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Archive for the ‘Entertainment’ Category

Barrington Area Family Fest featuring day of outdoor fun Saturday

Posted in Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce, Education, Entertainment on August 14, 2025| Leave a Comment »

By Pioneer Press

The Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting the Barrington Area Family Fest from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, August 16 at Citizens Park, 511 N. Lake Zurich Road in Barrington.

According to a news release, the event features a day of outdoor fun, giveaways, music, and more. Parking is free, and attendees are encouraged to walk or bike to this community event

Offering family-friendly activities, games, giveaways, and information on valuable resources, the event will feature more than 50 booths from local businesses and community organizations, according to the release. Attendees can also enjoy food and drinks available for purchase from local vendors. There is some construction near the park entrance, but the event site remains fully accessible.

The event is for all ages and will include SOUL Harbour Ranch Mini Horses from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., a Pet Parade and Contest at 2 p.m. with prizes for the Best Dressed Pets, SOUL Harbour Therapy Dogs from 2 to 3 p.m., and a live Magic Show at 2:30 p.m., according to the release. Other highlights include live DJ music, youth performances, a kids fitness demo, face painting, and visits from live Superhero characters.

More here.

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A powerful memoir of love, secrets, and survival.

Posted in Entertainment, Press Release, Topics Of Interest on August 9, 2025| Leave a Comment »

When Lee Metoyer is hired to be the new housekeeper, she has no idea that she’s about to become the anchor to a family in an abusive patriarch’s home, setting a mystery in motion that will take decades to uncover. At the age of seventy-two, Lee falls ill and on her deathbed asks Sandy to write her story. The only problem is, Sandy doesn’t know the story.

Embarking on a quest to honor Lee’s final wishes, Sandy takes an emotional and thrilling journey, unveiling shocking truths not only about her beloved housekeeper but also her own upbringing. As she digs further, she learns that Lee came to her family’s sprawling estate in Barrington, IL, harboring a secret past. For decades, she’s been in hiding. But Lee is not the only one with secrets; Sandy’s quest forces her to grapple with her own family history as well, and to finally confront the effects of the psychological abuse she suffered as a child.

Both a chilling and exciting personal tale of love and survival,  The Housekeeper’s Secret  is a memoir that reads like a psychological thriller, grounded in compassion and courage. It speaks to the strength of women, the weight of buried truths, and the power of telling your story—no matter how long it’s been silenced.

“Schnakenburg delivers a frequently engrossing and often surprising glimpse into a troubled life… it’s an absorbing mystery with a satisfying conclusion.”—Kirkus Reviews

To learn more, visit https://www.bookpublicityservices.com/blog/the-housekeepers-secret-sandra-schnakenburg

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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.

Find more here.

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First look: 2025 Illinois State Fair butter cow(s) unveiled

Posted in Commodius Maximus, Elections, Entertainment, Fat Bastard, Mad Cows, Springfield, Topics Of Interest on August 7, 2025| 1 Comment »

Gov. JB Pritzker and wife MK unveil the 2025 Illinois State Fair butter cow on Wednesday, Aug. 6, in Springfield. | Capitol News Illinois photo by Jerry Nowicki

By Jerry Nowicki | Capitol News Illinois 

State officials ushered in the start of the Illinois State Fair on Wednesday with the annual unveiling of the butter cow.

The sculpture is made of 800 pounds of unsalted butter spread across a wire frame. This year’s iteration depicts a cow accompanied by an “adventurer seeking hidden treasure across the fairgrounds.” The theme for this year’s fair is “Adventure Awaits.”

“Indeed, this year will be chock full of adventures and treasures for the entire family. Music and entertainment, food and drinks, rides and contests, exhibits and displays, concerts. There will be an opportunity for everyone to experience, to learn, to grow, and we’re again proud to be able to present that not just to Illinoisans who come here to Springfield to enjoy themselves, but also to people who come from around the country, to see what Illinois has to offer,” Gov. JB Pritzker said.

The butter is “recycled,” meaning it is reused each year, rather than discarded. It was sculpted once again by Iowan Sarah Pratt.

The cow – the 104th in state history – will remain on display in the Dairy Building throughout the fair. Gates will officially open at 7 a.m. Thursday, with the annual Twilight Parade scheduled for 5: 30 p.m. later that day. The fair runs through Aug.  17 from 7 a.m. until midnight each day.

More here.

