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Happy Independence Day!

Posted in Entertainment, Fundraisers, Resident Spotlights, Traffic on July 4, 2025| Leave a Comment »

The Barrington Hills Observer wishes its readers a happy Fourth of July!

Local festivities today include:

Advocate Good Shepherd Family Fitness Run – 7 to 9 AM
Location: Downtown Barrington
Start the day with a healthy and fun family fitness run through downtown. Registration required.

Barrington All-Star Brass Quintet Performance – 8:30 to 9:45 AM
Location: Porch of Barrington’s White House
Arrive early for patriotic tunes performed by the Barrington All-Star Brass Quintet. This local ensemble of accomplished musicians will play American classics to set the perfect tone ahead of the parade. Bring folding chairs and enjoy the concert on the front lawn, weather permitting.

Barrington Fourth of July Parade – 10 to 11:30 AM
Route: Main Street
Join neighbors and visitors as Barrington’s beloved parade brings together marching bands, community groups and festive floats.

Lions Club Brat Tent – Opens at 10:30 AM
Location: Wool Street Parking Lot 

Fourth of July Fireworks – 9:30 to 10 PM
Location: Barrington High School
The festivities continue with a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the Barrington sky.

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Things to do July 3-10: Fourth of July events, Frontier Days, Rockin’ Rotary Ribfest and more

Posted in Entertainment, Fundraisers, Resident Spotlights on July 3, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Carnival rides await the crowds before last year’s Frontier Days in Arlington Heights’ Recreation Park. | Joe Lewnard/jlewnard@dailyherald.com, 2024

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Thursday, July 3

Frontier Days Festival: 5 p.m. to midnight Thursday, July 3; noon to midnight Friday and Saturday, July 4-5; and noon to 10 p.m. Sunday, July 6, at Recreation Park, 500 E. Miner St., Arlington Heights. Carnival, Fourth of July parade at 10 a.m. Friday, entertainment, food, soccer 3v3, Stampede Run/Walk at 7:30 a.m. Sunday, July 6, marketplace, family activities and more. Music headliners: 7th heaven at 8 p.m. Wednesday; Dishwalla at 8 p.m. Thursday; BoDeans at 8 p.m. Friday, July 4; Bruce In The USA at 8 p.m. Saturday, July 5; and American English at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, July 6. Free. frontierdays.org

Carnival ride enthusiasts fly high on the swing ride during last year’s Northwest Fourth-Fest near the Now Arena in Hoffman Estates. | Samantha Winkelman for the Daily Herald

Northwest Fourth-Fest: Thursday through Saturday, July 3-5; and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, July 6, at 5333 Prairie Stone Parkway, Hoffman Estates. Carnival, live entertainment, parade at 9 a.m. Friday, fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Kids’ Zone, bingo, food vendors and more. Main stage entertainment includes Run Forrest Run at 5:30 p.m. and Modern Day Romeos at 8:30 and 10 p.m. Friday, and David’s House at 5:30 p.m. and 7th heaven at 8:30 and 10 p.m. Saturday. Free. northwestfourthfest.com

Palatine Jaycees Hometown Fest: Thursday, July 3; noon to midnight Friday and Saturday, July 4-5; and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, July 6, at Palatine Community Park, 250 E. Wood St., Palatine. Fireworks at dusk Thursday, carnival, music, food vendors, parade at 11 a.m. Saturday, craft and business expo Saturday and Sunday and more. Music lineup: Thursday: Bucket Number Six at 7 p.m. and Too Much Molly at 10 p.m.; Friday: Marina City at 7:30 p.m. and Boy Band Review at 10 p.m.; Saturday: Whiskey Road at 7:30 p.m. and iPop at 10 p.m. Free. hometown-fest.com

Mount Prospect Lions Club Fourth of July Festival: Thursday, July 3; 6-11 p.m. Friday, July 4; and 1-11 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, July 5-6, at Melas Park, 1500 W. Central Road, Mount Prospect. Food, beer, live entertainment, carnival and more. Fireworks at 8:45 p.m. Wednesday and 9 p.m. Friday. Music lineup: Wednesday: Sealed with a Kiss at 7:30 p.m. and Hairbangers Ball at 9:15 and 9:45 p.m.; Thursday: Petty Union at 7:30 p.m. and One of These Nights at 9:15 p.m.; Friday: The Mix at 8:30 and 10 p.m.; Saturday: One of the Boyzz at 7:30 p.m. and Infinity at 9 p.m.; Sunday: Rico! at 9:45 p.m. and more. Free admission; ride wristbands available for purchase. mplions.org

Lakeside Festival: Noon to 11 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, July 3-5, and noon to 10 p.m. Sunday, July 6, at The Dole, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake. Carnival rides, food, beer garden, superhero characters, kids’ decorated bike parade, kids’ ice-cream eating contest, cornhole tournament and more. Note: Cashless payment. $10, $5 for ages 65 and older, free for active military with ID and kids 12 and younger. thedole.org/the-fest.

Mundelein Community Days runs Thursday through Sunday, July 3-6, in Courtland Commons Park. | Daily Herald file photo

Mundelein Community Days: Noon to 11 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, July 3-6, in Courtland Commons Park, at the corner of Seymour and Courtland, Mundelein. Carnival, Freedom Classic 5K at 8 a.m. Friday, fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Friday, parade at 1 p.m. Sunday, food, music, games, contests, demonstrations, displays and more. Music lineup: Thursday: 7th heaven at 8:30 p.m.; Friday: Mackenzie O’Brien at 8:30 p.m.; Saturday: The Disco Circus at 8:30 p.m.; and Sunday: Blooze Brothers at 6:30 p.m. Free. mundelein.org/200/Mundelein-Community-Days-2025

Bartlett Fourth of July Festival: 3-11 p.m. Thursday, July 3; noon to 11 p.m. Friday, July 4; noon to 11 p.m. Saturday, July 5; and noon to 9 p.m. Sunday, July 6, at the Bartlett Community Center, 700 S. Bartlett Road, Bartlett. Live entertainment, fireworks at 9:15 p.m. Friday, parade at 10 a.m. Saturday, food vendors, carnival and more. Carnival hours for those with special needs from noon to 2 p.m. Thursday. Music: Thursday: Anthem at 9 p.m.; Friday: Libido Funk Circus at 8 p.m. and Disco Circus at 9:45 p.m.; Saturday: Smokin’ Gunz at 9 p.m.; and Sunday: Modern Day Romeos at 4:30 p.m. and 7th heaven at 7 p.m. Free. bartlett4thofjuly.com.

