Highland Park battle of bands

Highland Park-based Bitter Jester Battle of the Bands kicks off its 11th season, Friday, June 3, at 7 p.m. in Port Clinton Square in downtown Highland Park. Approximately 25 bands comprised of the Chicago area's most talented young musicians are expected to compete for more than $30,000 in combined cash and prizes on Fridays in June. Each Friday, six bands will battle in front of a public audience and a panel of judges, who will select one winner each week. The event culminates in the Grand Finale Concert on July 4, featuring each of the four winning bands plus four wild card bands. The eight semifinalists and two showcase bands will be awarded the opportunity to perform at the "best of" concert at Navy Pier on Sunday July 17 and Sunday, July 24. For a complete schedule of events, and to keep up-to-date on the competition, follow Bitter Jester Battle of the Bands on Facebook at www.facebook.com/BitterJesterBattle.