Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Dillo Day

Dillo Day is an annual student-run held at in , widely recognized as the largest of its kind in the United States. Organized by the student organization Mayfest Productions, the event occurs at the end of the spring quarter on the university's Lakefill lakeside area, drawing over 12,000 attendees for a full day of live music across two stages, vendors, interactive activities, and performances by emerging and established artists. The festival traces its origins to May 1973, when Northwestern students Donald Stout and George Krause launched a low-budget lakeside gathering featuring local bands, face-painting, and costumes, initially dubbing it "Armadillo Day" in reference to a music venue and the animal's resilient spirit. Though some accounts suggest earlier precursors, such as a 1971 event funded by student councils with multiple bands and kegs, the 1973 iteration marked the formal beginning of what would evolve into a cherished amid the countercultural movements of the era. Over the decades, Dillo Day has grown from a modest hippie-inspired into a professionally produced spectacle, supported by corporate sponsors and advanced production elements like high-end sound systems, while maintaining its roots as an exclusively student-planned endeavor. Mayfest Productions, comprising around 10 committees focused on areas like booking, logistics, and marketing, oversees every aspect of the festival, from artist selection through competitive events such as to post-event cleanup. The 2025 edition, held on May 17, exemplified its scale with headliner , underscoring Dillo Day's role in fostering community, showcasing talent, and celebrating the end of the academic year at Northwestern.

History

Origins and Early Development

Dillo Day traces its roots to earlier springtime traditions at , which evolved amid the countercultural movements of the era, setting the stage for more student-driven activities. While accounts of the exact origins vary, with some citing a lakeside event funded by student councils featuring multiple bands and kegs despite local prohibitions, the formal beginning is widely attributed to 1973. In the early , informal celebrations reflecting the influence of out-of-state students began emerging. The direct precursor to Dillo Day emerged in 1973 when two Texan undergraduates, Donald "Dan" Stout (Weinberg '73) and George Krause (Weinberg '73), founded Armadillo Productions and organized the first Armadillo Day on May 13. Dubbed "The First Annual 'I Don't Think We're In Kansas Anymore' Festival and Fair," this small-scale event took place on the lakeside Lakefill and featured local bands, face-painting, costumes, and a counterculture vibe as an alternative to Greek life festivities. Lacking formal organization, it drew a modest crowd of students embracing the informal, hippie-inspired atmosphere without university oversight or significant funding. In 1977, the event transitioned to its modern identity as Dillo Day, a shortened form of Day inspired by Northwestern's mascot and the organizers' heritage. This marked the shift to a structured student-produced , with Mayfest Productions forming to combine Day with other spring events like Greek Week. Early iterations remained low-key, emphasizing community and local performances on the Lakefill, though attendance began growing into a notable . Over the following years, it solidified as a key annual highlight, expanding in scale while retaining its student-led roots.

Key Milestones and Evolution

During the 1980s, Dillo Day evolved from its grassroots beginnings into a prominent campus-wide event, marked by a major free concert organized by A&O Productions in 1981, which featured national headliners Robert Gordon and over two days and drew massive undergraduate attendance on a stage outside Norris University Center. By mid-decade, the festival incorporated high-profile acts like The Ramones in 1983, solidifying its status as a key spring tradition with growing participation across the Northwestern community. This period saw steady expansion in scope, transitioning from small-scale gatherings to broader celebrations that emphasized music and socialization, though exact attendance figures from the era remain undocumented in available records. Entering the 1990s and 2000s, Dillo Day continued to grow in prominence, attracting notable performers such as and in 2007, which highlighted its rising appeal to artists and helped boost attendance to several thousand students and guests by the mid-2000s. Formalized programs, such as composting and reusable bottle distribution, gained traction in the as part of broader campus initiatives focused on waste reduction and environmental awareness. A significant milestone came in 2019 with the introduction of a second stage, co-hosted by Mayfest Productions and the student group For Members Only, aimed at showcasing Black artists and diversifying the lineup beyond the main stage. The disrupted in-person events from 2020 to 2021, but the festival marked its 50th anniversary in 2022 with a triumphant return, themed "Return of the Rodeo" to honor its roots, enhanced production elements, and celebrity headliners including , , and ; free admission for undergraduates contributed to strong turnout amid post-pandemic recovery. The tradition of annual themes, which began in the to infuse creativity and thematic cohesion—such as the retro-inspired motifs of 2019—continued to evolve, blending fun with subtle nods to through eco-friendly practices like waste audits and composting. By 2025, the 53rd edition embraced the "Carnival Dillo" theme, transforming the Lakefill into a with attractions like Ferris wheels, games, funnel cakes, and , drawing over 10,000 attendees and featuring as the first female headliner. This iteration underscored the festival's ongoing transformation, balancing entertainment with logistical and environmental enhancements for sustained growth.

