Festivals, Fairs & Special Events
El Grito Chicago September 12, 2026
El Grito Chicago returns to Grant Park’s Butler Field September 12–13, 2026, for a two-day celebration of Mexican culture, music, food, and pride in the heart of downtown Chicago. The weekend features live performances from local and international artists, an artisan mercado, authentic Mexican food and drink, and family-friendly activities, running 2–10 PM both days. The festival culminates Sunday night with the El Grito Civic Ceremony, a free event led by the Consul General of Mexico in Chicago featuring a ceremonial re-enactment of “El Grito de Independencia” alongside mariachi, folkloric dancers, and fireworks. This year marks the festival’s return after a 2025 pause taken to strengthen safety and community planning. General admission tickets start at $10.
Dates: September 12–13, 2026 (Saturday–Sunday)
Location: Grant Park – Butler Field, Chicago
Hours: 2 PM – 10 PM both days
Tickets: Available at elgritochicago.com/tickets.
| Ticket | Early Bird | Regular | Week-of | Doors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Day GA (Sat or Sun) | $10 | $20 | $25 | $40 |
| 1-Day Amigo (Sat or Sun) | $30 | $45 | $50 | $60 |
| 2-Day GA (both days) | $25 flat | |||
| 2-Day Amigo (both days) | $60 flat |
- Amigo tickets add expedited entry, front-stage viewing at the Main Stage, a dedicated bar, and exclusive restrooms.
- Children 10 and under are free with General Admission (limit 2 per ticket-holding adult); children accompanying an Amigo ticket holder need their own Amigo child ticket ($10 single-day / $20 two-day).
- El Grito Civic Ceremony (Sunday, 8–10 PM) requires free registration, released closer to the event date.
Learn more about the area
Venue
Tours & Attractions, Beaches/Gardens/Parks
Grant Park
Proudly referred to as Chicago’s “front yard,” Grant Park is a public park, 319 acres located in Chicagos central business district in the Loop Community…
Neighborhood
South Loop
Feast your eyes on massive murals, absorb fascinating history, and wander an iconic lakefront park.
Learn more about the area
Venue
Tours & Attractions, Beaches/Gardens/Parks
Grant Park
Proudly referred to as Chicago’s “front yard,” Grant Park is a public park, 319 acres located in Chicagos central business district in the Loop Community…
Neighborhood
South Loop
Feast your eyes on massive murals, absorb fascinating history, and wander an iconic lakefront park.
