Ravinia Festival, North America’s oldest outdoor music festival, is renowned for its diverse programming, beautiful park setting, and unique lawn experience. While the general lawn offers a quintessential summer evening under the stars, Ravinia also offers a more exclusive and enhanced experience: the Premium Lawn. But what exactly constitutes the Premium Lawn, and is it worth the upgrade? This article delves into the specifics, exploring the amenities, benefits, and overall experience that define Ravinia’s premier lawn seating option.
Understanding the Ravinia Lawn Experience
The Ravinia lawn is a sprawling expanse of grassy space that stretches out behind the pavilion. It’s a vibrant social hub where concertgoers bring blankets, chairs, picnic baskets, and drinks to enjoy the music in a relaxed and communal setting. The atmosphere is festive, with families, friends, and couples all gathering to share in the joy of live performance.
The lawn offers a more casual and affordable way to experience Ravinia compared to seated tickets inside the pavilion. It allows for a unique degree of personalization, as guests can curate their own picnic setup and create a comfortable and inviting space. However, the general lawn can become crowded, especially for popular performances, and finding a prime spot can be a challenge.
What Sets the Premium Lawn Apart?
The Premium Lawn is designed to offer a more refined and convenient experience compared to the general lawn. It’s essentially a designated section within the lawn that comes with specific amenities and advantages. Think of it as a VIP upgrade to your lawn experience.
The key difference lies in the improved location and the provision of chairs. While general lawn patrons must bring their own seating, Premium Lawn tickets include access to pre-set, high-quality chairs. This eliminates the hassle of carrying chairs and ensures a comfortable seating experience, even for extended concerts. The location is typically closer to the stage and offers better sightlines and sound quality compared to some areas of the general lawn.
Location, Location, Location
The location of the Premium Lawn is a significant factor in its appeal. These areas are strategically positioned to provide enhanced views of the stage. While exact locations may vary depending on the performance and the stage setup, Premium Lawn sections are usually situated in areas that offer unobstructed or minimally obstructed views. This means less craning your neck and more enjoying the performance.
The closer proximity to the stage also contributes to a better audio experience. While Ravinia boasts excellent sound systems throughout the park, being closer to the source naturally results in a clearer and more immersive sound. This is particularly beneficial for concerts that feature intricate musical arrangements or nuanced vocal performances.
The Comfort of Provided Seating
Perhaps the most tangible benefit of Premium Lawn tickets is the provision of chairs. These are not your average folding chairs. Ravinia provides comfortable, high-backed chairs designed for extended seating. This eliminates the need to lug your own chairs to the park, saving you time and effort. It also ensures a more comfortable and relaxing experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the music without worrying about back pain or discomfort.
The chairs are typically arranged in neat rows, maximizing space and ensuring that each guest has ample room to move around. This organized seating arrangement also contributes to a more aesthetically pleasing environment compared to the sometimes haphazard layout of the general lawn.
Other Potential Premium Lawn Benefits
Beyond the improved location and provided seating, some Premium Lawn packages may include additional perks. These can vary depending on the specific event and sponsorship agreements.
- Early Access: Some Premium Lawn ticket holders may be granted early access to the park, allowing them to secure their preferred spots within the designated area and set up their picnics before the general lawn gates open. This early access can be a valuable advantage, especially for popular performances.
- Dedicated Restrooms: Premium Lawn areas sometimes have access to dedicated restroom facilities. This can significantly reduce wait times and provide a more convenient restroom experience.
- Beverage Service: On occasion, Premium Lawn packages include beverage service. This may involve dedicated waitstaff who can take drink orders and deliver them directly to your seat. This eliminates the need to stand in long lines at the concession stands.
- Picnic Options: While you are still allowed to bring your own picnic, some Premium Lawn packages may offer catered picnic options. This can be a convenient alternative for those who prefer not to pack their own food.
Is the Premium Lawn Worth the Price?
The decision of whether or not to purchase Premium Lawn tickets is a personal one that depends on individual preferences and priorities. Several factors should be considered:
- Budget: Premium Lawn tickets are significantly more expensive than general lawn tickets. Consider your budget and weigh the cost against the benefits offered.
