Tuesdays on the Terrace 2026

In case of inclement weather, we will aim to have our website and other signage updated by 2 pm on the day of the event, so check the individual event page for updates. Ticket holders will also receive an email if the event is moved indoors.

For indoor events, capacity is limited, and all attendees will be granted entry on a first-come, first-served basis.

The route to the museum’s back garden gate is fully accessible for folks in wheelchairs and those with mobility issues. You will actually take fewer elevators and navigate fewer spaces to get to Tuesdays on the Terrace from outside the museum.

To access the garden gate, head east on Pearson Street or Chicago Avenue and turn onto the path just before Lake Shore Park. The garden entrance is equidistant between those two roads.

For indoor events, everyone must enter through the accessible entrance at street level (corner of East Pearson Street and North Mies van der Rohe Way) and check in at the Box Office on the first floor of the museum. The band will play in the Edlis Neeson Theater, but the performance will also be live streamed in the MCA Commons.

The gates open at 4:30 pm, but visitors often start lining up around 4 pm. If you are particular about where you sit, we recommend arriving by 4 pm to have the most varied seating choices. Otherwise you can arrive at any point during the evening, though entrance is subject to capacity. Spend less time in line and more time enjoying the music by becoming a member or getting advance tickets.

Once we have reached fire code capacity, visitors will only be allowed to enter as others leave for the evening. Ticket holders will be prioritized over standby.

Advance ticket holders and members just need to show their barcode or membership card at the gate.

If advance tickets are unavailable, free standby tickets are always available first come, first served at the museum’s back gate starting at 4:30 pm.

We have approximately 33 tables and chairs, seating two to four people, on the upper terrace, and approximately 100 single chairs on the lower terrace. You are also welcome to sit on the lawn.

The MCA has a limited number of lawn chairs available to borrow, but you’re welcome to bring lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and other forms of seating for use on the lawn. Lawn chairs, blankets, and other non-MCA furniture are not allowed on the terrace.

If you’d like a table, we recommend arriving by 4 pm to give you the best chance of entering early and claiming your spot as seating is first come, first served. A small number of the tables are reserved, however, for the artists’ guests and special invitees.

Unfortunately, due to capacity restrictions, spots are first come, first served. MCA staff may ask you to free up space for others and/or pack up extraneous lawn furniture.

For the safety of our staff and audience, MCA furniture must remain as arranged.

Absolutely! Marisol Restaurant offers snacks and light fare each week. There is also a bar on the terrace where you can purchase alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks (including water). You’re also welcome to bring your own food, water, and other non-alcoholic beverages to Tuesdays on the Terrace. Outside alcohol is not allowed, and bags are subject to random searches.

For indoor events, food is only allowed in the Commons.

Once you have checked in, you are welcome to leave and re-enter through the back gate or the MCA Commons. You will be asked to display the wristband you are given at check-in. Re-entry is not guaranteed.