Crowds descend upon Chicago as Lollapalooza kicks off in Grant Park
CHICAGO - Lollapalooza returned to the Windy City on Thursday, with massive crowds descending on Grant Park for opening day of the mega music festival.
With nine stages and more than 170 bands from around the globe, the festival is once again making a splash as one of Chicago’s summer staples.
"I’m just really excited, I’ve never been," said Kristen Thompson. "It’s a perfect venue. You’ve got the bigger stages and the more intimate stages."
"Everyone is always in good spirits here," said Luke Gould.
"I went two years ago, we didn’t go last year so this is our comeback season," said Marley Hennessy.
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As soon as the gates opened at 11 a.m., fans sprinted across the festival grounds – some lining up hours in advance to see their favorite artists take the stage.
Thursday night’s headliners were Karol G, The Rose, Diplo, and Billie Eilish.
Lollapalooza runs through Sunday, Aug. 6 – and for many fans, it’s a chance to experience live concerts that are on their bucket list.
"I’m going all four days, and my plan is to see two of my top artists, Billie Eilish and Lana Del Rey," said Michael Schwamb.
"I’m really excited for Kendrick this year, I’ve really wanted to see him live for a long time," said Dalton Thompson.
"Lana Del Rey and the 1975 for sure," said Dahlila Finneran.
Up to 100,000 fans are expected to attend the festival each day.
Without question – and in keeping with tradition – festivalgoers are dressing to impress.
"You can really tell everyone’s personality coming out in their outfits. I love it," said Hennessy.
"Honestly I spent a lot of time on it this morning, I probably changed like four times," said Schwamb. "Most of it’s thrifted, I bought these shoes this morning."
Kendrick Lamar is one of Friday’s headliners, Odesza will take center stage on Saturday, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers on Sunday.
Festivalgoers are encouraged to bring an empty reusable water bottle and to take advantage of the free ‘hydration stations’ throughout the festival grounds.
For everything you need to know about Lollapalooza, FOX 32 Chicago has a full festival guide HERE.