The 2025 Chicago summer music festival returns to Grant Park from July 31 through August 3, drawing music fans, VIP guests, and entertainment industry professionals from across the country. For business aviation crews supporting high-profile travelers, early coordination is crucial for a seamless experience in and around the Chicago area.

While the festival doesn’t significantly impact air traffic at local airports, its downtown location, high attendance numbers, and peak summer timing make operational planning a top priority. Signature Aviation's private aviation terminals at both Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Chicago Executive Airport (PWK) - are two proven access points for guests headed to the heart of the city.

Where to Land for Tennis Majors 2025 Events

Traveling with Signature Aviation as your choice private aviation terminal network means a wide variety of options for landing in Northern Illinois. Each location is fully equipped to support pilots, flight crews, and passengers with top-tier services to ensure easy arrivals and departures for music festival travelers.  

Signature ORD – Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

Only 60 minutes from Grant Park, Signature ORD offers direct access to downtown Chicago, making it a top choice for passengers attending the Chicago Music Festival or staying in the city. Signature’s state-of-the-art private aviation terminal will operate under standard procedures during the festival; however, prior reservations are strongly encouraged to support ramp planning and optimize service.

• No slot requirements or temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) will be in place

• Expect longer taxi times on runways 10L, 10C, and 10R

• 3rd party vehicles are not permitted on the ramp

• No hangar space is available during the event

• Additional staffing will be present as needed, based on reservation volume
  

Signature PWK – Chicago Executive Airport (PWK)

For crews and passengers seeking a less congested alternative, Signature PWK offers streamlined access to the Chicago area while remaining only a 1-2 hour drive from the city. Signature’s private aviation terminal does not experience a high volume of festival-related traffic, making it an excellent choice for travelers in search of unaffected ramp capacity and guest service amenities.

• No slot requirements or temporary flight restrictions will be in place.

• Ramp space available for up to 16 aircraft, subject to type

• Supports large-sized aircraft

• 3rd party vehicle ramp access is restricted

• No current infrastructure projects or access limitations

Planning and Logistics

While Signature’s private aviation terminals are not expecting a sharp increase in traffic during the festival, the necessity to uphold best practices for scheduling and logistics remains the same. 

Recommendations from Signature Aviation regarding traffic and communications include: 

• Early, frequent communication with your private aviation terminal 

• Ramp parking reservations to ensure seamless parking flows

• Fueling upon arrival for seamless, quick departing flights 

Be sure to also sign up for Signature Aviation’s Travel Alerts for up-to-date information on weather and traffic updates that could impact your flight. 

The Signature Aviation Experience

Our goal is to provide a world-class experience for pilots, crews, and passengers. Our terminals are equipped with all of the needed amenities for a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Hotels and Transportation

Chicago boasts no shortage of quality hotels and experiential stays. If your clients need last-minute planning suggestions, Signature is happy to share our list of recommended hotels, as well as rental car booking options in partnership with Go Rentals.

What Guests Can Expect

Whether your passengers are headlining the festival or simply enjoying the experience, Signature Aviation is ready to support your arrival into Chicago. With decades of experience in private aviation services, our teams at ORD and PWK are committed to delivering a seamless experience throughout your trip.

FAQs 

Where is 2025's Chicago Music Festival?

Chicago’s 2025 music festival will take place in Grant Park, which serves as an ideal venue to host more than 170 artists and hundreds of thousands of attendees each year. 

When is 2025's Chicago Music Festival?

The Chicago Music Festival is a long-weekend event, taking place from July 31st to August 3rd. Bands and artists begin taking their spots on one of the 8 stages at 12 PM every day, and the last act begins at 10 PM each night.