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Rotary Club of Palatine’s Oktoberfest returns with beer, music, bike ride, scarecrow contest

Posted in Entertainment, Fundraisers on September 18, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Emily Burk of Inverness plays a round of giant Connect Four with her dad Jim during last year’s Rotary Club of Palatine Oktoberfest. The festival returns to downtown Palatine this week. | Daily Herald File Photo, 2024

Submitted by Bill Pohlman

Bring your appetite for beer, music, food and games to the Rotary Club of Palatine’s 17th annual Oktoberfest, which will take place Friday, Sept. 19, through Sunday, Sept. 21, in downtown Palatine.

Event hours are 5 p.m. to midnight Friday, noon to midnight Saturday, and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. Saturday is designated as Family Day, featuring games, crafts, and entertainment for children. The festival takes place on the corner of Smith and Slade streets south of the Metra train station, with proceeds from the event benefiting local charities and community projects in the Palatine area.

Admission is free to this event that features authentic German music, food, beverages and activities for all ages.

“We kick off the festival on Friday at 5 p.m.,” said Joe Mazzocchi, Palatine Rotary president. “The blessing and tapping of the keg will start our Oktoberfest event. Come celebrate in your lederhosen and dirndl!”

Rotary is collaborating with several organizations to create a low waste event. Composting and recycling stations will be in place to reduce landfill waste. With support from the Palatine Jaycees, they will be adding a water refilling station to the event.

“Our club is concerned about the environment, and this event provides an opportunity for us to contribute to keeping the community clean in a fun and environmentally friendly manner,” said Randy Klingner, Palatine Rotary environmental chairman.

“Everyone knows beer is a large component of any Oktoberfest celebration,” said Al Stoeckel, beer chairman. “There are a number of beers being poured this year. Paulaner Pils which is an imported full-flavored German Pilsner. Another beer on our menu, Paulaner Oktoberfest Marzen is a medium amber lager. We also have Hacker-Pschorr Weissbier which is naturally cloudy, full-flavored and uniquely refreshing as well as Paulaner Grapefruit Radler a fruity-tart, 100% natural, not too sweet beer since it’s made with less sugar than common radlers. We will also be offering different varieties of wine, including merlot and Pinot Grigio, as well as White Claw hard seltzer.”

Die Musikmeisters will be the opening band on Friday at Rotary Club of Palatine’s annual Oktoberfest in downtown Palatine. | Paul Valade/pvalade@dailyherald, 2024

The event will also feature authentic German food from vendors including Morkes Chocolates, Tap House Grill, Friends of the Rotary, Tre Amici Pizza, Kooker’s, Annie’s Restaurant & Pancake Shop, Daisy’s Ice Cream Shop and Rep’s Burgers. Morkes will have a variety of caramel apples, spiced doughnuts and other sweet treats. Tap House Grill will offer pretzels with cheese, deep fried schnitzel chicken bites, sauerbraten pot roast sliders and potato salad. Pop and water will be available for purchase from the Rotary Club of Palatine.

The Friends of the Rotary will be cooking brats and hot dogs. Tre Amici will feature sausage, German and Reuben pizza. Kooker’s will have brats, a Leberkaese sandwich, a German pretzel with cheese, salads and desserts. Annie’s will have German crepes and benedicts, Hungarian goulash and caramel apple cheesecake. Daisy’s will feature ice cream sandwiches, fudge brownie sundaes and ice cream floats. Rep’s Burgers will serve their spätzle, knockwurst and their German style burger.

Musical entertainment will kick off on Friday night with Die Musikmeisters from 5 to 8:30 p.m. followed by Phenix from 9 p.m. to midnight. Saturday’s entertainment includes Alpine Thunder from noon to 3:30 p.m., Heimat und Trachten Verein Edelweiss with traditional German dances between 3:30 and 5 p.m., Die Kellerknaben from 5 to 8 p.m., followed by Polkaholics from 9 p.m. until midnight. The musical line up on Sunday features Phenix from 2 to 6 p.m.

Games and activities for Family Day will be on Saturday from noon until 3:30 p.m. with face painting, balloon art, fire department displays, children’s raffle prizes and birdhouse building by Home Depot. At approximately 12:30 p.m., the winners of Scarecrows on Parade, a scarecrow decorating contest sponsored by the village of Palatine, will be announced. This year, Family Day will feature an Oktoberfest Family Bike Ride sponsored by the Bike Palatine Club on Saturday morning at Towne Square on the corner of Smith and Slade Streets. Riders are asked to meet at 10:30 a.m. and the ride will start at 11 a.m. Visit bikepalatine.com for more information.

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An Evening for Change

Posted in Entertainment, Fundraisers, Resident Spotlights on September 14, 2025| Leave a Comment »

The Purist

Hosted by Richard J. and Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson, Chicago’s premier philanthropic tradition returns.

On October 18, Gateway Chairman Richard J Stephenson and Vice-Chair Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson will host one of Chicago’s most inspiring philanthropic traditions, the 34th Annual Gateway for Cancer Research Cures Gala. The evening, taking place at a private estate in Barrington Hills, will blend purpose and elegance, spotlighting the urgent need for patient-centered cancer research. Guests will enjoy extraordinary performances by 16-time Grammy-winning producer David Foster, along with actress and singer Katharine McPhee, Broadway star Erich Bergen and the legendary Village People.

Founded in 1991, Gateway for Cancer Research is dedicated to accelerating Phase I and II clinical trials—those that offer real promise for patients, but are often overlooked by conventional funding. With more than 200 trials supported to date and over 30,000 patients​ and families impacted worldwide, Gateway​ for Cancer Research continues to lead with innovation, empathy, and urgency.

Read more here.

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ART IN THE BARN

Posted in Education, Entertainment, Fundraisers, Topics Of Interest on September 13, 2025| Leave a Comment »

ILLUSTRATION BY TOM BACHTELL

By Janis MVK | JWC Media Group

A 50-year tradition of creativity and community continues this September 27 and 28.

From its humble origins with just 30 artists and 1,500 attendees, Art in the Barn has grown to showcase the works of over 175 juried artists, drawing more than 5,000 art enthusiasts each year. This year, celebrating its 50th season set against the picturesque backdrop of Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital’s sprawling grounds in Barrington, Art in the Barn continues to celebrate the vibrant intersection of art and community in a uniquely enchanting setting.

The force behind this artful experiential masterpiece is led by Sharon Vogel, Art in the Barn’s co-chair for the past 24 years. Joining her is co-chair Megan Clarke. Together, they embody a deep commitment to both community engagement and the appreciation of art. Their combined efforts and dedication help bring this cherished event to life, making it a beloved part of the local scene.

Read more here.

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West Dundee Heritage Fest features music, crafts fair, car show and more

Posted in Entertainment, Fundraisers on September 12, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Heritage Fest-goers check out classic rides like a 1927 Ford T-Bucket at the car show at the 2024 event. | Rick West/rwest@dailyherald.com, 2024

Submitted by Heritage Fest

Heritage Fest returns for its 27th year on Sept. 12-14. This three-day community festival in West Dundee includes live music, arts and craft fair, car show, food, 5K and more.

Festival hours are 6 to 11 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday in downtown West Dundee. Admission is free.

Music stage

The entertainment lineup offers something for everyone! Local and national musicians, cover bands and many others will perform on the main stage downtown.

On Saturday, the East Dundee band Crossover will perform classic rock, country and blues at 10 a.m.

Cesare Salad and the Spicy Croutons, led by guitarist and vocalist Cesare, will be bringing their high-energy blues and rock ‘n’ roll to the stage at 11:30 a.m.

At 1:30 p.m., festival favorite, the Bishop Super Band returns, having performed at Heritage Fest every year since 2015. The band features staff, students and friends of the late Matt Bishop, founder of the band and a Dundee Middle School music teacher who died in February 2024 at age 34.

Nick Wilkinson & the Featured Players will be playing alternative and indie music at 3 p.m.

At 4:30 p.m., The Sofa Kings, a cover band with a focus on the 1990s, takes the stage. The rock/country band Sixes & Sevens will be the openers at 6:30 p.m. for the classic rock headliners ARRA at 9 p.m.

On Sunday, Eric Case will be performing Americana, classic country, and soulful rock ‘n’ roll at 10 a.m.

The Brandon Reisdorf Quartet, featuring the folk-rock songwriter from Carpentersville, will take the stage at 11:30 a.m.

Theater on the Fox will perform an excerpt from “Into the Woods” at 12:40 p.m.

The Sofa Kings perform a mix of classic rock, country, alt-90s during the Heritage Fest in West Dundee. | Courtesy of The Sofa Kings

West Dundee’s very own folk rock band, Controlled Burn, will take the stage at 1:30 p.m. The Lennys! will close out the three-day festival with family-friendly rock from the 1950s through today at 3 p.m.

The popular Heritage Fest Car Show features souped up vehicles both new and old — any year, make or model are welcome, including antique, originals, customs, rat rods, street/strip, trucks & motorcycles.

With each day come new vehicles and lots of prizes, including Spectator’s Choice, so come out and vote for your favorite ride!

The Car Show sets up along South Second Street in West Dundee, beginning on the 100 South block by village hall, and extending toward Liberty Street. Car show hours are 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

JP Car Shows, who put on car shows all over the greater Chicago area and Northern Illinois, manage this annual show. The Sunday show includes a celebrity guest judge, Jaime Hjelm from the Netflix series “Tex Mex Motors.”

The Boy Scouts will set up a food tent in front of village hall serving grilled goodies, chips and cold beverages.

