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Archive for the ‘Entertainment’ Category

Crabtree Nature Center “Movie Under the Stars” Friday

Posted in Crabtree Nature Center, Education, Entertainment on September 11, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Calling all movie lovers!

Join us Friday as we present the documentary Full Circle, celebrating Helen Hays’s Great Gull Island Project —a 50-year effort to save the threatened Roseate and Common Terns. This film features up-close footage of nesting birds and highlights the international conservation efforts and volunteers inspired by Hays.

We will have a quick demo about bird conservation at Crabtree Nature Center.

Feel free to bring lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and a beverage of choice for the showing. We will have popcorn and light refreshments.

Movie Under the Stars happens this Friday, September 12th, 7-9 PM. Call to register: 847-381-6592

Source

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Ahead of Monday Night Football: When are Bears moving to Arlington Heights?

Posted in Commodius Maximus, Cook, County, Deception, Entertainment, Ethics, Illinois Policy Institute, Look For The Union Label, Politics, Pritzker’s Rules of Order, Property Taxes, Springfield, Taxes, Topics Of Interest, Unions on September 7, 2025| Leave a Comment »

As the Chicago Bears get ready for Monday Night Football, fans have heard talk about Arlington Heights since 2021. Here are the three biggest questions surrounding the move.

By Dylan Sharkey | Illinois Policy Institute

As the Chicago Bears gear up for Monday Night Football Sept. 8, fans wonder: when will the team leave Soldier Field and move to Arlington Heights?

Here are three big questions at play.

Are they moving to Arlington Heights?

Bears President and CEO Kevin Warren said Arlington Heights is the team’s sole focus. He told reporters Arlington Heights is “the only location in Cook County” able to support a fixed-roof stadium. But the team will only move forward if state lawmakers allow the team and surrounding businesses to freeze their property taxes.

Warren has said if the state passes a “mega project bill,” the new stadium would create 56,000 construction jobs and 9,100 permanent jobs. Gov. J.B. Pritzker has ruled out the state cutting a check to help pay for the new stadium, but he’s considering the property tax freeze.

When would they move?

If the Illinois General Assembly passes a bill, construction could start this year but likely wouldn’t end until 2028 at the earliest. Warren previously worked for the Minnesota Vikings when their stadium construction took 30 months.

State lawmakers return to Springfield in October, but only for six total days of legislative session. That leaves little time for the Bears to get enough consensus from lawmakers to pass their bill. It might also be tough to get state lawmakers representing Chicago on board with a bill, assuming they want the team to stay in the city.

More here.

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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.

Find more here.

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Crabtree Nature Center in Barrington hosting annual Art in Nature Festival

Posted in Crabtree Nature Center, Daily Herald, Education, Entertainment, FPDCC on September 4, 2025| Leave a Comment »

The 15th annual Art in Nature Festival returns to Crabtree Nature Center from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6. Visitors can enjoy plein air painting, live music, art activities and food. | Courtesy of the Forest Preserves of Cook County

By Steve Zalusky | Daily Herald

Outdoor painting, live music, art activities and food can be enjoyed at the 15th annual Art in Nature Festival at Crabtree Nature Center from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 6.

Crabtree Nature Center, at 3 Stover Road in Barrington, is one of six nature centers operated by the Forest Preserves of Cook County and offers a variety of art classes, nature programs and other activities throughout the year.

Attendees can view and purchase plein air paintings, which feature artists painting the landscapes of the nature preserve.

“We will be offering a number of art workshops, including buckthorn dyeing, watercolor painting and paper cutting, to allow people to create artwork that showcase the beauty of the forest preserves,” said Jeff Rapp, director of Crabtree Nature Center.

In addition, there will be honey sales, animal encounters and a presentation by travel blogger Melissa Schwartz in the center’s classroom.

More here.

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Richardson Adventure Farm travels ‘Back to 1985’ with this fall’s corn maze

Posted in Entertainment on September 3, 2025| Leave a Comment »

This fall’s Richardson “World’s Largest” Corn Maze takes hikers through trails depicting Marty McFly, Doc Brown and the time-traveling DeLorean featured in “Back to the Future,” which debuted 40 years ago. | Courtesy of George Richardson, Richardson Farm

Submitted by Wolf Wordsmithing

If you know what 88 mph in a flux capacitor-equipped DeLorean brings, you are going to love this year’s Richardson “World’s Largest” Corn Maze.

