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The first ever TexMex & Music Fest presented by Calamos Investments will spice up Chicagoland on July 13-14, 2012 at CityGate Centre. Live music from top country-fusion bands will set the beat for this vibrant event, including national headliner, Chris Isaak. Other musical acts playing on the BlueCross BlueShield of Illinois Entertainment Stage include Asleep at the Wheel, Carlos Ortega and The Country Sky Band. Coming soon will be a big announcement that rounds out the music line-up.

Authentic Mexican-style celebrity chef, Rick Bayless, will conduct a cooking demonstration while the best TexMex restaurants serve food. Attendees can quench their thirst in the LandShark Beer Garden or pair food items with a variety of wines.

Sponsors of the event are: Calamos Investments, BlueCross BlueShield of Illinois, LandShark Lager, Continental Acura of Naperville, Continental Mazda of Naperville, Daily Herald and Naperville Magazine.

"With bold music and food, this event will awaken your senses," said event organizer Scott Janess of inPLAY EVENTS. "This event will quickly become a mainstay in the community for people to gather and have a great time."

Tickets go on sale at 10:00am Monday, May 7. General admission ticket pricing is $30 in advance on Friday, $40 at the door. Saturday's pricing is $20 in advance, $30 at the door. Gold circle reserved seating, two-day passes and discounted kids tickets are also available. All tickets are rain or shine and include musical entertainment, food demonstrations and access to the family activity center. A portion of ticket sales will be donated to DuPage PADS, an organization that works to end homelessness.

Event hours are 4-10 p.m. on Friday, July 13 and 3-10 p.m. on Saturday, July 14.