Arts & crafts fair

Each year, about 100 artisans display their handmade wares as part of the Heritage Fest Art & Craft Fair from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. In years past, exhibitors have presented apparel, jewelry, soaps, floral decor, stained glass, watercolors, aprons, metal art, primitive and country crafts, ceramics, dog goodies, dips and honeys, fine woodworking, knitting, felted items, bottle art and tie dye, among many other things.

Located along the banks of the Fox River, the fair begins at Second and Washington in West Dundee and continues along the Riverwalk up Lincoln Ave toward the footbridge that connects East Dundee and West Dundee.

Business and NFP Expo

The Heritage Fest Business & Not-For-Profit Expo highlights over 20 local companies and organizations that serve the community, as well as event sponsors who have contributed to making this weekend possible.

Downtown you will find a variety of offerings including games and activities for the kids, spinning wheels, raffle drawings, giveaways, dunk tanks, specialty items, and more. There’s a little something for everyone! Expo hours are 6 to 11 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

Kids’ activities

Returning this year will be the bungee trampoline and a bouncy house. Make your first stop at the Business and NFP Expo for the Dundee Township Park District booth where there will be sand art for Saturday and a new table top carnival games for Sunday.

A face painter will be stationed within the Business and NFP Expo. Kids will also enjoy playing games and winning prizes at many of the booths in this immediate area.

5K run

On Saturday, the Dundee Township Lions Club and the Northern Kane County Chamber of Commerce are hosting the annual 5K run and 1.75 mile walk from downtown West Dundee south to South End Park and returning through East Dundee. Proceeds support local charities and businesses, as well as fulfilling eyeglass needs for children in Community Unit District 300. It will begin at 8 a.m. Register online at raceroster.com through Sept. 13 for $49.54 for the 5K and $22.85 for the 1.75-mile walk.

Pancake breakfast

Each year, the Dundee Lions Club kicks off the final day of Heritage Fest by hosting Community Pancake Breakfast on Sunday morning under the main tent.

The breakfast menu includes pancakes, sausage links, biscuits and gravy, juice and coffee served buffet style. In addition to a hearty breakfast, there’s live entertainment by the Starlites Jazz Combo.

Proceeds from the modest ticket prices (children under 3 eat free) go to the Dundee Lions Club’s Sight and Sound Fund.

It will be 8 to 10:30 a.m. in the tent downtown, north of Main Street (Route 72) between First and Second streets, near the Village Squire.

More details can be found on wdundeeheritagefest.org or facebook.com/WDundeeHeritageFest

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Things to do Sept. 5-11: Platzkonzert Germanfest, Taste of Chicago, Bloomingdale Septemberfest and more

Posted in Entertainment, Fundraisers, The Greatest Generation, Topics Of Interest on September 5, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Ed and Joy Rohn of Hoffman Estates enjoy beer during last year’s Platzkonzert Germanfest in Hoffman Estates. | Joe Lewnard/jlewnard@dailyherald.com, Sept. 7, 2024

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Friday, Sept. 5

MainStreet Libertyville’s First Fridays: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5, on Main Street in Libertyville. Music, refreshments and more. Free. mainstreetlibertyville.org.

Festival of the Vine: Noon to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Sept. 5-6, and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7, on James Street, between Fourth and Fifth streets, Geneva. Geneva restaurants offer specialties under an outdoor tent at the Flavor Fare partnered with wine and live music. Arts and crafts show from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at Third and Campbell streets. Merchant wine events, business booths, kids’ activities and free horse-drawn carriage rides. Hosted by the Geneva Chamber of Commerce. Flavor Fare tickets available online starting at $20. genevachamber.com/events/festival-of-the-vine.

Taste of Chicago returns Friday through Sunday, Sept. 5-7, in Chicago’s Grant Park. | Courtesy of the city of Chicago

Taste of Chicago: Noon to 9 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Sept. 5-7, in Grant Park, Jackson and Columbus, Chicago. Over 50 food vendors and food trucks, Eli’s Cheesecake Birthday Celebration at noon Saturday, Chicago Summer Dance events all three days and more. Music lineup: Friday: Shawnee Dez at 6 p.m. and Lupe Fiasco at 7 p.m.; Saturday: PAMÉ at 6 p.m. and JoJo at 7 p.m.; and Sunday: Blood Club at 6 p.m. and Elvis Crespo at 7 p.m. Food vendors only accept credit cards. Free. chicago.gov

Rock the Block Party: 4-11 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5, and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, at Elmhurst City Centre, 109 W. First St., Elmhurst. Music, food and drinks from local restaurants, Kids Zone from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and more. Music lineup: Friday: Cary Kanno & the Elmhurst Collective at 4 p.m., The PriSSillas at 5:15 p.m., Hello Weekend at 7:15 p.m., and Rod Tuffcurls & the Bench Press at 9:15 p.m.; and Saturday: DJ Dance Party at 11 a.m., Fearless/The Taylor Tribute at 12:15 p.m., Disco Circus at 2:30 p.m., Fletcher Rockwell at 4:30 p.m., ARRA at 6:30 p.m. and Sixteen Candles at 8:45 p.m. Cashless event; credit or debit cards for food and beverage purchases. Free. elmhurstcitycentre.com.

Itasca’s 17th annual Oktoberfest: 5-10:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5, and 3-10:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, at Washington Park, 350 E. Irving Park Road, Itasca. Live music, German food and entertainment. Free admission and parking. itascaparkdistrict.com/602/Oktoberfest

Becky Modglin, left, of Schaumburg and Carol Frascati of Bloomingdale sip beer during last year’s Platzkonzert Germanfest in Hoffman Estates. | Joe Lewnard/jlewnard@dailyherald.com, Sept. 7, 2024

Platzkonzert Germanfest: 5:30-11 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6; and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7, at Village Green, 5450 Prairie Stone Parkway, Hoffman Estates. A family-friendly Oktoberfest-style celebration featuring Hofbrau beer, authentic German food, live music, free kids’ activities and more. Music: Friday: Alpine Blast at 5:30 p.m. and The Polka Floyd Show at 8:30 p.m.; Saturday: Alpine Thunder at noon, Blaskapelle Milwaukee at 4 p.m. and Hello Weekend at 8 p.m.; and Sunday: Die Musikmeisters Band at noon. Free. hoffmanestates.org

Outdoor Movie Nights: 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5, at Deer Park Town Center, 20530 N. Rand Road, Deer Park. Face painting, balloon artist, games and more before “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” at 7 p.m. Free. shopdeerparktowncenter.com.

“Puffs”: 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays, Sept. 5-14, at Elgin Community College’s SecondSpace, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Follow Wayne and his Puff pals as they navigate classes, friendships and hilariously chaotic events. $16-$18. eccartscenter.org

GreenRoom’s First Fridays Improv: 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 5, at Hemmens Theatre in the Round, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. $15-$20. hemmens.org.

Saturday, Sept. 6

Fishing Derby: 8:30-10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, at Surrey Woods Park, 560 Ascot Lane, Streamwood. Annual Kiwanis Club of Streamwood Fishing Derby for kids 3-12. Registration at 8:30 a.m.; fishing at 9 a.m. Limited bait will be available. Kids must be accompanied by an adult. Free. streamwoodparks.org.

Elmhurst’s Touch-a-Truck: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 6, at Berens Park’s east parking lot, 493 N. Oaklawn Ave., Elmhurst. Climb on and explore a variety of vehicles. The first hour will be a quiet hour for kids who love trucks, but not the noise. Food trucks: Brown’s Chicken, Tacos El Amigazo, D’s Treats & Ice Cream, Smallcakes and Windy City Ice Cream. Free. epd.org

Goebbert’s Fall Festival offers food, produce, mazes, pig races and more from Sept. 6 through Oct. 31 at the South Barrington location. | Daily Herald File Photo

Goebbert’s Fall Festival: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily Saturday, Sept. 6, through Oct. 30, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 31 at Goebbert’s Farm & Garden Center, 40 W. Higgins Road, South Barrington. Animals, corn stalk mazes, wagon rides, pig races, fall food, produce and more. Some attractions are only available on weekends. $19 on weekdays and Halloween; $23 in advance online and $26 at the door on weekends and Columbus Day; free for kids 2 and younger. Extra fees for animal rides ($8) and gem mining ($10-$25). goebbertspumpkinfarm.com/fall-festival.

Historic Elgin House Tour: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 6-7, in Elgin. The 43rd annual event features seven homes on Elgin’s west side. Registration site: Church of the Brethren, 783 W. Highland Ave. $20, $15 for ages 65 and older and 18 and younger; $5 more the day-of. historicelginhousetour.com.

Pet Event: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, at Bartlett Gazebo Park, 120 N. Eastern Ave., Bartlett. Seventh annual event for pets and their humans. Features 20 area rescue organizations, more than 20 pet-related vendors and animal demos. Food and treats for purchase. Free. artsinbartlett.org/pet-event.

Art on the Fox: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7, along Main Street in downtown Algonquin. Featuring 75 original artists; live music; Kid Zone for art projects, games, spin art and sand sculpture; live painting classes; and food and drink. Free. artonthefox.com.

Big Truck Show: 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 6, at the James O. Breen Community Park, 3615 Campton Hills Drive, St. Charles. The equipment may include trucks, cars and tractors. In partnership with Pistons for the Parks Foundation car show. All vehicles welcome for the car show: vintage, antique, muscle, low riders, grand tourers, hot rods, roadsters, classics, motorcycles and more. Awards presented for Owner’s Choice, People’s Choice, Kid’s Choice and Grand Champion. 50/50 Raffle. Food truck on-site. Alcohol-free event. Rain or shine. Parking spaces assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. $15 per vehicle. Register: stcparkfoundation.org/events.

