Free Summer Concert Series Poised to Host Talented Performers, Opening Acts

By David A. F. Sweet Starting June 11 and running until Aug. 13, free summer concerts are being offered by Lake Forest Parks & Recreation. All concerts start at 6:30 p.m. Lake Forest Love found out more about this summer’s series from Aaron Dalzot, a program manager at Parks & Recreation.   What's new and exciting with the series this summer?

We're excited to bring back our Summer Concert Series with 10 concerts this season—eight in Market Square and two in our neighborhood parks. New this year, several concerts will feature opening acts before the headlining performance. On July 2, a group from Citadel Theatre will perform, on July 16 a group from Gorton Center will take the stage, and on July 30 the Lake Forest Dance Academy will showcase their talents. These additions help highlight local arts organizations and provide even more entertainment for attendees.

Eight summer concerts will take place in Market Square. How did the 2025 series help inform your choice of performers this year?

To help select performers for the 2026 season, I attended the Suburban Recreation Association showcase in November 2025. This provided an opportunity to see many bands perform live and helped us identify talented groups that would appeal to our community and create a diverse concert lineup.

What band were you most excited to attract this year and why?

I'm excited about all of the performers joining us this summer, but I'm especially looking forward to Industrial Drive (July 2) and Roger That (July 23 during the Market Square Car Show). Both bands have members who work in the recreation field, making it especially rewarding to bring fellow recreation professionals to our community and showcase their musical talents.

What sets this series apart from other entertainment options in the area?

The Summer Concert Series offers a unique opportunity for the community to come together and enjoy free, family-friendly entertainment in beautiful outdoor settings. Whether you're gathering with friends, bringing the family, or simply enjoying a summer evening, the series creates a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates music, community, and local connections.

What will be different in terms of food and beverage options this year?

We're excited to welcome several food vendors throughout the season, including Left Bank, Snowie, and Rosati's. These vendors will offer a variety of food and refreshments, making it easy for attendees to enjoy dinner, a snack, or a cool treat while listening to the music.

Why were two parks chosen as venues?

We've hosted concerts at these two parks for approximately five years. They were selected because of their convenient locations, ample space, and amenities that help create a great experience for both performers and attendees. The park concerts also allow us to bring live music directly into different areas of the community.

Who will sponsor the concerts, and what do they get for that sponsorship?

This year's concert series would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors: Lake Forest Bank & Trust, Market Square, and Four Seasons Heating & Cooling. Their sponsorship helps offset program costs and allows us to continue offering free concerts to the community. Sponsors receive recognition through concert marketing materials, event signage, social media promotion, and on-site acknowledgments throughout the season.

How can people be notified if a concert is canceled due to rain or another reason?

In the event of inclement weather or other circumstances that require a concert cancellation, updates will be posted on the City of Lake Forest Parks and Recreation social media channels (@lfparksandrec). We encourage attendees to follow our social media accounts and check them before heading to a concert if the weather is questionable.