The moments before one of the biggest music events in recent history were filled with anticipation and a contagious excitement shared by all. The camaraderie present throughout Soldier Field and its surrounding areas for the Grateful Dead’s final Fare Thee Well shows was truly something special. Photographer Michelle Stancil was there to capture it all, as part of an upcoming book project, Fans Beyond Description.

The Funniest Things Overheard At The Grateful Dead’s Final Shows in Chicago

From the photographer:

“It was a moving experience for me, to hear so many GD stories and to hear about the deep sense of family that has developed for fans over the decades. Very powerful for me, and then to walk in [to the show] unexpected on Sunday and to feel it.. it was something special!”

Full gallery at the bottom.