DuPage Comic Con Fall Show: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, at DuPage County Fairgrounds Building 1, 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton. More than 150 comic book dealers; toy, collectible and trading card vendors; artists and guests. $10; free for kids younger than 12. mcconventions.com/dupage-comic-con.

Mundelein Arts Festival: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 6-7, in Courtland Commons in downtown Mundelein. Juried art festival showcases the works of local artists in a variety of media, plus local musicians and food. Free. mundeleincommunityconnection.org.

Printers Row Lit Fest: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 6-7, in Chicago’s Printers Row neighborhood on South Dearborn, from Ida B. Wells to Polk Street, Chicago. Hundreds of booksellers and two days of programming. Free. printersrowlitfest.org.

Richardson Adventure Farm in Spring Grove hosts pig races during its annual fall hours. Courtesy | Adam Glickman/Adam Glickman Photography

Richardson Adventure Farm: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturdays, noon to 9 p.m. Sundays and 3-11 p.m. Fridays, starting Saturday, Sept. 6, through September, and 3-9 p.m. Thursdays and 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays through Sundays in October through Oct. 26, at Richardson Farm, 909 English Prairie Road, Spring Grove. Corn maze, pumpkin patch, observation tower, zip line, zorbing, pig races and more. $24, $20 for kids 3-12, and free for kids 2 and younger; $30/$24 Saturdays and Sundays in October. richardsonadventurefarm.com.

Summer’s Last Hurrah!: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, at Panton Mill Park, 9 N. Water St., South Elgin. Rotary Club of Elgin event with live music, kids’ activities, food trucks and beverages. Touch-a-Truck from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Children’s FunFest, Crafts Fair & Makers’ Market, Sponsors and Community Showcase from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Costumed pet parade at 4 p.m. Electro Retro, Dance Party for 4 Generations, from 5-8 p.m. Bring blankets or lawn chairs; no coolers. facebook.com/RotaryClubofElgin.

TheosoFest Mind, Body, Spirit Festival: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, at Theosophical Society, 1926 N. Main St., Wheaton. Mind-body-spirit festival featuring meditative practices from several traditions, Labyrinth Walk, Qigong and Tai Ji, Kids Korner, a drumming circle, exhibits and vendor booths, hands-on demonstrations, vegetarian food and more. Free; lawn parking is $5 (cash or credit card). theosophical.org/theosofest.

Taylor Swift tribute band Fearless kicks off the music Saturday, Sept. 6, at Bloomingdale Septemberfest. | Courtesy of the Bloomingdale Chamber of Commerce

Bloomingdale Septemberfest: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, at Old Town Park, 111 Third St., Bloomingdale. 51st annual event features performances, carnival rides and games, crafts, food and Lions beer tent. Parade starts at 11 a.m. near DuJardin School, 166 S. Euclid, heads west onto Schick Road to Third Street, ending at the festival grounds. Stage entertainment starts at noon featuring performances by local groups and emcee Brett Walkow. Music starts at 4 p.m. with Fearless, followed by LouderNow, then Hair Band Night. Free. villageofbloomingdale.org.

Windy City Market: Noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, at Parkway Bank Park, 5501 Park Place, Rosemont. Artists, makers and vintage curators will be selling handcrafted goods. Free. ParkwayBankPark.com.

Kane County Flea Market: Noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, and 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7, at the Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road, St. Charles. Up to 400 dealers display and sell antiques and collectibles indoors and outside. $6; free for kids 12 and younger. kanecountyfleamarket.com.

The Batmobile made an appearance at last year’s Vintage Car Show in Highland Park. This year’s event takes place Saturday, Sept. 6, at St. John’s North Lot. | Courtesy of Ripple Public Relations

Vintage Car Show: Noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 6, at St. John’s North Lot, 525 Central Ave., Highland Park. Vintage vehicles on St. Johns Avenue, a live radio remote with Free Country 102.3, music from DJ Russ Fritz, kid-friendly activities, and food and beverages. Free for spectators. enjoyhighlandpark.com

Glen Ellyn Backyard BBQ: 2-10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, at the Duane Street public parking lot in downtown Glen Ellyn. 17th annual end-of-summer benefit for Bridge Communities with an amateur barbecue competition showcasing local grill masters and music. glenellynbackyardbbq.org.

Illinois Brews: 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6, at Bowes Creek Country Club, 1250 Bowes Creek Blvd., Elgin. 14th annual fundraiser featuring local craft beer, food and live music. Proceeds provide at-risk Elgin youth with access to recreational programs and services. VIP sneak peek admission at 3 p.m.: $75; regular admission: $55; designated driver: $25. Register: elginparksfoundation.org/ilbrewsatbowes.

Sunday, Sept. 7

Great Midwest Train Show: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7, at the DuPage County Fairgrounds, 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton. Over 110 exhibitors with new and used model trains, accessories, parts and more. $7 online or $8 at the gate; cash only. Free for kids 11 and younger with an adult. trainshow.com.

Tails on the Trails: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7, at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. Dog-friendly event featuring a Pet Expo with local vendors, info about dog adoption and volunteering opportunities at local animal shelters. $12-$18 and $5 for each dog. Tickets: mortonarb.org.

Crystal Lake Farmers Market+ At The Dole: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7, on the front lawn of the Dole Mansion, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake. Live music, kids’ activities, beverages, food trucks and more. farmersmarketatthedole.org.

A Viking ship replica was part of a previous Scandinavian Day Festival at Vasa Park in South Elgin. This year’s event happens Sunday, Sept. 7. | Joe Lewnard/jlewnard@dailyherald.com, 2018

Scandinavian Day Festival: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7, at Vasa Park, 35W217 Route 31, South Elgin. Traditional food of five Nordic cultures, crafts, entertainment, vendor walkway, kids’ activities, free pony rides and face painting. $15; free for kids 12 and younger. Free parking. scandinaviandayil.com.

Battle of the Bags: Noon Sunday, Sept. 7, at Parkway Bank Park, 5501 Park Place, Rosemont. Cornhole tournament. Registration begins at 11 a.m. The competitive division will offer up to $5,000 in cash prizes. The social division features prizes including cash and gift certificates. $80 per team for the competitive division, $40 per team for social. ParkwayBankPark.com.

Festival of Cultures: 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7, at the Fred P. Hall Amphitheater, 256 E. Palatine Road, Palatine. Entertainment, activities and authentic ethnic cuisines. Performances include Jasmin Jahal Dance Company, Brotherhood of Harmony Chorus, Chicago Okinawa Kenjinkai Performing Group and St. Matthew’s Chimu Don Don, Junior Klezmer Orchestra and Chicago Cossacks. Free. palatineparks.org

PuzzleMania: 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7, at the Community Center, 255 Briargate Road, Cary. Teams of up to four adults can compete in this jigsaw puzzle tournament. $30 per team. Register at carypark.com

Railroad Street Block Party: 2-5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7, at Duke’s Alehouse parking lot, 110 N. Main St., Crystal Lake. Local bands, food from local eateries, and family activities and games for kids. Free. facebook.com/dukesalehouse.

Wednesday, Sept. 10

Park On Park Classic Car Show: 4-8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10, at Seymour and Park, 469 N. Seymour Ave., Mundelein. Car show specializing in pre-2001 cars and trucks. Food, music and more. Free. mundeleincommunityconnection.org.

South Elgin Summer Concert Series: 6:30-8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10, at Panton Mill Park, 10 N. Water St., South Elgin. Sunset Strip will perform. Food Truck Wednesdays: 6-8 p.m. Free. southelgin.com/pantonmillpark.

Chicago Water Music: 7-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 10, on the Riverwalk between LaSalle and Clark Street, Chicago. Music on the river with Music of the Baroque, which includes a citywide sing-along of Handel’s “Hallelujah” Chorus at approximately 8 p.m. Free. baroque.org/hallelujahchicago.

Thursday, Sept. 11

A 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony will be held at 7:30 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 11, outside at the Fire Department Memorial Monument in St. Charles. | Courtesy of Shaw Local News Network

St. Charles 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony: 7:30 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 11, outside at the Fire Department Memorial Monument, 2 E. Main St., St. Charles. The ceremony includes posting the fire department memorial flag, placing the memorial wreath and observing a moment of silence. stcharlesil.gov

Elgin 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony: 9 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 11, at Hemmens, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. elginil.gov

Wheaton Sept. 11 Remembrance Ceremony: 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 11, at Memorial Park, 225 N. Karlskoga Ave., Wheaton. Pays tribute to those lost in the terrorist attacks and the ensuing military conflicts, and honors fire and police personnel. wheaton.il.us.

Brown Bag Lunch: Noon to 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 11, at Elgin History Museum, 360 Park St., Elgin. “Chicagoland Neon Signs” with Nick Freeman. $5; free for members. Register at elginhistory.org.

St. Charles Jazz Weekend: Various times Thursday through Sunday, Sept. 11-14, at various St. Charles venues. Live jazz featuring jazz groups and performers, including Haley Reinhart, Frank Catalano, Inversion Jazz Trio, Megan Kranz Quartet, On the AIR, Black and Blue Hearts, Extraordinary Popular Delusions, Cherry Poppin’ Daddies, STC North High School Jazz Band and Kirby Fellis, Andrew Egizio, STC East High School Jazz Band, Toby Morden Trio, Mike Horton Quartet, Beveled, New Vintage Strings, Shout Section Big Band, John Wesley Experience, Matt Ulery Quintet, Samuel Wyatt, Diego Rodriguez Big Band, Andy Schlinder & Kevin Brown, Michael Shebar Trio, Gregory Hyde, Ten Cat Swing, Elaine Dame Trio, Sincerely Sinatra Big Band with Nick Pontarelli, and Mario Dueñas Electric Group. Tickets and covers at some locations. stcjazzweekend.com.

