Day by Day Itinerary

April 16th – Welcome to Chicago!

Your musical adventure begins as you arrive in the vibrant city of Chicago, one of America’s greatest centers for performing arts and culture. Meet your Spotlight Tour Manager, who will be with your group throughout the trip to ensure a smooth and memorable experience. After checking into your hotel, head to Navy Pier for dinner on your own and time to explore. Enjoy sweeping views of Lake Michigan, ride the Centennial Wheel, or grab a famous deep-dish pizza with friends before returning to the hotel for the night.

April 17th – Performance Day & Medieval Celebration

Take center stage for your performance and adjudication at the Kindig Performing Arts Center! After the performance, enjoy lunch on your own and explore the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. In the evening, gather for a group dinner and show at Medieval Times, where you’ll step back into the age of knights, castles, and epic tournaments. It’s an unforgettable night of food, fun, and friendly competition!

April 18th – Exploring Chicago’s Icons & Awards Celebration

Start the morning with breakfast at the hotel, then head out to experience the heart of Chicago! Visit Millennium Park to see the city’s most famous landmark—“The Bean” (Cloud Gate)—and capture some great group photos. Enjoy lunch on your own, then spend the afternoon exploring the fascinating exhibits at The Field Museum, the world’s largest natural history museum and home to “Sue,” the most complete T. Rex ever discovered and attend the awards ceremony, celebrating your group’s achievements from the festival. This evening, enjoy some free time to explore the Magnificent Mile, Chicago’s world-famous shopping and dining district, before dinner on your own with friends.

April 19th – History, Legacy & Departure

After breakfast and hotel check-out, visit the inspiring Obama Presidential Library, where exhibits tell the story of leadership, civic engagement, and the power of community. Reflect on how the arts and culture help shape history and society. Enjoy lunch on your own, then depart for home—filled with pride, memories, and new inspiration from your incredible Chicago performing arts experience.