Organization and Production

Mayfest Productions

Mayfest Productions was founded in 1977 at as the dedicated producer of Dillo Day, evolving from ad-hoc student groups that organized earlier spring events, including the 1977 Armadillo Day. The organization emerged as a consolidation of various campus traditions to centralize planning for the annual , marking a shift from informal efforts to a structured student-led entity. As Northwestern 's primary student-run event-planning body, Mayfest Productions oversees the of major campus gatherings, managing over 100 student volunteers annually across its operations. Its core responsibilities include securing corporate sponsors, such as for the 2025 event, handling budgets that typically exceed $200,000 through allocations and partnerships, and coordinating closely with on logistics and funding. Beyond Dillo Day as its flagship event, Mayfest produces other campus programming like and Battle of the DJs, supported by 10 committees dedicated to aspects such as booking, , and . The leadership structure centers on an executive board (E-board), typically comprising co-chairs serving as presidents, a production director to oversee technical and elements, and a talent buyer responsible for negotiations and bookings. This board guides the organization's strategic direction and ensures seamless collaboration among committees throughout the year.

Planning Committees and Process

Mayfest Productions coordinates the planning of Dillo Day through 10 specialized committees, each handling distinct aspects of the event while collaborating across teams. These include the Booking Committee, which scouts and secures artists; the Committee, responsible for staging, technical setup, and logistics; the Promotions Committee, focused on and outreach; and committees such as (internal team bonding), Corporate (sponsorship partnerships), (budgeting), Operations (day-to-day coordination), Programming (event scheduling), (technical support), and General Board (introductory group for underclassmen). Mayfest collaborates on initiatives, such as composting partnerships with external groups for waste reduction efforts. The annual planning timeline begins in summer with executive onboarding and goal-setting, followed by fall recruitment and committee preparation, winter execution of key projects like talent scouting, and spring finalization of production elements amid intensified activity. Applications for committee roles are open to all students, enabling broad involvement in the student-led process. Central to preparation are auditions for the and Battle of the DJs, where student groups submit applications and perform sets, with audience votes determining finalists who join the festival lineup. The Operations and Corporate Committees negotiate with vendors for food trucks from local Evanston and eateries, as well as the beer garden setup offering beverages for those 21 and older. Safety protocols, developed in coordination with Northwestern University Police, include metal detection wands at entrances, de-escalation training for the Student Intervention Service team, and overall risk assessments to ensure attendee well-being. Volunteer recruitment draws over 100 student members annually across the committees, supplemented by day-of volunteers, with training provided on event management, sustainability practices, and emergency response. Budget allocation relies on funding from the Student Activities Finance Committee (approximately $354,000 in 2022 and $513,379 in 2025-26), direct contributions (around $479,000 in 2023 and part of $712,268 additional in 2025-26 for major events), corporate sponsors, and merchandise sales, with major portions directed toward talent bookings and production expenses alongside fundraising efforts.

Event Format

Venue and Logistics

Dillo Day is held at the Lakefill, Northwestern University's expansive lakefront campus area in , providing an open-air setting that accommodates more than 12,000 attendees annually. This venue, situated along , features multiple stages and activity zones, with entry primarily through the Arts Circle and exits directed south of the Kellogg Global Hub to manage crowd flow efficiently. The festival occurs over a single day in mid-May, typically aligning with the conclusion of the spring quarter; for instance, the 2025 edition took place on May 17 from 11:30 a.m., when gates opened, until approximately 10 p.m. Access is restricted to those with wristbands, distributed free to Northwestern undergraduates, , and on a first-come, first-served basis following online registration via the Norris and in-person pickup with a by the day prior to the event. Each registered may bring one , with limited additional tickets reserved for , , and Evanston residents; all entrants pass through checkpoints involving metal detectors, verification, and bag searches, with prohibited items including glass containers, outside beverages, and tents. Operational logistics emphasize safety and attendee support, including water refill stations for reusable bottles and clear policies on prohibited substances to maintain a secure . Sustainability measures are integrated into the event's execution, with stations and composting programs in place to divert waste from landfills, supported by collaborations such as Cats Who Compost working with Mayfest Productions to handle food scraps and promote zero-waste practices. These initiatives, ongoing since the , encourage attendees to use compostable products and properly sort materials, aligning with broader campus environmental goals.

