The Last Poets have been performing since 1968 and are routinely named as a direct ancestor of hip-hop, so a free outdoor set from them in Bronzeville is an unusual booking for a neighborhood festival. The Lillian Marcie Center runs SummerFest as a Bronzeville arts day rather than a vendor fair, with dance and DJ programming built around the headliner. Six hours on Cottage Grove in the heart of the neighborhood, at no cost for general admission.
What to expect
A main-stage day on Cottage Grove with spoken word, dance and a DJ between sets, QR-code check-in at the door, and a crowd the organizer puts at a few hundred people. Street parking is standard for the block; the organizer notes a VIP lot is pending city approval.
Good to know
- General admission is free but the organizer asks for an RSVP, which returns a QR code by email.
- The organizer lists a $75 VIP tier with reserved seating and a hospitality lounge.
- Doors and programming run noon to 6 p.m.
- The Green Line at 43rd is a short walk from the site.
- The organizer lists standard street parking; the VIP lot is pending city approval.
Going? Keep it.
More festivals this weekend
More free events
Common questions
Is it really free?
Yes. The organizer lists a $0 Community tier with general admission entry and full stage access, reserved by RSVP.
Who is headlining?
The Last Poets, with A List Dance Company and DJ God Mode.