Red, White and BOOM!: 4-9 p.m. Thursday, July 3, at North Park, 1025 Riverwoods Road, and 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, July 4, at Spring Lake Park, 49 Oxford Drive, Lincolnshire. Rides and attractions, community activities, live DJ and more Thursday. On Friday: 5K at 8 a.m., parade at 10 a.m., DJ performance, activities and fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Free. lincolnshireil.gov

Friday, July 4

Barrington All-Star Brass Quintet: 8:30 a.m. Friday, July 4, at Barrington’s White House, 145 W. Main St., Barrington. Patriotic concert before the Barrington parade at 10 a.m. Weather permitting, it will take place on the front lawn. Bring folding chairs. Free. BarringtonsWhiteHouse.com/events.

Barrington Fourth of July Parade: 10 a.m. Friday, July 4, on Main Street in Barrington. Steps off from Barrington High School. Free. barrington-il.gov.

Barrington Fourth of July Fireworks: 9:30-10 p.m. Friday, July 4, at Barrington High School, 616 W. Main St., Barrington. Free. barrington-il.gov/events/4th-of-july-fireworks.

Elmhurst Running Club’s 4 On the 4th: 7:15 a.m. Friday, July 4, at Wilder Park in Elmhurst. Elmhurst Running Club’s 20th annual run features a 4-mile run at 7:15 a.m. and a Kids’ 1K for kids 5-12 at 8:20 a.m. Eighty percent of proceeds will be donated to local charities. $38, $10 for the kids 1K. Register at 4on4th.run.

Sleepy Hollow Fourth of July Festival: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, July 4, at Sabatino Park, Thorobred Lane, Sleepy Hollow. One-mile fun run at 8 a.m.; fishing derby from 9-11 a.m. at Lake Sharon; car show from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with a $15 exhibitor donation for Illinois Special Olympics; food and drinks from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Bill Ritchie Memorial Parade at 11:30 a.m.; and live music from The Lennys. Fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Sunday with $20 per car donation; parking opens at 7 p.m. sleepyhollowil.org

The Elgin Fourth of July Parade starts at Slade and Douglas at 9 a.m. Friday, July 4. | Brian Hill/bhill@dailyherald.com

Elgin Fourth of July Parade: 9 a.m. Friday, July 4. The route runs on Douglas Avenue from Slade Avenue to city hall, 150 Dexter Court, Elgin. The second annual Pet Parade at 9 a.m. starts at the NENA Butterfly Garden at Douglas Avenue and Ann Street, and continues along the parade route to Douglas and Highland. Free. elginil.gov.

Northwest Fourth-Fest Parade: 9 a.m. Friday, July 4, along Illinois Boulevard, from Paris Lane to Evanston Street, Hoffman Estates. Free. northwestfourthfest.com.

Vernon Hills July Fourth parade: 9 a.m. Friday, July 4. Parade steps off from Deerpath and Atrium drives, then south to Sullivan Drive and west to Aspen Drive, Vernon Hills. Free. vernonhills.org.

Hawthorn Woods Fourth of July Parade: 10 a.m. Friday, July 4, on Lagoon Drive, Hawthorn Woods, and continues to the village hall. Followed by a flag-raising ceremony. Free. vhw.org/524/Parade.

Frontier Days Fourth of July Parade: 10 a.m. Friday, July 4, steps off from Dunton and Oakton streets, Arlington Heights. Parade travels south on Dunton to Miner and then east to Recreation Park, 500 E. Miner St. Theme: “Celebrating 100 years — Arlington Heights Park District.” Kids 4-12, accompanied by an adult, can check in at Olive and Highland streets for the decorated bike parade; no Big Wheels allowed. Free. FrontierDays.org.

Lake Zurich Independence Day Celebration: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, July 4, at Paulus Park, 200 S. Rand Road, Lake Zurich. Music, bands, BYOB open carry wristbands (no alcohol sales on the grounds; $5 per wristband to bring your adult beverages of choice but no glass bottles), and food vendors/trucks serving hot dogs, burgers, pizza, tacos and more. Giant Bubble Show at 3 p.m., Miss Jamie’s Farm at 5 p.m., and Blackberry Jam at 7:15 p.m. Fireworks over the lake at around 9:15 p.m. Free admission. Beach open from noon to 7 p.m. with $9-$11 daily fee required for ages 4 and older. lakezurich.org

Island Lake Independence Day Parade and Community Picnic: 11 a.m. Friday, July 4. 75th anniversary parade will be followed by a picnic with hot dogs, an ice cream truck, music and games at Converse Park. Free. villageofislandlake.com/events.

Rolling Meadows Fourth of July Parade: 11:30 a.m. Friday, July 4, on Meadow Drive, Rolling Meadows. Free. cityrm.org

West Dundee French Market: 4-8 p.m. Friday, July 4, 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.

Elgin Fourth of July Concert and Fireworks: 5-10 p.m. Friday, July 4, at Festival Park, 132 S. Grove Ave., Elgin. Live music, food trucks and drinks, kids’ activities, tabletop games and a pie-eating contest. Music lineup: The Moods at 5 p.m., The LaBamba Show at 6:30 p.m., and The Ultimate Elvis Experience starring Shawn Klush at 8 p.m. Fireworks at 9:20 p.m. Free. elginil.gov.

Buffalo Grove Fourth of July Fireworks & Celebration: 7 p.m. Friday, July 4, at Willow Stream Park, 651 Old Checker Road, Buffalo Grove. The Buffalo Grove Symphonic Band performs a patriotic-themed concert before the fireworks at 9 p.m. Bring a picnic basket and blankets or chairs. Free. For parking details, see vbg.org.

Vernon Hills July Fourth celebration: 7 p.m. Friday, July 4, in Century Park, 1001 Lakeview Parkway, Vernon Hills. Music from DJ Top Dog. Fireworks at 9:15 p.m. Free. vernonhills.org.

Libertyville Fourth of July fireworks: 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 4, at the Butler Lake Park band shell, 810 W. Lake St., Libertyville. The Village Band performs patriotic music with fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Lake Street will close to pedestrians and vehicle traffic at 9 p.m. before the show. Parking available at Butler Lake Park (residents only), the main commuter lot, both parking garages and Butterfield School. Free. libertyville.com.

Cheap Trick performs at 8 PM in the Mid-Summer Classics Concert Series in Elk Grove Village | Courtesy Cheap Trick

Mid-Summer Classics Concert Series: 8 p.m. Friday, July 4, at Rotary Green, 164 Lions Drive, Elk Grove Village. Cheap Trick will perform, followed by the Lions Club fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Free. elkgrove.org.

Rolling Meadows Fourth of July Fireworks: Dusk Friday, July 4, at the Rolling Meadows Community Center, 3705 Pheasant Drive, Rolling Meadows. Free. cityrm.org.

