Ravinia 2012

Ravinia - one of the wonders of the North Shore!  It is a summer staple for many and located right here in the North Shore in Highland Park.  There are other outdoor venues throughout the United States - Wolf Trap in Virginia, Red Rocks and the Gorge in Colorado, and the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.  But I don't think they appreciate sitting out on a warm summer evening as much as we Chicagoans do.

This year the festival spans from June 9 through September 11 and acts include such heavyweights as Carrie Underwood, Steeley Dan and Maroon 5.  Also included are many dates for the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, plus visiting conductors, music ensembles, string quartets, dance companies, chamber players, and more big names like James Taylor, Tony Bennett, Anita Baker,  Midori, Sarah McLachlan, Diana Krall, Seal, and Glen Campbell on his farewell tour.

There are three ways to enjoy the concert:  reserved open-air pavilion seating, terrace dining, and the most popular by far - the lawn experience.  

Ravinia is vast - there are 36 acres of manicured lawn and trees and they do an excellent job of eliminating bugs.  Getting tickets in the pavilion is best if you want to SEE the concert -it is important to note that you will not see the performance from the lawn areas.  But there are many strategically placed speakers throughout the park and if you really want to have a peek, guests are allowed to walk up to the pavilion and stand for awhile.  

The Ravinia lawn experience is all about fun - event goers bring small tables, candles, blankets, chairs, and of course, good food and wine.  Since the gates open two hours before the show, regulars use that time wisely.  We use a small Radio Flyer wagon to haul our things in and out, but if you're not up to it, you may purchase food on the premises.  By the time the concert starts, blankets are touching and the grass is barely visible.  It's time to stretch out, relax, and enjoy the evening's performance.

Please do NOT bring the following items as they are not permitted at Ravinia:

• bring prepared food only - grilling is not allowed
• no tents, canopies, or stakes 
• beer kegs
• animals (other than service)
• bikes, scooters, skates - you may bike there and secure your bike in the racks outside
• balls or frisbees - attendees can play cards or other games within their space
• photograhic or audio recording devices
• weapons
• cigarettes/cigars - Ravinia is a no-smoking environment

Ravinia is accessible by train (Ravinia stop on the North line), car (large parking lots) or park-and-ride (to avoid congestion.)  

Ravinia 2012 Full Schedule

Ravina Festival
200 Ravinia Park Road
Highland Park, IL
847-255-5100 (box office)

(All photos used with permission of Ravinia Festival)