Chicago crowds rock opening night of Lollapalooza
CHICAGO - Thousands of people have already descended on Chicago’s Grant Park for Lollapalooza, which kicked off Thursday morning.
Massive crowds are expected all weekend long, with up to 100,000 fans each night of the four-day music festival.
Festival boundaries extend from Michigan Avenue to Lake Shore Drive, and Roosevelt Road to Randolph Street.
More than 170 bands and performers will share eight stages throughout the weekend.
"It’s nice to be around a group of people, and everybody is collectively enjoying the moment," said Tim McNally, festivalgoer.
"One-thousand percent, I'll be as close to the action as possible for Metallica," said Chris Pisani.
Some of the weekend’s most notable headliners include Metallica, J. Cole, Dua Lipa, Green Day, and Machine Gun Kelly.
"My son plays the guitar, and he and my husband love Metallica so we wanted to do a family thing and we got it for his birthday," said Charlyn Vlasic.
"I don’t know if I’ll have another opportunity to see that artist specifically," Amber Rangel said of Metallica. "So I’m kind of excited to see that crowd and the diverse amount of people that come to check it out."
Unlike last year, wristband holders don't need to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test to enter the gates.
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Security is being stepped up, though.
Concertgoers will be subject to an airport-style search, including pat downs.
No backpacks or large tote bags will be allowed in. Purses and fanny packs must measure smaller than 4.5 by 5.5 inches, otherwise, you must have a clear bag.
If you are not attending the music festival, steer clear of Grant Park because road closures are in effect.
Meanwhile, inside the park, festivalgoers say on day one, the energy is already electric.
"I just love the energy here. These are my friends visiting from school and I’m just excited to show them," said Mya.
"I'm really excited to be here in Chicago for my first time ever being in the city and just to see the atmosphere here," said Alison Berg.
"I'm definitely excited for the mosh pits and like the crowds," Olivia said.
By Thursday evening, two-, three- and four-day general admission passes were sold out. One-day tickets and VIP passes are still available.