Ongoing

Alex Ross: Heroes & Villains: 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Fridays through Sundays and Wednesdays, and 2-8 p.m. Thursdays, through Feb. 16, 2026, at the Bess Bower Dunn Museum of Lake County, 1899 W. Winchester Road, Libertyville. A larger-than-life presentation of the work of legendary comic book artist Alex Ross featuring heroes and villains from the Marvel and DC universes. Museum admission $3-$10, exhibit tickets $5-$10, free for kids 3 and younger. LCFPD.org/planyourvisit.

Patterned by Nature: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily through Sept. 21 at the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. Celebrates the universal attraction to patterns through playfully planted gardens and nature-inspired artistic installations. Admission: $19.95-$21.95 for adults, $13.95-$15.95 for kids 3-12, and free for kids younger than 3. chicagobotanic.org/patterns.

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Things to do Aug. 22-28: Buffalo Grove Days, Palatine Street Fest, Chicago International Boat Show and more

Posted in Entertainment, Fundraisers, The Greatest Generation, Topics Of Interest on August 22, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Taste of Greektown is Friday, August 22 through Sunday, August 24, 2025, along Halsted Street from Adams to Van Buren.

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Friday, Aug. 22

Anime Magic! 2025: 10 a.m. Friday, Aug. 22, through 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont. Anime convention with vendors, cosplay, celebrity guests, special events and more. $65 for Friday, $70 for Saturday, $60 for Sunday, $75 for three days, and free for kids 7 and younger. animemagic.org.

Chicago International Boat Show: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Aug. 22-23, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24, at Navy Pier Marina & Festival Grounds, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. See luxury yachts, cutting-edge vessels, adventure gear, marine accessories and high-end vehicles, plus interactive displays, on-land and in-water exhibits, food, entertainment, fireworks and more. Tickets start at $37.92, free for kids 12 and younger. officialchibs.com.

Taste of Greektown: 4-10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 22, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 23-24, in the Greektown Neighborhood, along Halsted Street, from Adams to Van Buren, Chicago. Sample food from the neighborhood’s Greek restaurants along with live music and entertainment, Greek dancing and more. Free; suggested donation $7. GreektownChicago.org.

West Dundee French Market: 4-8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 22, at The Pump House, 98 Oregon Ave., West Dundee. A mixed market offering fresh produce, honey, greens, soaps, breads, cheeses, flowers, artwork, wearables and more. wdundee.org.

Sixteen Candles will perform Friday, Aug. 22, at Palatine Street Fest. | Courtesy of Sixteen Candles

Palatine Street Fest: 5 p.m. to midnight Friday, Aug. 22; noon to midnight Saturday, Aug. 23; and 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24, at 298 W. Slade, Palatine. Live music, food and drinks, family activities and more. Music lineup: Friday: Rearview at 7:30 p.m. and Sixteen Candles at 10 p.m.; Saturday: ROK Brigade at 7:45 p.m. and ARRA at 9:45 p.m.; and Sunday: Stache at 1:30 p.m. and Hello Weekend at 4 p.m. Free. palatine.il.us/927/Street-Fest.

Buffalo Grove Park District Summer Concert Series: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 22, at Mike Rylko Community Park Amphitheater, 1000 N. Buffalo Grove Road, Buffalo Grove. The Abby Kay Band will perform. Food, beer, wine and soft drinks for purchase. No outside alcohol allowed. Bring blankets and chairs. Free. bgparks.org/summer-concert-series

Finally Friday: 7:30-9 p.m Friday, Aug. 22, at The Pump House, 98 Oregon Ave., West Dundee. American Cash will perform. Food vendors. Free. wdundee.org.

Saturday, Aug. 23

Calibre Car Show: 8-11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 23, at The Arboretum of South Barrington, 100 W. Higgins Road, South Barrington. Car show with the theme “Bimmers and Beans.” Free. shopthearb.com/events.

Fishing Day: 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 23, at William Aldis Sr. Park, Maiden Lane and First Street, West Dundee. Dundee Township Park District will provide the equipment or bring your own. Each child will get a small tackle box filled with bobbers, lures and more. There will be giveaways, prizes, crafts, games and a lunch of hot dogs, chips and drinks for participants and their families. Each registered family will get a fishing spot (for 30 minutes) and instruction. $5 per family. Register by noon Friday, Aug. 22, at dtpd.org/fishing-day.

Cardboard Boat Regatta: Noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 23, at Willow Stream Pool, 600 Farrington Drive, Buffalo Grove. Design, build and navigate a boat made entirely of cardboard. For kids 6 and older. $25-$32. Registration required. bgparks.org

Blues & Brews on the Fox comes to Pollyanna Brewing & Distilling in St. Charles on Saturday, Aug. 23. | Courtesy of Brigette Burgman Photography

Blues & Brews on the Fox: Noon to 11 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 23, at Pollyanna Brewing & Distilling on Riverside Avenue, between Illinois Avenue and Walnut Avenue in St. Charles. An Americana rock and blues and craft beverage festival with beer, wine and cocktails from Pollyanna and other St. Charles breweries and food from 4D’s BBQ food truck, Duke’s Northwoods and Kimmer’s Ice Cream. Music lineup: Diamond Balazhi at noon, Danny Garwood at 1:30 p.m., Al Spears & the Hurricane Project at 3 p.m., Shukin & the Ramblers at 4:30 p.m., Vino Louden at 6 p.m., blues-rock duo The Cold Stares at 8 p.m. and Matt Keen at 9:30 p.m. $10; includes a souvenir mug. pollyannabrewing.com.

Shakespeare on the Grass: 1 and 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 23, at BarleyHaus by Church Street Brewing Company, 500 Park Blvd., Itasca. Overshadowed Theatrical Productions, in partnership with the village of Itasca, presents Shakespeare’s “As You Like It.” Bring lawn chairs and blankets. Food and refreshments. Free with registration: facebook.com/OvershadowedProductions.

German Beer Garden & Summer Concert: 4-7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 23, at Merkle Cabin at Spring Valley, 1111 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. Play backyard games while listening to live music. Pretzels, bratwurst, local craft beer and soda for purchase. Free. parkfun.com

Japanese Lantern Festival: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 23, at Fabyan Japanese Garden, 1925 S. Batavia Ave., Geneva. Decorate Japanese lanterns with memories of loved ones or hopes for the future and release them on the pond in the Fabyan Japanese Garden. At sunset, gather with the group to “light” your lanterns and release them onto the pond. Limited tickets available: ppfv.org.

Zoo Uncorked: Wines & Vines: 6-9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 23, at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. Sip fine wines and cocktails during the grand opening of the zoo’s Tropical Forests habitat. 21 and older. Tickets start at $70. brookfieldzoo.org/winesandvines.

Summer Breeze Concert Series: 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 23, at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg. The Rumours will perform. Free. parkfun.com.

Navy Pier Summer Fireworks: 10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 23, and 9 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 27, at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Fireworks display set to music. Free. navypier.org/summer-fireworks.

Sunday, Aug. 24

Bike for the Kids: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24, at Panton Mill Park, 10 N. Water St., South Elgin. 10th annual charity bike ride to support Easterseals DuPage & Fox Valley. Choose your distance to arrive at the festival or join the guided ride with a 7-mile route that starts and ends at Panton Mill Park. Pedal & Play inclusive quarter-mile event at SEBA Park. Food, Kid Zone and games from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wheaton Dad Band performs from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. An adapted bike presentation, Cycling Salute and Pedal Parade, at 12:15 p.m. $50. Register: easterseals.com/dfv

Chicago’s Historic Route 66 Classic Car Show: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24, at Historic Route 66, 3800 W. Ogden Ave., Chicago. Car show celebrating the history of America’s most cherished highway and the cars that have driven it. Block party, music festival, car show from noon to 5 p.m. and more. Free for spectators, $25 car registration fee. carsonroute66.com.

Crystal Lake Farmers Market+ At The Dole: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24, on the front lawn of the Dole Mansion, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake. Live music, kids’ activities, beverages, food trucks and more. farmersmarketatthedole.org.

See antique, classic and modern cars at the annual Concours d’Elegance Car Show in Geneva Sunday, Aug. 24. | Daily Herald file photo

Geneva Concours d’Elegance: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24, in downtown Geneva. Classic car enthusiasts from across the country showcase an array of antique, classic and modern automobiles. Benefits LivingWell Cancer Resource Center. Free. genevaconcours.net.

Scott Smith’s All Animal Expo: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24, at the Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road, St. Charles. Vendors from the Midwest. $3-$8. allanimalexpo.com.

A Walk In The Park Fine Art Fair: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24, at North School Park, 410 N. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights. 80 arts and crafts vendors. Music by guitarist Jack Wilson, art demonstrations, food and treats. Free admission and parking. Presented by the Arlington Heights Art Guild. Free. arlingtonheightsartguild.com

Heirloom Garden Show: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24, at Garfield Farm Museum, 3N016 Garfield Road, Campton Hills. Tour the museum’s heirloom gardens and interact with Midwestern growers showcasing their favorite heirloom flowers, herbs, fruits and vegetables. $8; $3 for kids 12 and younger. garfieldfarm.org.

St. Charles Plein Air show and sale: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24, at Baker Community Center, 101 S. Second St., St. Charles. Art show and sale, with awards at noon. Free. stcharlesartscouncil.org.

