One hundred sixty-five thousand people traveling from all over the world to spend three days rocking out to 130 bands in Grant Park. It's hard to imagine that an event of this size could have anything less than a giant impact on our environment.

But the show's producers hope that isn't the case with this year's Lollapalooza music festival. They've worked hard to incorporate green elements, from using biodiesel and energy efficient lights in the production, to encouraging concert-goers to recycle their beer cups and water bottles. Even the port-a-potties will be stocked with recycled toilet paper.

But Lollapalooza's most ambitious eco-project is its Green Street. This area within the festival will include a farmers market with local and organic food, green products from select vendors and a solar-powered eco-stage.

The organizers wants their green impact to last far longer than the crowds. So Lollapalooza has pledged to donate a portion of its revenue to the Parkways Foundation, a non-for-profit working with the Chicago Park District. The funds will support community gardens, new parks, and camp scholarships for low-income children.

"It's a great thing for the city," says Parkways Director Brenda Palm, "not just because it's a great music event and it's a lot of fun, but...because they're making a difference in Chicago."


Want a sneak peak at some of Lollapalooza's top bands? At Galapalooza, held on the eve of the festival, you can enjoy dinner, cocktails and special performances from Paolo Nutini and Spoon--all on the festival grounds. Tickets are available for $350 and proceeds benefit the Parkways Foundation. To learn more, contact Brenda Palm at bpalm@parkways.org.

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