So the time has come again: the tribes are gathering, reservations being checked and the 26th Annual Chosen Few Picnic 2016 is ready to launch.

Now dubbed the Chosen Few Music Festival to better reflect its growing scope, Chicago’s souled-up Woodstock of House Music encompasses everything from afterhours to picnic spots and even a baseball game. (Not included in the VIP: tickets to the White House.)

So let’s start at the top — which is tomorrow — for what’s become something of an annual tradition here, too: our Chosen Few Weekend 2016 round-up.

Tuesday, June 28 2016
The Chosen Few DJs vs the Chicago White Sox
Cellular Field (Sold Out)
Where else do you begin other than the scene of the crime? Technically this is across the street, but Disco Demolition Night at Comiskey still has reverberations in this town. The Chosen Few DJs (Wayne Williams, Alan King, Tony Hatchett, Jesse Saunders, Andre Hatchett, Terry Hunter and Mike Dunn) are inviting friends and family, but the latest word is that this is now sold out.

Wednesday, June 29 2016
The Chosen Few DJs’ Hot Lunch Mix
Daley Plaza, Downtown Chicago, Noon to 1pm (Free)
Not technically part of the weekend but all of the familiar faces will be there. This is the Chosen Few’s regular summer “residency” under the Picasso at Daley Plaza in Downtown Chicago. Free for all.

Thursday, June 30 2016
The Kick Off Party
The Promontory (5311 S. Lake Park Ave, Chicago, 8pm-2am)
The official launch of the Chosen Few Music Festival featuring the Chosen Few DJs and special guests Stan Zeff (Atlanta) and DJ Reg

Friday, July 1 2016
History of Chicago House Music Panel Discussion with the Chosen Few & Friends
Stony Island Arts Bank (6760 S. Stony Island Ave, Chicago, 3:30pm-5pm)
Panel discussion with Jesse Saunders, Jamie Principle, Chip E., Steve “Silk” Hurley and Wayne Williams, moderated by Alan King. Viewing of Frankie Knuckles vinyl collection; co-sponsored by the Chosen Few DJs and the Rebuild Foundation.

Friday, July 1 2016
Chosen Few Music Festival Pre-Party
The Kut (11901 S. Loomis St, Chicago, 5pm-2am)
The Chosen Few DJs with special guests Gene Hunt, Greg Winfield and Earl Mixxin McKinney (Detroit).

Saturday, July 2 2016
The Chosen Few Music Festival – Day One
Jackson Park (63rd and Hayes Drive, Chicago, 8am-9pm)
Join the Chosen Few DJs on Saturday, joined by Josh Milan, Monique Bingham, Harry Dennis & Curtis McClain (all performing live), DJs Joe Claussell, Bobby & Steve, Tony T and Dee Jay Alicia. (tickets)

Saturday, July 2 2016
The Chosen Few Music Festival Afterparty
Room 43 (Bi level, 1043 E. 43rd Street, Chicago, 10pm-3am)
The Chosen Few DJs with special guests DJ Spinna, Teddy Douglas, Salah Ananse, Keith Fobs and Brett Morrison.

Sunday, July 3 2016
The Chosen Few Music Festival – Day Two
Jackson Park (63rd and Hayes Drive, Chicago, 11am-8pm)
The Chosen Few DJs with live performances by Roy Ayers and Cheryl Lynn and DJ sets from special guests DJ Spinna, DJ Sam Chatman and Mark Fulla Flava. (tickets)

Sunday, July 3 2016
The Closing Party
Evil Olive (1551 W. Division St, Chicago, 10pm-4am)
Say goodbye with the Chosen Few DJs and special guests Ron Carroll, Tony T and Czboogie.

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