The serene and enchanting Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, IL, once again set the stage for a musical extravaganza that left the audience in awe. Train, the iconic multi-Grammy and Billboard Award-winning band hailing from San Francisco and led by the talented Pat Monahan, graced the Ravinia Festival on August 30, 2023, with another performance that will undoubtedly be etched in the memories of the band’s Chicagoland fans.

Here are seven compelling reasons why you shouldn’t have missed Train’s latest sensational performance at the Ravinia Festival.

1. The Unmatched Venue

Ravinia Festival is not your ordinary concert venue; it’s a place where music meets nature. Nestled amid lush greenery and a serene atmosphere, the festival provides an intimate and immersive musical experience that’s hard to find elsewhere. Where else can you find a great outdoor amphitheater surrounded by thousands of fans having a literal picnic on the lawn. Train’s performance amid this picturesque backdrop elevated the concert to a whole new level of magic.

2. Opening Act by Parmalee

The evening began with a captivating performance by country music’s Parmalee. Their infectious energy and soulful tunes set the stage for an evening filled with diverse musical experiences.

3. Unveiling “I Know”

Train delighted the audience by performing their new song “I Know,” a collaboration, which features the talents of Bryce Vine and Tenille Townes for the recording. The electrifying blend of vocals and melodies resonated through the venue, showcasing Train’s ability to seamlessly weave different styles into their signature sound.

4. Consistent Ravinia Brilliance

Over the years, Train has become synonymous with remarkable Ravinia performances. Their legacy of consistently delivering memorable shows at this venue continued to shine brightly, leaving no doubt that the band and the festival share an inseparable bond.

5. “Meet Virginia” meets “The Joker”

Train’s creative genius was on full display as they mashed up their hit “Meet Virginia” with the classic Steve Miller Band song “The Joker.” This unexpected yet harmonious fusion showcased the band’s ability to reinvent their music while paying homage to their influences.

6. A Legacy of Musical Excellence

Train’s journey to stardom, from their early days of hometown shows to their debut self-titled album and subsequent chart-topping hits, has solidified their status as musical legends. The band’s evolution, marked by chart-toppers like “Drops of Jupiter” and “Hey, Soul Sister,” has left an indelible mark on the music industry.

7. Hit-Filled Encore

Train’s encore left the crowd on their feet, as they launched into a cover of “Hotel California,” putting their own spin on the classic, and followed it up with their iconic hit “Drops of Jupiter.” The crowd’s participation reached a crescendo during these enigmatic performances.