Everything you need to know before you come to SelassieFest. If you don’t find your answer here, reach out to selassiefest@gmail.com.
Date: Saturday, July 25th, 2026. Gates open at 6:00 AM and close at 10:00 PM.
Location: Ethiopian Heritage Grounds – 6227 Prairie Avenue, Chicago, IL 60637 (South Side, near the historic Bronzeville neighborhood).
It is a one‑day, rain‑or‑shine outdoor festival.
Tickets are available exclusively online at selassiefest.com/tickets.
- Early Bird: Limited quantity, lowest price.
- General Admission: Access to all stages, villages, and workshops.
- VIP Experience: Includes shaded lounge, private bar, express entry, and a gift bag.
- Scholarship Tickets: Free or discounted for community members with financial need (application required).
No tickets sold at the gate – must purchase in advance.
Illinois law allows adults 21+ to possess up to 30g of cannabis. However, consumption is restricted to designated 21+ zones: the High‑Q Lounge and the Terpene Garden. Smoking/vaping is not permitted in crowd areas, near food tents, or in the Youth Village.
You may bring your own legally obtained cannabis for personal use, but no selling, gifting, or unlicensed vending. Licensed sponsors will have education and sample stations. Overconsumption is discouraged; our Ganja Guardians provide harm reduction support.
Yes – the Ital Food Marketplace features over 20 vendors serving plant‑based, vegan, and natural meals. “Ital” is a Rastafari dietary principle focused on unprocessed, living foods (no salt, no artificial additives, and often no meat). You’ll find jerk tofu, coconut curry, fresh juices, herbal teas, and more. Outside food is permitted (except for large coolers). Water refill stations are free.
Absolutely. The grounds are mostly flat, with wheelchair‑accessible ramps at all stages and restrooms. We offer:
- ASL interpretation for main stage performances (request in advance at selassiefest@gmail.com).
- A quiet decompression zone for sensory‑sensitive attendees.
- Accessible parking near the entrance (limited; email us to reserve).
- Service animals welcome (emotional support animals require prior approval).
Contact our accessibility coordinator for specific needs.
Yes! We have a dedicated Youth & Family Village with drum‑making, African games, scavenger hunts, and a youth agriculture zone (Budding Minds). Children under 12 are free when accompanied by a ticketed adult. The Youth Village is a substance‑free zone. All minors must be supervised at all times. Family restrooms and a nursing mother’s tent are available.
The full schedule will be released 2 weeks before the festival. Key anchor times:
- 6:00 AM – Dawn Nyabinghi Groundation (sunrise drumming & libation).
- 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM – Roots Reggae Main Stage (continuous live bands).
- 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM – Sound System Yard (clashes, dubplates).
- 8:00 PM – Sunset headliner concert.
- 9:30 PM – Dub After Dark (illuminated sound system, fire performance).
Workshops in Higher Learning Roots and Healing Grove run throughout the day. Check the mobile app or printed guide on arrival.
SelassieFest is built on respect, consent, and community accountability. The full Code of Conduct prohibits violence, harassment, hate speech, and non‑consensual touching/photography.
To report: Text (414) 909‑3279, visit any Info Booth, or find a Community Care Team member (purple armbands). Anonymous reporting form available online. We practice restorative justice when possible, but serious violations will result in ejection and potential legal action.
Volunteers: We need help with gate entry, stage assistance, waste management, and community care. Volunteers receive a free ticket, meal voucher, and staff t‑shirt. Sign up at selassiefest.com/volunteer (spots fill quickly).
Vendors: We welcome artisans, craft food makers, and educational nonprofits. No corporate mass‑produced goods. Application and approval required; fees are sliding scale based on equity. Go to selassiefest.com/vendor-application.
Do NOT bring: weapons, fireworks, outside alcohol, illegal drugs (non‑cannabis), glass bottles, large coolers, tents/chairs that block pathways, professional cameras without a press pass, or any item that endangers others. Bags will be checked. There is no re‑entry unless you have VIP or a medical need.
Parking: Limited paid parking lots nearby (approx. $15‑$20). We strongly encourage ride‑share, carpooling, or public transit. Accessible parking must be reserved in advance.
Public transit: Take the CTA Green Line to “47th Street” station, then walk 10 minutes or take the #47 bus. Several bus lines (29, 3) stop within two blocks. Bicycle parking is available for free.
Yes – a fully staffed medical tent (EMTs and nurses) is located near the Healing Grove. We also have harm‑reduction services: hydration stations, a rest area for over‑intoxication, and naloxone available on request. For emergencies, an ambulance is on standby. If you feel unwell, go to the nearest info point or yell “Medical!”
The festival is rain or shine. Most stages have cover; however, bring a poncho or umbrella if showers are forecast. In case of dangerous weather (lightning, high winds), we may pause performances and direct attendees to shelter. No refunds for weather unless the entire festival is canceled by authorities.
Only certified service animals are permitted. Emotional support animals (ESAs) require prior approval and documentation – contact selassiefest@gmail.com at least 2 weeks in advance. No pets, comfort animals, or “therapy” animals without formal certification. The loud music and crowds are stressful for animals.
Yes, for personal use. But do not record entire sets or obstruct others’ views. Professional DSLRs with detachable lenses require a media pass (apply at selassiefest@gmail.com). Do not photograph anyone without their explicit consent, especially in Healing Grove areas. Drones are strictly prohibited.