The Backlot Bash, Skokie’s renowned downtown summer street festival, will celebrate its 16th year bringing premium live musical entertainment, carnival rides and games, family activities, food and beverages, and much more to Oakton Street, August 25 through 27, 2023.
Held annually over three days in late August, Skokie's Backlot Bash pays homage to downtown Skokie's heritage as a silent movie backlot set by featuring modern-day, live entertainment as well as showing free classic or silent films. This year’s musical headliners include Eve 6, Blessid Union of Souls and Sponge.
In addition to three days of original live music on two stages, the free festival includes the Backlot Dash 5K and Kids’ Half Mile Color Fun Run on Saturday morning, a Pancake Breakfast presented by the Rotary Club of Skokie Valley on Sunday, and a community resource fair, family-friendly crafts and activities, and Bingo games throughout the weekend.
The Skokie Farmers’ Market will be open on Sunday, August 27, from 7:30 a.m. to noon, but will be relocated to the parking lot just west of the Skokie Public Library. Village Hall operations will not be impacted and will remain open on Friday, August 25.
A complete schedule of performances and activities, as well as volunteer opportunities, is available at backlotbash.com.
Traffic Impacts
Starting on Thursday, August 24, street closures for Backlot Bash will occur on Oakton Street and will be in effect through Sunday, August 27.
Oakton Street will be closed between Lockwood Avenue and Lincoln Avenue. Eastbound traffic will be detoured at Gross Point Road north toward Lincoln Avenue then to eastbound Oakton Street. Westbound traffic will be detoured at Lincoln Avenue north to Gross Point Road then to westbound Oakton Street.
Event Sponsors
The Backlot Bash is sponsored by the Village of Skokie, Skokie Park District, Skokie Public Library, Skokie Chamber of Commerce and Niles Township High School District 219.