Performances

House Music on the Plaza

Celebrate house music on the plaza with live DJ sets from DJ Lady D and Jesse De La Pena. Join a high-energy outdoor gathering rooted in Chicago’s music culture and dance together as the set unfolds.
Event Details
Fri, Jul 10 • 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. John Lewis Plaza
Admission
House Music on the Plaza is free and open to the public. Tickets are not required to attend. Please note Museum admission is not included in this experience.
DJ Lady D performs at a house music party

Details

Experience the heartbeat of Chicago at our plaza house music celebration! Born in the underground clubs of our city, House music is a global phenomenon that celebrates unity, freedom, and rhythmic innovation.

Be a part of this rare sonic journey as DJ Lady D and Jesse De La Pena perform back-to-back sets, bringing Chicago house music to the campus. Each set runs for one hour, with a transition between artists.

Dance, lounge, or discover the vibe at your own pace. We’ll close the session by paying tribute to one of our city's greatest gifts to music.

House Music on the Plaza is part of You Are America, a summer series of talks, films, and community events celebrating 250 years of American progress.

Featuring

  • DJ Lady D headshot

    DJ Lady D

    Hailed as “Chicago’s House Music Queen,” DJ Lady D is an international DJ, producer, and Recording Academy Governor. Her charismatic career spans two decades on global festival stages, including Burning Man, Lollapalooza, and the Chosen Few Picnic.

  • Jesse De la Pena headshot

    Jesse De La Pena

    Jesse De La Pena's music career started in 1986. His signature style: Genre-fluid, fearless, and deeply rooted in love for the craft has taken listeners on unforgettable sonic journeys for decades.

Plan Your Visit

John Lewis Plaza

Named in honor of late civil rights leader Congressman John Lewis, the John Lewis Plaza is a lively and animated outdoor space that welcomes visitors to the Center. The Plaza–which serves as an entry point for the Forum, Museum, and Library buildings–is a dynamic hub built to foster the spirit of community that was central to the legacy and work of Congressman Lewis.

Good to Know

Explore helpful resources regarding transportation, accessibility services, and on-site amenities before you arrive.

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