Bartlett Fourth of July Parade: 10 a.m. Saturday, July 5. Stepping off from Oak Avenue, south to Railroad Avenue, and continuing south on Main Street/South Bartlett Road to Stearns Road, west on Stearns to Apple Orchard Park.​ Free. bartlett4thofjuly.com

Lincolnshire Art Festival: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, July 5-6, at Village Green North, 100 Village Green, Lincolnshire. More than 80 juried artists will be selling artwork. Free. amdurproductions.com/event/lincolnshire-art-festival.

Hometown Fest Parade: 11 a.m. Saturday, July 5, in Palatine. The parade proceeds south on Cedar Street to Slade Street, east on Slade to Brockway, north on Brockway to Wood Street and east on Wood to Community Park. Free. palatinejaycees.org/hometown-fest.

Uncaged in the Zoo: 12:30-1:30 p.m. Saturday, July 5, at Lords Park Zoo, off Grand Boulevard, Elgin. Featuring Wings & Talons Raptors. Free. elginil.gov

BeachFest: 5-11 p.m. Saturday, July 5, at the Round Lake Beach Cultural & Civic Center, 2007 Civic Center Way, Round Lake Beach. Live music, food and beverage vendors, bounce house, foam party and more. Fireworks around 9:15 p.m. Jesus Ramos Band at 5:30 p.m. and Six Speed Tranny at 8 and 10 p.m. Free. rlbciviccenter.com.

Summer Breeze Concert Series: 7 p.m. Saturday, July 5, at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg. Billy Elton will perform. Free. parkfun.com.

Northwest Fourth-Fest Fireworks: 9:30 p.m. Saturday, July 5, at 5333 Prairie Stone Parkway, Hoffman Estates. Free. northwestfourthfest.com

Navy Pier Summer Fireworks

Navy Pier Summer Fireworks: 10 p.m. Saturday, July 5, and 9 p.m. Wednesday, July 9, at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Fireworks display set to popular music. Free. navypier.org/summer-fireworks.

Sunday, July 6

Frontier Days Stampede: 7:30 a.m. Sunday, July 6, at Recreation Park, 500 E. Miner St., Arlington Heights. 5K and 10K run at 7:30 p.m.; 5K walk at 7:35 a.m. and quarter-mile Kids Dash at 9 a.m. Strollers and baby joggers are welcome at the back of each race group. $15-$40. FrontierDays.org/stampede.

Crystal Lake Independence Day Parade: 1 p.m. Sunday, July 6, stepping off from 100 W. Woodstock St., Crystal Lake, heading southeast on Dole Avenue and Country Club Road, and east on Golf Road to Nash Road. clchamber.com

Mundelein Community Days Parade: 1 p.m. Sunday, July 6. The 1.1-mile parade will begin at Mundelein High School and proceed east on Hawley Street, south on Seymour Avenue, east on Hammond Street, and conclude at the village hall. mundelein.org

Lakeside Festival fireworks: Dusk Sunday, July 6, at The Dole, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake. Fireworks over the lake. thedole.org/the-fest.

Sleepy Hollow Fourth of July fireworks: 9:30 p.m. Sunday, July 6, at Sabatino Park, Thorobred Lane, Sleepy Hollow. Hosted by Sleepy Hollow Service Club. $20 per car donation; parking opens at 7 p.m. sleepyhollowil.org

Monday, July 7

Sounds of Summer Family Picnic Series: Noon to 1 p.m. Tuesday, July 8, at the Fred P. Hall Amphitheater, 256 E. Palatine Road, Palatine. Jason Kollum will perform. Free. palatineparks.org/sounds-of-summer

Concerts in the Plaza: 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 8, at Independence Grove, 16400 W. Buckley Road, Libertyville. Gizzae will perform. $10 vehicle entrance fee starting at 4:30 p.m. lcfpd.org/things-to-do/concerts.

Wednesday, July 9

Elmhurst’s Party in the Park: 9-11 a.m. Wednesday, July 9, at Plunkett Park, Elmhurst. Kids can have old-fashioned fun with bubbles, hula hoops, jump ropes and more. Free. epd.org.

Algonquin Lunchapalooza Concert Series: 11 a.m. to noon Wednesday, July 9, at Towne Park, 100 Jefferson St., Algonquin. Ben Tator and the Tator Tots will perform. Free. algonquin.org

“You Butter Believe It!: Elgin’s Dairy History”: 1-3 p.m. Wednesday, July 9, at Lords Park Zoo, 325 Hiawatha Drive, Elgin. Kids 3-8 can visit the Tefft Farm inside Lords Park to learn about Elgin’s dairy history and try their hand at butter making. Free. elginil.gov

UnPlug at the Park: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 9, at Childerley Park, Wheeling. Mr. Scott’s Giant Bubble Show will perform. Free. wheelingparkdistrict.com.

Wine Down Wednesdays: 6-9 p.m. Wednesday, July 9, at Depot, 319 N. River St., East Dundee. The Ron Burgundys will perform. Food and drinks for purchase. Bring lawn chairs. Free. eastdundee.net

South Elgin Summer Concert Series: 6:30-8 p.m. Wednesday, July 9, at Panton Mill Park, 10 N. Water St., South Elgin. Jeff’s Invention will perform. Food Truck Wednesdays from 6-8 p.m. Free. southelgin.com/pantonmillpark.

Wickstrom Lincoln Concert Series: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 9, at the Arboretum of South Barrington, 100 W. Higgins Road, South Barrington. Hi Infidelity will perform. Food for purchase. Free. shopthearb.com.

Arlington Heights Community Concert Band: 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 9, at North School Park, 307 N. Evergreen Ave., Arlington Heights. Free. arlingtonheightsband.org.

Thursday, July 10

“Stories Under the Hickory Tree”: 11 a.m. to noon Thursday, July 10, at Lords Park Zoo, 210 Grand Blvd., Elgin. Gail Borden Public Library program for kids 3-6. Bring blankets or chairs. Free. elginil.gov.

The Windy City Smokeout will feature barbecue and country music July 10-13 at the United Center in Chicago. | Daily Herald file photo

Windy City Smokeout: 2-10 p.m. Thursday and Friday, July 10-11, and 1-10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, July 12-13, outside the United Center, 1901 W. Madison St., Chicago. Headliners: Bailey Zimmerman and Koe Wetzel on Thursday, Old Dominion and Dylan Gossett on Friday, Kane Brown and Megan Moroney on Saturday, and Jon Pardi and Riley Green on Sunday. Tickets start at $70.02 for Thursday and $99.50 for Friday; Saturday and Sunday are sold out. windycitysmokeout.com.

