Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

General Information

What is the El Grito Chicago?

El Grito Chicago is a vibrant two-day festival celebrating the rich tapestry of Mexican culture and heritage showcased through a harmonious blend of food, music, art, culture and communal pride.

Attendees can expect authentic Mexican food & drinks, artisan market, live performances local and renowned Mexican artists, and major brand and sports team activations for all ages.

A FREE El Grito Civic Ceremony performed by the Mexican Consulate in Chicago will be held during El Grito Chicago on Sunday, September 14th.

What Is “El Grito” Civic Ceremony?

El Grito de Independencia is a historic and cherished tradition in Mexico, marking the beginning of the country’s fight for independence from Spanish rule. Every year on the night of September 14th, Mexicans across the globe gather to remember the passionate cry for freedom that was first proclaimed by Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla in 1810. This cry, known as “El Grito de Dolores,” was the rallying call that ignited the Mexican War of Independence, leading to the birth of a free and independent nation.

El Grito Ceremony Registration

Your registration for the Grito Ceremony grants you access to a very special event at El Grito Chicago on Sunday, September 15th. This includes:

FREE access to the festival from 7 PM to 10 PM on Sunday, September 14, 2024.
Participation in the traditional Grito civic ceremony, where you’ll join others in honoring this important moment in history.
The ceremony will be led by the Consul General of Mexico in Chicago.
The Grito Civic Ceremony Ticket: Required if you are attending the ceremony only.

When and where is the festival held?

The festival takes place on September 13-14 at Grant Park, Butler Field, from 2-10 pm both days. You can find more information on the MAP Tab in our website.

What are the festival hours?

The festival runs from 2 pm to 10 pm on both days.

How can I stay updated on festival announcements?

Sign up for our newsletter on our website and follow us on social media for the latest updates, announcements, and special offers.

Is there a dress code for the festival?

There is no specific dress code, feel free to dress comfortably and celebrate Mexican culture! Traditional attire is welcomed and remember to check the weather forecast. Comfortable shoes are recommended as you’ll be on your feet most of the time.

Can I bring my child to El Grito Chicago?

El Grito Chicago invites everyone. Children 10 and younger will be admitted free if accompanied by a ticket-holding adult. Limit 2 children per ticket-holding adult. Children 11-14 must have a ticket.

Is there an age limit for attending the festival?

The festival is family-friendly and open to all ages. Children under 14 must be accompanied by a ticket-holding adult.

Flags & Flagpoles

Can I bring a flag to the festival?

Yes, you are welcome to bring flags to the festival to show your spirit and support.

Are there any restrictions on the types of flags allowed?

We accept all flags except those representing sponsors, sports teams, or any commercial entities.

What are the rules for flag poles?

Flag poles must be smaller than 8 inches in length. Poles longer than this are not permitted for safety reasons.

Can I bring multiple flags?

No, only one flag is permitted per person.

Alcohol Consumption

Will alcohol be available for purchase at the festival?

Yes, a variety of alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and cocktails, will be available for purchase at designated areas within the festival grounds.

What are the age requirements for purchasing alcohol?

You must be 21 years or older to purchase and consume alcohol at the festival. Valid government-issued photo identification will be required for age verification.

ACCEPTABLE FORMS OF IDENTIFICATION FOR ENTRY:

Valid U.S. passport or U.S. passport card
Valid foreign government-issued passport (must have photo and date of birth)
Valid foreign government-issued identification card or driver’s license (must have photo and date of birth) along with a photocopy of a valid passport from the same country as the identification card or driver’s license provided
U.S. military ID (active duty or retired military)
Valid U.S. Driver’s Licenses or other state photo identification cards issued by a State Department of Motor Vehicles (or equivalent) for the sole purpose of identification (must have photo and date of birth)
Valid Native American tribal photo ID (must have photo and date of birth)
Valid Canadian Driver’s License or Identification Card (must have photo and date of birth)
Chicago CityKey ID
Consular ID

Can I bring my own alcohol to the festival?

No, outside alcohol is not permitted. All alcoholic beverages must be purchased from licensed vendors within the festival grounds.

What measures are in place to prevent underage drinking?

Security and staff will check IDs at all points of alcohol sale and may conduct additional checks within the festival. Underage drinking is strictly prohibited and will be enforced.

Is there a limit to how much alcohol I can purchase?

To promote responsible drinking, there may be limits on the number of alcoholic beverages you can purchase at one time. This will be enforced by the festival staff.

Are there non-alcoholic beverage options available?

Yes, a variety of non-alcoholic beverages, including water, soft drinks, and aguas frescas, will be available for purchase throughout the festival grounds.

What are the festival's policies on intoxicated behavior?

Intoxicated behavior that disrupts the enjoyment of other attendees or poses a safety risk will not be tolerated. Such behavior may result in removal from the festival without a refund.

Tickets

How can I purchase tickets?

Tickets are available for purchase online through our official website. Stay updated by subscribing to our newsletter.

Will Call tickets will also be available, depending on capacity.

What forms of payment are accepted at the festival?

Most vendors will accept cash, credit, and debit cards. There will also be ATMs available on-site for your convenience.

Do I need to pick up my wristband with my ticket at Will Call?

No, if you have already purchased a ticket, you will receive an email confirmation with a QR code that will be scanned at the entrance, and you will receive a wristband.

If you prefer to pick up your wristband before the festival, they can be collected at Will Call on the following dates:

Friday, September 12th, from 3PM to 10PM
Saturday, September 13th, from 12PM to 10PM
Sunday, September 14th, from 12PM to 10PM

If you have any further questions regarding tickets, please contact us at info@ticketsignup.io

Purchased Multiple Tickets? Here’s What You Need to Know

Single QR Code for Multiple Tickets: If you bought two or more tickets, you’ll receive just one QR code. This code will allow multiple scans, matching the number of tickets you purchased.
Multi-Day Tickets: If your purchase includes tickets for multiple days, the same QR code will grant you access on all event days.

