Thirsty Ears Classical Music Festival

Access Contemporary Music presents the sixth annual Thirsty Ears Festival, Chicago's only classical music street festival Saturday, August 14 from 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Sunday, August 15 from 2:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. (rain or shine)

Thirsty Ears Festival is held in the Ravenswood neighborhood on Wilson Ave. between Hermitage Ave. and Ravenswood Ave. A $10 suggested donation for entry is requested and benefits the ACM School of Music.

Thirsty Ears Festival presents high-quality classical music performances, from Baroque to Contemporary, in a fun, relaxed setting. The annual street festival attracts an audience of thousands, many of whom are new to classical music.

Highlights of this year’s Thirsty Ears Festival include a special screening of ACM's Sound of Silent Film Festival on the street Saturday night, a performance by five-bass ensemble the Growlers, new premieres by five Chicago composers, and a classical remix from art-rock band Origin of Animal.

The festival also features craft beer from Empirical Brewing, vendor booths from community and arts partners, food from Urban Tables and kid-friendly activities and performances in Kidzone at the west end of the street both days.