Dan Aykroyd, Jim Belushi Returning To Old Joliet Prison

JOLIET, IL — On Friday, the Joliet Area Historical Museum announced it will host its second annual Blues Brothers Con featuring actors Dan Aykroyd and Jim Belushi, reprising their roles as “The Blues Brothers” at Old Joliet Prison on Saturday, August 17.

According to the museum, the festival aims to transform the 16-acre historic prison site into a tapestry of sights and sounds to honor the iconic “Blues Brothers” film — that was filmed on its grounds — as well as celebrate blues music’s influence on the prison throughout its history.

“The ‘Blues Brothers’ film is about passing on the love of Blues music to a new generation,” said Greg Peerbolte, chief executive officer of the Joliet Area Historical Museum. “The Prison’s connection to the Blues dates back to the 1932 recording of Memphis Minnie’s ‘Joliet Bound.’ Blues music helps us to confront — and heal — the Prison’s often difficult historic legacy. Following the incredible fan response to the (2022) event, we are extremely grateful to Dan Aykroyd and Judy Belushi Pisano and the Belushi family to pass on the film itself – and the music it cherishes – to new generations.”

Aykroyd and Belushi will emcee a stacked lineup of iconic and diverse Chicago Blues performers featuring, Curtis Salgado, Ronnie Baker Brooks, Lil' Ed & The Blues Imperials, and Al Spears & The Hurricane Project.

The evening will be appropriately capped off by a Maxwell Street-style Blues jam session where Dan, Jim and other “Blues Brothers” alumni will take part in a special encore performance featuring hits from the film. “Blues Brothers” fans can also expect a variety of experiences, appearances and one-of-a-kind photo ops throughout the day.

Proceeds from the event support the operations of the Joliet Area Historical Museum, a 501(c)3 not-for-profit that has operated educational tours and community programs at the Old Joliet Prison Historic Site since 2018. The Old Joliet Prison is currently undergoing restorations, but is still open to visitors daily for self-guided tours.

Event Location: Inside the walls of Old Joliet Prison, 1125 N. Collins St., Joliet, Ill.

Date: Saturday, August 17th – Gates open at 11:00 am

Ticket Prices: General Admission: Adult $55

General Admission: Child $25 (18 and under)

Front Section Standing Room Only: $75

Front Section table for 4 guests: $500

Parking: Remote Lots: Free