Taste of Chicago

Taste of Chicago is the nation's premier outdoor food festival showcasing the diversity of Chicago's dining community. The delicious array of food served at Taste of Chicago is complemented by music and exciting activities for the entire family. Every summer since 1980, Chicago's beautiful Grant Park on the city's magnificent lakefront has been home to the world's largest food festival.

CITY: Chicago

Chicago Air and Water Show

This summertime favorite brings approximately two million people to the lakefront each year to witness the many feats that will be attempted and performed both in water and air. Civilian and military air crafts perform at soaring heights, while parachute teams and flying aerobatic acts entertain the audience below.

CITY: Chicago

Animal Inside Out, a Body Worlds production

This spring and summer, the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago (MSI) will offer the unique chance to explore the intricate biology and physiology of some of the world’s most spectacular creatures in “Animal Inside Out, a Body Worlds production.” The exhibition showcases more than 100 animal specimens that have been preserved through the process of plastination. From goats to giraffes and octopuses to ostriches, guests will see the inner workings of some of the world's most impressive animals and better understand the evolution of animals and the natural world.

CITY: Chicago

Canine Cruise

Chicago’s ONLY Canine Cruise welcomes well-behaved and leashed canines and families aboard Mercury, Chicago's Skyline Cruiseline for a 90-minute lake and river sightseeing boat ride with lively commentary about dog-friendly Chicago.

CITY: Chicago

Messing with a Friend

Messing With a Friend features Susan Messing, and other invited talented and funny improvisors from around Chicago, from iO to Second City to The Annoyance. A collection of self-edited improvised scenes based on a single suggestion. A joyful, uncensored, and improvised romp through hell. Thursday nights at 10:30 pm. Admission is $5.

CITY: Chicago

Chicago Pride Fest

It's all about GLBT pride at Chicago Pride Fest®! One week before Chicago's iconic Pride Parade on June 30 – this festive two-day event marks the first official party of summer. Hosted by the Northalsted Business Alliance,this crowd-pleasing gay and lesbian celebration of community pride showcases an eclectic lineup of arts and crafts, food and other vendors. It also features entertainment on two stages with one dedicated to some of Chicago's fine performers in the gay community. Stay tuned for this year's stage lineup!

CITY: Chicago

Dinosaurs Alive!

Dinosaurs Alive! They're back at Brookfield Zoo, and they're bigger and better than before. Some favorites are returning but many are new! Brookfield Zoo guests can take a trip back millions of years and experience Dinosaurs Alive!, presented by Dominicks. Come and enjoy this unique, fun, and educational exhibit of Tyrannosaurus proportions that will feature supersized animatronic dinosaurs, including favorites like Stegosaurus and Triceratops, as well as obscure dinosaur species with unusual characteristics, like feathers.

CITY: Brookfield

The Book of Mormon

Nine 2011 Tony Awards® say it's the Best Musical of the Year. Vogue says, "It's the best musical of the last 25 years." And The New York Times says, "It's the best musical of this century." It's THE BOOK OF MORMON, the Broadway phenomenon from South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone and Avenue Q co-creator Robert Lopez. The Daily Show's Jon Stewart calls it "A crowning achievement. So good, it makes me angry." Contains explicit language.

CITY: Chicago

Boeing, Boeing

Boeing, Boeing was revived in 2007 after an undeniably successful seven-year run in the West End. The Wall Street Journal hailed Boeing-Boeing as one of "the funniest plays to hit Broadway in ages" and The Daily Telegraph said it was "the funniest show on the London stage." This charming revival focuses on Bernard, a jet setting architect living in Paris. He has been successfully juggling three flight attendant fiancés with the help of his reluctant housekeeper who keeps track of everyone's comings and goings. Mayhem follows soon after the arrival of an old college pal as flights are delayed, schedules change and chaos ensues. The laughs come fast and furious when Bernard finds himself struggling to keep up with his overwhelming amorous lies. Audiences will have to fasten their seat belts for a roaring ride that will take them up, up and away!