Barrington Thursday Night Out: 4-8 p.m. Thursday, July 10, 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 Lake in the Hills Rotary Rockin’ Ribfest runs Thursday through Sunday, July 10-13, at Sunset Park. | Daily Herald file photo

Lake in the Hills Rockin’ Rotary Ribfest: 4:30-11 p.m. Thursday and Friday, July 10-11; 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, July 12; and 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, July 13, at Sunset Park, 5200 Miller Road, Lake in the Hills. Annual fest featuring professional pitmasters and vendors, carnival and more. Music: July 10: Alt 101 at 6:45 p.m. and Kashmir at 9 p.m.; July 11: Starlight City Band at 6:45 p.m. and Too Hype Crew at 9 p.m.; July 12: Everett Dean and the Lonesome Hearts at noon, One of the Boyzz at 2 p.m., HiFi Superstar at 4:15 p.m., Anthem at 6:30 p.m. and Bruce in the USA at 9 p.m.; and July 13: Head Honchos at noon, iPop at 2 p.m., and The Disco Circus at 4:30 p.m. Sunday. Vendor Blender, featuring local crafters and entrepreneurs, from 4-9 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. $5, free for kids 12 and younger accompanied by an adult or active military with ID. rockinrotaryribfest.com.

Cruisin’ Kildeer Car Show: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, July 10, at 20771 N. Rand Road, Kildeer. Free. lzacc.com

Music in the Park: 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 10, in Covered Bridge Park, next to 445 Robert Parker Coffin Road, Long Grove. Music from Bill Uhler. Free. longgrove.org/event/music-in-the-park.

Buffalo Grove Park District Summer Concert Series: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, July 10, at Mike Rylko Community Park Amphitheater, 1000 N. Buffalo Grove Road, Buffalo Grove. Industrial Drive will perform. Food, beer, wine and soft drinks for purchase. No outside alcohol allowed. Bring blankets and chairs. Free. bgparks.org/summer-concert-series

Elmhurst Music at the Gazebo: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, July 10, at Wild Meadows Trace, Prairie Path and Spring Road, Elmhurst. Lake Effect will perform. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. Free. springroad.com/our-events.

Thursday Nights Live: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 10, at Wheeling Town Center, 351 W. Dundee Road, Wheeling. Smoking Fish Band will perform. Food and drinks for purchase. Free. thewheelingtowncenter.com/events.

Algonquin Summer Concert Series: 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, July 10, at Towne Park, 100 Jefferson St., Algonquin. Second Hand Soul Band will perform. Food trucks at 6 p.m. Bring a lawn chair. Algonquin.org/summerconcerts.

Cary Concerts in the Park: 7 p.m. Thursday, July 10, at Lions Park, Silver Lake Road, north of Three Oaks Road, Cary. Feel Good Party Band will perform. Bring a lawn chair. Free. carypark.com.

Elgin’s Concerts in the Park: 7-8:30 p.m. Thursday, July 10, at the Wing Park Bandshell, 1010 Wing St., Elgin. Banda La Super Ranchera 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, July 10, at Harmony Park, 7 S. Vail Ave., Arlington Heights. Y2K will perform. Free. vah.com/explore/sounds_of_summer_concerts.php.

Summer Concerts at Phil’s Beach: 7 p.m. Thursday, July 10, at Phil’s Beach, 328 N. Main St., Wauconda. Jan Rand Band will perform. Free. waucondaparks.com.

Summer Sounds on the Green Concert Series: 7 p.m. Thursday, July 10, at Village Green, 5510 Prairie Stone Parkway, Hoffman Estates. Trippin’ Billies will perform. Food and beverages for sale. Free. hoffmanestatesarts.com/summer-concert-series

McHenry Fiesta Days: Thursday through Sunday, July 10-20, in McHenry. Food, live music and entertainment. The first week at Petersen Park starts with the annual Cask & Barrel Night from 6-10 p.m. Thursday, July 10, and then Music Fest weekend. Sunday is free admission day, which includes the car show, Beach Bash, Big Wheel Race and fireworks. The carnival runs July 11-13. The second week of events are in Veterans Memorial Park and downtown McHenry. It includes the concert in the park, Art & Street Fair and Art in the Park. The Fiesta Days Parade is at 1:30 p.m. July 20. mchenryfiestadays.com

Find more here.

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East Dundee to host weekly Depot Market through October

Posted in Entertainment, Topics Of Interest on July 2, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Daily Herald report

East Dundee will host The Depot Market every Saturday through Oct. 25, including the upcoming Fourth of July weekend.

The market will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the East Dundee Visitors Center, 319 N. River St.

Items will be available for purchase from various vendors, including artisan arts & crafts, collectibles, antiques, plants & flowers, produce and food items.

For additional information, call (847) 426-2255 or click here.

More here.

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Barrington High School Alumni day tomorrow

Posted in Barrington High School, Entertainment, Fundraisers, Nostalgia on July 2, 2025| Leave a Comment »

BHS Alumni Day at the Brat Tent – All Classes Welcome!

  • Wool Street Parking Lot (near Moretti’s), Barrington, IL
  • Thursday, July 3, 2025

Live Music Lineup:

  • David Mazzie (BHS ’80) – 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM
  • Pat McKillen (BHS ’06) – 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  • Between the Lines – 8:30 PM – 11:00 PM

Make this Fourth of July weekend unforgettable – join your BHS family for a day of fun, nostalgia, and great music!

Source

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Barrington 4th of July schedule of events

Posted in Clown Car, Entertainment, Fundraisers, Topics Of Interest on June 30, 2025| Leave a Comment »

The Barrington July 4th parade is Friday beginning at 10 AM.

Wednesday, July 2

Barrington Lions Club Brat Tent – Opens at 4:30 PM
Location: Wool Street Parking Lot
Kick off the holiday with brats, beverages and community camaraderie.

Concert in the Park: Elgin Symphony Orchestra’s Patriotic Brass & Percussion Concert – 6:30 PM
Location: Robert G. Soule Amphitheater at Citizens Park
Celebrate the holiday with a free, family-friendly outdoor concert featuring the Elgin Symphony Orchestra’s Patriotic Brass and Percussion ensemble. Bring a picnic and lawn chairs for a relaxing summer evening in the park. This event is generously sponsored by the Barrington Area Community Foundation.

Thursday, July 3 

Lions Club Brat Tent – Opens at 11 AM
Location: Wool Street Parking Lot 

Barrington’s White House 10th Anniversary Open House – 10 AM to 1 PM
Location: Barrington’s White House, 145 W. Main St.
Originally built in 1898 as a home for John and Julia Robertson Jr., Barrington’s White House has become a cultural cornerstone of the Village since its restoration and opening as a community center in 2015.

Guests will enjoy lemonade and cake, historic games and crafts, face painting, juggling, magic and an appearance by Barrington’s historic fire truck “The Pirsch.” Docents in period attire will lead guided tours of the house, sharing its rich history and architectural charm. This is a summer gathering not to be missed.

Friday, July 4 – Independence Day

Advocate Good Shepherd Family Fitness Run – 7 to 9 AM
Location: Downtown Barrington
Start the day with a healthy and fun family fitness run through downtown. Registration required.

