Concerts in the Plaza summer concert series announced

Get ready for a summer filled with music, nature and good vibes. The popular Concerts in the Plaza series returns to Independence Grove Forest Preserve in Libertyville, bringing live outdoor performances to Millennia Plaza, set against the backdrop of a 129-acre lake. Concerts run from 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesday evenings, June 10 through Aug. 5.

This year's lineup blends local favorites and crowd-pleasing tribute acts, from Beatles and Steely Dan covers to ’90s hits, country, reggae, blues and more. Whether you’re dancing, picnicking or just soaking up the sunset, there’s a lineup for everyone. This year’s concerts are supported by North Shore Gas (platinum sponsor), Libertyville Bank and Trust (bronze sponsor) and Lake County Journal (media sponsor).

“There’s nothing quite like live music surrounded by nature,” said Forest Preserves President Jessica Vealitzek. “Concerts in the Plaza brings families and friends together in one of the most beautiful settings in Lake County.”

• June 10: The Wayouts (1960s Rock'n'Roll) Dedicated exclusively to garage rock hits from the 1960s, The Wayouts deliver an authentic revival of rock'n'roll's first generation with hits from The Kinks, The Animals, The Troggs, The Monkees, The Rascals and more. Veterans of the Chicago music scene, they have diverse musical resumes.

• June 17: Brooklyn Charmers (Steely Dan Tribute, Jazz Rock) Brooklyn Charmers is a Steely Dan tribute band composed of some of Chicago's top players. With masterful precision and obsessive dedication to the music, Brooklyn Charmers injects a new energy into the beloved catalog, bridging the gap between new and lifelong fans alike.

• June 24: How Rude! ('90s Tribute) How Rude! brings the best of the '90s to life with their high-energy, nostalgia-filled performance, mixing everything from grunge to pop. Relive the era with iconic slap bracelets, parting your hair down the middle and rocking those classic overalls, flannel shirts and platform shoes.

• July 1: Mackenzie O'Brien and Band (Country) The hottest young country band in the area boasting a lineup of full-time musicians and led by the captivating talent known as Chicago's new country queen. The band covers a wide array of music from contemporary country stars such as Little Big Town, Miranda Lambert and Chris Stapleton, as well as classics from legends including Dolly Parton and Waylon Jennings.

• July 8: Gizzae (Raggae) Gizzae, an acclaimed reggae band, blends diverse musical experiences from its global members. Over 35 years, they've won Grammys and Chicago Music Awards, sharing stages with icons such as the The Rolling Stones and Ziggy Marley. Their shows feature energetic guitar solos and mesmerizing keyboards, ensuring good vibes and moving rhythms for all.

• July 15: American English (Beatles Tribute) American English has been named the best Beatles tribute band of our time. They were voted No. 1 in soundalike contests at The Fest for Beatles Fans for three consecutive years. Their demand here and abroad, coupled with their fan base, anchored them in larger venues and theaters worldwide.

• July 22: Peach Jam (Allman Brothers Band Tribute, Blues Rock) A tribute to the iconic music of the legendary Allman Brothers Band. Let the tunes whisk you away to the Fillmore East, the historic music venue nestled in the heart of New York City, where the Allman Brothers Band frequently played. Expect a fusion of blues, rock, jazz and country to create a distinctive sound that’s both powerful and heartfelt.

• July 29: Soul Sacrifice (Santana Tribute, Rock) Soul Sacrifice Santana tribute band is known for delivering a top-notch experience, earning a strong following among fans. From Woodstock in 1969 to today, the band performs a mix of classic tunes, lively rhythms, electrifying guitar solos and authentic Latin percussion. With hits like “Black Magic Woman,” “Oye Como Va” and “Smooth,” the high-energy band keeps the crowd moving from beginning to end.

• Aug. 5: Mississippi Heat (Blues) Led by Chicago Hall of Fame harmonica master and songwriter Pierre Lacocque, Mississippi Heat stands as a world-class Chicago Blues Band. They describe their style as “traditional blues with a unique sound” as they present a blend of fresh innovative musical concepts while remaining rooted in vintage blues traditions.

The entrance to Independence Grove is on Buckley Road (Route 137) just east of Milwaukee Avenue (Route 21) and west of River Road in Libertyville.

Entrance to Independence Grove is $10 per car after 4:30 p.m. on event nights. Pricing includes drop-offs. No rain dates. Cash or credit card accepted. All vehicle entrance fees support Every Acre Strong: The Community Campaign for Lake County Forest Preserves. Led by the Preservation Foundation, donations to the campaign are creating a dependable funding source to care for preserves such as Independence Grove. Forever. For safety, and as a courtesy to preserve neighbors, park in preserve lots only. Cars will be turned away when parking lots are full.

For concert reminders, weather updates or to learn if a concert has been canceled, call (847) 968-3499 or view the status map at lcfpd.org/check-status-of-independence-grove-activities. There is no rescheduling if a concert is canceled.

Concerts are open to all ages and are held at the preserve's outdoor amphitheater overlooking a 129-acre lake. Bring a blanket or lawn chair for seating. Arrive early to secure a spot. Pack a picnic, or purchase a light dinner, snack or beverage from the preserve's walk-up café or from the Beer Garden at Independence Grove. To make a concert outing even more memorable, call (847) 968-3499 to reserve a pontoon boat for groups of up to six.

With the exception of service animals, dogs, horses and other pets are not permitted at Independence Grove.

For the safety of all guests, all items brought into the forest preserve (including — without limitation — coolers, picnic baskets, bags, backpacks and purses) are subject to search upon entry or reentry into the park and may also be inspected again upon entering Millennia Plaza.

Anyone interested in learning about concert sponsorship opportunities can contact the Preservation Foundation of the Lake County Forest Preserves at (847) 968-3434.