From neighborhood street fairs to beloved small-town traditions and Route 66 Centennial celebrations, these events reflect the state’s culture, food and music.

Brookfield Zoo's Dinos! exhibit features life-sized dinosaurs throughout the zoo. The exhibit opens for the season May 22.

Plan a trip to Starved Rock Country in the Illinois Valley for a day of fun-filled adventure.

Summer is almost here, and that means it's festival season across northern Illinois.

Enjoy waterfront dining at these restaurants along beautiful rivers and lakes in northern Illinois this season.

Events happening in May and June include Revolutionary War Weekend June 13-14, Red Oaks Farm Table dinners and more.

This all-ages celebration is free to attend and brings families together for an unforgettable evening of fun with live entertainment, family activities and more.

Roaring Nights concert series, new Dinos! Experience and anniversary celebrations headline can’t-miss summer lineup.

Additional shows in the 2026-27 season include "Annie," "9 to 5" and "Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story."

Luis Maldonado, who opened Ikal Y Sanse in Campton Hills last August, bought a second Mexican eatery, Barrio Taqueria & Cocina in Carol Stream. The spot even offers a special limited menu for dogs

Explore the variety of wines from California's Cadre Wines.

From fireworks-filled nights and high-energy concerts to celebratory dining and thrilling speedboat rides, City Cruises delivers unforgettable summer moments on Lake Michigan and the Chicago River.

Thousands are expected at Pacifica Square in honor of Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

Blooming Fest is Saturday, May 16 in downtown West Chicago.

Upcoming events include the Spritz Stroll, the return of Innovator Hale Street Tents and more!

For more than 25 years, Black Label Society, led by Zakk Wylde, has remained a relentless force in heavy, blues-driven hard rock and metal, crafting songs that celebrate the highs and lows of everyday life.

Festivals are blooming across northern Illinois this month.

Savor a variety of flavors this spring and summer at these vibrant food truck festivals in northern Illinois.

Over 30 food trucks will line up on Benton Street between River Street and Broadway in the heart of downtown Aurora, serving a diverse array of culinary delights.

Check out these farmers markets opening for the 2026 season in northern Illinois.

Discover museums, nature centers and historic sites ccross Kane and DuPage counties.

The Morton Arboretum's Spring Wine Tasting event is from 1-4 p.m. Saturday, May 9.

This extraordinary production, which honors seven decades of dedication to preserving Lithuanian culture, will be at the Rialto Square Theatre May 10.

Enjoy the outdoors and immerse yourself in nature this spring at these four destinations.

Spring is here, and that means it's the perfect season to get out and explore new destinations.

Treat mom to a concert or mini-golf this Mother's Day on Sunday, May 10.

Spring is here, and that means the return of some of the area's most popular beer and wine festivals of the year.

Five shows have been added to the Comedy at Copley series, which runs through Nov. 7, 2026.

The Tequila Dinner is Thursday, May 7, and the Spring Wine Tasting event is Saturday, May 9.

Find the perfect champagne or sparkling wine for Mother's Day.

Art in Wilder Park is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 2 and Sunday, May 3 at Elmhurst's Wilder Park.

In partnership with the Elmhurst Park District, the Elmhurst Art Museum announces the return of Art in Wilder Park to the heart of Elmhurst.

Mother's Day is Sunday, May 10.

The 2026 Kentucky Derby is Saturday, May 2. Celebrate at these events in Kane, Will, Cook and McHenry counties.

These flower-filled events in the Midwest go beyond the blooms, offering everything from artisan markets and live music to garden tours and family-friendly activities.

This free, family-friendly event brings costumed characters to downtown Aurora.

Starting June 20, a full slate of special events, features and throwbacks are planned to honor the park’s heritage and 50th anniversary.

The Orion Ensemble will perform at 3 p.m. May 3 at New England Congregational Church in Aurora.

Cantigny in Wheaton will celebrate the grand reopening of the Robert R. McCormick House from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, April 25 and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, April 26.

Across the suburbs and throughout the region, you’ll find fascinating spots dedicated to art, history, science and unique local stories.

Delmark Day will begin with a live blues rehearsal session with The Delmark All-Stars and 18-year-old vocal prodigy Jaden Allen. The interactive masterclass will offer attendees the opportunity to watch Blues musicians at work, honing their craft of authentic Chicago Blues. 

From animal encounters to Glow Wild nights and dino-sized adventures, Brookfield Zoo Chicago offers new experiences and seasonal favorites for guests of all ages.

The new Guzman Y Gomez restaurant will be located on South Route 59 in Naperville, and will open later this year.

Third Eye Blind will perform Aug. 23, while Six One Five Collective takes the stage July 25.

The concert will feature guest soloist Cornelius Chiu, violinist with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, who will performing Sibelius’ Violin Concerto, op. 47, D minor.

The 2026 summer series events include live music, theater, visual arts and more.

Wheaton Park District’s Superhero 3K Fun Run is at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, April 18 at the Sensory Garden Playground.

Chicago-based comedians will take the stage at the Copley Theatre in downtown Aurora on select Saturday nights through May 2 as part of the Copley Comedy Series.

Northern Illinois is home to some notably beautiful botanical gardens and arboretums waiting to be explored.

Other performers this summer include The Beach Boys, Gov't Mule, Poi Dog Pondering, Lauren Alaina and tributes to Bee Gees, Led Zeppelin and many more.