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Chicago Independent Venue League

Chicago Independent Venue League
Chicago Independent Venue League

No Shot, No Show: List Of Chicago Music Venues Requiring Vaccines Grows As Industry Tries To Stay Afloat Amid Delta Surge

"As venues, we didn't sign up to lead the charge in public [health] safety, but we've been put in that position," one owner said.

Uptown, Edgewater, Rogers Park

Smartbar In Wrigleyville Reopening This Weekend: ‘We Cannot Wait To Dance With You’

Smartbar, the indie nightclub known for its house and techno music, is welcoming people for the first time since March 2020.

Lakeview, Wrigleyville, Northalsted

Compilation Album From Chicago Artists Will Benefit Out-Of-Work Performers, Staff

"Situation Chicago 2" includes artists like Umphrey's McGee, Bela Fleck, V.V. Lightbody and Jeff Parker of Tortoise.

Uptown, Edgewater, Rogers Park

Concert Venue Workers Can Apply For Emergency Relief Grant Thanks To Funds Raised By Indie Music Halls

The Chicago Independent Venue League is giving grants to out-of-work concert venue employees. A later round will directly support artists.

Uptown, Edgewater, Rogers Park

Chicago’s Struggling Indie Venues See ‘Light At The End Of The Tunnel’ With $15 Billion Save Our Stages Bill

The relief bill is a positive sign, entertainment industry experts say, but its success will depend on how and when the money is doled out to closed venues.

Citywide

With No Help From D.C., Indie Music Venues Launch Virtual Concerts To Help Save Struggling Clubs

The weekly virtual concerts will feature local artists performing from empty Chicago venues to raise money for a new emergency relief fund.

Lincoln Park, Old Town

Flat Iron In Wicker Park Sold To Owner Of Bourbon On Division, Going Back To Its Live Music Roots

Longtime bartenders attempted to buy the bar from owner Nick Novich in recent years. They feel they didn’t get a fair shake, but new owner Jun Lin said the bar's creative spirit will remain.

Wicker Park, Bucktown, West Town

First To Close, Last To Open: Will Chicago’s Independent Music Venues Survive The Coronavirus?

The owners of Chicago's music venues say federal relief efforts won't help them survive unless changes are made — and they're asking music fans to amplify their message.

Wicker Park, Bucktown, West Town