CHICAGO BLUES FEST opening party @ Ramova Theater, Chicago

City of Chicago Announces 2026 Chicago Blues Festival Lineup

June 4–7

Thursday, June 4 – Ramova Theatre

John Primer/ photo: Jennifer Noble

Ramova Theatre, 3520 S. Halsted St., Chicago IL. 60609

5 p.m. – doors 6-10:30 p.m. – panel discussion + double-bill program18+ (minors accompanied by their guardian will be admitted)

Seating is available on a first-come, first served basis, and an RSVP does not guarantee a seat. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure admission. For ADA accommodations, please reach out to bo*@***********go.com.

Panel Discussion, 6-7 p.m.

20 Years of the Mississippi Blues Trail – Fireside Chat with Mayor John Horhn, Scott Barretta, Bill McPherson, Dr. Edgar Smith, and Jim O’Neal

Moderated by TBD

Ramova Theatre Double-Bill Concert Program

• 7:15-8:30 p.m. – John Primer – Tribute to Theresa’s Lounge
• 8:45-10:15 p.m. – Willie Clayton

Ramova Theatre 

In 1929, Ramova Theatre opened its doors as Bridgeport’s premier movie palace. With an iconic sign and Spanish-inspired architecture, it became the jewel of the neighborhood — a place for people to gather and communities to come together. Now, nearly a century later, the space has returned, reimagined as an 1,800+ person live concert hall, craft brewery partnered with Other Half Brewing, beer garden and grill. Meticulously restored to preserve the architectural heart of the building, Ramova once again lights up Halsted and 35th Street and brings the country’s top performing acts to Bridgeport, alongside educational programs, workshops, and community outreach initiatives. For more information, visit https://ramovachicago.com/ or follow @ramovachicago on Instagram and Facebook.