Cost: Free

Organizer: City of Chicago

What to expect: The world's largest free admission Blues festival: six stages and more than 70 performers will ensure you don't sing the blues.

Why to go: The one, the only B.B. King will headline the final night of this year's event, making his first appearance at the fest in over 20 years. Lucille will be there too, of course. Other headliners include James Cotton and Johnny Winter (Thursday), Koko Taylor and Eddy "The Chief" Clearwater (Friday) and Buckwheat Zydeco and Lil' Ed & The Blues Imperials (Saturday).

Additional info: The music doesn't stop at 9:30; it just moves to other locations around the city. Many of Chicago's best-loved blues clubs are throwing some great, star-studded after parties; Wayne Baker Brooks All-Star Blues Bash (Thursday at the House of Blues) may be the biggest of all, with Pinetop Perkins, Lil' Ed and more. If you prefer to start early, Buddy Guy's Legends will host its annual Blues Fest Brunch on Saturday (with Guy King) and Sunday (with Harmonica Hinds).

For complete coverage of the Chicago Blues Festival, please visit the new www.ChicagoBluesFestival.org or the Official City of Chicago website here.

Centerstage Reviewer: Ben Rubenstein