“May 19th,” I told my friend Nina “is my favorite day of the year.” I made this declaration in a fit of joy at the confluence of the beautiful weather, the fact that several friends from out of town had come to visit, and the Summer Breeze carnival and concert that were taking place that day. I am able to look back contently at the fact that I didn’t crack open a single book or worry for a second about the assignment I had due at the end of the next day. I was able to concentrate on relaxing and enjoying my surroundings. It was truly perfect.
In perhaps what became the longest day of the year, I woke up at 9 AM to meet some friends who were visiting Chicago. Two years ago, I traveled with a group of 14 other people to Alexandria, Egypt to study Arabic for 6 weeks. In a whirlwind of culture shock and shawermas, I became acquainted with some of my very best friends. Last year we had a reunion in Sedona, Arizona and this year it was Chicago’s turn. Though most of them had been here for a few days already, they chose to visit UChicago on Saturday. Needless to say, my longwinded tour of campus was derailed by the prospect of free Jamba Juice and warm grass.
After catching up and exploring for several hours, we said goodbye and I made my way back to Broadview to get my ticket for the concert. I will admit that I was skeptical when I saw Hutch courtyard earlier that day as to whether or not two thousand people could fit into it, but I had really just forgotten how squished together people get when they play, “how do I get as close to the stage as possible?” As expected, I thoroughly enjoyed all 3 performances, even though I had never heard of Cults or Neon Indian. They gave off a great summer vibe, which proved perfect for the occasion.
On the topic of the Summer Breeze concert, who knew Ludacris could put on such a show? Or that he had been featured on things people still listen to? Honestly, I thought he had fallen out of game about 8 years ago. I had a great view from one of the ledges in the back for the whole show that I would have given up only for the trip in his plane that Luda offered the crowd. I left the show completely happy and ready to celebrate 2 of my friends’ birthdays. (I told you this was the longest day ever)
The party at Broadview proved a great end to the day. My only complaint is the fact that we don’t have air conditioning, so going to sleep was an issue. In the end though, I can’t wait for May 19th, 2013. I know it’ll be a blast.