Activities and Features

Dillo Day enhances the festival experience through a range of non-musical attractions centered on , interactive , and themed elements that foster . A diverse selection of trucks provides attendees with varied culinary options throughout the day, ranging from local specialties to international fare. Complementing these are non-alcoholic beverages available at multiple stations, ensuring accessibility for all ages. For those 21 and older, a dedicated offers alcoholic drinks, with entry requiring a valid and pre-registered wristband for safety and compliance. The Dillo Village serves as a central hub for additional attractions, featuring student-created art installations alongside works from Chicago-area artists, carnival games, caricature stations, and glow tattoo artists to encourage creative expression and fun. Introduced in 2019, a Ferris wheel has become a recurring highlight, providing panoramic views of the lakefront venue and adding to the event's whimsical appeal; it was prominently featured again in the 2025 Carnival Dillo theme. This theme transformed the festival into a midway-style extravaganza, incorporating classic carnival elements such as midway games, cotton candy vendors, and circus-inspired acts to immerse participants in a lively, nostalgic atmosphere. Interactive features further enrich attendee experiences, including photo booths for capturing memories and merchandise sales booths where visitors can purchase festival-branded items and sponsor giveaways. efforts are integrated through initiatives like composting stations in the and educational workshops promoting eco-friendly practices during the event. The festival maintains clear pathways, while post-event cleanup drives, organized by volunteers and university staff, ensure the lakefront returns to its pristine state, underscoring the event's commitment to .

Performances

Headliners and Main Stage

Early headliners primarily consisted of local and regional acts, with examples including rock and blues performers like The Ramones in 1983. The 2000s saw a transition to more prominent and pop artists, highlighted by Lupe Fiasco's appearance in 2007 as one of the first major national draws. In recent years, headliners have included a diverse array of , pop, and indie artists. The 2022 lineup featured as a key performer alongside and , emphasizing and pop-rap fusion. headlined in 2023, bringing high-energy to the stage with supporting acts like and . served as the 2024 headliner, known for his melodic rap style from collaborations. The 2025 festival was headlined by , with scheduled performers including BigXthaPlug (who canceled last minute) and , blending nostalgic pop with contemporary and R&B. However, BigXthaPlug canceled last minute, and Mayfest adjusted the schedule accordingly. The selection of headliners is managed by Mayfest Productions' talent booking team, which begins the process in mid-summer and considers student preferences through polls while balancing budget constraints from sponsorships and university funding. Trends show and artists comprising about 25% of performers since 2001, alongside pop and indie selections, often favoring rising stars like or nostalgic acts like to appeal to a audience. This approach ensures a mix of genres, with budgets typically supporting 4-6 main stage acts annually. The main stage is positioned on Northwestern University's Lakefill, facing to accommodate views and acoustics for crowds exceeding attendees, with professional sound and lighting systems rented to handle large-scale performances. This setup supports extended sets from headliners, typically lasting 45-60 minutes each, contributing to the festival's all-day format. A notable moment from the 2025 edition was Natasha Bedingfield's carnival-themed closing set, featuring upbeat pop hits like "" integrated with the festival's "Carnival Dillo" motif, though it elicited mixed reactions from students who viewed the choice as somewhat dated compared to recent heavy lineups. Despite initial disappointment expressed online, her performance drew thousands and marked the first female headliner in Dillo Day's .

