Grant Park is a-rocking. Or it will be next weekend as Lollapalooza makes its way back to the Windy City. For the fifth year, Jane's Addiction lead singer Perry Farrell has gathered more than 70 of the best bands and artists in music today for the three-day festival.
"The mighty Jane's Addiction returns to Lolla after 18 years," Farrell said.
Other headliners Kings of Leon, Tool, The Killers and the recently added Yeah Yeah Yeahs (subbing for the Beastie Boys after Adam Yauch was diagnosed with cancer) are expected to be big draws this year.
But a lot of smaller acts will have the fans swooning.
Chicago's Andrew Bird, The Decemberists, Neko Case, Animal Collective, Bon Iver, Ben Folds and Fleet Foxes are just some of the indie darlings highlighted.
As usual, Lollapalooza will showcase many up-and-coming acts. The Airborne Toxic Event, Asher Roth, the Virgins and Gaslight Anthem are a few of the bands that will continue their break-out year by taking part in one of the largest musical gatherings in America.
Following in the tradition of Chicago's other indie rock festival -- Pitchfork -- Lollapalooza is stepping up its efforts to "go green" this year.
Organizers will purchase offsets from Green Mountain Energy Company for C02 emissions. In addition, this year's Rock & Recycle program will offer fans the chance to win a 2010 Honda Insight Hybrid simply by doing their part to help the environment.
As in years past, the Parkways Foundation is the main beneficiary from Lollapalooza ticket sales. The foundation works to enrich the physical and cultural landscape of Chicago's many parks. Projects include the $25 million restoration of Buckingham Fountain.
"Since the first Chicago Lollapalooza in 2005, each attendee and sponsor has helped Parkways impact Chicago's neighborhoods -- another reason Lollapalooza is among the best festivals in the world," said Parkways executive director Brenda Palm.
Lollapalooza 2009, Aug. 7-9
WHERE: Grant Park, Chicago
WHAT: Three-day musical festival featuring Kings of Leon, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Jane's Addiction, The Killers and many more bands
COST: Three-day general admission passes are available for $205; Single-day tickets are $80 per day.
FYI: lollapalooza.com