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National Night Out Thursday in Barrington

Posted in Entertainment, Public Safety, Topics Of Interest on August 6, 2025| Leave a Comment »

“Join the Village for National Night Out, a nationwide event that promotes police-community partnerships. Enjoy an evening of neighbors coming together for free food and family-friendly fun while getting to know Barrington’s Finest. Participate in activities with officers, including games, demonstrations and more. The event will be held from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 7, in downtown Barrington.

Special thanks to our event sponsors:

-Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital
-Motor Werks
-Rapid Relief Team
-Target – Lake Zurich
-Home Depot – Lake Zurich

Oliver, the police department’s therapy dog in training, will also make a special appearance starting at 5:30 p.m.!

Sponsorship opportunities are still available. Please email policeadmin@barrington-il.gov for more information.”

Source

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Developer proposes ‘bold, buildable’ project with performing arts center for downtown East Dundee

Posted in Entertainment, Real Estate on August 3, 2025| Leave a Comment »

The Raue Center for Performing Arts in Crystal Lake wants to open a satellite theater in downtown East Dundee. A proposal to redevelop a downtown parcel includes space for a performing arts center. | Courtesy of Sightwell

By Alicia Fabbre | Daily Herald

A performing arts center, boutique lodging, apartments, retail and townhouses could soon fill a two-acre parcel that once housed a lumberyard in East Dundee.

Village trustees will review plans Monday that would transform one of the last developable properties in the downtown district.

“Heritage Station is bold, buildable and legacy-aligned — a rare opportunity to transform a historic block into a cultural and economic cornerstone for East Dundee,” West Dundee-based developer Sightwell said in its proposal.

The proposed development, dubbed Heritage Station, includes 8,000 square feet for a performing arts center, possibly a satellite site for Crystal Lake’s Raue Center for the Arts, and 6,000 square feet for retail space. Additionally, Heritage Station would include nine to 12 townhouses. Above the retail shops, Sightwell proposes five to six rental apartments and space for The Station House, which would offer 10 suites for boutique lodging.

A shuttered lumberyard in East Dundee could be transformed into a mixed-use development featuring townhouses, apartments, boutique lodging, retail space and a performing arts center. | Paul Valade/pvalade@dailyherald.com, Oct. 2024

The project also includes a civic plaza that will help connect to the Fox River Trail. In addition, work would be done to extend Meier Street and add parking for the development along the new extension.

“The opportunity to help write East Dundee’s next chapter is really energizing and appealing to us,” Sightwell owner Andy Burns said of his proposal.

Village President Dan Pearson expressed support.

“I think it’s a great addition to our downtown … there’s a little bit for everyone in this one,” Pearson said, referring to the multiuse proposal.

Read more here.

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McHenry County Planning, Zoning and Land Use Staff Plat Review Committee Public Meeting scheduled August 6th regarding 11719 Ridge Road application

Posted in BCFPD, Bicyclists, Citizens for Conservation, County, Entertainment, Hill ‘n Dale Farm, Intergovernmental agreements (IGA), Land Use, McHenry, Plan Commission, Privacy, Public Safety, Real Estate, Traffic, VBHPD, Zoning Board on July 31, 2025| 2 Comments »

A meeting of the McHenry County Staff Plat Review Committee is scheduled for Wednesday, August 6th at 8:30 AM to discuss an application for, “seven (7) Conditional Use Permits and one (1) Variance,” at 11719 Ridge Road.

The item on the agenda reads:

4.1    Z25-0062, Goldman, A-1 to A-1CV, Algonquin Twp

PIN:  20-32-400-006, 11719 Ridge Road, Barrington

Applicant is seeking seven (7) Conditional Use Permits and one (1) Variance

1) Intensive Agritourism with a variance to reduce the minimum acreage from twenty (20) to thirteen and a half (13.5) acres, 2) Agriculture Employee Housing, 3) Reception Facility, 4) Community Center, 5) Day Camp, 6) Art Gallery, and 7) Vacation Rental Facility

A copy of the agenda with attachments can be viewed and downloaded here.