Student and Supporting Acts

The Battle of the Bands has been a key student competition at Dillo Day since at least the early 2000s, allowing Northwestern University groups to vie for a performance slot on the main stage. In 2002, eleven campus bands competed at a packed venue to open the festival, highlighting the event's role in showcasing undergraduate talent. Winners, such as the 2008 victor Mind at Large and the 2019 group FIZZ, have opened the main stage, providing their first major exposure to thousands of attendees. By 2023, the competition evolved into the broader Battle of the Artists, a two-night showcase combining bands and DJs to select student performers. In 2025, rock band Inertia won the band category and DJ Perl took the DJ spot, earning main stage appearances at the 53rd Dillo Day on May 17. The Battle of the DJs was introduced in 2016 by Mayfest Productions as a companion event to the , focusing on student DJ sets for the festival lineup. Early winners like the duo Dial Up in 2016 performed innovative sets blending music with interactive elements, such as serving waffles during their audition. Subsequent victors, including onnij x ouyang in 2017, shared the spotlight with headliners after winning the competition. This event has since integrated into the Battle of the Artists format, emphasizing electronic and remix performances by Northwestern students. Supporting acts at Dillo Day often include local Chicago-area bands and emerging national artists who serve as openers or mid-card performers, complementing the student competitions. Recent examples feature , a Knoxville-based artist who performed as the penultimate act in 2023, drawing crowds with his folk-infused sets before the headliner . Similarly, took the main stage in 2024 as an early performer, showcasing her viral pop tracks like those from her 2019 EP Starsick to festival-goers. These acts, often rising in popularity post-performance, provide a bridge between student talent and professional entertainment. The FMO Stage, organized by the student group For Members Only in partnership with Mayfest, runs parallel to the main stage and prioritizes emerging talent, including local and student-adjacent acts. In 2024, it hosted performers like rapper and student openers such as and The Mee-Ow Band, offering a more intimate venue for up-and-coming artists amid the festival's 12-hour schedule. For 2025, the stage announced headliners like rapper 41 and DJ Skaiwater, alongside student winners, to spotlight diverse genres from to electronic music. These student and supporting elements foster deep campus involvement, offering Northwestern musicians rare platforms for regional exposure to over 12,000 attendees. Past winners like the 2009 Battle of the Bands group have described the slot as "incredible exposure," often leading to broader recognition beyond the university. Participants gain performance experience in a professional setting, with alumni acts crediting Dillo Day for launching their post-graduation careers in the Chicago music scene. ===== END CLEANED SECTION =====

Impact and Legacy

Attendance and Cultural Role

Dillo Day has evolved from a modest gathering of a few dozen students in into one of the largest student-run music festivals in the United States, drawing over 12,000 attendees annually. In its early years during the era, the event began as a small lakeside organized by a group of Northwestern undergraduates, reflecting a casual, low-budget celebration that quickly gained traction among the campus community. By 1981, it had expanded to attract a massive undergraduate turnout, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of Northwestern life. Recent editions, such as the 53rd annual event in 2025, saw more than 10,000 participants, with expectations often reaching 12,000 based on historical patterns. The festival's attendees are predominantly Northwestern affiliates, including undergraduates, students, staff, faculty, and alumni, alongside Evanston residents who purchase guest wristbands. Undergraduates receive free entry, ensuring near-universal participation among the roughly 8,000 students, who form the core demographic of college-aged individuals (18-22) drawn to the event's diverse musical genres ranging from pop and R&B to and . This composition underscores Dillo Day's role as an end-of-spring-quarter ritual that marks the close of the academic year, fostering and community bonds through shared experiences of live performances, food vendors, and interactive activities. As a pivotal cultural , Dillo Day reinforces Northwestern's identity, symbolized by the mascot originating from its Texas-inspired founding in 1973. It promotes unity across campus by featuring student-led elements like talent showcases and pre-festival brunches, often extending into informal post-event gatherings that amplify the celebratory atmosphere. Recognized as the nation's premier student-run festival, it has garnered national media attention, including coverage in for its lineups and the for its logistical scale, influencing similar campus events through its model of student governance and production.

Challenges and Adaptations

Dillo Day has encountered significant challenges from external disruptions, particularly the , which forced major adaptations in event formats. In , the festival was transformed into "Digital Dillo," a fully featuring livestreamed performances and no in-person to comply with public health restrictions. The following year, in 2021, organizers adopted a hybrid model that combined limited on-campus activities with virtual elements, still prohibiting large gatherings amid ongoing pandemic concerns. By 2022, the event returned to full in-person format, though with enhanced health protocols to mitigate risks. Weather-related issues have also posed recurrent obstacles, leading to cancellations or interruptions in the 2010s. For instance, heavy rain and inclement conditions caused delays and suspensions in 2013, while the entire 2015 event was canceled due to safety risks from severe weather. Similarly, lightning storms cut short the 2019 festival, highlighting vulnerabilities in outdoor logistics. Following attendance expansions around 2019, which drew crowds exceeding 12,000, organizers implemented stricter crowd control measures, including entry searches, bans on outside food and drinks, and deployment of over 100 public safety officers in collaboration with local police. Controversies have occasionally arisen over programming and finances, amplifying internal pressures. In 2025, the announcement of as headliner sparked backlash from some students who viewed her selection as mismatched with the festival's typical high-energy, contemporary lineup, resulting in frustrated comments flooding announcements. Past budget shortfalls, exacerbated by rising production costs and limited university support, led to an from Mayfest executives in 2023 criticizing administrative funding shortfalls, prompting the university to commit additional resources to secure the event's future. In response to these challenges, Dillo Day has undergone key adaptations focused on safety, sustainability, and inclusivity. Post-COVID, enhancements included capacity limits at the Lakefill venue, bag checks, and an emergency operations center to prevent overcrowding and health risks, though specific vaccination requirements were not mandated by 2022. Sustainability efforts advanced with initiatives like promoting compostable products to achieve zero-waste goals, particularly evident in the 2025 Carnival Dillo, which integrated eco-friendly practices to minimize landfill contributions. Looking ahead, organizers have committed to greater diversity in lineups—such as featuring Bedingfield as the first female headliner in 2025—and thematic elements to better reflect student feedback and broaden appeal.

