Concerts & Events

The Old Town School of Folk Music will host a day-long celebration in honor of John Prine's 80th Birthday on Saturday, October 10, 2026. In the 1960's, John was a regular participant in songwriting and guitar classes at the Old Town School where he honed his craft and shared his music with some of his earliest audiences. His registration card illustrates his regularity until the time he was drafted in 1966. Prine always returned home to Chicago and the Old Town School over the years for concerts, benefits and special events. We're proud to be a small part of his Chicago experience and honor his legacy with a mural in Lincoln Square, and a day of celebrating his 80th birthday at the Old Town School. Please join us in celebration!

Morning and Afternoon events at Old Town School (includes lunch) $20

Schedule of Events

10:30 am - The Magic of the Sublime: John Prine's Songwriting - Maurer Hall

Join Old Town School of Folk Music songwriting faculty to peek under the hood of John Prine's songwriting. Our teachers will break down some of John's songs to explore insights into John's lyrical style, talk about what makes his songs work so well, and even provide burgeoning songwriters with some take-aways to apply to their own craft. While John's songs seem so natural and have an effortless quality, their timeless appeal comes from the elegance of the craftsmanship and artistry behind the songwriting.

12:00 pm - John Prine Mural Dedication - Daily Bar and Grill Patio

Through support from the Hello in There Foundation and the Illinois Art Council, the Old Town School commissioned artist and musician, Jon Langford to create a work of John Prine, sitting with his guitar, that was recently installed in mural form on the north side of the Old Town School's West building. Join us for the dedication of this mural to Fiona and the Prine family with special guests and musical performances.

1:00 pm - Enjoy John's favorite Chicago cuisine - Daily Bar and Grill Patio

Enjoy some of John's Chicago favorites including Italian Beef and Hot Dogs provided by Nicky V's. Stop by the Old Town School cafe and purchase a special brew crafted by Hop Butcher Brewing in honor of John's 80th birthday.

2:30 pm - Pretty Good, Not Bad John Prine Sing-a-long - Maurer Hall

Folks are invited to gather in Maurer Hall for an afternoon of sharing John's music together. Led by Old Town School teachers and Chicago musicians, we'll join in song to celebrate one of the most remarkable songbooks in popular music. And it wouldn't be a sing-a-long without singing Happy Birthday to John!

In addition to the featured programming noted above, additional theme based programming scheduled throughout the day. Stay tuned for more information.

American Legion, Tattler Post 973

4355 N Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60618

6:00 pm - Yes I Guess They Oughta Name a Drink After You: The Old Town School and Chicago's Musical Tribute to John Prine

Continue to soak in the joy and genius of John's music just a 4-minute walk from the Old Town School at the American Legion, Tattler Post 973, located at the corner of Montrose and Western Ave. Here we'll end the day of celebration with a tribute to John where Old Town School and Chicago musicians are invited to pay tribute to John Prine through song, backed by the Hoyle Brothers.

Secure your tickets!

Secure your tickets to celebrate John Prine's 80th Birthday at the Old Town School. Capacity is very limited.

Please consider a donation in honor of John's 80th birthday! Donations will benefit the Hello In There Foundation and Old Town School of Folk Music.