THE Experience
Picnic
Our lawn is gorgeous. We actually encourage our guests to bring chairs, tables, blankets and as big a spread of foods and beverages they want. Looking for the latest in creating your perfect picnic? Visit the Ravinia Gift Shop.
Order a Picnic Box online and let us do all the preparation.
Pavilion
For those of you who like to be up-close and personal with the performers on stage, the pavilion is where it’s at. Reserved seating begins a half-hour before the concert start time (or before the opening act). From your seat you can feel like you’re a part of the band or in the orchestra; however remember that you are not actually performing, so please be aware and respectful to those around you. Also remember to eat and drink (except water) prior to entering the pavilion because those people in the burgundy vests, also known as ushers, will make you finish it or throw it out. Don’t forget that you can still enjoy your picnic on the lawn before the concert and easily stow your picnicking equipment on the perimeter of the pavilion, however keep in mind that this is unsupervised.
Dining
Let’s say that you don’t have time to go to the grocery store or you are allergic to the grass. Never fear, we have something for you! There are plenty of dining options on-site from sit-down restaurants and the a la carte Ravinia Market, to FanFare Carts and the Carousel ice cream shop. Check it all out here.
Gift Shop
Ravinia has a Gift Shop at three locations! Visit our walk-in gift shop in the Dining Pavilion. There you will find an extensive array of clothing, souvenirs, CDs, picnic and gift items to enhance your Ravinia experience. Or fill your more immediate needs at the shop located in the Martin Theatre. If you really can’t wait – click here.
Prefer to shop alone? We can arrange your own private shopping experience. Please call 847-266-5425 or email giftshop@ravinia.org to schedule.
Ravinia Gifts is managed by the Ravinia Festival Women’s Board and is staffed by volunteers. All proceeds directly benefit the Festival.
Rain Out
Come prepared, as all concerts occur rain or shine. Although Chicago weather is predictably sunshine, lollipops, and rainbows, occasionally Poseidon will stir up hurricane-like conditions in Lake Michigan causing Ravinia lawn patrons to give new meaning to the term “storm troopers.” For your convenience the Ravinia Weatherline is updated daily with the expected forecast for that evening, call 847-266-5100. Please note that all sales are final and no refunds will be made in the case of inclement weather.
Alcohol
Ravinia strictly adheres to all local and state laws regarding alcohol consumption. Guests 21 and older may bring alcoholic beverages for adult consumption; you heard that right, BYOB! Ravinia offers a full bar, and alcoholic drinks may be purchased in the Park View and Mirabelle Restaurants and at specialty carts throughout the park. Guests must expect to be “carded” for appropriate I.D. (consider this a compliment). Police may inspect bags or test youth for liquor prior to admission. Ravinia reserves the right to refuse service or admission to anyone. Alcohol sales will end approximately one hour prior to the ending of the concert or following intermission.
Do Not Bring
It’s important that you feel at home at Ravinia, but this is not your backyard. Therefore do not bring:
- Grills
- Beer kegs
- Athletic equipment (ex. footballs, Frisbees, etc.)
- Rollerblades
- Bicycles, scooters, in-line skates inside the park (Please note that we do have bike racks available for storage outside of the Box Office if you choose to help save the environment and ride your bike to the park)
- Pets (we know they love music too)
- Tents
- Canopies or umbrellas over six feet in diameter.
- Anything that needs to be staked into the ground.
Besides, you do have to leave at the end of the night. No sleepovers please!
Helpful Tips
ARRIVE EARLY! We recommend arriving as early as possible for sold-out performances to allow extra time for traffic, crowds, and to secure your desired spot on the lawn.
Be considerate! On sold out nights the lawn can become crowded. Please do not reserve more space than you actually need on the lawn, allowing room for your fellow concertgoers to enjoy the evening. Ravinia staff reserves the right to condense parties and reseat patrons. If you have trouble finding a spot, please find a security guard for assistance.
Everyone can picnic! Pavilion and Martin Theatre ticket-holders are encouraged to picnic on the lawn prior to the concert. Please stow picnic equipment at designated areas around the perimeter or back of the venues, however your things will not be watched. Ask an usher for assistance.
Lawn screen! Certain pavilion concerts have a lawn screen making the performance from the stage visible to those on the North Lawn. Please check our calendar for specific dates.
Forgot your tickets? Don’t worry, come to the box office and we can look up your order to reprint them for you.
In the fine print, additional ticket information:
- Your ticket is a revocable license. Admission is subject to terms, conditions and policies established by the Ravinia Festival Association.
- All programs and artists are subject to cancellation or change without notice.
- No refunds will be given unless a performance is cancelled in its entirety, with no replacement performance scheduled.
- Latecomers will be seated at the discretion of the management.
- No children under 7 years of age will be admitted to reserved seats except designated family shows.
- No rain checks. Dated tickets may not be exchanged.
- Admission serves as consent for Ravinia Festival to capture and use your photo, image and/or voice in Ravinia’s promotional materials.