It’s a celebration of the 40th anniversary of “Back to the Future,” of course, with depictions of a guitar-wielding and a hoverboard riding Marty McFly, the legendary time-traveling DeLorean complete with fire-topped tire tracks, a lightning-struck clock tower, and a Doc Brown portrait all mapped out in 28 acres of corn.

The chance to hike all or merely a segment of the Richardson “World’s Largest” Corn Maze starts Saturday, Sept. 6, continuing through Oct. 26, at the Richardson Adventure Farm in Spring Grove. | Courtesy of Tom Funk

“We always have a tremendous time selecting our maze design,” said George Richardson, who operates the farm along with his wife, Wendy; brother, Robert; Robert’s wife, Carol; George’s son, Ryan; and Ryan’s wife, Kristen. “When we realized that this summer marked the 40th anniversary of this iconic film, well … who didn’t love it?”

Those who want to check out the maze — and all of the other family fun to be had at the farm — should set their car’s circuits for Sept. 6 through Oct. 26, 2025, at Richardson Adventure Farm, 909 English Prairie Road, Spring Grove.

Gathered for a 2024 photo in front of the sunflower fields at Richardson Adventure Farm, clockwise, from left: Phoebe Valsa, Scarlett Richardson, Alaina Valsa, Ashley Richardson, Libby Valsa and Cora Richardson. | Courtesy of Tom Funk

While the MazePlay creation and its 10.4 miles of trail are a chief draw, plenty of other reasons exist to travel to the adventure farm. There are the sunflower fields (typically open throughout September; included with admission), the carousel, train rides, Zorbing, pedal karts, giant jumping pillows, food trucks, a craft-beer serving Barrel House featuring 9th Hour Brewing Co. drafts, a wine bar, 50-foot-tall observation tower overlooking the maze, giant slides, a zip line, gift shop, fresh, cinnamon doughnuts, pumpkins and fall decor, and the always entertaining pig races that occur every couple of hours.

“We do have so much fun,” Wendy Richardson said of emceeing the pig races with her husband, George.

A crowd enjoys a pig race at the Richardson Adventure Farm in Spring Grove. The farm opens for fall fun Saturday, Sept. 6, this year. | Courtesy of Tom Funk

“We use miniature, potbellied pigs,” George Richardson added. “They’re great to work with. Like regular pigs, they’re smart animals, easy to train, and they have a nice disposition. And by the end of October, they aren’t pushing 100 pounds while stepping on our toes.”

Taking a train ride is among the many fall family-fun activities available at Richardson Adventure Farm, home of the Richardson “World’s Largest” Corn Maze. | Courtesy of Tom Funk

New amenities for visitors to enjoy this year include the addition of gelato to the Dairy Depot, with flavors like Sea Salt Caramello, Eli’s Strawberry Cheesecake, Frutti di Bosco and Cookies ’n’ Cream, plus a new soft-serve machine that will add chocolate to the formerly vanilla-only option.

A koi pond with a unique feature — the front-end of a rustic, 1967 Ford F250 with water spilling from its grill — has been built just east of the train station. And there is also a new low ropes course at the farm.

“This year we’re expanding our offerings for climbing adventures and family fun to include a 12-station activity pod,” Ryan Richardson said of the course.

George and Wendy Richardson added that an extra draw this year will be an adjacent haunted trail with a midway operated by Jason Wright and his son, Tristan, with their own parking area and corn trails near the Richardson Tulip Fields. While the entry off English Prairie Road will be the same, admission to the American Nightmare Scream Park will be separate.

“It’s the only haunted corn trail in the Midwest,” George Richardson said. “We think it’s going to be an exceptional haunt.”

The Richardson Adventure Farm will be open Fridays through Sundays starting Saturday, Sept. 6, with Thursdays added in October. September hours are 3-11 p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturdays and noon to 9 p.m. Sundays. October hours are 3-9 p.m. Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays and the same as September for Saturdays and Sundays.

Maze ’til Midnight will be Saturday, Oct. 4. The adventure farm also will be open on Columbus Day, Monday, Oct. 13, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

The Richardson Adventure Farm provides a wealth of opportunities for capturing memorable photos. | Courtesy of Tom Funk

For other details, tickets and pricing, visit richardsonfarm.com.

Richardson Farm also is home to the Richardson Tulip Festival in the spring, and a cut-your-own Christmas Tree Farm in the winter. Professional, compensated photographers should view the Photography & Filming page at richardsonfarm.com before visiting.

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Goebbert’s Fall Fest begins Saturday

Posted in Entertainment, South Barrington on September 1, 2025| Leave a Comment »

“Fall officially begins in South Barrington on September 6th when Goebbert’s will be open for their Fall Festival!

