a mainstay of Chicago’s summer events, the de facto opening of the season. Just steps from the Belmont El station, the festival turns Sheffield Avenue into a vibrant hub of music and community engagement.
Festival Features: 40th Anniversary Celebration Highlights
This year’s festival expands its reach with a third performing area dedicated to emerging local talent. Mural pieces by local Lakeview artists create an open space for attendees to get in on the celebration. A shaded seating area offers a relaxing spot away from the bustling street party.
- Main Stage Acts: Featuring local tribute bands performing their best high-energy sets.
- Belmont Stage: Hosting neighborhood acts, DJs, and eclectic performances.
- Culinary Offerings: Diversity of food stalls and beverages including beer and wine.
- Artisan Vendors: Local artists and makers presenting unique items.
Entertainment Lineup and Performances
Over forty acts will perform on the main and Belmont stages over three days, mixing up traditional rock tributes with eclectic neighborhood showcases. Each evening will end with headlining performances by Chicago’s premier tribute bands.
Friday, May 23
Main Stage:
- 6:00 PM – iPop
- 8:00 PM – Sixteen Candles
Belmont Stage:
- 6:30 PM – The Strangers
- 8:00 PM – DJ Greg Haus
Saturday, May 24
Main Stage:
- 12:15 PM – School of Rock
- 2:15 PM – Rearview: Pearl Jam Tribute
- 4:15 PM – ‘Stache
- 6:00 PM – Mike & Joe
- 8:30 PM – Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute
Belmont Stage:
- 12:30 PM – Bear & Jake Acoustic
- 2:00 PM – 3 Martini Jeannie
- 3:30 PM – RAVIV – Electric Cellos
- 5:00 PM – Sam Fazio Music
- 6:30 PM – Full Volume Band
- 8:15 PM—Rosie & The Rivets
Sunday, May 25
Main Stage:
- 12:15 PM – Four Star Brass Band
- 2:15 PM – Hurricane Gumbo
- 4:00 PM – Super Creeps: Music of David Bowie
- 6:00 PM – Fletcher Rockwell
- 8:00 PM—Rod Tuffcurls & The Bench Press
Belmont Stage:
- 12:30 PM – Recorded Music
- 2:00 PM – Fiddle Rock
- 3:30 PM – Amanda Coppotelli
- 5:00 PM – Band Calderisi
- 6:30 PM – Nelson Street Revival
- 8:15 PM – DJ TZME
Community Initiatives and Vendor Participation
This festival supports the Lakeview East Chamber of Commerce that aids local businesses in the community and promotes the economic well-being of the neighborhood. Attendees can witness a plethora of local vendors and artisans putting forth unique crafts and products that depict the creative spirit of the community.
The 40th annual Belmont-Sheffield Music Festival reaffirms Lakeview’s legacy as Chicago’s summer-opening street bash, back again. With a rich lineup of tribute acts, local vendors, and community art, this free, donation-based festival is the very definition of neighborhood pride. Mark your calendars for May 23–25 and celebrate forty years of music, flavor, and Chicago camaraderie.