CITY: Oakbrook Terrace

Carousel @ The Annoyance Theatre

Carousel is a revolving door of improv groups, showcasing Annoyance students and performers in their most creative ensembles. Tuesday nights at 8pm. Admission is $8.

CITY: Chicago

Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

Kick off the holiday season and create your special memories on The Magnificent Mile in 2013! The BMO Harris Bank Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, the nation’s largest evening holiday celebration, jump starts the holiday season on Saturday, November 23 with a full day of family friendly activities, concerts by top musical artists and the best holiday shopping. The day’s excitement culminates with a grand evening parade down Michigan Avenue marshaled by Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse from Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, illuminating one million lights on 200 trees. The parade concludes with a grand finale fireworks show over the Chicago River.

CITY: Chicago

TNT (Tuesday Night Thing)

An Explosion of Improv Talent! You want to see some of the best of the best improvisers in the city of Chicago, in one night, in one place in one show?? THIS IS IT. Seriously. You don't get much better than these folks... Tuesday nights at 9:30pm. Admission is $8.

CITY: Chicago

Daley Plaza Farmers Market

The Daley Plaza Farmers Market offers fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods and other items every Thursday from May 24th until October 18th. Every Thursday, 7 am - 3 pm.

CITY: Chicago

Chicago Pride Parade

The Chicago 44th Annual Pride Parade will showcase GLBT Pride with over 850,000 participants and spectators.The parade contains over 200 registered entries that includes floats, decorated vehicles, marching bands and walking groups.

CITY: Chicago

Impressionism, Fashion, and Modernity

Were the Impressionists fashionistas? At a time in France when designers like Charles Frederick Worth changed how clothing was made and marketed into the first manifestations of the modern fashion industry, artists were using fashion to communicate modernity as an idea. The Impressionism, Fashion, and Modernity exhibit at The Art Institute of Chicago covers this period between the 1860s and 1880s that saw not only the rise of the department store and the proliferation of fashion magazines but also serious interests among an artistic and literary elite in the ephemeral and constantly innovative qualities of fashion as a means of discovering new visual and verbal expressions.

CITY: Chicago

Lollapalooza

Join thousands of music fans in Chicago’s Grant Park for the summer’s biggest music festival. This three-day gathering features 70 acts on five stages, giving you a chance to see everything from hip hop and heavy metal to punk and alternative rock.

CITY: Chicago

Annoyance House Ensemble in Fire & Beer

Cast and directed by Mick Napier, the Annoyance House Ensemble is a collection of some of the best emerging talent in Chicago. Friday nights at 10 pm. Admission is $10.

CITY: Chicago

Chicago Cubs Opening Day

Celebrate the unofficial start to spring with the Chicago Cubs home opener against the Milwaukee Brewers. First pitch is at 1:20pm at the historic Wrigley Field.

CITY: Chicago

Smokey Joe’s Café – The Songs of Leiber and Stoller

Smokey Joe’s Café, originally presented, in it’s pre-Broadway engagement as Baby That’s Rock n Roll, the Songs of Leiber and Stoller at The Royal George Theatre in 1994, returns to its roots at The Royal George with the 2012 critically acclaimed Theo Ubique Cabaret production. The original Broadway presentation had a successful five-year run with 2,036 performances at the Virginia Theatre. Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, as much as anyone, virtually invented rock ‘n’ roll, and now their songs provide the basis for an electrifying entertainment that illuminates a golden age of American culture. Theo Ubique Cabaret Theatre’s Smokey Joe’s Café – The Songs of Leiber and Stoller’s features nearly 40 of the greatest songs ever recorded, covering the classic themes of love won, lost and imagined blend with hilarious set-pieces and slice-of-life emotions, such as “Hound Dog,” “Love Potion #9,” “Yakety Yak,” “Charlie Brown,” and “Jailhouse Rock,” and with a cast of nine plus a four piece band, the return of this hit production is sure to bring sold out crowds to their feet once again.

