Relax & Restore
At the Forest Preserve Foundation's
Second Annual Outdoor Concert Fundraiser
Thursday, July 24, 2025
6:00 - 9:00 PM
Join us for a relaxing summer evening of jazz with the sun setting behind the trees.
Make plans to unwind while supporting and protecting the preserves you love. Who will you invite?
JULIUS TUCKER trio:
Julius Tucker, a pianist, composer, bandleader, and producer, has solidified his reputation for masterful keyboard fluency, harmonic sophistication, and a multifaceted voice. His compositions reflect a deep engagement with jazz tradition and contemporary innovation.
Rooted in Chicago’s rich musical legacy, Tucker’s academic journey culminated at Northwestern University, where he earned dual degrees in Jazz Piano and Civil Engineering—a testament to his disciplined creativity—and received the prestigious Luminarts Fellowship in Jazz Improvisation.
A seasoned performer on international stages, Tucker has graced legendary venues such as The Green Mill, The Jazz Showcase, the Chicago Jazz Festival, Hyde Park Jazz Festival, and Italy’s Jazzit Festival, collaborating with a host of international artists.
LADY SAX ® aka Ms. Ernie D. Shelby
Known for her lively 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. The consummate entertainer, Lady Sax leaves the stage to wander through the audience.
Born into a family tree of well-versed musicians, Ernie Delores (Caldwell) Shelby is a talented saxophonist, vocalist and composer. In elementary school, when the music department ran out of “girlie” instruments such as flutes and clarinets, she was given the choice between tuba or saxophone.
"Loved Lady Sax—wow so fun, and a total pro. Her energy was infectious!" - Michelle Major, 2024 Jazz in the Preserves attendee who is thrilled about the opportunity to see Lady Sax perform again this year:
Capacity is limited, so get your tickets now.
Ticket includes 2 vouchers for beer, wine or soft drinks.
Food will be available for purchase.
TICKETS $50 for 16 and over. $15 for children 15 and under.
On July 24th, pack up your blanket or lawn chairs for your spot on the lawn and let jazz and nature feed your soul. There will also be some picnic tables at the perimeter.
See the 2024 Inaugural Event Story and photo gallery HERE
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.
HOST COMMITTEE
Theresa Salus, Co-Chair
LeeAnn Tomas-Foster, Co-Chair
Glenn Coffey
Peter Volpe
FAQ
How much are tickets and what do they include?
Tickets are $50 each, age 16 and above. Children age 15 and under $15 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. Top Butcher will set up a grill, selling cheeseburgers, veggie burgers, chicken sandwiches, and a vegan option; For dessert, we will have an ice cream cart selling ice cream and sorbet.
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!