They have everything from pig races and wagon rides to haunted houses and corn mazes. Be sure to visit the General Store, Farmer’s Market, and bakery (don’t forget the apple cider donuts!).

Goebbert’s recommends buying your wristbands online to save time and money before your visit. To learn more about what they have to offer and to purchase your tickets click Goebbert’s Fall Festival.”

Source: Village of South Barrington

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Jazz vocalist Nnenna Freelon to open Barrington’s White House’s fall season

Posted in Entertainment on August 29, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Barrington’s White House proudly announces its fall 2025 season opener with internationally acclaimed jazz vocalist Nnenna Freelon performing her newest project, Beneath the Skin, on Sunday, Sept. 7. | Courtesy of village of Barrington

By Village of Barrington

Barrington’s White House’s fall 2025 season opener will be internationally acclaimed jazz vocalist Nnenna Freelon, who will perform her newest project, Beneath the Skin, at 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 7.

A seven-time GRAMMY® Award nominee and one of the most compelling jazz vocalists of her generation, Freelon has captivated audiences worldwide with her powerful voice, dynamic stage presence and fearless artistry. She has performed with legendary artists including Ray Charles, Al Jarreau, Ellis Marsalis, and George Benson, and has graced the stages of Carnegie Hall, the Hollywood Bowl, and the Montreux Jazz Festival.

In Beneath the Skin, Freelon departs from the American Songbook standards that have defined much of her career to present her first album of original compositions — an intimate, deeply personal collection that explores themes of love, loss and the power of the feminine gaze.

The album has earned praise for its honesty and emotional depth. In late October, Nnenna’s intimate and personal recording will be joined by her equally profound memoir, “Beneath the Skin of Sorrow: Improvisations on Loss.”

This performance offers a rare opportunity for Barrington audiences to experience a jazz icon in the intimate setting of the historic Barrington’s White House, where every seat is close to the music. Guests will also have the unique chance to meet Nnenna Freelon in person at a reception following the concert.

“Hosting an artist of Nnenna’s caliber in Barrington is an exciting opportunity for all music lovers,” said Brian Coyle, director of cultural affairs for the village of Barrington. “Her artistry is world-class, and the intimacy of Barrington’s White House will make this an unforgettable afternoon for every guest. You don’t want to miss an opportunity to see a living legend who recently sold out a six-night run at Dizzy’s Jazz Club at Lincoln Center in New York City.”

General admission to the event is $45; free for students 18 and younger. Barrington’s White House is at 145 W. Main St., Barrington. For tickets and details, visit seasonopener25.eventbrite.com.

For information on Barrington’s White House, visit barringtonswhitehouse.com or call (224) 512-4284.

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Things to do Aug. 29 to Sept. 4: Buffalo Grove Days, Long Grove Irish Days and more

Posted in Entertainment, Topics Of Interest on August 28, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Riders take a spin on the carnival rides during a previous Buffalo Grove Days. This year’s fest runs through Monday, Sept. 1, at Mike Rylko Community Park in Buffalo Grove. | Brian Hill/bhill@dailyherald.com, 2022

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Starts before Friday

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, 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.; Monday: Blackberry Jam at noon. Free. bgdays.com.

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

Chicago Jazz Festival: Various times Thursday through Sunday, Aug. 28-31, at the Chicago Cultural Center, Millennium Park and various locations in Chicago. Hear all forms of jazz from local, national and international artists. Headliners at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion include Friday: Patricia Barber at 6:10 p.m. and Monty Alexander at 7:45 p.m.; Saturday: Kermit Ruffins & the Barbeque Swingers at 7:45 p.m.; Sunday: Eliadas Ochoa at 7:45 p.m. Free. For a schedule, visit chicago.gov.

Friday, Aug. 29

Downtown Elgin Market: 3-7 p.m. Friday, Aug. 29, on South Riverside Drive, Elgin. Farmers, makers, live music, Sip N’ Shop, kids’ activities. Dog-friendly. LINK Matching program. downtownelgin.com/market.

Battle of the Bands: 5-8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 29, and noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 30, at the Shell at Reed-Keppler Park, 832 Arbor Ave., West Chicago. Local bands compete for the title of 2025 WeGo Rockstar. Finalists will compete, with the winner announced Saturday night. Music from Serendipity on Saturday. Food trucks, drinks and bounce houses. we-goparks.org.

