‘Vigil’ by acclaimed author George Saunders kicks off the new Campus Reading Program
May 13, 2026
The Dillo Day music festival returns on Saturday, May 16, for its 54th edition.
This year’s theme, Dillo Speedway, will bring all of the excitement of a racetrack to the lakefront, featuring food, drinks and, of course, live music.
The Division of Student Affairs has launched its annual Smart Dillo campaign to remind festivalgoers to stay safe during the annual celebration.
“This festival is a well-deserved opportunity for students to come together to enjoy this incredible Northwestern tradition that our Mayfest students have worked so hard to put together,” said Mona Dugo, dean of students and assistant vice president for wellness. “That said, it’s important to prioritize safety and make responsible choices to ensure that everyone has the best Dillo Day possible.”
Know before you go
All attendees must register for a Dillo Day wristband through the Norris Box Office and pick it up in Seabury Hall at 2122 Sheridan Road by May 15. Graduate students can pick up wristbands at Pritzker Law School from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on May 13. Students may only pick up wristbands for themselves and their guest, and they must come prepared with their confirmation email, their Wildcard and a form of identification for their guest if applicable. Wristbands cannot be picked up on Dillo Day.
This year’s lineup includes Malcolm Todd, Daya, Trim and Tiffany Day.
On the big day, attendees can enter the festival on the north side of Norris University Center beginning at 11:30 a.m. The primary exits will be located on the north side of the Lakefill, just south of the Kellogg Global Hub, and on the back side of the Bienen School of Music, just before the bridge. Once the festival concludes, an additional exit heading north along the east side of Martin Stadium will also be opened.
Before you arrive, familiarize yourself with what you can and cannot bring to Dillo Speedway. Prohibited items include blankets and sheets, recording equipment, glass containers, outside beverages, hammocks, umbrellas, weapons, tents and other shade-making devices, and unauthorized signage or display materials such as banners, flyers and flags. Please note that for the safety of our community, metal detecting wands will be in use at the entrance and all bags will be searched.
After the race, finish strong with a clean neighborhood. Join Off-Campus Life at 8 a.m. on May 17 for a cleanup event, with free breakfast provided for all volunteers and the chance to win prizes. Sign up here.
