While thousands of summer festivals, concerts and other large-gathering public events are being canceled or postponed, there are two “virtual festivals” on the horizon to consider.
The FEED Chicago Virtual Summer Fest featuring Dennis DeYoung (of Styx) and Jim Peterik (of Survivor) will stream live at 7 p.m. June 4 to benefit the Greater Chicago Food Depository.
Also on the bill will be Sixteen Candles, Michael McDermott, Wedding Banned and Boy Band Review,.
Viewers are encouraged to make donations (starting at $5) before or during the benefit concert event. Every $1 donated translates to three meals for someone in need via the Greater Chicago Food Depository.
To get the streaming link, you’ll need to register in advance at feedchicagofest.eventbrite.com.
In a separate event, it’s all about beer and laughter.
The Drafts & Laughs Beer & Comedy Festival will stream live 8 to 10 p.m. June 12 from coast to coast, and feature comedian Tom Green as headliner. The event will benefit comedian/comedy club relief efforts and Restaurant Strong, according to Tuesday’s official announcement.
Scheduled to appear are Jeff Richards (“SNL”), Ian Edwards (Comedy Central), Ben Gleib (“Chelsea Lately”) and Stephen Kramer Glickman (Comedy Central) as the emcee.
Viewers in Chicago, Denver and Los Angeles only will also be able to participate in an interactive beer tasting during the stream — sampling of a variety case of 8 to 10 beers provided by Boston Beer Company for guided pairings by a virtual cicerone.
You’ll need to purchase tickets on Eventbrite: $10 (performances only), $30 (performance and beer pickup) or $45 (performance plus beer delivery). Beer will be available in Chicago for pick-up or delivery at Old Crow Smokehouse in Wrigleyville and Moe’s Cantina in River North to participants 21+over. (Or just enjoy your own beverage of choice along with the laughs).
The streaming link will be emailed to participants the day prior to event.
For more info on the festival, visit www.draftsandlaughs.com.
