Pitchfork Music Festival

Unfortunately, Union Park does not cater to RV camping or parking on site. There are various campgrounds about an hour away from the venue. Area campgrounds offer amenities such as electrical amps up to a maximum of 50 amps, sewer line hookups, a pet-friendly environment, and some even offer drop-off laundry facilities. Getting to and from the campgrounds is more convenient when using major highway routes in the Chicago area.

Navigating Chicago for the nearest campgrounds from to Union Park can be a bit tricky, but if you are not particularly fussy about full-hookups and are content with "boondocking" or dry camping, you can find a campground site within a ten-minute drive. Other campgrounds which offer full hookup options (electric, sewer, water) can be found about an hour's drive and provide a myriad of additional activities that you can enjoy throughout your stay.

Accessibility is a goal that the Pitchfork folks take seriously; ramps and ADA restrooms provisions are made. For exploration further afield, Chicago offers an assortment of fun activities to explore. Randolph Street is a hive of activity; you will be spoiled for choice with the options in that vicinity, from taste bud tours to museums, yours will be a tour worth writing home about from this festival.

Since this is a summer event, lightweight clothes are recommended. Whether you want to don your super cool shorts or ripped jeans, the look will go with the hot weather. The rule of thumb when it comes to shoes is comfort; the more comfortable they are, the better your feet will be (think of how much you’ll be jumping up and down to your favorite tunes). Are hats your thing? Bring one for the festival; you’ll thank yourself for this.

There are specific gear and general restrictions for items you can and cannot bring to the festival. Some of the items permitted are small fanny packs, factory sealed water bottles (only two per person), and a disposable camera; if you are either a professional photographer or an amateur but with state-of-the-art camera equipment, unfortunately, you'll have to leave your treasured tripod camera at home. For an awesome camping experience, bring blankets, towels, and sheets so you can have a "picnic" setup for your shindig.

It is said that water is the elixir of life. Hydrating as much as possible is imperative. Bring water sealed containers and refill these or buy water at the festival. Sunscreen is highly recommended. Another essential is sunscreen, but it must be factory sealed upon entry. Along with this, bug spray is advisable. Vis-à-vis safety, the festival has storage lockers which you can use to store your valuables. These should be reserved in advance to get an advantage.

If you want to get food elsewhere to either eat before or after the festivities, there are stores a stone throw away from the venue where you can purchase food for cooking at your campsite. No outside food or drinks is permitted when entering Union Park, but you can look forward to food provided by food vendors.

There are a myriad of restaurants a mere walking distance from Union Park. Whether you’re looking to start your day pre-festival with a hearty breakfast or burgers that make your mouth water, your palate will be catered to with care. Have a particular dietary preference? No problem, don’t fret. There are numerous restaurants to satiate your desired favorite dishes.

What is a festival without food delicacies and beverage options to guzzle down during the festivities? You will find a vast array of licensed vendors who are at your beck and call for your food and drink preferences. Whether you are a craft beer fan or if ciders are more up your alley, the choice is there for you. If you fancy a souvenir and keepsake for your fabulous weekend, you will be spoiled by choices with the assortment of vendors selling various types of keepsakes.