Lollapalooza the 3-day outdoor music fest now permanently stationed in Grant Park, begins August 1 and will run until August 3. A number of headliners are scheduled for the event (Kanye, Wilco, Rage Against the Machine, Mark Ronson, etc.) Single day and 3-day passes are still available online. Kids 10 and under are free when accompanied by a paid adult.
As in years past, green initiatives are planned to address waste and the environmental impact of the festival which is expected to draw over 150,000 attendees over 3 days. Plans include the use of biodegradable bags, recycled paper, recycling bins, generators and light towers that run on biodiesel, compostable food packaging and containers and organic and locally grown food choices. Sponsors are said to "have pledged enthusiastic support" to the fest's green plans.
The Kidzapalooza area of the event will feature kids performers, music and dance workshops, recycled crafts, and temp tattoo and "rock-styled" hairdo styling for kids "using environmentally kid friendly products" from 11:30 a.m to 4:30 p.m.
Looking for some tips from experienced city mamas who've gone?
Bonnie, mom to two says:
"Our kids love it and can't wait to go every year. We've gone the past 3 years and the kids area has never been uncomfortably crowded, has lots of shade and is a great space to hang in. It ends mid afternoon, before the major acts. I'd recommend printing pet tags with kids name and your cell # in case. Even older ones can panic if lost. I remind mine "stand still if you ever lose sight of me and I will turn around and find you". Luckily it's never been necessary. They will allow strollers for people going with little and even medium sized ones.
Pros--fest is HUGE and a jogging stroller is a great way to travel fast with little ones and is a good place for them to fall asleep if you stay till close. Though technically on the "not allowed" list, we've brought in a play tent for shade, water backpacks, a cooler full of fresh fruit, cold drinks, healthy kid food and toys, glow sticks, spray bottles, etc. under the stroller and never had an issue with it. Cons--evening crowds can get thick and if you're not in the back of the main stage lawn and you have a big stroller, plan on getting boxed in till the end."
Lisa, mom of one says: "I think its the best festival for kids, hands down. The kids area is awesome! The only thing I'd advise is that it is very spread out, so if you plan on wandering away from Kidzapalooza keep that in mind. It can get crowded walking through. Can get hot, obviously--I' m pretty sure you can bring water. We usually bring misters for the kids to spray."
Safety tip: Visit the "Tag-A-Kid" service at the Information Tent where parents can pick up a numbered wristband for their child that includes parent supplied contact information in the event parent and child are separated.
Rage was awesome.. I remember that concert. Last I saw Rage was during the Tibetan Freedom concert. I believe it was 1998. Anyway, I think they moved Lolla to Grant Park in 2000. Not 100% sure though.
Posted by: | July 17, 2008 at 11:26 AM
In 1993 I saw Rage Against the Machine (they were merely on the second stage then - the lead singer was a maniac on stage) at what was then called the New World Theater for Lollapalooza. Babes in Toyland, Primus, Arrested Development and I can't remember the rest. Thanks for the blast from the past memory! When did they move it to Grant Park?
Posted by: Jeanne R | July 15, 2008 at 08:11 AM