CITY: Chicago

Backlot Bash

Back Lot Bash is the hottest, most rockin’ and most attended outdoor women’s festival taking place every Pride Weekend in Chicago. Each day showcases a different mix of music and entertainment for the entire community.

CITY: Chicago

Christkindlmarket

The Christkindlmarket is a four-week, open-air market modeled after the famous Nuremberg Christmas market dating back to 1545. The market offers shopping opportunities and serves as a winter wonderland meeting place for family and friends. Plus, enjoy German delicacies like brats, goulash and potato pancakes while you’re there.

CITY: Chicago

Northhalsted Market Days

Held on four blocks in one of Chicago's most popular year-round neighborhoods for both city residents and visitors, Northalsted Market Days® is the Midwest's largest two-day street festival. Featuring top-name entertainment, food and vendors galore.

CITY: Chicago

Chicago White Sox Opening Day

Celebrate the unofficial start to spring with the Chicago White Sox home opener against the Kansas City Royals. First pitch is at 3:10pm at US Cellular Field.

CITY: Chicago

EXPO CHICAGO

Set to occur on Chicago's historic Navy Pier, Expo Chicago - the inaugural international exposition of contemporary & modern art.

CITY: Chicago

What The Tour Guide Didn't Tell You: A Chicago Revue

The Second City does The Second City in this hilarious hometown revue that pulls from 52 years of classic scenes and songs that lovingly make fun of the city we call home. Whether its wholesale political corruption or a hapless ball club on the north side of town, "What the Tour Guide Didn't Tell You" is a great way to get a laugh filled look at the Windy City. Tuesdays at 8pm. Saturday & Sundays at 4pm.

CITY: Chicago

Lincoln Park Zoo Lights

Enter a winter wonderland illuminated by the laughter of children and more than one million lights at Lincoln Park Zoo’s annual ZooLights Presented by ComEd and Charter One. This holiday classic has become one of the Windy City’s must-see seasonal events. Watch live ice carving then escape Jack Frost with an exotic trip past crocodiles, pygmy hippos and meerkats at the Regenstein African Journey. Animal exhibits stay open late as guests roam taking in the lights, music and taking photos with Santa. Prepare holiday crafts and enjoy the zoo’s incredible animals immersed in an atmosphere unlike any other.

CITY: Chicago

Young Frankenstein

Young Frankenstein is a wickedly inspired re-imagining of the Frankenstein legend based on Mel Brooks' classic comedy masterpiece, hailed by the American Film Institute as one of the funniest movies of all time. The story follows bright young Dr. Frankenstein as he attempts to complete his grandfather's masterwork and bring a corpse to life. Together with his oddly shaped and endearing helper Igor, his curvaceous lab assistant Inga, and, in spite of his incredibly self-involved madcap fiancée Elizabeth, Frankenstein succeeds in creating a monster - but not without scary and quite often hilarious complications. Young Frankenstein is scientifically-proven, monstrously good entertainment. It’s ritzy, glitzy and blitzfully funny!

CITY: Oakbrook Terrace

Rockin in the Park

After last year’s successful inaugural celebration, the Village of Rosemont announces the return of their free summer concert series, ‘Rockin’ in The Park.’ Expanding upon last year’s series, the 2013 festival will be a summer-long concert series, beginning on Thursday, June 6 and continuing through Thursday, August 15. The festival, sponsored by WXRT, will feature eleven live bands, fireworks and food and beverage tents on the great lawn in the center of new MB Financial Park at Rosemont, located at 5501 Park Place, Rosemont. Throughout June, July, and August, there will be a variety of live music including 7th Heaven, Hi Infidelity, Kashmir, Spazmatics, Arra, Libido, Funk Circus, 16 Candles, American English, Modern Day Romeos, Infinity and Breakfast Club. Admission is free, parking is free with validation and outside coolers cannot be brought into the park.