Classic rock cover band ARRA will headline the Lake in the Hills Summer Sunset Festival Sunday, Aug. 31. | Courtesy of ARRA

Lake in the Hills Summer Sunset Festival: 5-10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 29, and 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 30-31, at Sunset Park, 5200 Miller Road, Lake in the Hills. Carnival, food and beer tents, live music, craft fair, car show, wine tasting and kids’ activities. Classic/custom car show from 5-9 p.m. Friday at Sunset Skate Park. Parade steps off at 11 a.m. Saturday at Sunset Skate Park, heading along Haligus to Miller Road, right on Miller to Sunset Park. On Saturday, community picnic from noon to 2:30 p.m. On Sunday, Sunset Market featuring local artisans, crafters and businesses from noon to 7 p.m. and fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Music lineup: Friday: MDR at 8 p.m.; Saturday: Dueling Pianos at 1:30 p.m., No Turn on Red at 4 p.m., The Jolly Ringwalds at 6:30 p.m. and Disco Circus at 9 p.m.; and Sunday: PriSSillas at 3 p.m., Kickin’ It With Carol line dancing lessons at 4:30 p.m., In the Stix at 5:30 p.m. and ARRA at 8 p.m. Free. summersunsetfest.com.

Meet On Main Street Business & Craft Fair: 5-10 p.m. Friday, Aug. 29, and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 30-31, at Mike Rylko Community Park, 951 McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove. Local businesses and crafters will be selling a variety of items. Free. bgdays.com/activities.

Janus Theatre Company’s “School For Lies”: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Aug. 29-30, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 31, at Elgin Art Showcase, 164 Division St., Elgin. David Ive’s comedy transforms Molière’s 17th-century classic “The Misanthrope” into a satire written in witty couplets with physical comedy. $25. janusplays.com

Saturday, Aug. 30

The Bristol Renaissance Faire ends its season this weekend. | Courtesy of the Bristol Renaissance Faire

Bristol Renaissance Faire: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 30, through Monday, 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.

Septemberfest: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 30-31, and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday, Sept. 1, at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg. Entertainment, Taste of Schaumburg from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, carnival, arts and crafts show and more. Music lineup: Saturday: Semple at 6:30 p.m. and Danny Seraphine & CTA at 8:30 p.m.; Sunday: Hairbangers Ball at 6:30 p.m. and Cinderella’s Tom Keifer at 8:30 p.m.; Monday: Just Like Pink! at 1:30 p.m., Foo Fighters Experience at 5:30 p.m. and Sister Hazel at 7:30 p.m. Free. villageofschaumburg.com.

Long Grove Irish Days features Irish music and more Saturday through Monday, Aug. 30 to Sept. 1. | Courtesy of Long Grove Irish Days

Long Grove Irish Days: 10:45 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 30; 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 31; and 10:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Sept. 1, in downtown Long Grove. The celebration of Irish culture, music, food and drinks includes dog contests, Men’s Best Legs in a Kilt contest, live music, food vendors, Irish dance groups and the Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band. Free. longgrove.org/festival/irish-days

Lake in the Hills Summer Sunset Parade: 11 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 30, in Lake in the Hills. Steps off from Sunset Skate Park and heads along Haligus to Miller Road, right on Miller to Sunset Park. summersunsetfest.com/parade.

Buffalo Grove Days Parade: 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 30, in Buffalo Grove. Heads south on Buffalo Grove Road (from Thompson), west on Deerfield Parkway, ending at Mike Rylko Community Park, 1000 N. Buffalo Grove Road. Free. bgdays.com

Taste of Serbia Food & Music Festival: Noon to 10:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 30-31, at St. Basil Serbian Orthodox Church, 27450 N. Bradley, Lake Forest. Traditional Serbian food and entertainment. $5 per car. tasteofserbia.org.

Love On the Lawn Festival: 2-10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 30, at Festival Park, 132 S. Grove Ave., Elgin. Food, vendors, kids’ corner, and DJs featuring Kid Capri, Sundance, DJ Slugo, Rod Boogie and DJ CZR. $33.39-$52.24. Tickets: lotlfest.com.

Wauconda Street Dance: 5-11 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 30, in Wauconda. Annual dance party with bands (Bluewater Creek, Big Boss & The Toes, Wichita Jacks, and Glory Days) on two stages, line-dancing lessons by Kickin’ It With Carol, food, drinks and more. The Lounge Puppets headline at 9 p.m. The bags tournament starts at 6 p.m. Free; wristbands for adult beverages: $5. waucondachamber.org.