Bread & Butter Sunday: 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24, at the Durant House Museum at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve, 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles. Learn about making bread and butter the old-fashioned way. Help churn cream into butter and see old butter molds and stamps on display. $3, $1 for ages 18 and younger. ppfv.org.

Railroad Street Block Party: 2-5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24, at Duke’s Alehouse parking lot, 110 N. Main St., Crystal Lake. Local bands, food from local eateries, family activities and games for kids. Free. facebook.com/dukesalehouse.

Monday, Aug. 25

Cruise Nights at Willow Creek: 4:30-7:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 25, at Willow Creek Church, parking lot F, 67 E. Algonquin Road, South Barrington. Hosted by the CARS Ministry of Willow Creek Church, this event is open to vintage, classic, custom, muscle, and antique cars and trucks. Food and music. Free. willowcreek.org.

Wednesday, Aug. 27

Bites and Bits Event Series: 5-9 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 27, at Community Church of Rolling Meadows, 2720 Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows. Food truck fare and live music. Free. cityrm.org.

South Elgin Summer Concert Series: 6:30-8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 27, at Panton Mill Park, 10 N. Water St., South Elgin. Cecy Santana will perform. Food Truck Wednesdays: 6-8 p.m. Free. southelgin.com/pantonmillpark.

Thursday, Aug. 28

Barrington Thursday Night Out: 4-8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 28, at Cook and Station streets, Barrington. Barrington Farmers Market, classic cars, live music, family activities and more. Free. barrington-il.gov/events/thursday-night-out

The Rotary Duck Race will take place Sunday, Aug. 31, as part of the Buffalo Grove Days festival in Mike Rylko Community Park. | Courtesy of Rotary Club of Buffalo Grove

Buffalo Grove Days: 5-10 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 28; 5-11 p.m. Friday, Aug. 29; 10:45 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 30; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 31; and 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 1, at Mike Rylko Community Park, 1000 Buffalo Grove Road, Buffalo Grove. Carnival, live entertainment, bingo, blood drive from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, craft fair and business expo from 5-10 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, parade at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, kids’ entertainment, Buddy Baseball, Rotary Duck Race at 5:15 p.m. Sunday and more. Music lineup: Friday: Hi Infidelity at 6 p.m. and 90s Pop Nation at 8:30 p.m.; Saturday: 7th heaven at 3:30 p.m., LP Vinyl Escape at 6 p.m. and Dancing Queen at 8:30 p.m.; Sunday: Fearless at 3:30 p.m., Beyond the Blond at 6 p.m. and Mike & Joe at 8:30 p.m.; and Monday: Blackberry Jam at noon. Free. bgdays.com

Geneva Classic Car Show: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 28, at the Kane County Courthouse, off Fourth and James streets, Geneva. Music, food and vote for your favorite make and model. To display your vehicle: Show up after 4:30 p.m. and find a spot in the lot behind the courthouse. Free. genevachamber.com/events/classic-car-show.

Climb inside historic vehicles including the Huey Helicopter Thursday, Aug. 28, at the First Division Museum at Cantigny in Wheaton. | Daily Herald file photo

Steel & Spirits, A Historic Military Vehicle Experience: 6 p.m. Thursday Aug. 28, at First Division Museum, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. Climb inside several of the historic vehicles, including the iconic Huey Helicopter. Museum staff will share the stories behind the vehicles and their impact on the 1st Infantry Division. Includes a cocktail or soft drink. For 21 or older; must sign a waiver upon arrival. $45. Register: cantigny.org

Thirsty Thursdays: 6-9 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 28, at the Depot, 319 N. River St., East Dundee. Bon Journeyed will perform a Bon Jovi and Journey experience. Local fare and craft beverages. Bring a lawn chair. Free. eastdundee.net.

Algonquin Summer Concert Series: 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 28, at Towne Park, 100 Jefferson St., Algonquin. Reckless will perform. Food trucks (Uncle Cams, El Chido) at 6 p.m. Bring a lawn chair. Algonquin.org/summerconcerts.

Rockin’ in the Park Summer Concert Series: 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Aug. 28-29, at Parkway Bank Park, 5501 Park Place, Rosemont. Rod Tuffcurls & The Bench Press will perform Thursday, culminating with a musical fireworks display. Bee Gees Gold & The Wayouts will perform Friday. Free. rosemont.com/thepark/calendar

Shakespeare in the Park: 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Aug. 28-30, at Memorial Park Bandshell, 225 Karlskoga Ave., Wheaton. Wheaton College Arena Theater presents Shakespeare’s “A Winter’s Tale.” Puppet show at 6:45 p.m. Concessions available. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Free. wheatonparkdistrict.com/events/shakespeare or wheaton.edu.

Sounds of Summer Concert Series: 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 28, at Harmony Park, 7 S. Vail Ave., Arlington Heights. Blooze Brothers will perform. Free. vah.com/explore/sounds_of_summer_concerts.php.

Chicago Jazz Festival: Various times Thursday through Sunday, Aug. 28-31, at Chicago Cultural Center, Millennium Park and locations in Chicago. Showcases Chicago’s local talent alongside national and international jazz artists. Free. For a schedule, see chicago.gov.

Ongoing

Bristol Renaissance Faire: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Sept. 1, off I-94 at the Illinois/Wisconsin border, 12550 120th Ave., Kenosha. Travel back in time for 30 acres of jousting, arts and crafts, food, music, dance, rides, games, entertainers and more. $40, $15 for kids 5-12, and free for kids 4 and younger. renfair.com/bristol.

Patterned by Nature: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily through Sept. 21 at the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. Celebrates the universal attraction to patterns through playfully planted gardens and nature-inspired artistic installations. Admission: $19.95-$21.95 for adults, $13.95-$15.95 for kids 3-12, and free for kids younger than 3. chicagobotanic.org/patterns.

Janus Theatre Company’s “School For Lies”: 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays, through Aug. 31, at Elgin Art Showcase, 164 Division St., Elgin. Additional performance at 8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 28. David Ive’s comedy transforms Molière’s 17th-century classic “The Misanthrope” into a groovy satire written in witty couplets with physical comedy. $25. janusplays.com

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Let It Be Us wins $750K DCFS contract for foster care adoptions

Posted in Fundraisers, Organizations on August 16, 2025| Leave a Comment »

By Let It Be Us

Let It Be Us, Illinois’ leading nonprofit dedicated to foster care and adoption, has been awarded a $750,000 contract by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services to enhance adoption placement rates across the state.

Illinois ranks among the lowest in the nation for foster care adoptions, and this initiative will help connect waiting children with permanent, loving families.

As part of this initiative, Let It Be Us in Barrington will launch Illinois’ “Heart Gallery,” an interactive database showcasing the stories and interests of children in need of adoption.

Additional efforts include an improved online adoption exchange, expanded recruitment events, and enhanced support for families and caseworkers.

For more information or to support Let It Be Us, visit letitbeus.org or call (847) 764-5428.

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Chicago River Swim returns to the city after almost a century

Posted in Fundraisers, Topics Of Interest on August 8, 2025| Leave a Comment »

The Chicago River will have more than kayaks and boats on the water on Sept. 21 when the Chicago River Swim takes place. | Manuel Martinez/WBEZ

As many as 500 swimmers are expected to dive into the Chicago River next month as part of a fundraiser for ALS research and youth education programs.

By Selena Kuznikov | Chicago Sun*Times

Swimmers will dive into the Chicago River next month for the first open water swim in 98 years.

The Chicago River Swim, slated for Sept. 21, is expected to include 500 swimmers, raise funds for ALS research and youth swimming education programs, and highlight efforts to improve the environment in the city.

Swimmers will be able to opt for a 1-mile or 2-mile route down the main stem of the river, starting at the Dearborn Street Bridge and ending at Clark Street Bridge. The swim starts at 7:30 a.m. and ends at 10 a.m. Spectators will be able to watch the swim along the Riverwalk between Lake Street and Clark Street.

A Long Swim, a Barrington-based organization, is hosting the event, which will benefit ALS research at Northwestern University and swim safety education for children in Chicago. Doug McConnell, founder of the organization, said being able to celebrate the city with the swim is “stuff you dream about.”

“This is a victory lap for the city of Chicago,” McConnell said Thursday.

The fundraising event was going to be held in 2024, but organizers announced the event before they secured the permits for it. When the permits were denied, the event was moved to Lake Michigan.

The organization’s permit for the event this year was approved by the city, but it had not yet been issued as of late Thursday, it said. The city did not immediately respond to a request for comment about the event.

The group is also partnering with the USA Swimming Foundation, and U.S. Olympic swimmer Natalie Hinds will be the featured athlete of the event.

More here.