CITY: Rosemont

Boo! at the Zoo

Halloween fun awaits families at Brookfield Zoo’s annual Boo! at the Zoo celebration. The popular daytime event, presented by Fisher-Price, features a Costume Parade, Costume Showcase, professional pumpkin-carving demonstrations, not-so-scary games and activities, special animal Zoo Chats, and haunted hayrides. For more information, visit www.CZS.org or call (708) 688-8000.

CITY: Brookfield

Improv All-Stars

See Chicago’s finest improvisers under the direction of the legendary Mick Napier in an evening of unscripted and unequaled improvisational comedy. This show is highly interactive, hilarious and thoroughly original. The Chicago Tribune calls it "a slick and entertaining show!" Mondays at 8pm.

CITY: Chicago

Cool Cars Under the Stars 2013

DuPage County, Chicago's Western Suburbs - Wednesday nights, head to Elmhurst City Centre for Cool Cars Under the Stars. Every week is a different theme, including Ford Night, military, and so much more. Rev up your engines, and cruise into the heart of downtown Elmhurst for this family-friendly, weekly classic car show featuring some of the hottest wheels in town.

CITY: Elmhurst

The Electric Baby

When a young man is killed in a car accident, a group of fractured souls come together to care for a magical glowing baby. Folk tales and folklore weave throughout this story of sad endings, strange beginnings and the unlikely people that get you from one place to the next. This powerful and moving new play received it’s world premiere last spring at Pittsburgh’s Quantam Theatre and was hailed by the critics as “Enthralling” “Eloquent” And “Glowing.”

CITY: Chicago

The Three Musketeers

In pursuit of his dream of becoming a Musketeer, young d’Artagnan travels to Paris, where he befriends the legendary Three Inseparables: Athos, Porthos, and Aramis. His acts of bravery catch the eye of King Louis XIII, but ensnare d’Artagnan in the deadly schemes of Cardinal Richelieu and the beautiful, yet depraved, Milady Clarik. When Constance, the love of his life, is kidnapped on the eve of war, d’Artagnan must weigh his loyalties to king and country, comrades-in-arms, and the callings of his heart. Journey from Paris to London, from countryside taverns to glittering palaces, from a humble Gascon farm to the siege of La Rochelle, in an epic tale of passion, intrigue, and adventure.

CITY: Chicago

Matteson Family Days

The Village of Matteson is proud to present the 29th Annual Matteson Family Days. The event will take place over a 2 day period on Friday from 5pm – 10pm & Saturday from 1pm – 10pm. Matteson Family Days will be an extravaganza of music, food and entertainment for people of all ages. The event will provide the community with family entertainment, activities for children, appetizing food and much more.

CITY: Matteson

Magnificent Mile Shopping Festival

The Magnificent Mile Shopping Festival presented by MasterCard is all about celebrating the world-class Magnificent Mile shopping experience. Shopping Festival attendees receive VIP treatment with exclusive in-store offers and events, celebrity appearances, fashion shows, culinary celebrations, outdoor concerts, fabulous hotel packages, special perks for MasterCard cardholders and much more. The Shopping Festival is the perfect opportunity to book an end-of-summer getaway to The Magnificent Mile to enjoy an unforgettable lineup of events.

CITY: Chicago

Next to Normal

DuPage County, Chicago's Western Suburbs - We are honored to present the regional premiere of Next To Normal, one of only eight musicals in history to win the Pulitzer Prize for drama. This riveting story is an intricate dissection of a "normal" American family. Driven by an incredible score (which won Tony Awards for Best Original Score and Best Orchestrations) the narrative burrows into family secrets long since buried. This is a musical that asks the question: Can the seemingly perfect family survive an insurmountable event and tender the untenable. A story whose mere description would destroy it. See it before anyone reveals its secrets. Book and Lyrics by Brian Yorkey and Music by Tom Kitt.

