The full moon is celebrated in many ways in different cultures but in Chicago, fire dancers and percussion are the highlights of the annual summer Full Moon Jam. Glowing along the shores of Lake Michigan, this year’s full moon jams will take place on June 13, June 29, July 4, July 29, August 27 and September 28, 2026.
A Chicago summer tradition since 2004, this free community event features fire dancers twirling and spinning with wands and hula hoops, with musicians beating drums against the backdrop of the lakefront. The jams start right before sunset (around 6:00 ) and the performances begin at sunset and last until 10 pm. Spectators are welcome to bring drums or percussive instruments to join in.
This year’s jams will take place at Arrington Lagoon in Evanston at 1647 N. Sheridan Rd. on June 13, the usual Foster Beach location, 5050 N. Simmonds Drive, on June 29, as well as Winnemac Park, 5100 N. Leavitt, on July 4.
The fire jam is back at Foster Beach on July 29, and at Rainbow Beach, 3111 E. 77th St., on August 27. The last fire jam closes out the season at Palmisano Park, 919 W. 29th St., on September 28.
The Full Moon Jam is a family-friendly event with no alcohol or substances, open flames, drones or flash photography allowed. Many people bring a light picnic and watch the dramatic performances under the full moon.
Full Moon Jam & Chicago Park District Policies:
• Family-Friendly
• Leave No Trace
• Be Respectful and Inclusive
• No alcohol or illegal substances
• No smoking near crowds
• No flash photography
• No open flames, tiki torches, floating lanterns, or fireworks
• No weapons
• No lasers
• No drones
• No glass
• No bright lights (lights must face away from the fire circle and crowd)
• No amplified sound over 90 decibels
• No sounds that are distracting or discordant with the drum circle
Chicago Full Moon Jam
5050 N. Simonds Dr.
June 13, June 29, July 4, July 29, August 27, September 28, 6pm to 10 pm
Free
