Buddy Guy, the legendary blues guitarist and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, is bringing his “Damn Right Encore” tour to two iconic Illinois venues in 2025. At 88, this Chicago blues pioneer—known for influencing giants like Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton—will perform at the Virginia Theatre in Champaign on June 24, 2025, at 7:30 PM, with special guest Taj Farrant, and at the Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet on June 28, 2025, at 7:30 PM, featuring Ronnie Baker Brooks. With 8 GRAMMY Awards and a career spanning over 70 years, Buddy Guy’s live shows are a must-see. Here’s your ultimate guide to scoring discounted tickets for these historic concerts.

Why See Buddy Guy at Virginia Theatre and Rialto Square?
The Virginia Theatre, a 1,500-seat historic venue in Champaign, offers an intimate setting to experience Buddy Guy’s raw, electrifying guitar work. Meanwhile, the Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet, with its stunning architecture and 1,900 seats, provides a grand backdrop for his soulful performance. Both shows are part of Buddy Guy’s 2025 tour, celebrating his latest album, The Blues Don’t Lie, and his enduring legacy in blues music.
Shop at CapitalCityTickets.com for Discounts
CapitalCityTickets.com is a top choice for discounted Buddy Guy tickets. They offer a 100% money-back guarantee and competitive prices for both venues. For the Virginia Theatre show, tickets start around $101, with an average of $141, while Rialto Square Theatre tickets begin at $69, averaging $156. Use promo code CITY10 at checkout to save even more on your purchase.
Compare Prices Across Platforms
To get the best deal, compare prices on platforms like Ticketmaster, Vivid Seats, and AXS. For instance, Ticketmaster lists both shows, but secondary marketplaces like CapitalCityTickets.com often have lower prices due to their focus on resale tickets. Sorting by price on these sites helps you find the cheapest options for your preferred seats.
Opt for Budget-Friendly Seating
At the Virginia Theatre, balcony or rear orchestra seats are typically the most affordable, offering a great view in this smaller venue. For Rialto Square Theatre, consider upper balcony or side orchestra seats to save money while still enjoying the acoustics of this historic theater. Both venues’ seating charts on CapitalCityTickets.com let you pick the best value seats.
Time Your Purchase Strategically
Tickets for Buddy Guy’s shows went on sale as early as February 7, 2025, for Rialto Square. Buying early can secure lower prices, especially for the Champaign show on a Tuesday, which may have less demand. However, waiting for last-minute deals can also work—prices often drop closer to the date, particularly for the Saturday Joliet show, as sellers aim to fill seats.
Look for Nearby Tour Dates
If tickets at Virginia Theatre or Rialto Square are too expensive, check nearby stops on Buddy Guy’s tour. He’s playing at The Factory in St. Louis on June 26, 2025, and Coronado Performing Arts Center in Rockford on June 27, 2025. These venues might offer cheaper tickets, and CapitalCityTickets.com has options for all tour dates.
Join Fan Clubs for Presale Discounts
Sign up for Buddy Guy’s newsletter or fan club for presale access. Presales often come with exclusive discount codes, giving you a chance to buy tickets at Virginia Theatre or Rialto Square before the general public, potentially at a lower price.
Final Thoughts
Buddy Guy’s 2025 shows at Virginia Theatre and Rialto Square Theatre are a rare chance to see a living blues legend. Use this guide to score discounted tickets by shopping at CapitalCityTickets.com with promo code CITY10, comparing prices, and choosing strategic seating. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness Buddy Guy’s electrifying performance—secure your tickets today and experience the blues like never before!
Leave a Reply