Chicago Bluegrass & Blues Fest Announces Initial Lineup

By Sarah Cobarrubias in Arts & Entertainment on Nov 17, 2011 4:20PM

Once a 1-day affair, the Chicago Bluegrass & Blues Festival has continued to grow steadily each year since its launch. Well, the little fest that could is returning for its fourth year this winter and expanding yet again to host more than 50 bands on three weekends through December and January.

The whole thing kicks off with a 3-night run December 8-10 at the Aragon Ballroom featuring String Cheese Incident. There will also be after parties each night across the street at Kinetic Playground.

The fest resumes again January 21 at the Auditorium Theater. CBB-fest regular David Grisman and the Del McCoury Band will take the stage together for a collaborative performance called “Big Mon Jam.” The show will also feature separate sets by the Del McCoury Band and the David Grisman Quintet, as well as Joe Purdy, The Giving Tree Band, Henhouse Prowlers, Majors Junction and more guests to be announced.

The fest’s final show is the following week at Congress Theater. Three stages will feature a handful of acts, including Dawes, Joe Pug and headliners Drive-By Truckers. More acts will be announced as the fest approaches, so keep your eye on CBBF’s official site for updates.

String Cheese Incident Plays Thursday-Friday, December 8-10 at Aragon Ballroom, 1106 W Lawrence, 7 p.m., $40, all ages
David Grisman and the Del McCoury Band play Saturday, January 21 at Auditorium Theater, 50 E Congress, 2 p.m., $39.50-$59.50
Drive-By Truckers play Saturday, January 28 at Congress Theater, 2135 N Milwaukee, 12 p.m., $35, 17+