The Bitter Jester Music Festival (BJMF) in downtown Highland Park is more than a competition, it’s a destination event, complete with music, food, and beverages. 43 musical acts from over a dozen states from the Midwest to the East Coast will showcase their virtuosity this season, competing for the ultimate title of "Bitter Jester Grand Champion." Many BJMF alumni have gone on to perform at Lollapalooza, Riot Fest, South by Southwest, and Ravinia Festival as well as on Late Night with Seth Myers, Saturday Night Live, and American Jukebox.

Discover your next favorite band at the 19th Annual Bitter Jester Music Fest and be able to say "I saw them when..." — Bitter Jester Showcase Concerts at the Chicago Botanic Garden feature BJMF alumni on June 2 and June 9 as part of the Music on the Esplanade series. The Chicago Botanic Garden is proud to partner with the incredible Bitter Jester Foundation for the Arts, a local charity based in Highland Park, that produces the festival.

To view the entire Bitter Jester Music Festival concert season, visit bitterjesterfoundation.org/bitter-jester-music-festival-lineup-2025