Navy Pier Summer Fireworks: 10 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 30, at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Fireworks display set to popular music. Free. navypier.org/summer-fireworks.

Sunday, Aug. 31

Fifth Third Bike The Drive: 6:30-10:30 a.m. ride; 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. festival Sunday, Aug. 31, at Butler Field in Grant Park, 235 S. Columbus Drive, Chicago. 24th annual event hosted by Active Transportation Alliance. The 30-mile course along DuSable Lake Shore Drive is family-friendly and for all abilities. Ride as little or as much of the course as you’d like, then enjoy a post-ride festival in Grant Park, which includes live music, beer and kids’ activities. Tickets: $74, $18 for kids 17 and younger. Register at bikethedrive.org.

Bennet Taft Wiffle Ball Classic: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 31, at the baseball fields, 650 N. Rohlwing Road, Itasca. Third annual charity tournament for all ages benefiting the BT8 Foundation, with proceeds going toward awarding a high school scholarship, helping the food pantry and other community needs. $100 per team of four. Register at bt8foundation.org/register-for-the-bennet-classic.

Elmhurst French Market: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 31, in a city parking lot at Park and Prospect avenues, Elmhurst. European-style market. bensidounusa.com/elmhurst.

Paws in the Park Dog Walk: 9 a.m. to noon Sunday, Aug. 31, at Melas Park, 1500 W. Central Road, Mount Prospect. All dogs are welcome; dogs must be leashed and current on vaccinations (proof of rabies vaccination required). $40; $10 for kids 12 and younger. Registration required. thebuddyfoundation.org.

Bloomingdale Maker’s Market: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 31, in the parking lot of Old Town, Third and Franklin streets, Bloomingdale. Rain or shine. Features local vendors (home decor, jewelry, blankets, clothes and more), entertainment, food trucks and more. facebook.com/thebloomingdalemakersmarket.

Crystal Lake Farmers Market+ At The Dole: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 31, 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.

The Illinois Mycological Association Mushroom Show & Sale returns Sunday, Aug. 31, to the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe. | Courtesy of the Chicago Botanic Garden

Illinois Mycological Association Display & Sale: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 31, at Chicago Botanic Garden’s Linnaeus Room and Design Studio, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. See 50 to 100 varieties of mushrooms foraged from area forests in the days prior to the show. Members will answer questions regarding mushrooms and fungi. Mushroom-related books, T-shirts and other items for sale. $16.95-$26.95. chicagobotanic.org.

Dog Show: 10:45 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 31, at Mike Rylko Community Park, 1000 N. Buffalo Grove Road, Buffalo Grove. Amateur dogs can enter events such as best costume, biggest or smallest dog, best groomed, best trick, best treat catcher, best tunnel run and waggiest tail. Prizes and raffles are included. Free; no advance registration required. bgparks.org/dog-show-2.

Fox Valley Folk Music & Storytelling Festival: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday and Monday, Aug. 31-Sept. 1, at Wheeler Park, 822 N. First St. (Route 31), Geneva. 49th annual festival with six stages of live music and storytelling with 20 featured performers. Hands-on workshops, kids’ zone, arts and crafts vendors and food vendors. Featured performers: John Gorka with Joe Gorka, Katie Dahl, Joe Jencks, Katie Macleod, Joel Mabus, Deidre McCalla, Dennis Stroughmatt et l’espirit Creole, Curtis & Loretta, Tim Grimm with Sergio Webb, Jennifer Munro, Anne Harris with Ernie Hendrickson, Sparky and Rhonda Rucker, Annie Capps Trio, Bobcat Opossum and more. Sunday: Old-fashioned barn dance from 6-7:30 p.m. and “Spine-tingling Tales” at 7:30 p.m. Two-day pass: $60 or $30 for students and seniors; day pass $35 or $20; $80-$140 for a family; free for kids younger than 12. fox-valley-folklore-society.square.site.

‘Cue for a Cause: Noon to 7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 31, at York and Vallette streets, Elmhurst. 11th annual fundraising barbecue contest for Elmhurst Walk-in Assistance Network. Food and drink, live music, raffles and entertainment. elmhurstwalkin.org/cue.

Railroad Street Block Party: 2-5 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 31, at Duke’s Alehouse parking lot, 110 N. Main St., Crystal Lake. Local bands, food from local restaurants, family activities and games for kids. Free. facebook.com/dukesalehouse.

