Relax & Restore
At the Forest Preserve Foundation's Inaugural Outdoor Concert Fundraiser
See the Story HERE
Thank you for a wonderful event! See you next year.
SAVE THE DATE
Thursday, July 24, 2025
6:00 - 9:00 PM
Bring blankets or lawn chairs for your spot on the lawn
Featuring
Ms. Ernie D. Shelby
Aka Lady Sax®
The Mario Dueñas Trio
The Mario Dueñas Trio: This dynamic trio brings a unique blend of jazz styles, combining traditional and contemporary elements to create an unforgettable sound. Led by the talented Mario Dueñas, the trio’s performance will take you on a musical journey that resonates with jazz enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Ms. Ernie D. Shelby, Aka Lady Sax: Known for her mesmerizing saxophone performances, Lady Sax will captivate you with her smooth and soulful melodies. Her talent and passion for music shine through every note, making her a standout performer in the jazz community.
Relax into your summer groove while supporting and protecting the preserves you love.
Capacity is limited, so get your tickets now, mark your calendar, and start dreaming of an evening that will help you unwind.
On July 18th, pack up your blanket or lawn chairs and some yummy food and let jazz and nature feed your soul.
The Forest Preserve Foundation supports projects at the Forest Preserves of Cook County that restore vital public lands, engage in climate resiliency measures, eliminate barriers to equitable access, nourish cultural engagement and nurture the next generation of environmental advocates.
FAQ
How much are tickets and what do they include?
Tickets are $50 each. Each ticket includes vouchers for 2 beverages: beer, wine, or soft drinks.
Will I be able to buy a ticket at the event?
We recommend buying tickets in advance. The venue has limited capacity. Depending on availability, tickets may or may not be available at the venue.
May I bring a folding chair and blanket?
Yes, please do! The lawn awaits.
How early can I arrive to save my spot on the grass?
The venue will be open to ticket holders at 5 PM.
May I bring food?
Yes, absolutely.
Can I buy food at the event?
Yes, we will have a couple of food vendors there. One will set up a grill to sell cheeseburgers, chicken sandwiches, and offer a vegan option; another will sell pizzas and there will be an ice cream vendor.,
Can I buy beer or wine at the concert?
Your ticket includes 2 vouchers for beer, wine or a non-alcoholic beverage option.
You are welcome to bring alcoholic beverages that are not in glass containers in accordance with FPCC Policies
You won’t be able to purchase any beer or wine. Alcoholic beverages will not be sold at the event.
May I bring my dog along?
Animals are not permitted at the concert, unless they are service animals.
Are there restrooms?
There are indoor bathrooms (accessible)
What accessibility amenities are available at Jazz in the Preserves?
There are tables, handicapped parking spots, and accessible bathrooms.
Please reach out to us if you have specific needs or have questions.
What else should I consider bringing?
Here's a checklist of items found helpful to outdoor concert goers:
☐ Blanket or lawn chair
☐ A low roll-up table, if you want to kick it up a notch
☐ Flashlight
☐ Sunscreen
☐ Mosquito repellant
☐ A sweatshirt
May I smoke?
The concert area is a non-smoking area. Smoking in designated area outside the concert area only.
Cannabis consumption of any kind is prohibited—this includes smoking or consuming cannabis flower, concentrates and infused products. (https://fpdcc.com/about/rules-regulations/)
Looking forward to an amazing event!
Host Committee
Theresa Salus, Co-Chair, REI Co-op
LeeAnn Tomas-Foster, Co-Chair, Arcadis U.S., Inc
Peter Volpe, Wintrust Bank
Thank you to our sponsors!