Related: “Commercial development planned off Ridge Road in unincorporated McHenry County”

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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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Things to do July 25-31: Lake, DuPage and McHenry County Fairs, Long Grove Vintage Days, Lollapalooza and more

Posted in Entertainment, Fundraisers on July 25, 2025| Leave a Comment »

The GooRoos will perform on Saturday, July 26, at the Lake County Fair, which runs from Wednesday to Sunday, July 23-27, at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Grayslake. | Courtesy of The GooRoos

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Friday, July 25

Lake County Fair:  Friday and Saturday, July 25-26; and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, July 27, at the Lake County Fairgrounds, 1060 E. Peterson Road, Grayslake. Rides, food, live music, motocross, monster trucks, demolition derby, bull riding and more. Music lineup: Wednesday: Operation Glow: Taylor Swift at 8 p.m.; Thursday: The Dixon Bandits at 5 p.m. and Brass From The Past at 8 p.m.; Friday: Second Hand Soul at 6 p.m. and Hi Infidelity at 9 p.m.; Saturday: GooRoos at 9 p.m. and No Limit at 9 p.m.; and Sunday: Chicago Latin Groove at 5 p.m. and Classical Blast at 5:30 p.m. $15, $5 for kids 6-12 and 65 and older for one day; $55/$20 for a season pass; free for kids 5 and younger and active military, veterans and dependents with ID. lcfair.com/2025.

Fun Day In The Park: 10-11 a.m. Friday, July 25, at Fabbrini Park, 1704 Glenlake Road, Hoffman Estates. Kids’ entertainment featuring “Shrek Jr. the Musical.” Free. heparks.org

Cary Children’s Entertainment: Noon Friday, July 25, at Lions Park, Silver Lake Road, north of Three Oaks Road, Cary. Entertainment from Ben Tatar and the Tatar Tots. Free. carypark.com.

Downtown Elgin Market: 3-7 p.m. Friday, July 25, on South Riverside Drive, Elgin. Featuring farmers, makers, live music, Sip N’ Shop, kids’ activities. Dog-friendly. LINK Matching program. downtownelgin.com/market.

West Dundee French Market: 4-8 p.m. Friday, July 25, at The Pump House, 98 Oregon Ave., West Dundee. A mixed market offering fresh produce along with a variety of other goods such as honey, greens, soaps, breads, cheeses, flowers, artwork, wearables and other products. wdundee.org.

The DuPage County Fair in Wheaton runs Thursday through Sunday, July 24-27. | Sandy Bressner/Shaw Local News Network

DuPage County Fair: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday, July 25; noon to 11 p.m. Saturday, July 26; and noon to 8 p.m. Sunday, July 27, at the DuPage County Fairgrounds, 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton. Entertainment, animals, food, exhibits, carnival rides and more. Drone light shows at 9:30 p.m. Thursday, and 10:15 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Music lineup: Sammy and The Knights at 7 p.m. Thursday; Two Beer Tommy at 8 p.m. Friday; Michael Lynch Music at 8 p.m. Saturday; and Thankful Dead at 5 p.m. Sunday. $12 for 13 and older; $8 for 62 and older and kids 6-12; and free for kids 5 and younger and active military with ID. Enter at County Farm Road and the main entrance. dupagecountyfair.org.First Friday Summer Dances: 6:30-9:30 p.m. Friday, July 25, 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, July 25, at Hawthorn Woods Community Park, 5 Park View Lane, Hawthorn Woods. Deja Vu will perform. Free. vhw.org.

Finally Friday: 7:30-9 p.m. on Friday, July 25, at The Pump House, 98 Oregon Ave., West Dundee. Live music, food vendors and fun outdoors. Dirty Mac will perform. wdundee.org.

Sounds of Summer Concert Series — Main Stage Concerts: 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 25, at Fred P. Hall Amphitheater, 256 E. Palatine Road, Palatine. Superfly Symphony will perform. Bring blankets or lawn chairs. Free. palatineparks.org/sounds-of-summer

Trio de Chats Noirs: 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 25, at First Congregational Church, 256 E. Chicago St. in Elgin. The ensemble — featuring Rachel Velvikis (horn), Mark Fry (bass trombone/euphonium), and guest pianist Christopher Powell — will perform works from Shostakovich, Brahms, Alec Wilder, J.S. Bach, Gary Kulesha and George Gershwin. Free. triodechatsnoirs.org

Saturday, July 26

Wauconda Triathlons Multisport Fest: Kids’ race at 6 a.m. Saturday, July 26, and adult race at 5 a.m. Sunday, July 27, at Cook Park, 600 N. Main St., Wauconda. Sunday includes a Post Race Fest with music, beer garden, awards and more. Registration: $42 for kids, starting at $55 for adults. waucondaparks.com/triathlon.