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Things to do Aug. 8-14: Hampshire Coon Creek Country Days, Garlic Fest, Taste of Glen Ellyn and more

Posted in Entertainment, Fundraisers on August 8, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Modern Day Romeos will perform Saturday, Aug. 9, during Hampshire Coon Creek Country Days, which runs Thursday through Sunday, Aug. 7-10, in downtown Hampshire.
| Courtesy of Modern Day Romeos

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Friday, Aug. 8

Hampshire Coon Creek Country Days: 6 p.m. to midnight Friday, Aug. 8; 1 p.m. to midnight Saturday, Aug. 9; and 1-5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 10, on State Street in downtown Hampshire. Nightly entertainment, carnival, beer garden, food vendors, craft show, corn roast and more. Kids’ tent and petting zoo from 1-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Ice cream-eating contest at 5 p.m. Saturday. Music lineup: Thursday: Hi Infidelity at 7:30 p.m.; Friday: Back Country Roads at 6:30 p.m. and Semple Band at 9 p.m.; Saturday: Whiskey Kitten at 3:30 p.m., Hillbilly Rockstarz at 7 p.m., and Modern Day Romeos after the fireworks; and Sunday: Smokin Gunz at 1:30 p.m. Fireworks at 9:15 p.m. Saturday and parade at noon Sunday. Free. hcccd.com

Windy City Comedy Fest: Shows starting at 6-11 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8; 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9; and 11:30 a.m. and 7 and 9 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 10, at various locations in Chicago. Features shows, clinics with industry professionals, and networking events for comedians and fans. Headliners include Luke Null on Thursday, Dwayne Kennedy on Friday, Kevin Kellam on Saturday and a Roast Battle on Sunday. Ticket prices vary. windycitycomedyfest.com

Stamp and Scrapbook Expo: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9, at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center, 1551 N. Thoreau Drive, Schaumburg. Stamp and scrapbook vendors, exhibits, demonstrations and more. $12. scrapbookexpo.com

Fun Day In The Park: 10-11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 8, at Fabbrini Park, 1704 Glenlake Road, Hoffman Estates. Kids’ entertainment featuring Mr. Scott’s Amazing Musical Backpack. Free. heparks.org

Downtown Elgin Market: 3-7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8, on South Riverside Drive, Elgin. Farmers, makers, live music, Sip N’ Shop and kids’ activities. Dog-friendly. LINK Matching program. downtownelgin.com/market.

Smoke & Irons Music Fest: 4-11 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8, and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9, at Apple Orchard Community Park, 620 W. Stearns Road, Bartlett. Live music, food trucks, beer tasting, craft show, bags tournament and more. Music lineup: Friday: PJ & The Bear at 4 p.m., Isaac Rudd & The Revolvers at 5:30 p.m., Parker Barrow at 7 p.m. and Greyhounds at 9 p.m.; Saturday: Abby Spencer at 11:30 a.m., South City Revival at 1 p.m., Matt Keen at 2:30 p.m., Nathan Graham at 4 p.m., Jessey Adams at 5, 6:30 and 8:30 p.m., Nether Hour at 5:30 p.m., Rob Leines at 7 p.m. and Red Shahan at 9 p.m. Proceeds benefit Ignite the Courage, a nonprofit charity created and run by Bartlett firefighters. Admission for 21 and older is $10; free for ages 20 and younger. ignitethecourage.org/musicfest

West Dundee French Market: 4-8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8, at The Pump House, 98 Oregon Ave., West Dundee. A mixed market offering fresh produce, honey, greens, soaps, breads, cheeses, flowers, artwork, wearables and more. wdundee.org.

Hawthorn Woods Concerts in the Park: 6:30-8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8, at Hawthorn Woods Community Park, 5 Park View Lane, Hawthorn Woods. Dixon Bandits will perform. Free. vhw.org.

South Elgin Movie Night in the Park: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8, at Panton Mill Park, 10 N. Water St., South Elgin. Concessions starting at 6:30 p.m. Movie Bingo before the showing of “Dog Man.” Free. southelgin.com/pantonmillpark

Wheeling’s Friday Night Concert Series: 7-9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8, at Heritage Park Performance Pavilion, 201 Community Blvd., Wheeling. Journey Recaptured will perform. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Coolers are allowed; no outside alcohol is permitted. Soft drinks, water, beer and seltzer for purchase. Free. wheelingparkdistrict.com

Elgin Summer Movie in the Park: Dusk Friday, Aug. 8, at Marie Grolich Park, 37 Souster Ave., Elgin. Family activities and a martial arts demonstration before a screening of “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem” at dusk. Concessions from local nonprofits. Free. elginil.gov

Saturday, Aug. 9

Chicagoland Tour de Cure: 7:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 9, at Pottawatomie Park, 8 North Ave., St. Charles. American Diabetes Association benefit for people of all cycling abilities, featuring routes with bike mechanics, volunteer route marshals, and rest stops with food and water. Register at diabetes.org.

Aquascape Pond & Garden Tour: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 9-10. Explore gardens with water features during this self-guided tour in the St. Charles, Geneva and Batavia area. Tickets are $30 per vehicle, and can be used Saturday, Sunday or both days. aquascapeconstruction.com.

Lambs Farm Summertime Craft Fest: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 9-10, at Camp Big Timber, 37W955 Big Timber Road, Elgin. Craft show with 150 booths, food trucks, music and more. Admission $7 at the gate; $5 early-bird price through Aug. 8; free for kids 16 and younger with paid adult. Benefits Lambs Farm and Three Fires Council, Scouting America. craftproductionsinc.com

Scott Smith’s All Animal Expo: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9, at the Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road, St. Charles. Bimonthly show that hosts vendors from the Midwest. $3-$8. allanimalexpo.com.

“I Saw It at Lords Park Zoo — Animals From the Zoo’s Early Years”: 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9, at Lords Park Zoo, 325 Hiawatha Drive, Elgin. Lords Park Zoo opened in 1895 and was once home to bears, snakes and even a lion. Kids 3-8 can visit the modern Tefft Farm Zoo and make crafts to help remember past residents of the zoo. Free. elginil.gov

Elgin’s End of Summer Bash: 5-10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9, at Festival Park, 132 S. Grove Ave., Elgin. Live music, food and drink vendors, kids’ activities and more. elginil.gov.

Summer Breeze Concert Series: 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9, at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg. Hair will perform. Free. parkfun.com.

Navy Pier Summer Fireworks: 10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9, and 9 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 13, at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Fireworks display set to music. Free. navypier.org/summer-fireworks.

Sunday, Aug. 10

Crystal Lake Farmers Market+ At The Dole: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 10, on the front lawn of the Dole Mansion, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake. Live music, kids activities, beverages, food trucks and more. farmersmarketatthedole.org.

Midwest Classic Supershow: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 10, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont. See the hottest lowriders and custom cars from across the country, with vendors, live DJs and live entertainment. $34.28. rosemont.com/desconvention

Hampshire Coon Creek Country Days Parade: Noon Sunday, Aug. 10, in Hampshire. Starts at Warner Street, heads west on Washington Avenue to State Street, south on State to Panama Avenue, then back to Warner Street. hcccd.com.

Monarchs and Music: 12:30-4:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 10, at Crystal Lake Main Beach Pavilion, 300 Lake Shore Drive, Crystal Lake. Learn about monarchs, with butterfly and pollinator plants information. Community Band Showcase with Knock on Wood Clarinet Ensemble at 1 p.m., Crystal Lake Community Band Saxophone Quartet at 2 p.m., CLCB Flute Quartet at 2:45 p.m. and CLCB “Big Band” Jazz Band at 3:30 p.m. facebook.com/FriendsHackmatackNWR.

The dance troupe Indiawaale performs at a previous Wheeling Park District International Festival. This year’s festival takes place Sunday, Aug. 10, in Wheeling’s Heritage Park. | Daily Herald File Photo

International Festival: 1-7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 10, at the Heritage Park Performance Pavilion, 201 Community Blvd., Wheeling. Live performances, activities, local organizations and ethnic foods. Free. wheelingparkdistrict.com

Railroad Street Block Party: 2-5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 10, at Duke’s Alehouse parking lot, 110 N. Main St., Crystal Lake. Local bands, food, and activities and games for kids. Free. facebook.com/dukesalehouse.

Tuesday, Aug. 12

Final Days of Summer Break: 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 12, at North School Park, 307 N. Evergreen Ave., Arlington Heights. Music from Good Clean Fun. Free. ahpd.org

Wednesday, Aug. 13

Enjoy garlic in many forms at Celebrate Highwood’s Garlic Fest Wednesday, Aug. 13, at Everts Park. | Courtesy of Celebrate Highwood

Garlic Fest: 4:30-9:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 13, at Everts Park, 111 North Ave., Highwood. Family-friendly activities and sweet and savory garlic creations, including garlic-infused chocolate, cookies, ice cream, cupcakes, cocktails, pastas, sandwiches, sauces, spreads and more. Music at 6 p.m. from Bill Pantle & The Tribute to Old Blue Eyes. Free. celebratehighwood.org/garlic-fest.

Wine Down Wednesdays: 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 13, at Depot, 319 N. River St., East Dundee. Live music, drinks and food. Mr. Myers will perform. Bring lawn chairs. Free. eastdundee.net

South Elgin Summer Concert Series: 6:30-8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 13, at Panton Mill Park, 10 N. Water St., South Elgin. Tim Gleason & the Whiskey Disco Band will perform. Free. southelgin.com/pantonmillpark.

Wickstrom Lincoln Concert Series: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 13, at the Arboretum of South Barrington, 100 W. Higgins Road, South Barrington. Too Hype Crew will perform. Food for purchase. Free. shopthearb.com.

Thursday, Aug. 14

Splash Pad Storytime: 9:30-10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 14, at Kaper Park Pavilion, Georgetown Drive at Cimarron Drive, Cary. Free. carypark.com.

Courtesy Village of Barrington Facebook

Barrington Thursday Night Out: 4-8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 14, at Cook and Station streets, Barrington. Barrington Farmers Market, classic cars, live music, family activities and more. Free. barrington-il.gov/events/thursday-night-out

Cruisin’ Kildeer Car Show: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 14, at 20771 N. Rand Road, Kildeer. Free. lzacc.com

Geneva Classic Car Show: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 14, at the Kane County Courthouse, off Fourth and James streets, Geneva. Music, food and vote for your favorite make and model. To display your vehicle: Show up after 4:30 p.m. and find a spot in the lot behind the courthouse. Free. genevachamber.com/events/classic-car-show.