CITY: Oakbrook Terrace

Taste of Lincoln Avenue

One of the city's largest and most popular summer celebrations, Taste of Lincoln Avenue will be celebrating its BIG 30th in 2013! This iconic event takes place over six city blocks and boasts four music stages, food, a one-block long kids' area, the Lill Street Craft Fair and lots more! Located on N. Lincoln Ave between Fullerton & Wrightwood.

CITY: Chicago

Out at Wrigley

The nation's largest annual LGBT sporting event is growing even more this year, adding a special prize for a finalist of the annual national anthem contest and adding the induction of the new National Gay and Lesbian Sports Hall of Fame to create a weekend-long LGBT sports event. The weekend kicks off at the Center on Halsted at 6:00 on Friday, August 2nd.

CITY: Chicago

SKETCHBOOK '13 Festival

14 World Premiere Works of Theater. 4 Programs to Choose From. The annual SKETCHBOOK Festival is Collaboraction at its best: breaking down the walls that divide theater, music, visual art, video, and the internet. Selected from hundreds of submissions, SKETCHBOOK once again brings together the collective talents of more than 150 pioneering directors, designers, actors, musicians and artists from Chicago and around the country for a jaw-dropping evening of creativity, experimentation, and celebration.

CITY: Chicago

Christmas Around the World & Holidays of Light

Christmas Around the World began in 1942 as a United Nations Day salute to American allies during the war, is now in its 69th year. The exhibit features more than 60 dazzling trees and displays that are decorated by members of Chicago's ethnic communities to reflect holiday customs from around the world. Holidays of Light showcases various global holidays that celebrate light or enlightenment such as Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Diwali. Festivities include ethnic dancing and singing, storytellers, and school choir performances.

CITY: Chicago

Chinatown Summer Fair

This iconic annual celebration is one of the most ethnically unique outdoor events in the Midwest. Attracting tens of thousands from throughout the region, Chinatown Summer Fair is a true celebration of Far East beauty and culture including food, art and music. Visitors will be amazed by the Lion Dance Procession as well as classical Chinese dance and martial arts demonstrations. There's also Old and New World music acts, kids' activities, artisans, authentic cuisine from neighborhood restaurants and much more.

CITY: Chicago

Warrenville Holly Days

Holly Days, sponsored by the Warrenville Park District is the City's annual holiday celebration that marks Santa's official entry into Warrenville. Guests can enjoy a warm bonfire, raffles, free horse and carriage rides, hot cider and cookies, and, of course, a visit with Santa. Local Park District and school dance troops, singers, and bands entertain attendees during the event. It is at this event that Warrenville officially turns on its holiday lights creating an array of colors for passersby along Route 56 to see. Holly Days, primarily for Warrenville residents, gives the community an opportunity to come together and kick off the holiday season.

CITY: Warrenville

Sapphire and Crystal Exhibition and Opening Reception

An exhibition of artworks by Chicago area African-American women artists who are members of Sapphire and Crystals, including Joyce owens, Felicia Grant Preston, and Pearlie Taylor. Show includes paintings, sculptures, photographs, mixed media works. Artists will be present at reception.

CITY: Chicago Heights

3rd Annual DownTown District MidSummer Madness

Visit participating Downtown businesses to qualify for fabulous raffle prizes. Free event! Food, fun & super goodie bags to first 100 attendees!

CITY: Park Forest

Proud to Run 5k & 10k

Proud To Run is a 10K run, 5K run or walk that celebrates LGBT pride during Chicago's Pride weekend. Proud To Run 2013 will raise funds for TPAN, The Night Ministry, and LINKS- Pride Youth Program. It is presented in association with Frontrunners Chicago. This will be the 32nd annual event.

CITY: Chicago

North Halsted Halloween Parade

This iconic Halloween happening—now in its 17th year—is one of Chicago's largest celebrations of ghosts, goblins and costumes galore! Colorful and festive doesn't start to do justice to this iconic Halloween party that draws thousands of spectators of all ages who line the streets of Halsted to enjoy the evening's festivities. The parade receives widespread media coverage, and one of its highlights is the costume contest that draws scores of outrageously attired parade participants.