References

  1. [1]
    Dillo Day
    Dillo Day is the largest student-run music festival in the country. This year's Carnival Dillo wouldn't be possible without our incredible sponsors. Check them ...Terms · About · Past Dillos · Support
  2. [2]
    Northwestern University | Ticketing - Dillo Day 2025
    Dillo Day is the largest student-run music festival in the nation and one of the most beloved traditions at Northwestern.
  3. [3]
    Then: Who Really Started Dillo Day?: Northwestern Magazine
    In May 1973, a group of long-haired self-described hippies gathered at the Evanston campus lakeside to launch what would become one of Northwestern's most ...
  4. [4]
    Natasha Bedingfield, BigXthaPlug Set For Northwestern's Dillo Day
    May 8, 2025 · Dillo Day, one of the nation's largest student-run festivals, will return May 17 with a headlining performance from Natasha Bedingfield.<|control11|><|separator|>
  5. [5]
    Upsilon | Kappapedia
    Students at Northwestern began the tradition of Mayfete, a time when students would celebrate the "renunciation of the May Queen of the temporal world for a ...
  6. [6]
    The history of Dillo Day: How the 50-year-long tradition came about
    May 19, 2022 · In 1973, two Texan Northwestern undergraduates founded Armadillo Productions and threw a small gathering.
  7. [7]
    Dillo Day: 10 Things to know - Northwestern Now
    May 30, 2019 · While the exact origins are unclear, the popular take is that two native Texans created a low-budget campus music fest and named it Armadillo ...
  8. [8]
    From this Era: Concerts on Campus in the 1980s
    The Ramones, May 28, 1983. For just $1, concertgoers caught the punk rockers at Cahn Auditorium as part of the Dillo Day festivities.Missing: history milestones 1990s
  9. [9]
    Dillo through the Decades: Histories conflict on the evolution of the ...
    May 19, 2016 · Although there is little definitive proof of how Dillo Day started, the story Mayfest tells is that a group of students from Texas gathered in ...Missing: history 1970s
  10. [10]
    Dillo Day Performers Named - The Daily Northwestern
    May 17, 2007 · They will join rapper Lupe Fiasco and alternative band Cake, which are scheduled to perform at 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., respectively. Mayfest is ...Missing: headliner | Show results with:headliner
  11. [11]
    Sustainable programming works to reduce Dillo Day's ...
    May 29, 2015 · Students can do their part to reduce their Dillo footprint by being environmentally conscious and disposing of waste and recycling in proper containers.Missing: 2000s integration
  12. [12]
  13. [13]
    Cochise announced as mainstage performer for 50th Dillo Day
    May 14, 2022 · Headliners and mainstage performers Dominic Fike, Remi Wolf, Sean Kingston and more will take the stage at Dillo Day on Saturday. Maia Pandey, ...Missing: COVID | Show results with:COVID
  14. [14]
    Dillo Day Jumps on the Retro Trend - STITCH Fashion
    May 28, 2019 · The Dillo Day website and 2019 graphic highlights the theme with its Pac-Man and Pez imagery. According to Novak, most of the student art at the ...
  15. [15]
    Carnival Dillo announced as theme of the 53rd Dillo Day
    Feb 18, 2025 · Come one, come all: Carnival Dillo announced as theme of the 53rd Dillo Day. A lit up marquee displays the word carnival over a ferris wheel ...
  16. [16]
    More than 10000 step right up for Carnival Dillo
    May 19, 2025 · This year's theme, “Carnival Dillo,” inspired many festivalgoers to opt for outfits with vibrant colors, bold patterns and whimsical ...Missing: Ferris wheel
  17. [17]
    Students disappointed by Dillo Day headliner
    May 8, 2025 · Bedingfield is slated to become the first ever female headliner to perform at Dillo Day, Weinberg senior and Mayfest Head of Bookings Nathan ...
  18. [18]
    Entertainment - Defne Deda
    Dillo Day, with over 12,000 festival attendees, set on the Northwestern ...
  19. [19]
    Nation's Largest Student-Run Music Festival Features Unique ... - ASI
    May 23, 2024 · With a budget of more than $350,000 from the university, Dillo Day attracts over 12,000 annual attendees. three college female students standing ...
  20. [20]