Buffalo Grove Park District Summer Concert Series: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 14, at Mike Rylko Community Park Amphitheater, 1000 N. Buffalo Grove Road, Buffalo Grove. LP Vinyl will perform. Food, beer, wine and soft drinks for purchase. No outside alcohol allowed. Bring blankets and chairs. Free. bgparks.org/summer-concert-series

Thursday Nights Live: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 14, at Wheeling Town Center, 351 W. Dundee Road, Wheeling. Wild Oats will perform. Food and beverages from local restaurants. Free. thewheelingtowncenter.com/events.

Algonquin Summer Concert Series: 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 14, at Towne Park, 100 Jefferson St., Algonquin. Hillbilly Rockstarz will perform. Food trucks at 6 p.m. Bring a lawn chair. Algonquin.org/summerconcerts.

Elgin’s Concerts in the Park: 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 14, at Lords Park, 100 Oakwood Blvd., Elgin. Boombox All 80s Band will perform. Food truck. Bring blankets and lawn chairs. In case of bad weather, the event will be canceled. Free. elginil.gov or facebook.com/cityofelgin.

Sounds of Summer Concert Series: 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 14, at Harmony Park, 7 S. Vail Ave., Arlington Heights. Motown Nation will perform. Free. vah.com/explore/sounds_of_summer_concerts.php.

Summer Concerts at Phil’s Beach: 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 14, at Phil’s Beach, 328 N. Main St., Wauconda. Bluewater Creek Band will perform. Free. waucondaparks.com.

Summer Sounds on the Green Concert Series: 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 14, at Village Green, 5510 Prairie Stone Parkway, Hoffman Estates. iPOP will perform. Food and beverages for sale. Free. hoffmanestatesarts.com/summer-concert-series

Ongoing

Courtesy Bristol Renaissance Faire

Bristol Renaissance Faire: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Sept. 1, off I-94 at the Illinois/Wisconsin border, 12550 120th Ave., Kenosha. Travel back in time for 30 acres of jousting, arts and crafts, food, music, dance, rides, games, entertainers and more. $40, $15 for kids 5-12, and free for kids 4 and younger. renfair.com/bristol.

Patterned by Nature: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily through Sept. 21 at the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. Celebrates the universal attraction to patterns through playfully planted gardens and nature-inspired artistic installations. Admission: $19.95-$21.95 for adults, $13.95-$15.95 for kids 3-12, and free for kids younger than 3. chicagobotanic.org/patterns.

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Things to do Aug. 1-7: Lollapalooza, National Night Out events, North American Reptile Breeders Conference and more

Posted in Entertainment, Fundraisers on July 31, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Olivia Rodrigo will perform Friday at Lollapalooza, which runs through Sunday, July 31 to Aug. 3, in Chicago’s Grant Park. | AP

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Friday, Aug. 1

McHenry County Fair:  Friday and Saturday, Aug. 1-2; and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 3, at the McHenry County Fairgrounds, 11900 Country Club Road, Woodstock. Carnival, food, music, entertainment and more. Demo Derby at 6 p.m. Sunday. $10 for ages 13-64; $5 for kids 6-12 and 65 and older and military; $30 for season passes. mchenrycountyfair.com/tickets

National Sports Collectors Convention:  Friday and Saturday, Aug. 1 and Aug. 2; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 3, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont. Sports card and memorabilia trade show with over 600 vendors, autograph signing and authentication, card grading and more. $30, $149.99 for a five-day pass, free for kids 12 and younger. nsccshow.com.

West Dundee French Market: 4-8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 1, at The Pump House, 98 Oregon Ave., West Dundee. A mixed market offering fresh produce and honey, greens, soaps, breads, cheeses, flowers, artwork, wearables and more. wdundee.org.

Lollapalooza: Noon to 10 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, July 31 to Aug. 3, in Grant Park, Chicago. Headliners include Tyler the Creator and Luke Combs on Thursday; Olivia Rodrigo and Korn on Friday; Rufus Du Sol and Twice on Saturday; and Sabrina Carpenter and A$AP Rocky on Sunday. Limited tickets available, including verified resale, which start at various price points. lollapalooza.com.

Tots in the Park: 10:30 a.m. Friday, Aug. 1, at the Alcott Center, 530 Bernard Drive, Buffalo Grove. Kids’ entertainment featuring Jeanie B on the lawn. Bring a blanket or chairs. Free. bgparks.org/tots-in-the-park.

The Taste of Roselle runs Friday through Sunday, Aug. 1-3, on Main Street in Roselle. | Daily Herald file photo

Taste of Roselle: 6-11 p.m. Friday, Aug. 1; noon to 11 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 2; and noon to 8 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 3, on Main Street, Roselle. 43rd annual block party featuring food, craft beer and wine, entertainment on three stages, an arts and crafts show, bingo and a kids’ carnival. Main stage lineup: Friday: F.L.O.A.T. (rock covers) at 6:15 p.m., 10-piece Devon Delux at 7:45 p.m., and Mock Star (’80s arena rock) at 9:30 p.m.; Saturday: Cavalcade of Stars at noon, Sounds of Good Life (rock covers) at 1:45 p.m., Schaumburg School of Rock at 3:15 p.m., Old Stumpy (bluegrass) at 4:45 p.m., Voodoo Dolls (covers) at 6:15 p.m., Bottled Blues (soulful blues) at 8 p.m., and Dixon Bandits (Southern rock) at 9:30 p.m.; and Sunday: Christian Tabernacle Church (gospel choir) at noon, Live Pete (rock) at 1:30 p.m., Shukin & The Ramblers (Rusty Roots Rock Review) at 3:15 p.m., Tryptic (grooves and jams) at 4:45 p.m., and Good Gumbo (Hippie Americana) at 6:30 p.m. Free. facebook.com/TasteofRoselle

Buffalo Grove Park District Summer Concert Series: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, Tuesday and Thursday, Aug. 1, 5 and 7, at Mike Rylko Community Park Amphitheater, 1000 N. Buffalo Grove Road, Buffalo Grove. Lineup: Anchors Away on Friday, Pino Farina Band on Tuesday, Bucket Number 6 on Friday. Food, beer, wine and soft drinks for purchase. No outside alcohol allowed. Bring blankets and chairs. Free. bgparks.org/summer-concert-series

First Friday Summer Dances: 6:30-9:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 1, at Schaumburg’s Towne Square, 200 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg. Dance lessons by Schaumburg Arthur Murray Dance Studio from 6:30-7:30 p.m.; live music and dancing from 7:30-9:30 p.m. Free. parkfun.com

Hawthorn Woods Concerts in the Park: 6:30-8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 1, at Hawthorn Woods Community Park, 5 Park View Lane, Hawthorn Woods. Tank & the Beez will perform. Free. vhw.org.

Sounds of Summer Concert Series — Main Stage Concerts: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 1, at the Fred P. Hall Amphitheater, 256 E. Palatine Road, Palatine. Anthem will perform. Bring blankets or lawn chairs. Free. palatineparks.org/sounds-of-summer

Elgin Summer Movie in the Park: Dusk Friday, Aug. 1, at Lords Park, 100 Oakwood Blvd., Elgin. Join a sea-themed scavenger hunt with Moana and Maui before “Moana 2” starts at dusk. Concessions available. Free. elginil.gov.

Saturday, Aug. 2

Destination Asia Festival: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 2-3, at the Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. Experience Asia’s diverse cultures through music, dance and food. Plus, a bonsai exhibition and vendors. Included with arboretum admission. mortonarb.org

Community Church of Rolling Meadows Corn Fest and Craft Fair: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 2, at the Community Church of Rolling Meadows, 2720 Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows. Fresh local sweet corn, grilled sandwiches, watermelon and drinks, plus a craft fair, face painting, balloon artist and more. A meal is $15, $13 for seniors, $5 for kids 4-10, and free for kids 3 and younger. ccrm.church.

Improvisational cellist Drew Wiegman will perform at the 44th Annual Festival of the Arts Sunday, Aug. 3, in Libertyville’s Cook Park. | Courtesy of Publicis Media

Festival of the Arts: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 2, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 3, at Cook Park, 413 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville. Outdoor juried art and music festival. Performers include improvisational cellist Drew Wiegman on Aug. 3. Free. adlercenter.org/festival-of-the-arts.

North American Reptile Breeders Conference: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 2, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 3, at the Schaumburg Convention Center & Hotel, 1551 N. Thoreau Drive, Schaumburg. Reptile breeders, vendors, auction and more. $15, $10 for kids 6-12, free for kids 5 and younger, two-day VIP passes for $50. narbc.com.

Dessert Walk: Noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 2, starting in Cook Park, 413 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville. Stroll around downtown Libertyville to sample desserts and shop. mainstreetlibertyville.org.

Garden Clubs of Illinois Inc. District IX Flower Show: Noon to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 2, and 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 3, in the Burnstein Hall at the Chicago Botanic Garden’s Regenstein Center, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. Presented by the Garden Clubs of Illinois, this show features judged flower arrangements and exhibits, as well as a cut horticulture competition. Included with general admission. districtix-gci.org/events.

Uncaged in the Zoo: 12:30-1:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 2, at Lords Park Zoo, off Grand Boulevard, Elgin. Get up close and personal with live animals. Deb the Frog Lady will be on hand. Free. elginil.gov

Morton Arboretum walking play “Pride and Prejudice”: 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 2-3, starting at Thornhill Shelter at Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. A walk leader guides the audience to each scene, which takes place at several natural backdrop locations along a one- to two-mile hiking route. Bring water and portable chairs or blankets. $27 for 18 and older, $17 for kids 2-17, $10 less for members, free for kids younger than 2. mortonarb.org/explore/activities/events/walking-plays

Navy Pier Summer Fireworks: 10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 2, and 9 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 6, at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Fireworks display set to popular and special occasion soundtracks. Free. navypier.org/summer-fireworks.