CITY: Chicago

Hello, Dolly!

DuPage County, Chicago's Western Suburbs - Hello, Dolly! has become one of the most enduring musical theater hits, enjoying three Broadway revivals and international success that included being made into the film that was nominated for seven Academy Awards. Hello, Dolly! is the story of turn-of-the-century widowed matchmaker Dolly Gallagher Levi, who, after cunningly negotiating marriages for others through a series of comic romantic entanglements, ultimately finds her own match. Hello, Dolly! is a magical piece of musical theater filled with memorable songs such as "Put On Your Sunday Clothes," "Before the Parade Passes By," and "It Only Takes A Moment." Show-stopping dance numbers like "Dancing" and "The Waiter's Gallop" are combined with beautiful turn-of-the-century costumes to create a musical the whole family will enjoy.

CITY: Oakbrook Terrace

Elmhurst Farmer's Market

Visit downtown Elmhurst on Wednesday mornings from June through October for the Elmhurst Farmers Market. You will find a variety of farmers and vendors. Olives, olive oil and pickles - along with the usual fruits and vegetables - will be among the items for sale at the Elmhurst Farmer's Market. Items sold will also include plants; baked goods; produce; consumable items; and arts and crafts.

CITY: Elmhurst

Taste of Latin America

This truly unique food festival, celebrating its second year is 2013, will be a gala weekend celebration all things Central and South American! Eclectic international cuisine, live music, arts & crafts and much more will be part of this festival's mix that showcases a rich multi-country heritage and Latin culture.

CITY: Chicago

The Stadium at the Ballpark

Seventy-mile per hour riseballs, 240-foot frozen ropes, soft hands and lightning-quick reactions all wound into seven feverish innings of gritty, gutsy, fast-paced action. Welcome to hard-hittin', fast-pitchin', affordable family fun. Welcome to National Pro Fastpitch! Come out and chear on the teams!

CITY: Rosemont

Holiday Magic at Brookfield Zoo

December 18th & 19th December 26th - 31st January 1st 4-9pm Start a new family tradition at Chicagoland's largest light festival featuring over 120 animated light displays and million twinkling lights. Come celebrate the holiday season with family and friends during Brookfield Zoos 29th annual Holiday Magic. Enjoy live entertainment, amazing animals, model trains and a train ride, special Dolphin Show, Sing to the Animals and professional ice carvers. Call or visit website for more info.

CITY: Brookfield

Bengtson's Pumpkin Farm

You'll experience hours of enjoyment including a relaxing tractor pulled hayrack ride, pumpkins of course, a completely animated haunted barn and a giggling animated fun barn, the famous action packed pig races (running 10x a day on the 1/2 hour), an adorable petting & feeding zoo, the giant crazy corn maizey and pony rides. Enjoy a variety of entertaining animation throughout the barnyard and farm.

CITY: Homer Glen

Moraine Chorale and Chamber Singers-Summer Patriotic Concert

The Moraine Chorale celebrates its 15th season performing five themed concerts, including Broadway music, operatic, patriotic, and holiday selections with a small chamber orchestra. The Chorale is a community-based choir with more than 60 members. The Chamber Singers is an ensemble featuring Moraine Valley students.

CITY: Palos Hills

ILGRA Windy City Rodeo

The International Gay Rodeo Association (IGRA) is an organization comprised of numerous regional Gay Rodeo Associations from across the United States and Canada. Illinois has a chapter and is hosting the Windy City Rodeo in Create, IL.

CITY: Crete

Taste of Lombard 2013

Celebrate summer fun and Independence Day with live music, family activities, great food, carnival, arts & crafts fair, and more. Don't miss the fireworks concert on July 4th at approximately 9:30pm.