Barrington All-Star Brass Quintet Performance – 8:30 to 9:45 AM
Location: Porch of Barrington’s White House
Arrive early for patriotic tunes performed by the Barrington All-Star Brass Quintet. This local ensemble of accomplished musicians will play American classics to set the perfect tone ahead of the parade. Bring folding chairs and enjoy the concert on the front lawn, weather permitting.

Barrington Fourth of July Parade – 10 to 11:30 AM
Route: Main Street
Join neighbors and visitors as Barrington’s beloved parade brings together marching bands, community groups and festive floats.

Lions Club Brat Tent – Opens at 10:30 AM
Location: Wool Street Parking Lot 

Fourth of July Fireworks – 9:30 to 10 PM
Location: Barrington High School
The festivities continue with a spectacular fireworks display lighting up the Barrington sky.

Saturday, July 5

Lions Club Brat Tent – Opens at 10:30 AM
Location: Wool Street Parking Lot

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Editorial: Why Chicago has a restaurant crisis

Posted in Chicago Tribune, Economy, Entertainment, OP/Ed on June 29, 2025| Leave a Comment »

A pedestrian passes the Gale Street Inn on June 20, 2025, in Chicago. The restaurant recently shut down. | Stacey Wescott/Chicago Tribune

By The Editorial Board | Chicago Tribune

The hit TV show “The Bear” chronicles an independent restaurant’s existential struggles and celebrates Chicagoans’ determination to survive. But you need only traverse one of the city’s real-life arteries, such as North Broadway through Edgewater or along 26th Street in Little Village, to see the the state of one of Chicago’s most celebrated and artful industries: shuttered restaurants pockmark almost every block.

Chicago’s storied restaurant business is mired in crisis.

If you doubt our word that this is a dire emergency, we suggest you swivel your head from road or sidewalk and look for yourselves.

Fine dining. Trattorias. Taquerias. Vietnamese cuisine. Italian beef. It seems not to matter. Chicago has never been a locus of chain restaurants, unlike many cities in the south. The fame of the city’s restaurants has sprouted from the creativity of independent operators, some craving (and winning) James Beard Awards and international acclaim, and others merely wanting to serve and nourish their communities.

We hardly need to tell you that many locally owned restaurants are the foci of their neighborhoods, which accounts for why there was such a howl of anguish in recent days when the cozy Gale Street Inn on Milwaukee Avenue in Jefferson Park announced its closure. Its famously genial operator, George Karzas, had owned and run the restaurant since 1994. Among his many other good works, he supported his local Jefferson Park theater, The Gift, storefront theaters and storefront restaurants sharing much of the same homegrown DNA in this city. At the Gale Street Inn, you always knew you were in Chicago.

The problem? The current headwinds are many in the restaurant business, including the well-documented rise in food costs. But top of mind of those in the hospitality industry in Chicago is the high cost of labor and the city’s shortsighted decision to get rid of the so-called tipped minimum wage following a campaign by an out-of-state activist group, One Fair Wage, which had worked its agenda on Mayor Brandon Johnson and enough of the aldermen in the City Council. Karzas’ decision to close the Gale Street Inn comes as the tipped minimum wage was set to increase again Tuesday, rising from $11.02 to $12.62 an hour as part of a phased-in approach that has been a progressive nightmare for restaurants.

One Fair Wage is led by Saru Jayaraman, a Yale University-educated lawyer, activist and academic who runs the Food Labor Research Center at the University of California at Berkeley. Back in Chicago, Christina Gonzalez from Taqueria Los Comales told us this past week that she worries not about political campaigns, but the price of her burritos at a family business with a 50-year history.

“I can’t charge $24 for a burrito,” she told us. “My customers won’t come.”

Read more here.

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Fireworks 2025: All the Fourth of July shows in the (nearby) area

Posted in Chicago Tribune, Entertainment, Topics Of Interest on June 27, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Chicago Tribune

With the Independence Day holiday comes fireworks — read on to find the best displays near you.

Arlington Heights: The local Frontier Days Festival at Recreation Park (500 E. Miner St.) is back, running July 2-6. The parade is 10 a.m. July 4; more at frontierdays.org. But no community fireworks display for 2025.

Barrington: Main Street parade at 10 a.m. July 4, then fireworks at 9:30 p.m. at Barrington High School (616 W. Main St.); barrington-il.gov

Bartlett: The town’s Fourth of July Festival returns to Community Park (corner of South Bartlett and Stearns Roads). Skydivers at 7:35 p.m. July 4, then fireworks at 9:15 p.m. Festivities continue through the weekend, including a parade at 10 a.m. July 5; bartlett4thofjuly.com

Buffalo Grove: The annual celebration at Willow Stream Park (651 Old Checker Road) begins with a patriotic-themed concert at 7 p.m. July 4 with the fireworks display at 9 p.m.; vbg.org

Elgin: The parade kicks off at 9 a.m. July 4 at the intersection of Douglas and Slade. Later, there will be food, a pie-eating contest and concerts in Festival Park (132 S. Grove Ave.) and the night will end with a fireworks display on the Fox River; cityofelgin.org

Fox River Grove: The town’s annual fireworks event opens 6 p.m. July 12 at Picnic Grove Park with music and food before the show; facebook.com/frgliving

Hoffman Estates: The Northwest Fourth-Fest runs July 2-6, including a carnival, live music, a parade along Illinois Boulevard at 9 a.m. July 4, a drone show at 9:30 p.m. July 4 at Village Green, and fireworks 9:30 p.m. July 5 at NOW Arena (5333 Prairie Stone Parkway); northwestfourthfest.com

Lake Zurich: The annual Independence/Family Day at Paulus Park (200 S. Rand Road) begins 10 a.m. July 4 with music and food vendors. Then fireworks are launched over the lake at about 9:15 p.m.; lakezurich.org

Libertyville: The fireworks event at Butler Lake Park (835 W. Winchester Road) begins with a concert by the Village Band at 7:30 p.m. July 4 at the Band Shell, followed by fireworks at 9:30 p.m.; libertyville.com

McHenry: The city’s fireworks will be 9:30 p.m. July 13 as part of Fiesta Days at Petersen Park (4300 Petersen Park Road). Fiesta Days will be July 10-20 with carnival rides, live music, an art fair and a July 20 parade; mchenryfiestadays.com

Mount Prospect: The 86th annual Mount Prospect Lions Club Festival will be July 2-6 at Melas Park (1500 W. Central Road) with a carnival, music and fireworks on July 2 (short show) and July 4 at 9:30 p.m.; mplions.org

Palatine: The Palatine Jaycees Hometown Fest runs July 2-6 in Community Park (256 E. Palatine Road). Fireworks at dusk July 3 and a parade beginning on Wood Street at 11 a.m. July 5; palatinejaycees.org

Schaumburg: The popular way to see fireworks in Schaumburg is to catch a Schaumburg Boomers baseball game at Wintrust Field (1999 S. Springinsguth Road). There will be fireworks after select home games, including July 3-5; boomersbaseball.com

Sleepy Hollow: A daylong holiday celebration July 4 includes a parade at 11:30 a.m. in Sabatino Park (Winmoor Drive and Thorobred Lane). Then the fireworks are 9:30 p.m. July 6, with gates open at 7 p.m.; sleepyhollowil.org

Vernon Hills: The parade will start at 9 a.m. July 4 at the corner of Deerpath and Atrium Drive. Music begins in Century Park (1002 Lakeview Parkway) at 7 p.m., followed by fireworks around 9:15 p.m; vernonhills.org

Wauconda: The Big Bang fireworks celebration is dusk July 3 at Bangs Lake; wauconda-il.gov

Find more here.

