Lollapalooza is back in town (Aug. 1-4) and while it’s been in Chicago for nearly 30 years, you might be surprised that kids can get in for free. That’s right—kids 10 and under receive free admission with each paying adult (limit to two children per ticket).
To make it even better, the music festival holds a Kidzapalooza area, where your little ones can rock every single day from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Don’t miss out on these awesome family-friendly activities while there.
Play
Punk Hairdooz
Do your kids want to look like a rock star? Snippet’s Mini-Cuts has got you covered with mohawks, braids, temporary color hair spray and all the glitter.
Drum Zone
With all the music at Lollapalooza, your kids will want to make some noise too! Rhythm Revolution holds an interactive zone where littles can beat on some drums and shake a few sound makers.
Rock Star Photo Booth
TK Photography Chicago wants to capture your family’s excitement with an all-star photo booth. Give your best rock star pose while using some fun props and accessories.
Eat
Lifeway Kefir
Grab a few snacks at the Lifeway Kefir tent. While you’re there, you can take a photo and enjoy a quick group yoga session.
Harris Ice
Cool down with a snow cone from Harris Ice! You can choose from the following flavors at this year’s fest: Blue Raspberry, Cherry, Grape, Green Apple and Orange.
Chow Town
Venture out of the kid’s area to grab some great bites from local businesses. If you want to play it safe with your picky eaters, try out these simple options: Connie’s Pizza, Shake Shack and Buona Beef.
Watch
School of Rock Allstars
See the best of the best students from the School of Rock community. Plus, parents won’t mind hearing some classic songs from a talented group. Catch their act at Kidzapalooza from 1:30-2:15 p.m. on Thursday.
Sonia De Los Santos
This popular Latin children’s artist will instantly bring a smile to your face. In both Spanish and English, Sonia De Los Santos sings folk classics such as “This Land Is Your Land” (“Esta es tu Tierra”) and “If I Had a Hammer” (“El Martillo”). Catch her act at Kidzapalooza from 5-5:30 p.m. on Thursday and 1:30-2 p.m. Friday.
DJs Amira & Kayla
Amira and Kayla might be only 13, but these teenage DJs know how to pump up a crowd. Learning how to DJ from an early age, the sister duo has taken their fame by deejaying events and appearing on major television networks. Catch their act at Kidzapalooza frin 1:30-2 p.m. on Saturday and 3-3:30 p.m. on Sunday.
Shop
Print a Tote
If you want a souvenir from the music fest, Psychobaby is worth a stop. The print shop will help you create a custom drawstring backpack with your child’s name.
LollaShop
Looking for more merch? The LollaShop is a short walk away from Kidzapalooza (next to Buckingham Fountain). Your family can shop some Lolla merch or grab some shirts from your favorite bands performing at the fest.
Explore
Kidza Theatre
This air-conditioned (!!) theater tent allows your family to have a break from the sun with interactive shows. Collaboraction explores themes like peace, magic and love at their Kidzapalooza visit.
Kidza Lounge Presented By Big City Readers
Big City Readers will have sensory stations for kids of all ages from water and sand to slime. Of course, check out their little library if you want to relax with a book.
Q Brothers Hip Hop Workshop
The Q Brothers bring your favorite tales with a hip hop twist. At the Kidzapalooza booth, families will have a chance to learn about music, rhyme and freestyle with an interactive experience.
Follow Chicago Parent on Instagram.