Christmas in July: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 26, at Springbrook Nature Center, 130 Forest Ave., Itasca. Arts and crafts fair featuring 35 local artisans. Plus, Sweetest Moments food truck, photos with Santa, carols, bounce house, games and activities. Support the Friends of Springbrook Nature Center with a donation for a wineglass and enjoy a free wine tasting (cash only). Rain or shine. Free. itascaparkdistrict.com.

Find reclaimed, handmade and antique items at Long Grove Vintage Days Saturday, July 26, and Sunday, July 27, at 145 Old McHenry Road. | Joe Lewnard/jlewnard@dailyherald.com, 2018

Long Grove Vintage Days: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, July 26, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, July 27, at 145 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove. Features all things vintage, reclaimed, handmade, upcycled, antique and repurposed in an open-air marketplace. Free. longgrove.org/festival/vintage-days

Uncaged in the Zoo: 12:30-1:30 p.m. Saturday, July 26, at Lords Park Zoo, off Grand Boulevard, Elgin. Get up close and personal with live animals. Chi-Town Exotics will be on hand. Free. elginil.gov

Car Show: 1-4 p.m. Saturday, July 26, at Heritage Park Performance Pavilion, 201 Community Blvd., Wheeling. See classic cars and future classics and chat with the owners. Music from Rick Lindy and the Wild Ones. Food for purchase. Free. wheelingparkdistrict.com

Lucky Duck Race Fundraiser: 2 p.m. Saturday, July 26, at Barefoot Bay, 1461 N. Midlothian Road, Mundelein. Adopt a duck and watch them race. Participants don’t need to be present to win. Ducks are $10 each and adoptable at givebutter.com/xn2oaM.

The Streamwood Summer Celebration, which runs Friday through Sunday, July 25-27, at Hoosier Grove Park in Streamwood, will feature a parade on Saturday. | Joe Lewnard/jlewnard@dailyherald.com, 2017

Streamwood Summer Celebration Parade: Steps off at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, July 26, from Bartlett Road and Streamwood Boulevard, runs west on Streamwood Boulevard to the festival grounds at Hoosier Grove Park, 700 Irving Park Road, Streamwood. Free. streamwoodsummercelebration.org.

German Beer Garden & Summer Concert: 4-7 p.m. Saturday, July 26, 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

Morton Arboretum walking play: 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, July 26-27, starting at Thornhill Shelter at Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. Full-length plays, adapted exclusively for The Morton Arboretum and performed by local professional actors. 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 for seating. $27 for ages 18 and older, $17 for ages 2-17, $10 less for members, free for children younger than 2. mortonarb.org/explore/activities/events/walking-plays.

Venetian Night Chicago: 6 p.m. Saturday, July 26, on the Chicago Riverwalk. A vibrant homage to Venice, Italy, celebrating cultural heritage through music, art and a lighted boat parade at 8:30 p.m. Free for spectators. iahrf.org/venetian-night-chicago.

Navy Pier Summer Fireworks: 10 p.m. Saturday, July 26; and 9 p.m. Wednesday, July 30, at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Fireworks display set to popular and special occasion soundtracks. Free. navypier.org/summer-fireworks.

Sunday, July 27

Crystal Lake Farmers Market+ At The Dole: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, July 27, 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.

Lambs Farm in Libertyville will hold a Car Show Benefit Sunday, July 27. | nDaily Herald file photo

Lambs Farm Car Show Benefit: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, July 27, at Lambs Farm, 14245 W. Rockland Road, Libertyville. Variety of makes and models of cars, bikes and trucks in the main parking lot. Free for spectators. lambsfarm.org.

Railroad Street Block Party: 2-5 p.m. Sunday, July 27, at Duke’s Alehouse parking lot, 110 N. Main St., Crystal Lake. Featuring talented local bands, food from local eateries, and family activities and games for kids. Free. facebook.com/dukesalehouse.

Wheeling’s Sounds of Summer Concert Series: 5-6:30 p.m. Sunday, July 27, at Heritage Park Performance Pavilion, 201 Community Blvd., Wheeling. Are You Ready For It? 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

Tuesday, July 29

The McHenry County Fair, which runs from Tuesday through Sunday, July 29 to Aug. 3 at the McHenry County Fairgrounds in Woodstock, includes a demolition derby, rides, music and more. | Courtesy of McHenry County Fair Association

McHenry County Fair: Noon to 9 p.m. Tuesday, July 29; 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, July 30-31; 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. 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 ages 6-12 and 65 and older and military; $30 for season passes. mchenrycountyfair.com/tickets

Arlington Heights Police Department National Night Out: 5:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 29, at North School Park, North Evergreen Avenue and East Eastman Street, Arlington Heights. Live entertainment, activities and more. Free. vah.com.

