Lollapalooza Chicago: Ballin' on a Budget or Busting Out the Benjamins?
So, you've got your heart set on Lollapalooza in Chicago this August. Awesome choice, my friend! But before you start digging out your flower crown and practicing your best mosh pit moves, there's a burning question that needs answering: how much is this whole shebang gonna cost?
Fear not, fellow festival fanatic! We're here to break down the Lollapalooza price spectrum, from dirt-cheap to wallet-weeping.
The Penny Pincher's Paradise: Scoring Tickets on a Shoestring
Let's be honest, a music festival fueled by deep-fried Oreos and questionable fashion choices shouldn't break the bank. Here's how to snag a ticket without needing a second mortgage:
- The Lowdown: General Admission tickets start at around $385 for the whole four days. That's basically the price of a fancy pair of shoes you'll probably regret buying anyway.
- The Hustle is Real: Keep an eye on resale sites like StubHub or SeatGeek. You might score a last-minute deal from someone who got cold feet (or finally realized they can't handle four days of glitter and questionable hygiene).
Word to the Wise: Be prepared for some serious competition at this price point. These tickets disappear faster than free pizza at a frat party.
Level Up: General Admission Plus - More Than Just Fancy Restrooms?
Feeling a little fancy? General Admission Plus throws down a few extras for a slightly steeper price tag (think starting around $715).
- What Am I Paying For? Imagine air-conditioned bathrooms! No more battling for a spot in a porta-potty that could double as a biohazard zone. Plus, you get access to private lounges for when your feet need a break and your ears need a respite from the constant bass.
The Verdict: This option is all about comfort. If roughing it isn't your style, and the idea of battling for a lukewarm shower makes you sweat, this might be worth the upgrade.
VIP: Living Like a Lollapalooza Rockstar (Well, Almost)
For those who like their music with a side of luxury, there's VIP. Buckle up, because we're about to enter serious splurge territory. Here, tickets start at a cool $1,565.
- The Perks: On-field viewing areas? Check. Unlimited access to posh Lolla Lounges with fancy beverages? You betcha. Golf cart shuttle transportation so you don't have to deal with the hoi polloi? Absolutely. Basically, it's like having your own backstage pass (minus the actual backstage access, but hey, you can't win 'em all).
Do You Need It? That depends. If the idea of roughing it with the unwashed masses horrifies you, and you have a trust fund burning a hole in your pocket, then VIP might be your jam. But for most of us mere mortals, the creature comforts probably aren't worth the hefty price tag.
Platinum: For When Money is No Object (and Maybe You Like Really Fancy Porta-Potties?)
Finally, we have the Platinum package. Look, at this point, we're not even talking about money anymore, we're talking about bragging rights. These tickets start at a staggering $4,500.
- What Do You Get? Everything a VIP gets, plus some extras like complimentary food and front-of-stage viewing at multiple stages. Basically, you're paying for the privilege of shoving your way to the front without anyone judging you.
Is it Worth It? Honestly, for most of us, the answer is a resounding no. There's a limit to how much you can pay to feel superior at a music festival, and frankly, that limit is probably a good deal lower than $4,500.
The Bottom Line: Lollapalooza offers experiences for all budgets. Whether you're a die-hard music fan on a shoestring or a baller who needs VIP treatment, there's a ticket option for you. Just remember, the best memories are made with good company and good music, not fancy porta-potties (no matter how fancy they might be).
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