- Comfort: If you value comfort and convenience, the provided seating can be a major selling point.
- View and Sound Quality: If you prioritize a clear view of the stage and high-quality sound, the Premium Lawn’s location can be a worthwhile investment.
- Hassle Factor: If you want to avoid the hassle of carrying chairs and blankets, the Premium Lawn offers a convenient solution.
- Experience Preference: If you prefer a more refined and organized experience compared to the sometimes chaotic atmosphere of the general lawn, the Premium Lawn may be a good fit.
Ultimately, the value of the Premium Lawn lies in its ability to enhance the overall Ravinia experience. For those who are willing to pay a premium for added comfort, convenience, and improved sightlines and sound, the Premium Lawn can be a worthwhile investment.
Tips for Maximizing Your Premium Lawn Experience
If you decide to purchase Premium Lawn tickets, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience:
- Arrive Early: Even with assigned seating, arriving early allows you to settle in and familiarize yourself with the area.
- Bring a Blanket: While chairs are provided, a small blanket can add an extra layer of comfort, especially on cooler evenings.
- Pack a Picnic: Ravinia allows guests to bring their own food and beverages, so pack a delicious picnic to enjoy before and during the concert.
- Check the Weather: Be sure to check the weather forecast and dress accordingly. Evenings at Ravinia can be cool, so bring layers.
- Review the Rules: Familiarize yourself with Ravinia’s rules and regulations regarding outside food and beverages, noise levels, and other policies.
- Be Considerate of Others: Remember that the Premium Lawn is a shared space, so be mindful of your neighbors and keep noise levels to a minimum during the performance.
Comparing Premium Lawn to Other Ravinia Seating Options
Ravinia offers a variety of seating options to suit different preferences and budgets. Understanding the differences between these options can help you make the best choice for your needs.
The Pavilion offers covered seating directly in front of the stage. These seats provide the closest and clearest views of the performers and protection from the elements. Pavilion seats are the most expensive option.
Reserved Lawn Boxes offer a private, enclosed space on the lawn. These boxes typically include seating for four to six people and provide a more intimate and exclusive experience. Reserved Lawn Boxes are more expensive than Premium Lawn tickets.
General Lawn seating, as discussed, is the most affordable option, but it requires guests to bring their own seating and may involve a less desirable location and more crowded conditions.
Premium Lawn strikes a balance between the affordability of the general lawn and the exclusivity of the Pavilion and Reserved Lawn Boxes. It offers an enhanced lawn experience with provided seating and improved location.
The Premium Lawn: A Summary of Benefits
To recap, the Premium Lawn at Ravinia offers several key benefits:
- Improved Location: Strategically positioned for enhanced views of the stage.
- Provided Seating: Comfortable, high-backed chairs are included with your ticket.
- Convenience: Eliminates the hassle of carrying your own chairs.
- Potential Additional Perks: May include early access, dedicated restrooms, or beverage service.
- Refined Experience: Offers a more organized and comfortable atmosphere compared to the general lawn.
Making the Right Choice for Your Ravinia Visit
Choosing the right seating option at Ravinia is essential for maximizing your enjoyment of the festival. Consider your budget, comfort preferences, and desired level of convenience when making your decision.
If you’re looking for an affordable and casual experience, the general lawn is a great option. If you prioritize comfort and convenience, the Premium Lawn offers a worthwhile upgrade. And if you want the best views and protection from the elements, the Pavilion seats are the ultimate choice.
Ravinia’s diverse seating options cater to a wide range of preferences and budgets, ensuring that everyone can find the perfect way to experience the magic of live music under the stars. No matter which option you choose, be sure to bring your friends, family, and a picnic basket for a memorable summer evening at Ravinia.
What exactly does “Premium Lawn” at Ravinia refer to?
Premium Lawn at Ravinia refers to a designated section on the general admission lawn that offers enhanced amenities and a more comfortable experience compared to the standard lawn seating. Think of it as an upgraded version of the traditional Ravinia lawn, providing benefits like reserved space, closer proximity to the stage (in some configurations), and access to specific services. It aims to elevate the overall Ravinia experience for those seeking a more refined and convenient visit.
