Burning Cicada Arts & Music Picnic Festival 2026

Saturday, September 19, 2026

11:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Hopkins Park • DeKalb, Illinois

FREE EVENT — RSVP ENCOURAGED (No ticket required for entry)

Join us for the annual Burning Cicada Arts & Music Picnic Festival, a free celebration of music, art, creativity, and community in the heart of DeKalb.

Bring a picnic blanket, a chair, your family, your friends, and your curiosity. Spend an hour or spend the whole day exploring live performances, artists, stories, creative experiences, and opportunities to connect with others.

This year’s festival features a diverse lineup of regional musicians, singer-songwriters, and artists, including:

• Assunda Gable

• Renée Nanzer

• Steve Deiss

• Jessie Keller

• Alex Fonseca — The Process of Still Life

• Chaos A Chord

• Additional performers and special guests to be announced

Beyond the stage, Burning Cicada is a place where music and creativity meet community. Throughout the day, guests can discover artists, hear personal stories, participate in creative experiences, connect with local organizations, and enjoy a relaxed afternoon picnic atmosphere.

Community partners will include organizations working to strengthen our region through connection, support, and creativity.

Why RSVP?

Admission is completely free and no ticket is required. Your RSVP simply helps us estimate attendance, communicate festival updates, and prepare for a great day together.

Come listen.

Come make something.

Come meet somebody.

Or simply bring a picnic and enjoy the park.

Burning Cicada Arts & Music Picnic Festival

Saturday, September 19, 2026

11:30 AM–6 PM

Hopkins Park, DeKalb, Illinois

Free • Family Friendly • Open to All