Sunday, Aug. 3

Antique Tool Show & Sale: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 3, at Garfield Farm Museum, 2N930 Garfield Road, Campton Hills. Over 30 collectors will display and sell their tools. Joint show by Early American Industries Association and the Mid-West Tools Collectors Association. $8, $3 for kids 12 and younger. garfieldfarm.org.

Crystal Lake Farmers Market+ At The Dole: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 3, on the front lawn of the Dole Mansion, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake. Live music, kids’ activities, beverages, food trucks and more. farmersmarketatthedole.org.

Mariachi concert: 2-3 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 3, at Lords Park Zoo, 325 Hiawatha Drive, Elgin. All-ages concert featuring the Felipe Mendoza Band. elginil.gov

Railroad Street Block Party: 2-5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 3, at Duke’s Alehouse parking lot, 110 N. Main St., Crystal Lake. Local bands, food, family activities and games for kids. Free. facebook.com/dukesalehouse.

Wheeling’s Sounds of Summer Concert Series: 5-6:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 3, at the Heritage Park Performance Pavilion, 201 Community Blvd., Wheeling. Semple will perform. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Coolers are allowed; no outside alcohol permitted. Soft drinks, water, beer and seltzer for purchase. Free. wheelingparkdistrict.com

Monday, Aug. 4

Lords Park Zoo Family Concerts: Noon to 1 p.m. Monday, Aug. 4, at Lords Park Zoo, 325 Hiawatha Drive, Elgin. Free family concerts. Bring chairs, blankets and lunch for a concert under the shade of the Tefft Farm trees. chambermusiconthefox.org.

Tuesday, Aug. 5

Adventures in the Zoo: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5, at Lords Park Zoo, 210 Grand Blvd., Elgin. The weekly drop-in program features “Owls on the Prowl.” Free. elginil.gov.

Sounds of Summer Family Picnic Series: Noon to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5, at the Fred P. Hall Amphitheater, 256 E. Palatine Road, Palatine. Kids’ entertainment with Little Miss Ann. Free. palatineparks.org/sounds-of-summer

Hoffman Estates National Night Out: 5-8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5, at the Hoffman Estates Police Department, 411 W. Higgins Road, Hoffman Estates. Meet the police, plus food and drinks, live music, station tours, touch-a-truck, police cadet program information, emergency management programs and more. Free. hoffmanestates.org

Wauconda National Night Out: 5-8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5, on Main Street, between Bangs Street and Route 176, Wauconda. The village of Wauconda Police Department and other community organizations host a family night out featuring emergency and utility vehicles, games, food, raffles, prizes, music and more. Free. wauconda-il.gov.

Algonquin National Night Out: 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5, at Old Town, Main Street and Plaza, Algonquin. Live K-9 demo, activities with the Algonquin police and fire departments, giveaways, DJ and dancing. algonquin.org/recreation.

Deer Park National Night Out: 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5, at Vehe Farm Park, 23570 Cuba Road, Deer Park. First responders, vehicles, equipment and demonstrations, DJ, games, food trucks, Kona Ice, Glowby the Bubble Guy and more. Free. villageofdeerpark.com

Concerts in the Plaza: 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5, at Independence Grove, 16400 W. Buckley Road, Libertyville. Mississippi Heat will perform. $10 vehicle entrance fee starting at 4:30 p.m. lcfpd.org/things-to-do/concerts.

Crystal Lake Concerts in the Park: 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 5, at Main Beach, 300 Lakeshore Drive, Crystal Lake. Radio Gaga will perform. Free. For parking locations, see crystallakeparks.org/special-events.

Wednesday, Aug. 6

Algonquin Lunchapalooza Concert Series: 11 a.m. to noon Wednesday, Aug. 6, at Towne Park, 100 Jefferson St., Algonquin. Jeanie B. will perform. Free. algonquin.org

Palatine National Night Out: 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 6, at Falcon Park Recreation Center, 2195 N. Hicks Road, Palatine. Entertainment, food trucks, live demonstrations, police cars, fire trucks and more. Free. palatineparks.org.

Arbor Evenings: 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 6, at Morton Arboretum’s Frost Hill, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. Music, lawn games, food and drinks. Semple will perform. $15 for ages 13 and older, $5 for kids 4-12. Advance tickets required: mortonarb.org

Schaumburg’s Shakespeare in the Park: 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 6, at Meineke Park, 220 E. Weathersfield Way, Schaumburg. Goodly Creatures Theatre’s annual production features the comedy “Much Ado About Nothing.” Bring chairs, blankets and snacks. Rain date: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7. Free. goodlycreatures.com.

Wickstrom Lincoln Concert Series: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 6, at the Arboretum of South Barrington, 100 W. Higgins Road, South Barrington. In The Stix Nashville Night. Food for purchase. Free. shopthearb.com.

Thursday, Aug. 7

“Stories Under the Hickory Tree”: 11 a.m. to noon Thursday, Aug. 7, at Lords Park Zoo, 210 Grand Blvd., Elgin. Gail Borden Public Library staff present animated musical and participatory animal-themed programs for kids 3-6. Bring blankets or chairs. Free. elginil.gov.

Geneva Classic Car Show: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7, at the Kane County Courthouse, off Fourth and James streets, Geneva. Music, food and vote for your favorite make and model. To display your vehicle: Show up after 4:30 p.m. and find a spot in the lot behind the courthouse. Free. genevachamber.com/events/classic-car-show.

Barrington National Night Out: 5:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7, in downtown Barrington. Burgers, wood workshop for kids, bike helmet giveaways, games, prizes and more. Free. barrington-il.gov

Kids enjoy a carnival ride during a previous Hampshire Coon Creek Country Days, which runs Thursday through Sunday, Aug. 7-10, on State Street in Hampshire. | Paul Valade/pvalade@dailyherald.com, 2019

Hampshire Coon Creek Country Days: 6-10 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7; 6 p.m. to midnight Friday, Aug. 8; 1 p.m. to midnight Saturday, Aug. 9; and 1-5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 10, on State Street in downtown Hampshire. Nightly entertainment, carnival, beer garden, food vendors, craft show, corn roast and more. Kids’ tent and petting zoo from 1-5 p.m. Aug. 9-10. Ice cream-eating contest at 5 p.m. Aug. 9. Music lineup: Aug. 7: Hi Infidelity at 7:30 p.m.; Aug. 8: Back Country Roads at 6:30 p.m. and Semple Band at 9 p.m.; Aug. 9: Whiskey Kitten at 3:30 p.m., Hillbilly Rockstarz at 7 p.m., and Modern Day Romeos after the fireworks; and Aug. 10: Smokin Gunz at 1:30 p.m. Fireworks at 9:15 p.m. Saturday and parade at noon Sunday. Free. hcccd.com

Sounds of Summer — Thursday Night Acoustic Series: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7, at Towne Square, 150 W. Palatine Road, Palatine. Prairie Station Acoustic Duo will perform. Free. palatineparks.org/sounds-of-summer.

Algonquin Summer Concert Series: 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7, at Towne Park, 100 Jefferson St., Algonquin. The Boy Band Night will perform. Bring a lawn chair. Algonquin.org/summerconcerts.

Elgin’s Concerts in the Park: 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7, at Wing Park, 1010 Wing St., and Lords Park, 100 Oakwood Blvd., Elgin. Rosie & The Rivets will perform. Food truck. Bring blankets and lawn chairs. In case of bad weather, the event will be canceled. Free. elginil.gov or facebook.com/cityofelgin.

Rockin’ in the Park Summer Concert Series: 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7, at Parkway Bank Park, 5501 Park Place, Rosemont. Double Vision will perform culminating with a musical fireworks display. Free. rosemont.com/thepark/calendar.

Sounds of Summer Concert Series: 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7, at Harmony Park, 7 S. Vail Ave., Arlington Heights. Valius will perform. Free. vah.com/explore/sounds_of_summer_concerts.php.

Summer Sounds on the Green Concert Series: 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7, at Village Green, 5510 Prairie Stone Parkway, Hoffman Estates. The String Quartet from the Elgin Symphony Orchestra will perform. Food and beverages for sale. Free. hoffmanestatesarts.com/summer-concert-series or elginsymphony.org.

Windy City Comedy Fest: Shows starting at 7 and 10:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7; 6-11 p.m. Friday, Aug. 8; 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 9; and 11:30 a.m. and 7 and 9 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 10, at various locations in Chicago. Features shows, clinics with industry professionals, and networking events for comedians and fans. Headliners include Luke Null on Thursday, Dwayne Kennedy on Friday, Kevin Kellam on Saturday and a Roast Battle on Sunday. Ticket prices vary. windycitycomedyfest.com

Ongoing

Bristol Renaissance Faire: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Sept. 1, off I-94 at the Illinois/Wisconsin border, 12550 120th Ave., Kenosha. Travel back in time for 30 acres of jousting, arts and crafts, food, music, dance, rides, games, entertainers and more. $40, $15 for kids 5-12, and free for kids 4 and younger. renfair.com/bristol.

Patterned by Nature: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily through Sept. 21 at the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. Celebrates the universal attraction to patterns through playfully planted gardens and nature-inspired artistic installations. Admission: $19.95-$21.95 for adults, $13.95-$15.95 for kids 3-12, and free for kids younger than 3. chicagobotanic.org/patterns.

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