This enhanced experience typically comes at a higher price point than standard lawn tickets. Depending on the specific concert or event, Premium Lawn may include dedicated entry lanes to bypass general admission crowds, premium picnic tables or seating options (sometimes pre-arranged), and potentially enhanced restroom facilities. These features are designed to minimize wait times and maximize relaxation, allowing guests to fully enjoy the performances and the Ravinia atmosphere.
How does Premium Lawn differ from regular lawn seating at Ravinia?
The primary difference lies in the level of comfort and convenience offered. While regular lawn seating is the standard general admission option, allowing patrons to bring their own blankets and chairs to find a spot on the expansive lawn, Premium Lawn provides a more curated and less crowded experience. This often includes reserved seating arrangements, such as pre-set picnic tables or designated areas with Adirondack chairs.
Furthermore, Premium Lawn often boasts closer proximity to the stage compared to the areas accessible with regular lawn tickets. This enhanced view, combined with the aforementioned amenities, results in a significantly improved overall experience. The price difference reflects the added value and exclusivity associated with Premium Lawn access.
What kind of seating arrangements are typically available in the Premium Lawn area?
Seating arrangements in the Premium Lawn vary depending on the specific concert or event, but often include a mix of options designed to cater to different preferences. Common arrangements include reserved picnic tables, perfect for larger groups looking to share a meal and enjoy the show together. These tables often come with benches or chairs already in place.
Another popular option is designated areas with comfortable seating such as Adirondack chairs or lounge chairs. These offer a more relaxed and intimate setting for enjoying the music. In some cases, Ravinia may also offer a combination of both, allowing guests to choose the seating style that best suits their needs and preferences. It’s always recommended to check the specific event details for accurate seating information.
Are food and beverages included with a Premium Lawn ticket?
Generally, no, food and beverages are not automatically included with a Premium Lawn ticket at Ravinia. The Premium Lawn ticket primarily covers the enhanced seating and amenities within that designated area. You are typically allowed to bring your own food and drinks, adhering to Ravinia’s policies regarding outside alcohol (which may vary).
However, certain special events or packages might include catering options or access to exclusive food and beverage vendors within the Premium Lawn area. It is crucial to check the specific details of the concert or event you are attending to determine if any food and beverage options are included with your Premium Lawn ticket purchase. You can often find this information on Ravinia’s website or through their customer service channels.
How do I purchase Premium Lawn tickets for a Ravinia performance?
The primary way to purchase Premium Lawn tickets for a Ravinia performance is through the official Ravinia website (ravinia.org). Ticket availability and pricing will vary depending on the specific concert or event. It’s recommended to check the Ravinia schedule and ticket information well in advance of the performance you wish to attend, as Premium Lawn tickets are often limited and can sell out quickly.
In addition to the Ravinia website, you may also be able to purchase Premium Lawn tickets through authorized ticket vendors, although this is less common. Be sure to verify the authenticity of any ticket seller to avoid scams or counterfeit tickets. Always prioritize purchasing directly from Ravinia to ensure you are getting legitimate tickets at the correct price.
What happens if it rains during a concert when I have Premium Lawn tickets?
Ravinia is an outdoor venue, and concerts are typically rain or shine. If it rains during a concert with Premium Lawn tickets, the show usually continues as planned. It’s advisable to bring rain gear such as umbrellas or ponchos to protect yourself from the elements.
Ravinia’s policy regarding rain and cancellations is generally that concerts are only cancelled in the event of severe weather that poses a safety risk to performers and attendees. In such cases, Ravinia will typically announce the cancellation and offer options such as ticket exchanges or refunds. Check Ravinia’s official website or social media channels for real-time updates on weather-related announcements.
Is the Premium Lawn area accessible to people with disabilities?
Ravinia strives to provide an accessible experience for all guests, including those with disabilities, throughout the park, including aspects of the Premium Lawn. The level of accessibility within the Premium Lawn can vary depending on the specific location and seating arrangements offered for a particular event.
It is highly recommended to contact Ravinia’s Patron Services directly to inquire about specific accessibility features within the Premium Lawn area for the concert you plan to attend. They can provide detailed information about accessible seating options, ramps, and other accommodations to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. This proactive approach will allow Ravinia to best assist you with your needs.