Thomas Rhett, Big & Rich and Others Bring the Party to Chicago’s LakeShake Festival

Thomas Rhett cemented his status as superstar when he took the stage as the headliner at the 2017 Country Lakeshake Festival in Chicago.

Written by Lauren Laffer
Thomas Rhett, Big & Rich and Others Bring the Party to Chicago’s LakeShake Festival
Thomas Rhett; Photo by Katie Kauss/Sounds Like Nashville

Just after 9 p.m. on Friday night (6/23), country music fans in Chicago were treated to a lengthy set from country superstar Thomas Rhett, who headlined night one of the 3rd annual LakeShake festival. The weather in the Windy City was brisk, but things heated up as soon as Rhett hit the stage and busted out his numerous hits, like “Die A Happy Man,” “Star of the Show” and “Crash a Burn.” The singer danced across the stage making sure to include every inch of fans packed into the festival grounds.

Rhett’s performance marked the third time he’s taken the stage at the Huntington Bank Pavilion, having performed the last two years. This night, however, marking his place as one of the top tier acts, as he landed his name as headliner for the evening.

Randy Houser; Photo by Katie Kauss/Sounds Like Nashville

Randy Houser; Photo by Katie Kauss/Sounds Like Nashville

The main stage was also full of performances from an eclectic group of acts. Big & Rich riled the crowd ahead of Rhett’s performance. Fans were also treated to the deep, country voices of Randy Houser and Mo Pitney. High Valley kicked off the main stage earlier in the day, performing songs from their album Dear Life, including the single “Make You Mine.”

Drake White; Photo by Katie Kauss/Sounds Like Nashville

Drake White; Photo by Katie Kauss/Sounds Like Nashville

In addition to the main stage acts, fans were treated to performances from some of country’s rising acts on the Next From Nashville stage. Smithfield, Ryan Kinder, Caitlyn Smith and Seth Ennis were among the acts on day one showcasing their talents and earning new fans one by one. The party didn’t stop there, however, as the last act to hit the stage was Drake White, who had the crowd singing back to him throughout his set.

Seth Ennis; Photo by Katie Kauss/Sounds Like Nashville

Seth Ennis; Photo by Katie Kauss/Sounds Like Nashville

Music wasn’t the only thing aplenty within the festival grounds. Fans were treated to the return of the Blackhawks Bar, as well as new offerings, like silent disco line dancing, a wine lounge, food trucks, a kids zone, putt-putt, and much more.

Night two kicks off tonight, with Miranda Lambert, Little Big Town, Gary Allan and others taking over the main stage. Stay tuned to our Instagram for pictures from the event and subscribe to our LakeShake playlist now!