    NU provides additional $707,000 to fund Mayfest, A&O, NUDM
    May 6, 2024 · “With the additional $707,000 in funding, SAFC can guarantee that Dillo Day, various A&O productions and Dance Marathon have adequate funding ...
  21. [21]
    Armaan Ajani - Northwestern University alum - LinkedIn
    Experience ; Mayfest Productions Graphic. Booking Director - Executive Board. Mayfest Productions ; Mayfest Graphic. Talent Buyer. Mayfest.
  22. [22]
    Mayfest: An open letter to the Northwestern community
    Apr 4, 2023 · For the past 50 years, we at Mayfest Productions have produced the nation's largest student-run music festival, an event that has garnered ...Missing: Mayfete May celebration
  23. [23]
    Mayfest Productions - LinkedIn
    Dillo Day ...Missing: history | Show results with:history
  24. [24]
    Cats Who Compost promotes sustainability, composting on campus
    Apr 3, 2024 · Some of CWC's projects include working with Mayfest to make composting available on Dillo Day and advocating for the composting bins implemented ...
  25. [25]
    Q&A: Mayfest co-chairs look toward Dillo Day - The Daily Northwestern
    May 14, 2024 · Mayfest Productions has been putting together Dillo Day, the largest student-run music festival in the country, for over 50 years.<|control11|><|separator|>
  26. [26]
    Performers compete at Battle of the Artists to play at Dillo Day
    Apr 27, 2025 · At the event, students cast their vote for their top sets, writing down their favorite DJ and favorite band on slips of paper for Mayfest to ...Missing: process | Show results with:process
  27. [27]
    Mayfest serves up preview of Dillo Day food trucks
    May 16, 2017 · The vendors were local Evanston restaurants La Cocinita and Cheesie's Pub and Grub, Chicago-based eatery Da Lobsta and Northwestern startup ...Missing: garden | Show results with:garden
  28. [28]
    Dillo Day | Evanston IL - Facebook
    The nation's largest student-run music festival. Held annually in the spring exclusively for Northwe
  29. [29]
    [PDF] Dillo Day Reminders - Northwestern University
    May 13, 2025 · When you Call for help, Stay with the person until help arrives, and Cooperate with emergency or University personnel, Northwestern honors that ...Missing: planning | Show results with:planning
  30. [30]
    Felipe Reis Maccari - Summer Intern, Amazon - LinkedIn
    I also serve as co-chair of Mayfest Productions, leading 115 members in organizing Dillo Day, the nation's largest student-run music festival (12,000 attendees/ ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  31. [31]
    Dillo Day's Future Secured: Administration Steps Up with Additional ...
    Dec 16, 2023 · In Spring 2022, the Student Activities Finance Committee (SAFC) allocated $354,440 to Mayfest Productions, the second largest total group ...
  32. [32]
    Northwestern commits to funding Dillo Day and Blowout
    Sep 21, 2023 · The funding commitment allocates approximately $102,000 for A&O productions, about $479,000 for Mayfest and about $30,000 for Northwestern ...
  33. [33]
    Dillo Day campus music festival returns Saturday - Evanston Now
    May 18, 2022 · ... Dillo Day music festival returns for its 50th anniversary after a two-year break forced by the pandemic. University and public safety ...Missing: COVID | Show results with:COVID
  34. [34]
    Northwestern prepares for crowd of 12,000 at annual Dillo Day ...
    May 28, 2019 · The day-long annual music festival is open to Northwestern students, staff, faulty, alumni and Evanston residents. About 12,000 people are ...
  35. [35]
    Your guide to a safe and fun Dillo Day - Northwestern Now
    May 13, 2025 · This year's theme, Carnival Dillo, will bring a midway-style atmosphere to the lakefront, featuring food, drinks and, of course, live music. The ...Missing: wheel | Show results with:wheel
  36. [36]
    Dillo Day - Wikipedia
    Dillo Day is an annual all-day music festival at Northwestern University that takes place at the end of spring quarter on the Lakefill.
  37. [37]
    Dillo Day - zero waste.
    Help us keep our beloved Dillo eco-friendly and reduce the trash in landfills by purchasing compostable products to use on Dillo Day!Missing: sustainability Dirt recycling
