Fretboard Summit Brings Lyle Lovett, Cesar Rosas, and Top Guitar Talent to Chicago’s Lincoln Square

CHICAGO, IL — The sound of strummed strings and the hum of amplifiers will fill Lincoln Square’s Old Town School of Folk Music this week as the Fretboard Summit returns for its fourth year. Running Thursday through Saturday, the three-day event blends concerts, interactive workshops, and a massive guitar showcase, making it one of Chicago’s most anticipated celebrations of guitar culture.

Concerts and Headliners

This year’s Summit lineup delivers a mix of legendary names and rising talents. Lyle Lovett tops the bill with an already sold-out Saturday night performance, while Cesar Rosas & The Chi-Town Playboys, Dave Hill, and Charlie Hunter with Ella Feingold bring diverse styles to the stage. Other notable acts include Jonathan Stout and Eric McIntyre, as well as performers like John Smith, Sofia Wolfson, Anna Vogelzang, Dylan Day, Harrison Whitford, and Ryan Richter. The blend of folk, jazz, blues, and experimental guitar work ensures that every evening highlights the instrument’s versatility.

A Guitar Enthusiast’s Dream

Beyond the concerts, nearly 80 guitar brands and independent luthiers will showcase their creations. For enthusiasts, this is a rare opportunity to see and play custom instruments, interact directly with builders, and explore innovations in guitar design. Exhibitors range from internationally known brands to boutique craftsmen, giving visitors a complete view of today’s guitar landscape.

Immersive Workshops and Creative Features

The Summit isn’t just about listening — it’s about hands-on experiences. Attendees can join workshops led by master builders, artists, and educators to learn new playing techniques, explore tone shaping, or understand the craftsmanship behind fine instruments.

One of this year’s highlights is the “sound curtain,” an interactive installation by California luthier Justin Motander Jones. The exhibit allows guests to walk into an acoustic environment where guitars can be played directly into the space, reshaping sound in real time. Meanwhile, the annual Invitational Pinewood Derby adds a playful twist, inviting luthiers and creators to race custom-built cars, showcasing their woodworking talents beyond guitars.

Community Connection

What sets the Fretboard Summit apart is its deep Chicago roots. As Dawn Patch, senior director of operations at the Old Town School of Folk Music, explains, the event thrives because it’s hosted in a venue known for its year-round dedication to teaching and performing, not just as an exhibition space. “It’s a really deep music community locally,” Patch said, emphasizing the role of the school in making the festival feel less like a trade show and more like a celebration of artistry and connection.

Tickets and Access

Tickets are available in multiple tiers. Three-day passes cost $425, while single-day tickets for Friday and Saturday are $175 each. For fans mainly interested in gear, a $38 ticket provides access to the guitar showcase without the concert series. Given the popularity of past events and this year’s impressive lineup, fans are encouraged to purchase tickets early.

The Verdict

The Fretboard Summit has grown into a must-attend gathering for guitar players, fans, and builders alike. By combining concerts, showcases, workshops, and interactive installations, the festival offers a comprehensive look at the instrument’s past, present, and future. Whether you’re a seasoned player or simply a fan of live music, the Summit promises three days of inspiration and community.

Will you be checking out the Fretboard Summit this weekend in Lincoln Square? Which artist, workshop, or guitar showcase are you most excited about? Share your thoughts in the comments — and for more coverage of Chicago’s live music scene, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.