If you were in Chicago, Illinois, in mid-July, chances are you attended or could hear the cheers and music from Pitchfork Music Festival. Even with headliners Black Pumas (Friday), Jaime XX (Saturday), and Alanis Morissette (Sunday), fans were wary of new changes to the fest after Pitchfork’s recent move under GQ and Condé Nast. However, after a successful weekend of incredible weather, no rain-delays, and zero cancellations, fans were buzzing over the memories made between the gates of Union Park.
Pitchfork Music Festival has always been known for giving a platform to and celebrating up and coming artists, and this year they truly delivered. The three-day lineup introduced us to brand new artists like Tkay Maidza, Yaeji, and Akenya, while also allowing us to dance along to our favorites like Carly Rae Jepsen, MUNA, and Wednesday. We also had the chance to catch interviews, presented by Visit Austin, of MUNA, Mannequin Pussy, Water From Your Eyes, and more. These interviews gave us an up close look at some of our favorite musicians and we were able to learn more about them and their music.
Sponsorships like Nespresso, Tampax, and Celsius, provided free iced espresso, feminine products, and energy drinks, respectively, all weekend long. Other organizations like Chicago Votes and Planned Parenthood made their mark on the festival grounds to share their mission. Local foods vendors lined the street, followed up by the annual poster sale, and circled back to the Renegade Craft and CHIRP Record Fair which hosted local artists and signings from Feeble Little Horse, Water From Your Eyes, and Sweeping Promises. Even if your favorite artist wasn’t on stage, there is always something to do when at Pitchfork!
Festival style was in full effect and the range of outfits was infinite. From comfy and cozy to binging on accessories, festival goers showed up and showed out. The iconic lime-green ‘bart’ tote bag made its way to the front page of Pitchfork’s Instagram — made by a local Chicago artist — friendship charm bracelets were a huge hit, and the numerous pairs of Doc Martens really marked the aesthetic of the weekend.
We are interested to see the changes that could be made further by GQ and Condé Nast during next year’s fest, but we are excited to have experienced Pitchfork Music Festival in all of its glory. Dancing with strangers in general admission pits, lounging on blankets in the park, or sharing a local delicacy from a Chicago food vendor is exactly what Pitchfork is all about and we can’t wait to see what 2025 has in store.
Words and photos by Isabel Dowell