  38. [38]
    Dillo Day Art Exhibition features mural, arcade game, musical clouds
    May 9, 2019 · WATCH: Retro interactive art exhibits will be featured on the Lakefill this Dillo Day Read more from May's issue of The Monthly here.Missing: Village | Show results with:Village
  39. [39]
    The Daily Northwestern — May 28th, 2025 - Issuu
    May 28, 2025 · Mayfest Productions began planning Dillo Day last summer, working directly with artist agencies and navigating complex scheduling. e nal lineup ...
  40. [40]
    All about Dillo Day through the years - The Daily Northwestern
    May 19, 2024 · Dillo Day through the years (2014-2024). See who Dillo Day's Main Stage performers were throughout the prior 10 years.Missing: milestones 1980s 1990s
  41. [41]
    Offset announced as Dillo Day 2023 headliner
    May 16, 2023 · Offset is the headliner and TiaCorine is a daytime featured performer for Northwestern's 51st Dillo Day, Mayfest Productions announced Tuesday.
  42. [42]
    Dillo Day: Northwestern Athlete Edition - Inside NU
    May 17, 2024 · This year's event will be headlined by melodic rapper Swae Lee, who formed one half of the hip-hop duo Rae Sremmurd and is best known for songs like “Sunflower ...
  43. [43]
    What's the deal with the Dillo Day artist poll? - The Daily Northwestern
    Oct 28, 2024 · The booking process for Dillo Day begins in mid-summer and continues into the school year. While Dent said Mayfest accounts for students' ...Missing: auditions | Show results with:auditions
  44. [44]
    Muller and Nadkarni: More transparency, variety needed in ...
    May 30, 2013 · Muller and Nadkarni: More transparency, variety needed in Mayfest's selection process for Dillo Day. Yoni Muller and Rohan Nadkarni. May 30, ...
  45. [45]
    By the Numbers: 53 years of Dillo Day performers and their careers
    May 12, 2025 · Northwestern held its first Armadillo Day on May 13, 1973, and the event was called The First Annual “I Don't Think We're In Kansas Anymore ...
  46. [46]
    Mayfest hosts 53rd annual Dillo Day, BigXthaPlug cancels
    May 19, 2025 · Since the grand reopening of the Evanston Animal Shelter in October 2024, the staff and volunteers ... Mayfest Productions' Battle of the Artists ...
  47. [47]
    Bands battle it out to secure opening spot for Dillo Day
    May 15, 2002 · The battle, which packed Nevin's Live Wednesday night, showcased 11 campus bands competing to open for the daylong concert on Dillo Day, May 25.Missing: history | Show results with:history
  48. [48]
    Third Eye Blind, Broken Social Scene to round off Dillo Day lineup
    May 22, 2008 · Battle of the Bands winner and Northwestern group Mind at Large will also perform. Cake, The Roots, Lupe Fiasco, Pete Francis and Office ...
  49. [49]
    FIZZ wins Battle of the Bands, looks forward to first Dillo Day set
    May 30, 2019 · Kim and Weinberg junior Buckley are in FIZZ, a 10-member band that earned a spot in the Dillo Day lineup by winning Mayfest's Battle of the ...
  50. [50]
    A fresh take on Battle of the Bands and DJs, Mayfest ... - Instagram
    Apr 6, 2023 · BATTLES APPS ARE NOW LIVE! A fresh take on Battle of the Bands and DJs, Mayfest Productions' Battle of the Artists is a two-night showcase of ...Missing: 2016 | Show results with:2016<|separator|>
  51. [51]
    Rock band 'Inertia' sets career into motion as the winner of Battle of ...
    Apr 28, 2025 · On Monday, Inertia won Battle of the Artists and will now play at Dillo Day. Valentina Valcarce, Finian Hazen, and Isabela Camargos. April 28, ...
  52. [52]
    Dillo Day on Instagram: "Battle of the Artist winners are here! You ...
    Apr 28, 2025 · Battle of the Artist winners are here! You voted and chose Perl and Inertia as your favorite DJ and band sets! These student performers will be ...
  53. [53]
    Dial Up prepares to play at Dillo Day, looks to amplify presence on ...
    May 19, 2016 · May 19, 2016. A&E. Members of the musical group Dial Up dished out a unique combination at last month's Battle of the DJs: music and waffles.
  54. [54]
    Mayfest Productions is excited to announce that Briston Maroney is ...
    Mayfest Productions is excited to announce that Briston Maroney is the Dillo Day 2023 Penultimate Act! Hailing from Knoxville, Tennessee, Briston Maroney's ...
