Free Events at Chicago's Millennium Park in September 2009

Millennium Park in Chicago offers a number of free events to the public. In September, the choices abound with a number of great musicians gracing the stage and fitness classes such as Yoga and Tai Chi to get everyone healthy. Visitors to the park can enjoy the brisk air and autumn colors that make the city of Chicago a memorable place to visit in the fall.

September kicks off on Thursday, September 3 at 6:30 pm with a celebration big bank music performed by the Chicago Jazz Ensemble. These events will feature some of the music of big band leader Benny Goodman. Making this event especially worth the trip for Jazz enthusiasts will be special guest clarinetist Buddy DeFranco. For those looking to learn more about Jazz and classic big band music the Chicago Cultural Center is also hosting a free lecture on this day between the hours of 12 to 1:30 to coincide with the concert.

On Friday, September 11 at 7:30 pm, music lovers can enjoy hearing the star singers of the Lyric Opera, Deborah Voigt and James Morris, sing selections from the operas featured this season at the Lyric Opera. This free concert will be held at the Pritzker Pavilion.

Culture is the theme at Millennium Park this September and the Thursday, September 17 has a free performance of the Joffrey Ballet at 7:30. This recital will be sure surprise anyone not familiar with the grace and athleticism that the Joffrey brings to ballet.

As part of the World Music Festival, the Mehter Ottoman Turkish Military Band will perform exotic Turkish folk music. Music goers can enjoy one of the oldest forms of military marching bands in the world and experience what 30 musical performers can do.

Also during the month of September, Millennium Park will continue with some of its summer programs for families such as its Family Fun Festivals geared toward children craft and education activities. These festivals will be held daily from 10 am - 3pm daily until September 4. Saturdays are workout days at the park until September 19.

Fitness enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of fitness choices including Tai Chi and Yoga from 7 am - 11am. Guide walks to enjoy the park's Lurie Gardens will also continue tours through September 20, so visitors can enjoy the fall colors. Walks are held each Sunday from 10 am - 1:30 pm. September is a great time to visit Millennium Park and enjoy all it has to offer with all its free events.

References:

Made in Chicago: World Jazz

Workouts

Lurie Garden Guided Walks

Family Fun Festival