FitzGerald's Nightclub -- Home of the American Music Festival & Legendary Live Shows

Since the early 1900s, FitzGerald’s has been a beloved gathering place just outside Chicago. Located at 6615 W. Roosevelt Rd. in Berwyn, IL, this historic venue started as a roadhouse and hunting lodge, eventually becoming a nightlife hotspot known as The Hunt Club, where jazz legends like Turk Murphy, Bob Scobey, and Lil Armstrong once graced the stage. Later, it became the Deer Lodge, adding pool tables and even a fortune teller into the mix.

In 1980, the FitzGerald family transformed the building into what is now one of the Midwest’s most cherished live music venues, praised for its warm, intimate vibe, nationally touring acts, and deep connection to the community. The family later expanded to include FITZGERALDS Sidebar, a cocktail lounge and event space perfect for private gatherings and neighborhood hangouts.

✨ A cornerstone of FitzGerald’s legacy is its annual American Music Festival, launched in 1981. This multi-day, multi-stage celebration takes place every 4th of July weekend and showcases a powerful lineup of roots rock, Americana, blues, zydeco, soul, and beyond. The festival draws music lovers from across the country for a one-of-a-kind experience packed with unforgettable performances, food, drinks, and pure summer magic.

In March 2020, Chicago entertainment veteran Will Duncan (Thalia Hall, MONEYGUN) took over operations, ensuring a seamless transition and honoring the venue’s roots while injecting fresh energy and vision. FitzGerald’s remains a premier destination for music fans, artists, and anyone who values authenticity, history, and rhythm.

📍 Visit FitzGerald’s at 6611—6619 Roosevelt Rd., Berwyn, IL

🎟️ Explore upcoming shows, private event bookings, and American Music Festival details at FitzGeraldsNightclub.com

For more Stories From The 78, follow @tombarnas78 on Instagram and @storiesfromthe78 on TikTok.