Concerts in the Plaza: 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 29, at Independence Grove, 16400 W. Buckley Road, Libertyville. Soul Sacrifice 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, July 29, at Main Beach, 300 Lakeshore Drive, Crystal Lake. Crystal Lake Community Band will perform. Free. For parking locations, see crystallakeparks.org/special-events.

Dundee Township Concerts in the Park: 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 29, at Lions Park in East Dundee. Centerfold will perform. Food and drinks sold by Dundee Township Lions Club, with proceeds benefiting the community. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. Free. dtpd.org/concerts-in-the-park

Wednesday, July 30

National Sports Collectors Convention: 4-8 p.m. Wednesday, July 30; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, July 31 to Aug. 2; 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 ages 12 and younger. nsccshow.com.

Arbor Evenings: 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, July 30, at Morton Arboretum’s Frost Hill, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. Music, lawn games, food and drinks. Color Me Amused will perform. $15 for ages 13 and older, $5 for kids 4-12. Advance tickets required: mortonarb.org

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

Arbortheater Concerts: 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 30, at the Memorial Arbortheater, 50 S. Fairway Drive, Vernon Hills. School of Rock will perform. Free. vernonhills.org.

Arlington Heights Community Concert Band: 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 30, at North School Park, 307 N. Evergreen Ave., Arlington Heights. The theme is “The Greatest Show in the Park,” with circus-related music. Free. arlingtonheightsband.org.

Olivia Rodrigo, seen here performing at the Stereo Picnic music festival in Bogota, Colombia, Sunday, March 30, will take the stage at Lollapalooza Friday, Aug. 1, in Grant Park. | AP, March 30, 2025

Lollapalooza: Noon to 10 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, July 31 to Aug. 3, in Grant Park, Chicago. Scheduled performances 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. Tickets start at $189 for one day, $378 for two days, $415 for four days. lollapalooza.com.

Barrington Thursday Night Out: 4-8 p.m. Thursday, July 31, 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

Pearl Street Market + Concert in the Park: 5-8:30 p.m. Thursday, July 31, at Veterans Park, 3400 Pearl St., McHenry. Live music, local vendors and food trucks. Lara Bell Band will perform. Free. facebook.com/pearlstreetmarketmchenry.

Music in the Park: 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 31, in Covered Bridge Park, next to 445 Robert Parker Coffin Road, Long Grove. L&M Experience performs eclectic acoustic covers and originals. Free. longgrove.org/event/music-in-the-park.

Thursday Nights Live: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 31, at Wheeling Town Center, 351 W. Dundee Road, Wheeling. Free concerts in the plaza with food and beverage options from local restaurants. Deadfest performs. Free. thewheelingtowncenter.com/events.

Algonquin Summer Concert Series: 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, July 31, at Towne Park, 100 Jefferson St., Algonquin. Libido Funk Circus performs. Food trucks at 6 p.m. Bring a lawn chair. For the weekly list of food trucks, see Algonquin.org/summerconcerts.

Elgin’s Concerts in the Park: 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, July 31, at Lords Park, 100 Oakwood Blvd., Elgin. Side Street Studio Arts Open Mic Night. 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, July 31, at Harmony Park, 7 S. Vail Ave., Arlington Heights. Billy Elton will perform. Free. vah.com/explore/sounds_of_summer_concerts.php.

Summer Sounds on the Green Concert Series: 7 p.m. Thursday, July 31, at Village Green, 5510 Prairie Stone Parkway, Hoffman Estates. Jose Valdes and The Mambo All-Stars perform. Food and beverages for sale. Free. hoffmanestatesarts.com/summer-concert-series

Palatine Outdoor Movie Night: 7:30-10 p.m. Thursday, July 31, at Fred P. Hall Amphitheater, 256 E. Palatine Road, Palatine. See “Toy Story.” Free. palatineparks.org.