Related: “2025 Fourth of July: Your map and full guide to Chicagoland fireworks, festivities – WGN-TV”

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Things to do June 27 to July 3: Long Grove Strawberry Fest, Frontier Days, Fourth of July events and more

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

Duke’s Blues Festival to benefit Taste the Love NFP June 27th – 29th, 2025| Courtesy Duke’s Blues N BBQ

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Friday, June 27

Duke’s Blues-N-BBQ Festival: 5-11 p.m. Friday, June 27, and noon to 11 p.m. Saturday, June 28, at Carpenter Park, 300 Carpenter Blvd., Carpentersville. Blues bands and Southern vendors. Free. facebook.com/DukesBluesNbbq.

Wauconda Fest: 5 p.m. to midnight Friday, June 27; noon to midnight Saturday, June 28; and noon to 9 p.m. Sunday, June 29, at Cook Park, 600 N. Main St., Wauconda. Carnival rides, live entertainment, bags tournament, craft show from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, car show and more. Lineup: Friday: Don’t Rock the Jukebox at 7 p.m. and 7th heaven at 9:30 p.m.; Saturday: Oh YES! at 7 p.m. and Hello Weekend at 9:30 p.m.; and Sunday: Roger That at 5 p.m. and Breakfast Club at 7 p.m. Admission $5. waucondaparks.com/wauconda-fest.

Fun Day In The Park: 10-11 a.m. Friday, June 27, at Fabbrini Park, 1704 Glenlake Road, Hoffman Estates. Kids’ entertainment with JG’s Reptile Road Show. Free. heparks.org.

Tots in the Park: 10:30 a.m. Friday, June 27, at the Alcott Center, 530 Bernard Drive, Buffalo Grove. Miss Jamie’s Farm will perform on the lawn. Bring a blanket or chairs. Free. bgparks.org/tots-in-the-park.

Strawberry shortcake is one of many treats at Strawberry Fest in Long Grove this weekend. | Courtesy of Historic Long Grove

Strawberry Fest: Noon to 11 p.m. Friday, June 27; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, June 28; and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, June 29, near 145 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove. Three days of strawberry-infused food and drinks, family activities, entertainment and more. Music lineup: Friday: Petty Kings: Tribute to Tom Petty at 6:30 p.m. and Kashmir (Led Zeppelin tribute) at 9 p.m.; Saturday: Funky Monks: Tribute to RHCP at 8 p.m. and Too Fighters: Tribute to Foo Fighters at 9:30 p.m.; and Sunday: Dancing Queen: ABBA Salute at 4 p.m. $7. longgrove.org/festival/strawberry-fest.

Downtown Elgin Market: 3-7 p.m. Friday, June 27, on South Riverside Drive, Elgin. Farmers, makers, live music, Sip N’ Shop and kids’ activities. Dog-friendly. LINK Matching program. Free. downtownelgin.com/market.

West Dundee French Market: 4-8 p.m. Friday, June 27, 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. Free. wdundee.org.

First Friday Summer Dances: 6:30-9:30 p.m. Friday, June 27, 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.

Sounds of Summer Concert Series — Main Stage Concerts: 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 27, at Fred P. Hall Amphitheater, 256 E. Palatine Road, Palatine. The Wayouts will perform. Bring blankets or lawn chairs. Free. palatineparks.org/sounds-of-summer.

Elgin Summer Movie in the Park: Dusk Friday, June 27, at Mulberry Grove Park, 1770 Newbridge Circle, Elgin. Craft robots from recycled treasures and make flower crowns before “The Wild Robot” screens at dusk. Concessions for purchase. Free. elginil.gov.

Saturday, June 28

Stars & Stripes Half Marathon, 10K and 5K: 7:30 a.m. Saturday, June 28, at Bell Works, 2000 Center Drive, Hoffman Estates. Packet pickup from 6:15-7:15 a.m. Kids Dash at 9 a.m. Registration starts at $109.99 for half marathon, $54.99 for 10K, $44.99 for 5K. $12.99 for 5K Kids Fun Run. allcommunityevents.com/starsandstripesrun.

Jen Kalmus of Round Lake cheers as she makes her final approach toward the finish line during last year’s Rock ’n’ Run the runway 5K race at Chicago Executive Airport in Wheeling. This year’s race is at 8 a.m. Saturday, June 28. | Joe Lewnard/jlewnard@dailyherald.com, 2024

Rock ’n’ Run the Runway: 8 a.m. and 6-10:30 p.m. Saturday, June 28, at Chicago Executive Airport, 1080 S. Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling. 5K run and 1-mile walk at 8 a.m. Return at 6 p.m. for food trucks, beer and wine, and live music by Wildfire at 6 p.m. and 7th heaven at 8:15 p.m., and fireworks at 9:15 p.m. Free admission. rocknruntherunway.com.

Carpentersville Independence Day Parade: 10 a.m. Saturday, June 28, at Carpenter Park, 275 Maple Ave., Carpentersville. Annual parade starts at South Lincoln Avenue and Main Street, continues east on Main, south on Washington Avenue to Spring Street, and east on Spring to Carpenter Park. Free. cville.org.

Celebrate Fox Lake: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, June 28, at Lakefront Park, 71 Nippersink Blvd., Fox Lake. Car show from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., a parade at 10 a.m., live music, food and drinks from 3-10 p.m. and fireworks at dusk. Free. (224) 225-1404 or foxlake.org.

Uncaged in the Zoo: 12:30-1:30 p.m. Saturday, June 28, at Lords Park Zoo, off Grand Boulevard, Elgin. Scales & Tales Traveling Zoo featuring Xena the Sloth. Free. elginil.gov.

American Radio Relay League 2025 Field Day: 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, June 28-29, at 3208 Bay Road, Crystal Lake. 415 Amateur Radio Club of Crystal Lake hosts its eighth annual demonstration of amateur “ham” radio, where multiple radio stations will be operating. Observe a variety of communications using voice, Morse code and digital techniques. Free. the415arc.com.

