What to Expect at Bruno Mars in Chicago & How to Find Tickets

Bruno Mars is bringing the record-breaking “Romantic Tour” to Chicago’s Soldier Field this month. Find out what to expect if you’re planning to see the show, or grab last-minute tickets if you’ve been on the fence until now.

Where is Bruno Mars Performing

Bruno Mars is performing at Soldier Field in Chicago on May 16 and 17, 2026. The expansive stadium is located on Lake Shore Drive down the street from the most iconic Chicago sights, including the Shedd Aquarium and Millennium Park. If you’re coming from out of town, plan transport from the airport, whether that's rideshare, driving, or public transit.

Soldier Field Logistics

When attending a huge event like this, you’ll want to plan for logistics like where to park, when to arrive, and what types of bags are allowed. Think through these details before heading to the show so you can just focus on the music.

Bag Policy

Only certain bags are permitted at Soldier Field for the safety of all event attendees. The policy is simple: clear bags are permitted, which do not exceed 12” by 6” by 12”. This could include clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC cinch bags, fanny packs, or backpacks. Small, non-clear clutch bags that do not exceed 4.5” by 6.5” are also permitted. Each guest may also bring one clear plastic storage bag.

Parking

If you plan to park at the venue, reserve event parking beforehand for the easiest experience. Day-of parking may be available, but will be more limited and could be more expensive.

Phone Policy

While some past Bruno Mars performances have experimented with phone-free or limited-phone experiences, this show is not officially designated as phone-free. That said, fans are encouraged to be respectful during the performance. Small, handheld cameras are permitted, but cameras with large lenses and video cameras are not allowed.

What to Expect: The Romantic Tour

The Romantic Tour started on April 10, 2026, in Las Vegas. The tour is currently continuing through North America before it heads to Europe in June. Fans say the experience is a talent explosion, packed with entertainment from beginning to end. Here’s what you can expect heading to The Romantic Tour.

When to Arrive

Arrive at The Romantic Tour an hour before showtime to allow time for security, finding your seat, and exploring the venue. Doors open at 5:30 PM for both Soldier Field shows, and the shows start at 7:30 PM, so fans can arrive even earlier to get merch if desired. There aren’t pit or GA tickets for this tour, so there’s no need to line up really early for the best view. All seats are reserved.

Stage Setup

The stage for Bruno Mars at Soldier Field will not feature a catwalk into the center of the venue like other stops on the show. Instead, the stage will be standalone with the audience in front of it. The expansive stadium will seat over 50,000 guests for these sold-out shows, so there will also be large screens broadcasting the stage action live for all to see.

Openers

The Chicago shows will feature Leon Thomas and DJ PeeWee (Anderson .Paak) as supporting acts. After winning Best R&B Album for his album MUTT and being nominated for Best New Artist at the 2026 Grammys, Leon Thomas is becoming a huge star in his own right. After Anderson .Paak opens as DJ alter ego, DJ PeeWee, he will also join Bruno Mars for Silk Sonic hits like “Leave the Door Open.”

What to Wear

Soldier Field is an open-air stadium, so check the forecast before the show to ensure you dress correctly for the weather. The show will go on rain or shine, unless extreme weather makes it impossible. Dress in layers to stay comfortable as the evening air cools off throughout the show. Chicago weather typically sits in the 50s and 60s on May evenings, so sweatshirts, light jackets, and long pants will usually be appropriate for most events.

Setlist

Based on his first tour performances, fans can expect a packed setlist of old hits and new songs from his most recent album, The Romantic. The following songs have been performed at recent stops:

• "Risk It All"
• "Cha Cha Cha"
• "On My Soul"
• "24K Magic"
• "Treasure"
• "God Was Showing Off"
• "I Just Might"
• "Perm"
• "Why You Wanna Fight"
• "Low Rider Medley (Oh Girl, Miss You, Everything, Wannabe, That's What I Like)"
• "Something Serious"
• "Blast Off"
• "777"
• "Fly as Me"
• "Smokin' Out the Window"
• "Leave the Door Open"
• "Marry You"
• "Die with a Smile"
• "It Will Rain"
• "Talking to the Moon"
• "When I Was Your Man"
• "Locked Out of Heaven"
• "Just the Way You Are"
• "Uptown Funk"
• "Dance With Me"

How to Buy Last-Minute Tickets

If you’re looking for last-minute tickets, source them through a secondary ticket marketplace you can trust. Be wary of highly underpriced tickets and tickets sold on social media or other third-party sites without ticketing protections. At Event Tickets Center, we offer peace of mind with your purchase. Fraud protection, customer support, and a 100% Buyer Guarantee ensure you can trust your purchase and just focus on the music.