Initially built in 1916, Chicago’s first suburban Candlelight venue is a stunning neo-classical wonder. Boasting both classic exterior and interior columns and an expansive stage, it’s a spectacular venue made even more brilliant when Candlelight floods the hall with a sea of candles.
Formerly known as the iconic Arts Center of Oak Park, Free Church honors the heritage of the space and continues hosting live music performances.
Candlelight at Free Church (Arts Center of Oak Park)
Forming part of the Frank Lloyd Wright-Prairie School of Architecture Historic District, the building was built during a period of architectural significance. It was built to house the First Church of Christ Scientist of Oak Park but when follower numbers dwindled in the 1980s, ownership passed into the hands of a local building owner who saw the venue’s potential as a performance space for artists.
The spacious interior, high ceiling and peculiar ornate details make the venue not only an ideal locale for live music performances, but for Candlelight concerts as well. With countless flickering candles lending their light to the space, audiences can expect a warm glow enveloping them as they sit back, relax and experience the creative talent of musicians and artists.
The beloved concert series known simply as “Candlelight” invites everyone to relive the greatest classical and modern works by top musicians in an incredibly unique atmosphere with hundreds of flickering candles. The series has had enormous success around the world, throughout the United States and right here in Chicago at some of the city’s most breathtaking venues, including the grand former Masonic Temple Stan Mansion, the ornate Thalia Hall, and the architectural gem Salvage One.
Free Church, formerly Arts Center of Oak Park and home to the Hemingway Museum on the building’s lower level, extends the Candlelight’s glow to the suburbs. Now, music lovers from all over can enjoy the charming concerts and experience music in a new light. The Candlelight series takes place twice each night with two back-to-back 65 minute performances. Doors open 45 minutes prior to each show.
Note: For the safety of our audience, all of the candlelight will be provided through flameless candles.