Chicago Park District Takes Annual T.I.P. Fest to the Beach with a Variety Style Showcase

This free showcase offers teens a positive environment to come together and enjoy entertainment, food, access to resources, fun activations and more!

Chicago, IL – The spotlight is on the next generation of talent at the Chicago Park District’s 11th annual Teens in the Park (T.I.P.) Festival: Beach Edition! All are invited to attend this event, in partnership with Pep Rally Takeover (PRTO), on Saturday, July 18, 2026 at Oakwood (41st St.) Beach, 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. T.I.P. Fest is open to everyone at no cost; registration at www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/tip-fest is encouraged.

“For more than a decade, T.I.P. Fest has been Chicago’s biggest stage for teen talent,” said General Superintendent and CEO, Carlos Ramirez-Rosa. “There is value in creating safe spaces where youth can express themselves, build confidence and connect with their peers.”

This year, instead of a competition, young artists auditioned for a spot to perform in a variety showcase. Thirteen finalists will have the opportunity to showcase their talents on a professional stage with lights, sound and a crowd, while making some money. There’s also a full celebrity guest line up including DLow, Lil Kemo and event headliner, rapper, Zeddy Will. Local rapper, Queen Key, will also attend.

Attendees are in for a treat! In addition to the performances and celebrity guest lineup, there will be food trucks onsite, a flea market, mini basketball tournaments, esports gaming stations and more. The whole family is encouraged to attend and cheer the performers on.

What started as a citywide talent competition has grown into a full-scale celebration of youth voice, artistry and community. Over the years, T.I.P. Fest has launched young performers, connected teens to industry professionals, and built a platform where Chicago’s next generation of creators can shine.

For more information and to secure a free ticket to T.I.P. Fest: Beach Edition, visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/tip-fest.