Country Music Festival Stands on its Own

Just when you thought the outdoor drinking season was over, the Chicago Country Music Festival makes a late entry. Once part of the Taste of Chicago, the fest declares its independence with a new date and location this weekend at the Soldier Field "parkland." (Which is pretty much a fancy way to say parking lot.)

We're not gonna lie, we don't know a ton about the opening acts, but we can tell you they look like a worthy build-up to the headliners. On Saturday night, vocal powerhouse Gretchen Wilson will rile up the Joe Six-Packs better than any winking vice-presidential nominee when she takes the stage with her backcountry battle cries. On Sunday night the Main Stage will see a sharp contrast in Taylor Swift, a poetic country prodigy who will easily melt hearts with her sweet ballads and girlish charm. A surprise comes with the appearance of Son Volt, taking the stage opposite Swift. Some consider their often boozy, bluesy sound to fall under alternative country, so perhaps it's fitting they'll be rocking the Americana Stage. [Ed's Note: We'll be hanging at Tift Merrit, thankyouverymuch - MG]

For a complete list of acts and times, click here.