FOR FAMILIES

Dancin' Sprouts

The first and third Wednesdays in
June, July, and August
Performances at 5:30 and 6:30 p.m.
The Esplanade

Part of our Summer Evenings at the Garden program, Dancin' Sprouts provides FREE musical entertainment for the Garden's youngest visitors!

June 2: Jodi Koplin and the Jigglejam Band

Children’s music entertainer and performer Jodi Koplin captures the essence of childhood through her music that delights audiences of all ages. Her sometimes humorous, always evocative lyrics reflect the awe and wonder unique to young children. She blends messages of personal growth and having fun with a wide range of musical styles from rock 'n' roll to calypso to boogie and blues. Joining Jodi for this concert are special guests The Fire Ants, a band made entirely of kids!

Listen to Jodi Koplin

June 16: ScribbleMonster

ScribbleMonster can be heard nationally on children’s radio. Their latest release was named one of the Top 10 Kids & Family Albums of 2008 by NPR. Their “draw outside the lines” approach to music for the family has earned the band raves ranging from parents to Parenting magazine. Come sing, think, play, dance, and get creative with ScribbleMonster.

Listen to ScribbleMonster

July 7: Jeanie B! and The Jelly Beans

Time Out Chicago includes Jeanie B! among the "Best things to happen to Chicago children in the past decade"! Jeanie B! is thrilled to return to the Chicago Botanic Garden again this summer with lyrics that will make you smile, and a beat that will keep you dancing. This Americana/rock artist and her amazing Jelly Beans Band promises an evening to remember with your family. Plenty of sing-a-long and play-a-long numbers will keep everyone entertained. Don't miss her signature song "Bubble Wrap," where everyone gets to pop some!

Listen to Jeanie B! and The Jelly Beans

July 21: Raisin Rhyme

Raisin Rhyme has developed a unique blend of music and education for the young and young at heart. Every performance consists of a rock 'n' roll supershow at the Raisin Rhyme Imagination Treetop Stadium, where all children are encouraged to sing, dance, shake, wiggle, drum, pat, jump up, and have a great time! Yes, it’s the first rock show with no height requirement!

Listen to Raisin Rhyme

August 4: Karen Jordan

Karen Jordan, singer/songwriter/guitarist, has performed at libraries, festivals, and special events throughout the Midwest and East Coast. Rhythm of the Seasons is Karen's CD of original songs for kids. Much of her music was inspired by her 10 years of teaching Wiggleworms for the Old Town School of Folk Music in the 90s. She has been a featured performer at the The Taste of Chicago’s Family Stage, Kohl Children's Museum, Old Town School of Folk Music, and the Dane County Kid’s Expo. Karen will be joined by jazz/bluegrass mandolinist Don Stiernberg and bassist Jim Cox for a performance you won’t want to miss! Bring your dancin’ shoes and let the music begin.

Listen to Karen Jordan

August 18: Little Nashville

Award-winning Little Nashville is a high energy, family-focused live concert that features the stylings of today's country music coupled with contagious lyrics that children of all ages are sure to enjoy. The concert features an explosive stage show filled with powerful three-part harmonies and led by accomplished singer Nickey Farr, who has shared the stage with Dierks Bentley, Blake Shelton, Gary Allen, and others. If you love good rockin' country music for both young and old that teaches wholesome values, then this is one event you can't miss.

Listen to Little Nashville