Yappy Hour at Bridges Beer Garden: 1-4 p.m. Saturday, June 28, at Bridges Beer Garden, 1400 Poplar Creek Drive, Hoffman Estates. Live music, games, auction and raffles. Benefiting Midwest Australian Shepard Rescue. Free. heparks.org.

“A Chicago Trilogy”: 3 p.m. Saturday, June 28, at the Performing Arts Center at Harper College, 1200 W. Algonquin Road, Building R, Palatine. Composer Dr. Michael Karasis presents his “A Chicago Trilogy” featuring Katherine Petersen, solo soprano and piano, with the Chicago Trilogy Orchestra. Also on the program will be Karasis’ Fugue for Orchestra. $25. jamieoreilly.com/events/gig-17604.

Stars ‘N Stripes Fest: 3 p.m. Saturday, June 28, at Cary-Grove Park, Three Oaks Road and North First Street, Cary. Food trucks, adult beverages, kids’ inflatables and activities, music from Modern Day Romeos at 6:30 p.m. and fireworks at dusk. Free admission; parking $20 per vehicle. Swimming at Sunburst Bay Aquatic Center: $10 for Sunburst Bay members and $15 for nonmembers. carypark.com

Dundee Township fireworks: 6-10 p.m. Saturday, June 28, at Meadowdale Park, Besinger Drive and Maple Avenue, Carpentersville. Entertainment, food vendors and visit with community partners from 6-9 p.m., with fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Fireworks may begin 30 minutes earlier or later depending on weather conditions. Rain date: June 29. Free. dtpd.org.

“Mamma Mia!” Sing-Along: 7 p.m. Saturday, June 28, at the Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. Watch the movie starring Meryl Streep and sing along. Free. rauecenter.org

Sunday, June 29

Calibre Car Show: 9 a.m. to noon Sunday, June 29, at The Arboretum of South Barrington, 100 W. Higgins Road, South Barrington. Car show with the theme J-LIGN Cars and Coffee. Free. shopthearb.com/events.

Slammedenuff Chicago Car Show: 1-6 p.m. Sunday, June 29, at the Lake County Fairgrounds, 1060 E. Peterson Road, Grayslake. Indoor and outdoor car show with competitive awards and car meet. Tickets start at $30. slammedenuff.com

Monday, June 30

Northwest Concert Band: 7:30 p.m. Monday, June 30, at the Community Church of Rolling Meadows, 2720 Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows. “Patriots and Heroes” concert featuring patriotic pieces such as the “Armed Forces Salute,” “Stars and Stripes Forever” and “Amber Waves of Grain.” Free. northwestconcertband.org

Tuesday, July 1

Crystal Lake Concerts in the Park: 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 1, at Main Beach, 300 Lakeshore Drive, Crystal Lake. Voices in Harmony will perform. Free. For parking locations, see crystallakeparks.org/special-events.

Dundee Township Concerts in the Park: 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 1, at Lions Park in East Dundee. Latin Swing Factor will perform, with salsa lessons before the show. Food and drinks sold by Dundee Township Lions Club, with proceeds benefiting the community. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. Co-sponsored by the villages of Carpentersville, East Dundee, Sleepy Hollow and West Dundee. Free. dtpd.org/concerts-in-the-park

Huntley Concerts on the Square: 7-9 p.m. Tuesday, July 1, at Huntley Town Square on Coral Street, Huntley. ARRA will perform. Bring personal care products or paper goods to benefit Grafton Food Pantry. Free. huntley.il.us

Wednesday, July 2

Members of the Rolling Meadows High School Marching Band perform during last year’s Frontier Days Fourth of July Parade in Arlington Heights. | Joe Lewnard/jlewnard@dailyherald.com, July 4, 2024

Frontier Days Festival: 5-11 p.m. Wednesday, July 2; 5 p.m. to midnight Thursday, July 3; noon to midnight Friday and Saturday, July 4-5; and noon to 10 p.m. Sunday, July 6, at Recreation Park, 500 E. Miner St., Arlington Heights. Carnival, Fourth of July parade, entertainment, food, soccer 3v3, Stampede Run/Walk, marketplace, family activities and more. Music: 7th heaven at 8 p.m. Wednesday; Dishwalla at 8 p.m. Thursday; BoDeans at 8 p.m. Friday, July 4; Bruce In The USA at 8 p.m. Saturday, July 5; and American English at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, July 6. Free. frontierdays.org

Frontier Days returns Wednesday through Sunday, July 2-6, to Recreation Park in Arlington Heights. | Joe Lewnard/jlewnard@dailyherald.com, 2017

Northwest Fourth-Fest: 5-11 p.m. Wednesday, July 2; noon to 11 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, July 3-5; and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, July 6, at 5333 Prairie Stone Parkway, Hoffman Estates. Carnival, live entertainment, parade at 9 a.m. Friday, fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Kids’ Zone, bingo, food vendors and more. Main stage entertainment includes Run Forrest Run at 5:30 p.m. and Modern Day Romeos at 8:30 and 10 p.m. Friday, and David’s House at 5:30 p.m. and 7th heaven at 8:30 and 10 p.m. Saturday. Free. northwestfourthfest.com

The Palatine Jaycees Fourth of July Hometown Fest runs Wednesday through Sunday, July 2-6, at Palatine’s Community Park. | Courtesy of Palatine Jaycees

Palatine Jaycees Hometown Fest: 5-10 p.m. Wednesday, July 2; 5 p.m. to midnight Thursday, July 3; noon to midnight Friday and Saturday, July 4-5; and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, July 6, at Palatine Community Park, 250 E. Wood St., Palatine. Fireworks at dusk Thursday, carnival, music, food vendors, parade at 11 a.m. Saturday, craft and business expo Saturday and Sunday and more. Music lineup: Thursday: Bucket Number Six at 7 p.m. and Too Much Molly at 10 p.m.; Friday: Marina City at 7:30 p.m. and Boy Band Review at 10 p.m.; Saturday: Whiskey Road at 7:30 p.m. and iPop at 10 p.m. Free. hometown-fest.com

Mount Prospect Lions Club Fourth of July Festival: 6-11 p.m. Wednesday, July 2; 1-11 p.m. Thursday, July 3; 6-11 p.m. Friday, July 4; and 1-11 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, July 5-6, at Melas Park, 1500 W. Central Road, Mount Prospect. Food, beer, live entertainment, carnival and more. Fireworks at 8:45 p.m. Wednesday and 9 p.m. Friday. Music lineup: Wednesday: Sealed with a Kiss at 7:30 p.m. and Hairbangers Ball at 9:15 and 9:45 p.m.; Thursday: Petty Union at 7:30 p.m. and One of These Nights at 9:15 p.m.; Friday: The Mix at 8:30 and 10 p.m.; Saturday: One of the Boyzz at 7:30 p.m. and Infinity at 9 p.m.; Sunday: Rico! at 9:45 p.m. and more. Free admission; ride wristbands available for purchase. mplions.org

Elgin Symphony Orchestra’s Patriotic Brass & Percussion concert: 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 2, at the Robert G. Soule Amphitheater at Citizens Park, 511 Lake Zurich Road, Barrington. Bring a picnic and lawn chairs. Free. elginsymphony.org.