  55. [55]
    Dillo Day preview: What to know about 'Camp Dillo' lineup
    May 16, 2024 · Main Stage Performer: Maude Latour at 2 p.m.. A viral success in the world of pop music, Latour released her debut EP “Starsick” in 2019 when ...
  56. [56]
    Dillo Day Second Stage: FMO X Mayfest - Facebook
    Dillo Day Second Stage: FMO X Mayfest · Public · Hosted by For Members Only and Dillo Day · Saturday, June 1, 2019 at 12:00PM – 11:00PM CDT · Dillo Day.
  57. [57]
    Captured: Dillo 52 on the FMO Stage - The Daily Northwestern
    May 21, 2024 · The 52nd annual Dillo Day took place on the Lakefill Saturday. Students became Camp Dillo s'mores-getters under the camp theme, exploring fashionable outfits.
  58. [58]
    We are so happy to announce the full schedule for Dillo Day ...
    May 17, 2024 · We are so happy to announce the full schedule for Dillo Day! Looking forward to seeing everyone tomorrow at Camp Dillo.
  59. [59]
    FMO's Second Stage is proud to announce 41 ... - Instagram
    May 14, 2025 · FMO's Second Stage is proud to announce 41 (@41world__) as our Headliner performer for the 53rd Dillo Day music festival on May 17, 2025!
  60. [60]
    FMO's Second Stage is proud to announce Skaiwater ... - Instagram
    May 11, 2025 · FMO's Second Stage is proud to announce Skaiwater(@skaiwater) as our Penultimate performer for the 53rd Dillo Day music festival on May 17, 2025!
  61. [61]
    Bands battle to perform at Dillo Day - The Daily Northwestern
    May 15, 2009 · “They were all there to see Third Eye Blind – but for anyone who saw it, it's incredible exposure for that band.” Anne Leone, a Communuication ...
  62. [62]
    Dillo Day 2026 | Anvara
    Dillo Day is the largest student-run music festival in the U.S., produced by Northwestern University's Mayfest Productions. With over 50 years of history, Dillo ...Missing: founding budget leadership
  63. [63]
    Northwestern is steeped in traditions that make it home to our students
    Mayfest Productions, a student organization, plans and produces Dillo Day every year for the Northwestern community. Students Dancing at Dillo Day. Fight ...Community Resources · Alma Mater/hymn · Dillo Day
  64. [64]
    Tomas: The Beloved Tradition of Dillo Day
    Jun 14, 2018 · A typical Dillo day starts bright and early, with people gathering for early breakfast/brunch starting at about 8 or 9 am. Students then head ...<|separator|>
  65. [65]
    'Digital Dillo' 2020: five things to know - Northwestern Now
    May 27, 2020 · The festival begins at 1:30 pm CT on Saturday, May 30. It is open to the Northwestern community, as well as friends and neighbors.Missing: end- | Show results with:end-
  66. [66]
    Pre-Dillo Day prep: NU and city promote neighborliness
    May 18, 2022 · Dillo Day returns to Northwestern University this Saturday, May 21, and the lakefront festival is celebrating its 50th anniversary.
  67. [67]
    Northwestern and Evanston officials share pandemic and Dillo ...
    May 18, 2022 · The safety measures will include a vehicle-free zone at the Lakefill, bag checks, an emergency operation center and sound meters. Chin said the ...Missing: capacity limits
  68. [68]
    After long delays, headliners close rainy Dillo Day
    Jun 2, 2013 · The inclement weather missed rapper Danny Brown's set by minutes but suspended the music festival until about 8:30 p.m., when attendees were ...Missing: 2010s control 2019
  69. [69]
    Dillo Day canceled due to bad weather - The Daily Northwestern
    May 30, 2015 · The University sent an emergency alert at 4:25 p.m. saying the festival was canceled due to “safety concerns caused by inclement weather.Missing: 2010s crowd control 2019
  70. [70]
    Dillo Day on Instagram
    Mar 19, 2025 · As we prepare for Dillo Day 2025's carnival extravaganza, we're thrilled to announce exciting partnership opportunities that will make this year's festival ...Missing: theme Ferris wheel
  71. [71]
    The Weekly: Dillo Day 53, Daniel Biss runs for Congress, ETHS ...
    May 19, 2025 · And then our headliner was Natasha Bedingfield. And she was awesome. She is the first female performer of Dillo Day as a headliner. So she ...