With an average of 30,000 attendees each year, Ruido’s loyal crowd, which skews a bit older with fans in their 30s and 40s, will also be exposed to up-and-coming local and international acts.
“I trust our crowd to accept new things,” says Wagner. Adding, “We’re not afraid to expose the audience we have to other artists. There are artists we’re trying to help grow here in Chicago because if we don’t do it, who will?” Historically, Union Park is known for social and cultural events that date back to the 1950s where notable gospel and jazz musicians performed.
“It’s always been a public space and it’s almost constructed in that way. The park has functional grounds, lots of pathways and lighting -- it’s going to make it a different experience. Having a new home also provided us with an opportunity to improve the event.”