Chicago City Wire

Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) have announced that Grammy Award-winning gospel artist Chandler Moore will headline the 2025 Chicago Gospel Music Festival. The event is scheduled for Saturday, July 12, at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park.

The festival is free to the public and celebrates Chicago’s significant contribution to gospel music. Mayor Brandon Johnson emphasized the importance of the festival, stating, “The Chicago Gospel Music Festival is a profound reflection of our city’s cultural richness and spiritual resilience.” He added that gospel music continues to offer "healing, joy and unity across generations and borders."

The event will also feature a Mayoral Proclamation honoring Don Jackson, founder of the Stellar Awards. Other performances include award-winning gospel vocalist Jekalyn Carr; Deandre Patterson and Janet Sutton with “The Chicago Unity Choir”; Lil Harry's tribute to Chicago’s quartet tradition; Ray Bady; Queenie; and emerging talent from Chicago Youth United.

Kicking off at Cloud Gate in Millennium Park from noon to 3:45 p.m., the festival will present local choirs in the Chicago Choirs & More Showcase. This segment underscores the festival's commitment to highlighting local gospel traditions.

Attendees are reminded that outside alcohol is prohibited at the festival. Standard security measures will be in place, and visitors should check safety guidelines on Chicago.gov/DCASE.

The festival receives support from sponsors such as Lloyd A. Fry Foundation, Millennium Garages, and Chicago Transit Authority. For more information about schedules and announcements, visit Chicago.gov/DCASE or follow @ChicagoDCASE on social media.