ACM’s Thirsty Ears Festival is Chicago’s only classical music street festival!

For two days Wilson street between Hermitage and Ravenswood are closed to feature stellar ensembles and soloists a huge range of classical music from all eras on the main stage.

We also have delicious beer and wine, vendor booths, kid-friendly activities and food trucks on both days.

Suggested entry donation of $10

In the event of rain we will move the music into the All Saints Church on the same block with seating for 200 people. 
  2026 Dates and times
Saturday, August 22 2:00 – 11:00 PM
Sunday, August 23 1:00 – 9:00 PM

August 23rd
2pm Chicago Chamber Music Festival

3pm Chethan Anant

4pm NLM Young Artists

5pm Bach + Beethoven Experience

6pm Amy Gadd and Rebecca Gaspelin

7pm Catalano-Sudman Piano Duo

8pm Olea Ensemble

9pm PlayOUT!

9:30pm Mini Sound of Silent Film Festival

August 24th

1pm Jeff Kowalkowski and Friends

2pm Michael J. Miles and Jill Kaeding

3pm BrioChe Duo

4pm Lakeshore Rush

5pm Missing Piece

6pm  Emily Mwila

7pm  Wurtz-Berger Duo

8pm Origin of Animal