South Elgin Summer Concert Series: 6:30-8 p.m. Wednesday, July 2, at Panton Mill Park, 10 N. Water St., South Elgin. The Illinois Army National Guard’s 144th Army Band will perform. Food Truck Wednesdays: 6-8 p.m. Free. southelgin.com/pantonmillpark.

Wickstrom Lincoln Concert Series: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 2, at the Arboretum of South Barrington, 100 W. Higgins Road, South Barrington. One of These Nights will perform. Concessions. Free. shopthearb.com.

John Hopkins Magic Show: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 2, at Hey Nonny, 10 S. Vail Ave., Arlington Heights. Sleight-of-hand, juggling, ventriloquism, pick-pocketing, audience participation and more. $18.70-$36.55. heynonny.com

Thursday, July 3

Lakeside Festival: Noon to 11 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, July 3-5, and noon to 10 p.m. Sunday, July 6, at The Dole, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake. Carnival rides, food, beer garden, superhero characters, kids’ decorated bike parade, kids’ ice-cream eating contest, cornhole tournament and more. Note: Cashless payment. $10, $5 for ages 65 and older, free for active military with ID and kids 12 and younger. thedole.org/the-fest.

Mundelein Community Days: Noon to 11 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, July 3-6, in Courtland Commons Park, at the corner of Seymour and Courtland, Mundelein. Carnival, Freedom Classic 5K at 8 a.m. Friday, fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Friday, parade at 1 p.m. Sunday, food, music, games, contests, demonstrations, displays and more. Music lineup: Thursday: 7th heaven at 8:30 p.m.; Friday: Mackenzie O’Brien at 8:30 p.m.; Saturday: The Disco Circus at 8:30 p.m.; and Sunday: Blooze Brothers at 6:30 p.m. Free. mundelein.org/200/Mundelein-Community-Days-2025

Bartlett Fourth of July Festival: 3-11 p.m. Thursday, July 3; noon to 11 p.m. Friday, July 4; noon to 11 p.m. Saturday, July 5; and noon to 9 p.m. Sunday, July 6, at the Bartlett Community Center, 700 S. Bartlett Road, Bartlett. Live entertainment, fireworks at 9:15 p.m. Friday, parade at 10 a.m. Saturday, food vendors, carnival and more. Carnival hours for those with special needs from noon to 2 p.m. Thursday. Music: Thursday: Anthem at 9 p.m.; Friday: Libido Funk Circus at 8 p.m. and Disco Circus at 9:45 p.m.; Saturday: Smokin’ Gunz at 9 p.m.; and Sunday: Modern Day Romeos at 4:30 p.m. and 7th heaven at 7 p.m. Free. bartlett4thofjuly.com.

Hawthorn Woods Fireworks: 3 p.m. Thursday, July 3, at Hawthorn Woods Community Park, 5 Park View Lane, Hawthorn Woods. Food vendors open at 5 p.m. Live music by No Limit at 6 p.m. Fireworks at 9:15 p.m. Free. vhw.org/4thofJuly.

Find many more opportunities here.

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Long Grove Strawberry Fest starts Friday

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

Long Grove Strawberry Fest returns to historic Long Grove Friday through Sunday, June 27-29. | Courtesy of Grimaldi Public Relations

By Grimaldi Public Relations

Long Grove’s beloved Strawberry Fest returns Friday through Sunday, June 27-29, inviting families, foodies and festivalgoers to experience three days of sweet nostalgia, vibrant music, and small-town charm. Set against a backdrop of flower-laden walkways, colorful vintage storefronts, and an iconic single-lane covered bridge, downtown Long Grove becomes a buzz of berry-inspired food, family fun, and free-spirited entertainment that captures the essence of summer in full bloom.

Festival hours are noon to 11 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Events take place in historic downtown Long Grove, 145 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove.

Long Grove Strawberry fest includes everything from strawberry shortcake and chocolate covered strawberries to strawberry drinks, popcorn and more. | Courtesy of Grimaldi Public Relations

Strawberry Fest is a feast for the senses, with dozens of vendors offering creative berry treats, from classic shortcakes and doughnuts to inventive spins like strawberry popcorn, smoothies, lattes and spritzers. Long Grove’s restaurants, bars and shops also get in on the fun with strawberry-themed specials, sidewalk pop-ups, and seasonal cocktails that invite visitors to sip, shop and stroll.

The restaurants, bars and shops of Historic Downtown Long Grove offer strawberry-themed specials, sidewalk pop-ups, special offers and more during Strawberry Fest. | Courtesy of Grimaldi Public Relations

With multiple stages and an electric Main Stage set beside the Long Grove covered bridge, this year’s music lineup is stacked with top tribute bands and crowd-favorite performers. Expect everything from Led Zeppelin and Tom Petty tributes to ABBA and the Foo Fighters. Additional performances throughout town offer something for every vibe, from acoustic by the pond to interactive fun in Fountain Square.

Main Stage entertainment at the Long Grove Strawberry Fest include tribute bands like Kashmir, Petty Kings Too Fighters, Dancing Queen and more. | Courtesy of Grimaldi Public Relations

Main Stage highlights Include Led Zeppelin tribute Kashmir, Tom Petty tribute Petty Kings and more on Friday; Foo Fighters tribute Too Fighters, Red Hot Chili Peppers tribute Funky Monks and more on Saturday; and ABBA tribute Dancing Queen, the Robby Celestin Band and more on Sunday. For full lineups, visit longgrove.org/festivals/strawberry-fest.

The festival also includes a classic carnival midway, kids’ crafts, live DJs, and strawberry pie-eating contests. With Long Grove’s recently expanded pedestrian pathways, it’s easier than ever to explore the fest.

Admission is $7 per day or $15 for a three-day pass. Children 12 and younger are free.

For details and tickets, visit longgrove.org/festivals/strawberry-fest.

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Goebbert’s Maker’s Market this weekend

Posted in Entertainment, South Barrington on June 20, 2025| Leave a Comment »

“Get ready to immerse yourself in a vibrant display of artistry, innovation, and local flavor at the Goebbert’s Maker’s Market. The market is open Saturday, June 21 and Sunday, June 22.

You will be able to shop from 50+ local vendors who will be selling everything from handmade goods, foods, and other unique creations. There will also be food trucks and fresh produce! For quick tips for those attending to event highlights visit Goebbert’s Makers Market.”

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