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Today in History: Chicago launches inaugural Grant Park Music Festival

7/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On July 1, Chicago launched the inaugural Grant Park Music Festival, a ten-week free outdoor series featuring the Grant Park Symphony Orchestra, Chorus and guest artists. Held in the city’s 319-acre Grant Park—home to Millennium Park, Buckingham Fountain and the Art Institute—the festival began a lasting tradition of accessible classical music.

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Story summary

On July 1, Chicago launched the inaugural Grant Park Music Festival, a ten-week free outdoor series featuring the Grant Park Symphony Orchestra, Chorus and guest artists. Held in the city’s 319-acre Grant Park—home to Millennium Park, Buckingham Fountain and the Art Institute—the festival began a lasting tradition of accessible classical music.