Fiesta Ravinia: 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 31, at Ravinia Festival, 200 Ravinia Park Road, Highland Park. Celebrating Mexican culture with a day of music, activities, food trucks, pop-up performances and more. Music from La Original Banda El Limón, Como La Flor: The Ultimate Selena Tribute and more. $31-$95. visitchicagonorthshore.com.

Monday, Sept. 1

Schaumburg Septemberfest Labor Day Parade: 10 a.m. Monday, Sept. 1, lining up on Wise Road, between Roselle and Plum Grove roads, Schaumburg. Parade travels northbound on Summit Drive toward the festival grounds. Free. villageofschaumburg.com

Wednesday, Sept. 3

South Elgin Summer Concert Series: 6:30-8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 3, at Panton Mill Park, 10 N. Water St., South Elgin. The Eric Case Band performs Americana, classic country and soulful rock. Free. southelgin.com/pantonmillpark.

Thursday, Sept. 4

South Elgin Lunch Time Concert Series: Noon to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 4, at Panton Mill Park, 10 N. Water St., South Elgin. Comstock Lode Band will perform. Free. southelgin.com/pantonmillpark.

“Recognizing the Latina Heritage of Illinois”: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 4, at Gail Borden Public Library’s Elgin Room, 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin. Lilia Fernandez, history professor at University of Illinois Chicago and author of “Brown in the Windy City: Mexicans and Puerto Ricans in Postwar Chicago,” explores the century-long history of Latinas in Northeastern Illinois. Register: gailborden.info.

Thursday Nights Live: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 4, at Wheeling Town Center, 351 W. Dundee Road, Wheeling. Louie in the Middle will perform. Food and beverages from local restaurants. Free. thewheelingtowncenter.com/events.

Ongoing

McHenry Stade’s Farm Market: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Oct. 31 at 3709 Miller Road, McHenry. Free. stadesfarmandmarket.com.

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.

Find more here.

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Long Grove Irish Days returns with music, pop-up pub, dog contest

Posted in Entertainment, Topics Of Interest on August 27, 2025| Leave a Comment »

The Shannon Rovers will play at the Long Grove Irish Days festival. | Submitted by Jody Grimaldi

Submitted by Jody Grimaldi

The luck of the Irish will land in Long Grove on Labor Day weekend as Irish Days returns for three days of culture, community, and craic.

Taking place Saturday, Aug. 30, through Monday, Sept. 1, this annual festival turns Fountain Square into a lively celebration of all things Irish — with music, dancing, food, contests and family fun. Whether you come for the bagpipes or the beer, Irish Days offers a blend of small-town Americana and Celtic spirit.

Festival hours are 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 30; 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 31; and 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Sept. 1, in and around Fountain Square, 145 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove. Parking and admission are free.

What’s new in 2025

This year’s festival features extended hours on both Saturday and Sunday, new evening entertainment, and a pop-up pub: the Lions Club “Fibber MaGee” Pub, serving up spirited pours and local personality.

The live music lineup is stacked with fan favorites, including returning headliner Without U2 (Saturday night) and the high-energy Dirty Wellies (Sunday night). Add to that traditional folk bands, pipe-and-drum performances by the Shannon Rovers, and multiple Irish dance schools taking the stage each day and the weekend is packed with nonstop entertainment. The full event schedule is posted on the website.

Returning favorites

Guys pose during the Best Men’s Legs in a Kilt contest at Long Grove Irish Days. | Courtesy of Long Grove Irish Days

  • Best Men’s Legs in a Kilt Contest

Back and bolder than ever, this hilariously charming competition invites brave lads to strut their stuff for bragging rights — and some serious laughs.

The Irish dog competition is a traditional part of Long Grove Irish Days. | Courtesy of Long Grove Irish Days

  • Best Irish Dog contest

Pups parade in themed attire and compete for titles like King, Queen, Prince, and Princess of Irish Dogs. Registration is free on-site.

  • Kids’ craft tent

A dedicated space for little ones to get creative while families enjoy the sights and sounds of the fest.

  • Mass with Irish music

Start Sunday morning with a beautiful outdoor Catholic Mass accompanied by the voice of Gavin Coyle.

  • Live Irish music and dance

Featuring The Tooles, The Dooley Brothers & Jimmy Moore, The Larkin & Moran Brothers, Kathleen Keane & Jim Conway, and more throughout the weekend.

Spend local, sip in style

Shoppers who spend $150 or more (pretax) at any of Long Grove’s local shops or restaurants over the weekend can redeem receipts for a free Irish Days pint glass at the Visitors Center or event booth, available while supplies last.

For details, visit longgrove.org/festivals/irish-days.

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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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