Music & Comedy
CIVL Fest 2026 April 20, 2026
CIVL Fest 2026 is a citywide celebration of Chicago’s independent music and performing arts venues. Taking place April 16–25, 2026, the festival showcases 40+ shows at venues across multiple neighborhoods with performances by local, national, and international artists, along with select panels and special events.
Participating venues include: AVONDALE MUSIC HALL • BEAT KITCHEN • CALIFORNIA CLIPPER • CAROL’S PUB • CHOP SHOP • COLE’S BAR • COLOR CLUB • ELASTIC ARTS • EMPTY BOTTLE • GMAN TAVERN • HAROLD WASHINGTON CULTURAL CENTER • HUNGRY BRAIN • JOE’S ON WEED ST. • LINCOLN HALL • METRO • OLD TOWN SCHOOL OF FOLK MUSIC • RAMOVA • REGGIES • ROSA’S LOUNGE • SCHUBAS • SPYBAR • SUBTERRANEAN • THALIA HALL • THE ANNOYANCE THEATRE • THE AUDITORIUM • THE HIDEOUT • THE SALT SHED • THE WHISTLER • UNCOMMON GROUND
The Chicago Independent Venue League (CIVL) is a coalition of independently owned music and performance spaces working together to support Chicago’s grassroots cultural ecosystem. CIVL advocates for fair policies, provides resources and community for venue operators and workers, and highlights the crucial role independent spaces play in the city’s artistic life and local economy.
