Winnetka Music Festival 2026: What To Know Before You Go

WINNETKA, IL — Festival goers will flood downtown Winnetka next weekend for the 2026 Winnetka Music Festival with this year's headlining acts Trobone Shorty & Orleans Avenue and Father John Misty.

On June 19 and 20, the main focus will be on the more than 25 musical acts that will rock the three different stages. Here are five things you need to know about the festival in order to enjoy it to the fullest:

Parking and Transit Tips

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Parking at the festival grounds and in the area is extremely limited, according to festival organizers, so arriving via alternative methods is encouraged.

For those traveling by train, the Metra Winnetka station lets out just steps from the festival's south entrance. To purchase train tickets or view the train schedule for the weekend, check the Metra website.

For bikers, racks will be available so you can park and lock your bike outside festival grounds. The best drop-off location for time-share services is 784 Elm St.

What You Can and Can't Bring

Permitted items allowed inside Winnetka Music Festival include:

• Backpacks and purses
• Empty refillable water bottles
• Wagons and strollers
• Folding chairs, lawn chairs and blankets
• Rain coats & ponchos

All Bags are subject to search at the entry gate.

Unfortunately, there is a long list of items not allowed at the festival, including:

• Coolers
• Outside food
• Outside alcoholic beverages
• Pets (service animals permitted)
• Bicycles
• Umbrellas
• Weapons, fireworks, drugs
• Tents, balls, frisbees, bags sets, and yard games
• Musical instruments or speakers
• Professional photo, video, or audio recording equipment

How To Register Your Wristband

Once you have your Winnetka Music Festival wristband in hand, you'll need to register it to use it. Festival runners recommended attendees register their wristbands in advance for faster access into the grounds.

Here's how to set up your wristband:

• Scan the QR Code on your wristband
• Set up your Billfold account
• Confirm your email address
• Click “Register”
• Enter your wristband number (it may already be autofilled)
• Enter your name and contact info
• Enter your preferred payment method and create a PIN code
• Confirm your details

Prepare For Heat

Next weekend is expected to be in the high 70s and sunny with only a slight chance of rain. According to Accuweather, the UV index is expected to be very high, so pack some sunscreen in your bag.

There will be water available for purchase at the festival, as well as a free water station for attendees to refill their own reusable water bottle.

To view site maps for both Friday and Saturday, visit the festival's website.

Food And Beverage

There will be a variety of food and beverage options at the festival, including several bars and food trucks from local favorites. From pizza to sweet treats, there will be a variety of options for festival goers to choose from.

For VIP attendees, the festival will offer exclusive vendors with specialized menus and beverage offerings. To view the list of vendors and menu items that will be available, visit the festival's website.