What types of tickets are available?

We offer General Admission and VIP tickets. VIP tickets include exclusive access to VIP areas, premium viewing spots, and additional perks.

Are there VIP tickets available?

Yes, VIP tickets include exclusive access to VIP areas, premium viewing spots, and additional perks.

Are there single-day tickets available?

Yes, both single-day and weekend passes are available.

Can I get a refund if I can't attend?

All ticket sales are final. No refunds or exchanges are available.

Can I transfer my ticket to someone else?

No, unfortunately tickets are nontransferable.re available.

What should I do if I haven't received my ticket?

If you haven’t received your ticket via email, please contact our support team for assistance.

Accessibility

Is the festival accessible to people with disabilities?

Yes, El Grito Chicago is committed to being accessible to all attendees. There will be ADA-accessible entrances, restrooms, and viewing areas. If you have specific accessibility needs, please contact us ahead of the festival so we can assist you.

Are service animals allowed?

No animals except for service animals. “Comfort,” “therapy,” or “emotional support” animals do not meet the definition of a service animal and are not permitted entry to the event.

Are strollers allowed?

Yes, strollers are allowed, but wagons are not permitted.

Festival Experience

What kind of food and drinks will be available?

A variety of authentic Mexican foods and beverages will be offered by local vendors, including vegetarian and vegan options.

Will there be vegetarian or vegan options?

Yes, some vendors will offer vegetarian and vegan options to accommodate different dietary preferences.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

No outside food or beverages are allowed, except for medical or dietary needs.

What items are prohibited?

NON aerosol spray sunscreen
No illegal substances, drugs, or drug paraphernalia
No weapons of any kind including, but not limited to, pocketknives and self-defense sprays
No flammable items or liquids, including fireworks
No markers, pens, or spray paint
No backpacks exceeding 13”x17”
No stuffed animals
No outside food or beverage
No bottles, cans, canteens, flasks, or coolers
No opened packs of cigarettes
No balloons, balls, inflatable balls, frisbees, or flying disks
No chairs, sleeping bags, or tents
No bicycles, skateboards, hoverboards, scooters, or personal motorized vehicles
No drones or unmanned aerial vehicles
No animals except for service animals. “Comfort,” “therapy,” or “emotional support” animals do not meet the definition of a service animal and are not permitted entry to the event.
No large chains, chained wallets, or spiked jewelry
No laser pens, laser pointers, or similar devices
No water guns, squirt guns, fillable spray bottles, or misters
No musical instruments, noisemakers, or air horns
No professional cameras, flash cameras, video and audio recording equipment, or camera poles
No poles, sticks, or totems
Additional items may be prohibited at the discretion of law enforcement or security officials.

Drugs Policy

The possession, sale and/or use of any illegal drugs will not be tolerated anywhere inside or outside El Grito Chicago event organizers will provide an amnesty box at the entrance of the event. We encourage all attendees to turn in –no questions asked– any illegal drugs and/or substances prior to entering the event. If you observe any attendee using, selling, distributing, and possessing any illegal drugs and/or substances, immediately notify a police officer, security personnel, or your supervisor.

Photography

Is photography permitted during the festival?

Phone cameras are allowed. Professional cameras and recording equipment are not permitted without a media pass.

Safety and Security

What safety measures are in place?

We have comprehensive safety plans, including on-site medical personnel, security staff, and clear emergency procedures. Report any concerns to our staff immediately.

All festivalgoers are subject to being searched prior to entry into El Grito Chicago.
By requesting entry into Park in the Park, all festivalgoers shall be subject to a thorough TSA-style pat-down/search, including emptying pockets and bags, and having your items examined.
Security will be Male & Female, and festivalgoers may choose which gender they prefer to have the pat down performed by

What should I do if I lose something?

Visit the Lost & Found area during the festival or contact us through the website after the event.

Lost & Found will be open hours of the festival at designated areas on Festival Map.
Once the festival has ended, please complete Contact for Lost & Found. An off-site pickup will be available. Items not picked up within 60 days will be donated to charity.

Can I Exit and Re-enter?

Attendees may not leave and re-enter.

Parking and Transportation

Is there parking available?

Limited parking is available at nearby Millennium Garages. We recommend using public transportation or ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft.

Is there a designated drop-off area for Ridesharing Apps?

Yes, there are designated drop-off points near the festival entrance. (Link Botton to Drop-Off Area)

How do I get to the festival?

The festival is easily accessible by public transportation, including buses and trains.

Taxis are available all over the city. Request a drop-off near the gates at Columbus and Monroe.

You can easily reach the festival at Grant Park using the CTA train lines:

Orange Line: The Orange Line travels from Midway Airport to Downtown Chicago. It’s a convenient option if you’re coming from the southwest side of the city.
Pink Line: The Pink Line travels from 54th/Cermak to Downtown Chicago. This line is ideal for those coming from the west side of the city.

Both lines have stops near Grant Park, where the festival is located. For exact schedules and routes, please visit the CTA website or use their mobile app.

Health and Wellness

What COVID-19 precautions are in place?

We follow all local health guidelines. Hand sanitizing stations will be available, and masks are encouraged in crowded areas.

Hydration

We know you are here to have the time of your life. The hot weather of Chicago in the summer, non-stop dancing and vigorous physical activity can lead to dehydration and overheating. We encourage our patrons to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water as well as sport drinks to replenish the body’s electrolytes.