Ravinia is an internationally renowned not-for-profit music festival that presents outstanding performances by the world’s greatest artists.

Our mission is to enrich lives through the transformative power of music. Ravinia honors our vibrant history of classical music while celebrating a multitude of musical genres. Through exceptional performances, educational programs, professional training, and community engagement, we strive to create memorable experiences that connect people, foster curiosity, and ensure that the joy of live music is accessible to all.

First opened on August 15, 1904, Ravinia is the longest running and most programmatically diverse outdoor music festival in North America, welcoming about 400,000 guests to over 100 events each year. Passenger trains stop at our historic entrance during the summer, serviced by Metra’s Union Pacific North Line—a tie to our origin from a railroad company. Ravinia is the only private train stop in Illinois!

Several programs extend Ravinia’s reach into Chicago and Lake County public schools that otherwise have little to no music curriculum of their own, providing 20,000 students with live performances and integrative activities that spark a love of music and invite exploration of varied genres and styles, as well as programs that teach the foundations of music and encourage children to engage in music-making and express themselves creatively.

Founded in 1988 in honor of Lois M. Steans, the Steans Institute is an international destination for exceptional musical talent, cultivating the next generation of classical and jazz musicians. Our world-renowned programs empower emerging professional pianists, string players, singers, composers, and jazz musicians to refine their craft, collaborate with peers, and elevate their musicianship to new heights. The Steans Institute provides more than artistic training—we are a community where talent meets opportunity, and passion becomes performance.

Ravinia hosts three days of festivities during this annual celebration of women in classical music curated by Conductor Marin Alsop. 

More information about the 2025 Breaking Barriers festival coming soon!