Chicago's art world rarely gathers in one place on a Saturday, and this one is outdoors, casual and partly free. The lawn talks run like a tailgate, with the conversations playing on radios across the grass. The ticketed finale puts Jerry Saltz, one of the best-known critics in the country, on the MCA stage.
What to expect
Bring a blanket, a lawn chair and a picnic, plus a radio if you have one; the hosts will lend some. Artists and writers talk live from 11am to 3pm, and the broadcast carries across the Kern Terrace Garden. The 4pm taping moves indoors to the theater.
Good to know
- The lawn program runs 11am–3pm; the Episode 999 taping starts at 4pm.
- Only the 4pm taping needs a ticket; check the MCA event page for it.
- Bring your own radio to hear the broadcast, or borrow one on site.
- The MCA is at 220 E Chicago Ave, a short walk from the Chicago Red Line stop.
- Check the MCA event page for current details before you go.
Going? Keep it.
Also in Downtown, the Loop & West Loop
Common questions
Is it free?
The lawn conversations are free. The 4pm live taping of Episode 999 with Jerry Saltz is ticketed.
Who is speaking?
Jina Valentine, Alex Chitty, James Elkins, Anna Martine Whitehead and Iñigo Manglano-Ovalle on the lawn, and Jerry Saltz at the taping.