Chicago’s end-of-summer soundtrack locks into place with the return of Summer’s Last Dance.
The independent festival is back for its third year on September 19, with tickets on sale now. Built from the ground up by promoter Bobby De Maria, the one-day event has quickly carved out space as a defining sendoff to the season.
Summer’s Last Dance moves with a clear identity. It brings together electronic, hip-hop, and house under one banner, reflecting the city’s deep and diverse music culture. Past lineups have featured names like Destructo, The Knocks, Slushii, and Chicago pioneer Marshall Jefferson, alongside global acts like Cheat Codes and KSHMR.
That cross-genre approach continues to drive the festival forward. Each edition pulls from different corners of the scene while keeping the focus on energy, connection, and a shared experience across audiences.
Tickets start at $24, opening the door to a wide range of fans. The accessibility is intentional, keeping the event grounded in community while still delivering a full-scale festival atmosphere.
The festival also carries a deeper connection beyond the stage. Summer’s Last Dance once again partners with the Miracle Michael Fund, supporting families affected by Osteogenesis Imperfecta, also known as brittle bone disease. A portion of every ticket and sponsor dollar goes directly toward support and research.
“Summer’s Last Dance is all about bringing people together for one final sendoff to Summer, but it’s also about showing up for something bigger than ourselves,” says De Maria. “That’s been part of the mission from day one, and it’s why we’re thrilled to partner with Miracle Michael again this year.”
Now in its third year, the festival continues to stand as one of Chicago’s last independently operated major music events. It delivers a more intimate, community-driven experience without losing scale.
The 2026 lineup arrives May 27, adding the next chapter to a festival that’s building momentum with each edition.