Centerstage - Chicago's Original City Guide

Palooza Profiles: To the freaks of the festival (not a negative term): Music doesn't matter, providing it's loud and diverse. Beaded chicks and half-naked dudes with farmer's tans, you'll be right there amidst the masses, won't you, dancing with no inhibitions. Festival camera crews will put you on the jumbotron. Drunken coeds may mock you with flash photography. But you'll just shimmy and shuffle on through the set. God bless you.

Your pre-party = Montrose Beach
Shoot up Lakeshore drive to this dog-friendly beach, a welcoming spot for bongo drums, frisbees, kites and just about every ethnicity under the sun. Warm up to a full day of being one with the music by entering Zen mode on the stretch of sand from Montrose to Wilson. Admission is, of course, free, and bathrooms are plentiful. Dust off your longboard because the Chicago Park District just built up a brand new skate park a few blocks away on the Wilson end.

Your field guide
Can't tell a free spirit where to show up, but Zen-worthy vibes can be found broadcasting most powerfully from Umphrey's McGee (Friday), Flaming Lips and Thievery Corporation (Saturday) and Poi Dog Pondering (Sunday).

Your after-party = Rhythm
Don't let the spiritual flames simmer down. Percussion-bar Rhythm will keep you wailing and even pounding until 3 a.m., as audience participation is part of the drumming experience. Though your day-beaten festival rags will starkly contrast the hardwood and leather decor, know that every kind of dress is welcome. Expect beat-poet style and a super-friendly community vibe. Cover will run around $8, but that includes free drum lessons.

Does this sound nothing like you? Check out our other Palooza Profiles:

Beat Junkie
Neo-Hipster
Sun Soaker
Yupster