The Pavilion at Ravinia Rules

The safety of its guests is The Pavilion at Ravinia’s priority, which is why some rules and regulations need to be followed.  To ensure a safe and smooth experience during your trip to The Pavilion, patrons must follow these simple rules and regulations while attending the venue. Each regulation must be respected, but if you do have any issues, you should contact the venue before your trip. 

Here’s some helpful information to know before you go:

Prohibited items

» Firearms and explosives, including those possessed by off-duty officers or concealed carry license holders

» Grills, fire pits, or large open flames

» Chafing fuel or other canned heating products (such as Sterno)

» Beer kegs are prohibited

» Athletic equipment such as balls and flying discs

» Bicycles, scooters, or skates (bike racks are available outside the west and south entrances)

» Pets are not permitted, except service animals

» Tents or canopies

» Umbrellas over six feet in diameter

» Items requiring staking into the ground

» Drones or other flying apparatus

» Professional photographic, video, or audio recording equipment is strictly prohibited in all performance spaces

Pavilion safety procedures

For safety reasons, all items brought into the park – including coolers, picnic baskets, bags, backpacks, and purses – are subject to search upon entry or re-entry. Guests will undergo metal detection screening. Those who decline screening will not be permitted to enter the park or Pavilion. This is to ensure the safety of all the guests.

If you have any concerns before your arrival, please contact a member of the venue’s staff who will be more than happy to help you. There will also be staff around on the day if you need further assistance. 

Cashless transactions

The Pavilion at Ravinia is transitioning to a cashless venue. Guests are encouraged to bring credit/debit cards or other cashless payment methods, as cash is not accepted at The Festival Shop, Wintrust Chair & Table Rental, Dining Pavilion restaurants, concessions, and bars.

Service animals 

Although pets are on the prohibited list, the venue does make an exception for service animals. Only service animals as defined by federal law are permitted. Comfort or emotional support animals are not allowed. If you are bringing a service animal, please contact the venue before your arrival so they can make the necessary arrangements. 

Lawn area guidelines

Guests are welcome to bring chairs, tables, blankets, and food and beverages, including alcohol (as long as you drink responsibly). On sold-out nights, the lawn can become crowded. Guests are advised not to occupy more space than necessary. Ravinia staff reserves the right to condense parties and re-seat guests to ensure all attendees have an enjoyable experience.

Seating, arrival, and behavior 

Seating begins 30 minutes before the concert starts, it’s recommended to get there earlier if you have not reserved a seat. The lawn can also become crowded, so to secure a spot, you should get to The Pavilion promptly. Late arrivals may not be admitted until a suitable break in the performance, at the discretion of management. Guests are expected to be respectful and mindful of those around them to ensure a pleasant experience for all.

Food and beverages

Food is not permitted inside the Pavilion. Drinks are allowed only in paper or plastic containers of 24 ounces or smaller. Many guests choose to enjoy food and beverages on the lawn before the concert. Pavilion ticket holders may store picnic gear along the outer edge of the seating area when entering the Pavilion.

For Lawn Events:

The Ravinia festival is unique in that it allows guests to bring full picnics. Guests may bring chairs, tables, blankets and as much food and drink as you like, including alcohol! (Please drink responsibly – no minors!)

On sold-out nights, the lawn events can become very crowded. Please be mindful and do not reserve more space than you need – if patrons are found to be taking up excess space, Ravinia staff reserve the right to relocate patrons to ensure all guests are allowed to have an enjoyable experience at the festival.

Password-free complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the park under the network name “Ravinia”.

Pavilion Events:

Water is permitted, as are drinks purchased in Ravinia’s special souvenir cup. Other food and drink is not permitted – please enjoy your picnics on the lawn prior to the concert. Picnic equipment may be stored on the pavilion’s perimeter, however, this is unsupervised and guests use this area at their own risk.

Seating begins half an hour prior to the concert start time. Late seating is at the discretion of the management and latecomers may not be permitted entry until a suitable break in the performance.

Most importantly: Be respectful and mindful of those around you and don’t forget to enjoy the show!

For more a brief background on The Pavilion at Ravinia and for more information, please check out the The Pavilion at Ravinia information page.