Fans looking to get a glimpse of the Chicago Bears under their new coaching staff will have 11 opportunities to do so this summer in Lake Forest.
Seeking to rebound after a disappointing 5-12 regular season, the Bears, under the direction of new head coach Ben Johnson, have announced their 2025 training camp schedule. The slate includes 11 practice sessions open to fans at their Halas Hall headquarters.
The first practice that fans can watch is set for Friday, July 25. That will be followed by sessions on July 26, 29, 30, 31, and August 2. They are all set to begin at 8:30 a.m., reflecting a start time one hour earlier from last year.
Five additional practices are scheduled between August 7 and 15, including joint practices against the Miami Dolphins on Friday, August 8 and the Buffalo Bills on August 15 at 10:30 a.m. ahead of preseason games against those opponents at Soldier Field.
Beyond watching quarterback Caleb Williams preparing for his second NFL season, plus catching a glimpse of the rest of the players, the Bears will offer a series of fan-friendly interactive activities on the Halas Hall campus, including many aimed at children. Some players will be available to sign autographs following each practice, according to the team.
Tickets are free and will be available starting July 9 at 10 a.m. through ChicagoBears.com/camp, but walk-up tickets on the specific days will not be available. Practice sessions could be closed in case of inclement weather.
The team will also have three private community practice sessions available only through invitation.
“Training Camp is one of the most special moments on the Bears calendar. It’s a time where our team sharpens their focus, builds chemistry and sets the tone for the season ahead,” Bears Senior Vice President of Fan/Guest Experience and Stadium Operations said in a statement. “It is also a chance to bring out fans into the experience, allowing them to witness firsthand the dedication, preparation and intensity that fuels the Chicago Bears. The energy at Halas Hall during camp is electric, and it is powered by the passion of Bears fans who show up, year after year, in support of the upcoming season. We are thrilled to welcome our fans back to Halas Hall ahead of an exciting season.”
Free parking will be available at Hawthorn Mall in Vernon Hills with shuttle service starting 15 minutes ahead of the gate opening and continuing for two hours after practice, according to a team statement.
The team will continue a prohibition of drop-offs near Halas Hall, including ride-sharing services.
The Bears moved training camp to Halas Hall in 2020.
Lake Forest Community Development Director Catherine Czerniak noted the 2025 operation will look similar to previous years.
“Everything has gone very well the past few years since training camp shifted to Lake Forest,” she said. “We don’t anticipate any changes, and we look forward to hosting Bears fans again this year.”
Daniel I. Dorfman is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.