August 2025 Concerts in Chicago: 10 Best Non-Lollapalooza Shows You Shouldn’t Miss
CHICAGO — While Lollapalooza commands headlines during the first weekend of August, Chicago’s music scene stays hot all month long with unforgettable performances from legends, indie darlings, and rising stars. Here’s a curated list of 10 standout non-Lolla shows happening across the city in August 2025.
August 2 – Kurt Vile at Evanston’s SPACE
Philly native Kurt Vile brings his dreamy guitar stylings to the intimate SPACE in Evanston. From his days with The War on Drugs to his acclaimed solo career, Vile’s performances are a blend of introspection and experimental rock.
Recommended track: Dust Bunnies (Live on KEXP)
August 5 – Death Cab for Cutie at Chicago Theatre
Experience “Plans” in full as Death Cab for Cutie delivers a nostalgia-rich set featuring hits like “Soul Meets Body” and “Marching Bands of Manhattan.” This one’s for every millennial who fell in love with indie rock in the 2000s.
Watch: Marching Bands of Manhattan
August 6 – Trophy Wife at GMan Tavern
Brooklyn indie outfit Trophy Wife lands at GMan Tavern for an up-close set. Their track “Knife Fight” is a raw, catchy anthem tailor-made for a sweaty night of dancing at one of Chicago’s most beloved bars.
Listen here: Knife Fight
August 7 – Earth, Wind & Fire at Ravinia
Get ready to groove under the stars as Earth, Wind & Fire, Chicago’s own funk legends, take over Ravinia. Lawn chairs, wine, and “September” on full blast? Yes, please.
Turn it up: September
August 10 – Wilco at The Salt Shed
Local heroes Wilco return for another epic hometown show, this time at the visually stunning Salt Shed. If you haven’t seen Jeff Tweedy and crew live yet, this is your moment.
Fan favorite: Handshake Drugs
August 10 – Talib Kweli at City Winery
Talib Kweli, revered hip-hop lyricist and one-half of Black Star, performs two intimate sets at City Winery. Expect soul, truth, and timeless rhymes in a classy, seated setting.
Spin this: Thieves in the Night
August 17 – Yuno at Schubas
On the heels of his Sub Pop debut album “Blest,” genre-blurring artist Yuno hits Schubas Tavern for a colorful night of alternative grooves. Think lo-fi beats, funk, and futuristic flair.
Catch the vibe: Blest
August 28 – Oasis at Soldier Field
It finally happened. Oasis is back and they’re coming to Soldier Field. Whether it’s a true reunion or just a magical moment in time, fans can expect massive singalongs and Gallagher brother chaos.
Anthem alert: Don’t Look Back in Anger
August 29 – Bleary Eyed at Schubas
Philly’s Bleary Eyed brings their polished, emotionally raw alt-rock sound to Schubas. The band has been steadily building buzz, and this intimate show promises to be one of those “I saw them when…” moments.
Sample this: Pennies
August 29 – My Chemical Romance & Devo at Soldier Field
What do you get when you mix My Chemical Romance and Devo? A glorious time warp. MCR will roll back the clock with “The Black Parade,” while Devo brings the retro-futuristic energy.
Throwback time: Helena
Which of these August shows are you planning to attend? Let us know your picks or post your own recommendations in the comments on ChicagoMusicGuide.com.