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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Enjoy returning favorites and new events at the 96th Annual Lake County Fair July 23-27

Posted in County, Entertainment, Goat Rodeo, Lake, Politics on July 20, 2025| Leave a Comment »

The Lake County Fair returns with rides, music, food, Grandstand events and much more Wednesday through Sunday, July 23-27, at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Grayslake. | Daily Herald file photo

By the Lake County Fairgrounds

Celebrating its 96th year, the Lake County Fair is back and bigger than ever, promising five days filled with excitement, entertainment and memories for the whole family. Taking place from Wednesday, July 23, to Sunday, July 27, at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Grayslake, this year’s fair brings a sensational lineup of Grandstand Arena events, including returning favorites and new additions.

Midway rides and games, operated by Skinner’s Amusements, open at 1 p.m. on Wednesday and noon Thursday through Sunday. Tickets are $1 each (number of tickets needed vary per ride) and are available at ticket booths located throughout the Midway. All-You-Can-Ride Wristband specials will be available for $30 5-9 p.m. Wednesday, 1-5 p.m. Thursday, and 1-5 p.m. Friday.

Pig racing is just one of the returning attractions at the Lake County Fair in Grayslake. | Daily Herald file photo

An array of Grandstand Arena events are included with fair admission. The lineup features adrenaline-pumping spectacles that aim to have visitors on the edge of their seats:

  • Demolition Derby: 6 p.m. Wednesday
  • Motocross: 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday
  • 406FMX High Air Tour: 7 p.m. Thursday
  • Monster Truck Throwdown: 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday
  • Pro Bull Riding & Barrel Racing: 3 p.m. Sunday

The Lake County Fair welcomes back several crowd favorites, ensuring nonstop entertainment for fairgoers of all ages. Daily events include:

  • Canine Stars Stunt Dog Show (as seen on America’s Got Talent)
  • Show Me Swine Pig Races
  • Kidbucks Game Show
  • John Measner Magic Show
  • K9 Demonstration with the Lake County Sheriff’s Office
  • Timerbworks Lumberjack Show
  • Interactive Bubble Zone

Other returning events include:

  • Miss, Junior Miss, and Little Miss Lake County Fair Pageants: 5 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday
  • Operation Glow: Taylor Swift Party: 8 p.m. Wednesday
  • Flower Hour: A sensory-friendly carnival morning on the opening day of the Lake County Fair, providing a welcoming environment for individuals with sensory sensitivities to enjoy the rides and games at the Midway carnival. During this time, the Midway Carnival will be exclusively open to those attending Flower Hour. Noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday.
  • Bloody Mary Bingo on Sunday

In addition to the returning events, the latest additions to the Lake County Fair’s lineup include:

  • The Strolling DJ: Three daily shows. This mobile DJ booth rolls through the fairgrounds, bringing high-energy music, fun vibes, and spontaneous dance parties wherever it goes. You never know when the beat will drop; just follow the sound and join the fun.
  • So Hot Glass Live!: Daily glass blowing demonstration
  • Swine Jackpot Show: 10 a.m. Friday, July 25. The Swine Jackpot Show brings top competition to the barn with three exciting divisions: Showmanship, Market and Breeding Gilts. Exhibitors will showcase their skills in handling, presenting and evaluating swine as they compete for prizes and bragging rights. Don’t miss this action-packed event that highlights some of the finest pigs and most dedicated youth in the show ring.

Hi Infidelity is among the many musical acts that will perform at the Lake County Fair July 23-27 at the fairgrounds in Grayslake. | Courtesy of Hi Infidelity

The Lake County Fair will include more than a dozen bands performing throughout the event. The eclectic lineup features “Swiftie Nation,” Operation Glow: Taylor Swift Dance Party and Hi Infidelity. Other acts include The Dixon Bandits, Alien Eyes, Brass from the Past, Big Boss and the Toes Band, The Noize, Second Hand Soul, Chapel Hill, School of Rock, Peter and the Versatiles, Blue Marlin, Beyond the Blonde, Gooroos, No Limit, Roger That, Tropixplosion, Chicago Latin Groove and Classical Blast.

Daily admission is $15 for ages 13-64; $5 for ages 6-12 and 65 and older and active military, veterans and dependents with valid ID; and free for ages 5 and younger and active military in uniform with valid ID. Season passes are $55 for ages 13-64 and $20 for ages 6-12 and 65 and older. Admission is free for active military, veterans, dependents and first responders with valid ID on Thursday.

The Lake County Fairgrounds is at 1060 E. Peterson Road, Grayslake. For more information about the Lake County Fair, visit lcfair.com/2025.

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