The Joliet Area Historical Museum will host its second annual Blues Brothers Con featuring actors Dan Aykroyd and Jim Belushi, reprising their roles as “The Blues Brothers” at Old Joliet Prison on Saturday, Sept. 9th, 2023. The festival will once again transform the 16-acre historic prison site into a tapestry of sights and sounds to honor the iconic “Blues Brothers” film – that was filmed on its grounds – as well as celebrate Blues music’s influence on the prison throughout its history.
“The ‘Blues Brothers’ film is about passing on the love of Blues music to a new generation,” said Greg Peerbolte, chief executive officer of the Joliet Area Historical Museum. “The Prison’s connection to the Blues dates back to the 1932 recording of Memphis Minnie’s ‘Joliet Bound.’ Blues music helps us to confront – and heal – the Prison’s often difficult historic legacy. Following the incredible fan response to last year’s event, we are extremely grateful to Dan Aykroyd and Judy Belushi Pisano and the Belushi family to pass on the film itself – and the music it cherishes – to new generations.”
Aykroyd and Belushi will emcee a stacked lineup of iconic and diverse Chicago Blues performers featuring Al Spears & The Hurricane Project, Joanna Connor & The Wrecking Crew, Lil’ Ed & The Blues Imperials, Toronzo Cannon and Ronnie Baker Brooks.
The evening will be appropriately capped off by a Maxwell Street-style Blues jam session where Dan, Jim and other “Blues Brothers” alumni will take part in a special encore performance featuring hits from the film. “Blues Brothers” fans can also expect a variety of experiences, appearances, and one-of-a-kind photo ops throughout the day.
Proceeds from the event support the operations of the Joliet Area Historical Museum, a 501(c)3 not-for-profit that has operated educational tours and community programs at the Old Joliet Prison Historic Site since 2018. The Old Joliet Prison is currently undergoing restorations but is still open to visitors daily for self-guided tours. Learn more at JolietPrison.org.
For high-res images for media use of last year’s Blues Brothers Con event as well as this year’s Blues Brothers Con logo, click here.
Event Details
Event Location: Inside the walls of Old Joliet Prison, 1125 N. Collins St., Joliet, Ill.
Date: Saturday, Sept. 9 – Gates open at 1 p.m.
Tickets
Tickets are available for purchase at JolietPrison.org.
Ticket Prices
General Admission: Adult $55
General Admission: Child $25 (18 and under)
Front Section Standing Room Only: $75
Front Section table for 4 guests: $500
Parking
Remote Lots: Free
Preferred Onsite: $30 (limited)
