Summer starts with Spring Awakening

Fireworks over Spring Awakening Music Fest at Soldier Field. Photo: Lawrence Lee

By Lawrence Lee

Summertime Chi is in full effect — with the Spring Awakening Music Festival kicking it off at Soldier Field.

The second annual festival at Soldier Field drew over 100,000 music lovers to the three-day event June 14-16.

Fan favorites such as Calvin Harris, Zedd, Porter Robinson and Krewella (with former UIC student Jahan Yousaf) all played incredible sets.

With the growing popularity of dance music sweeping the nation, the second Spring Awakening was a big draw in the home of house.

Sam Paullin was one of many UIC students at the festival.

“SAMF was incredible,” said Paullin, a student in liberal arts and sciences. “The main stage got bigger and better and the light show was amazing inside Soldier Field.”

The festival was open to all ages and an extra day was added this year.

“Definitely one of my new favorite festivals in Chicago,” said senior Kevin Choi.