CITY: Lombard

Hamlet

What do you get when you combine the ghost of a murdered king, his ambitious brother-in-law, a betrayed lover, and a prince hell-bent on revenge? Hamlet. Come celebrate the tenth anniversary of Moraine Valley's "Shakespeare Under the Stars" with our ambitious and creative interpretation of Shakespeare's masterpiece. Bring your picnic dinner and beach chairs to the Gateway Arch and experience our production of what many critics believe to be the greatest play ever written. Free admission. Thursday, August 1-Saturday, Aug. 3, 2013.

CITY: Palos Hills

HRC Chicago Gala Dinner

The Chicago Gala is a night of excitement honoring HRC’s most significant allies, both inside and outside the LGBT community. It is also a chance to celebrate recent accomplishments and look at future goals that have yet to be conquered. The Chicago Gala is the Human Rights Campaigns’ largest fundraiser in the Midwest, and directly contributes to the work they are doing locally and nationwide.

CITY: Chicago

Lansing Autumn Festival

Join us for this annual event where we bring the "hometown back to downtown!" Invite your family & friends! Oktoberfest: A family-friendly event. Friday: brats, burgers, beer & bands; Saturday & Sunday: arts & crafts, bands, bingo, car show, children's activities, food vendors, hayrides & more. For more information or to be a sponsor or vendor, contact: Lansing autumn fest committee, P.O. Box 176, Lansing, IL 60438; lansingautumnfest@comcast.net

CITY: Lansing

American Idol

American Idol® Live! returns this summer for another hit tour to showcase the season's talented top Finalists. Come out see the contestants from American Idol perform live.

CITY: Rosemont

Wizard World Chicago Comic Con at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center

THURSDAY-FRIDAY-SATURDAY-SUNDAY, AUGUST 8-9-10-11, 2013 Show Hours: Thursday, August 8, 2013 - 12 NOON - 8pm Friday, August 9, 2013 - 12 NOON - 8pm Saturday, August 10, 2013 - 10am - 7pm Sunday, August 11, 2013 - 10am - 5pm All full-price attendees will receive a limited-edition, exclusive cover variant of The Walking Dead #1 by TBD! Artist will be on hand to sign. Extremely limited quantities are available to fans only while supplies last! **Children 10 and under get in FREE when accompanied by a paid adult (Limit 2 Per Paid Adult Tickets). All show tickets will be e-mailed AND available as a pdf file after purchase.**

CITY: Rosemont

Festival de La Villita

The largest celebration of Mexican heritage and culture in the Midwest takes place in the heart of Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood. Celebrating its 24th year in 2013, Festival de La Villita (aka Little Village Festival) is a grand community gala that officially commemorates Mexico's independence from Spanish rule. And on Sunday, the crowds get even bigger as the festival is the end location of the 26th Street Parade—one of the largest in the city.

CITY: Chicago

Wavefront Beachside Music Festival

Wavefront Music Festival is a three-day electronic dance music festival returning to Chicago's Montrose Beach on July 5th, 6th, & 7th, 2013 and follows in the tradition of the great summer fests in Chicago, taking advantage of the warm weather and the city as a destination for thrill seekers nationwide. What makes Wavefront Music Festival unique - the best Electronic Dance Music the world has to offer, and Montrose Beach as its location.

CITY: Chicago

Concerts in the Park - Park Ridge

Don’t miss this year’s exciting line-up of FREE outdoor summer concerts in Park Ridge. 2013 marks the 53rd consecutive season that the Park Ridge Fine Arts Society has been bringing top-quality entertainment to the audiences of Park Ridge. Our summer 2013 season features five concerts by Park Ridge Fine Arts Symphony, a 50-piece ensemble made up of the finest free-lance professional musicians in the Chicago area, conducted by PRFAS Music Director Barbara Schubert. There will also be two concerts by the Brian Patti Big Band, on July 3 at Maine East High School and August 2 in Hodges Park. PLUS the Rob Parton Big Band on August 9, sponsored by the Park Ridge Recreation and Park District. All concerts are at 8 pm in Hodges Park, in front of Park Ridge City Hall, except July 3.

CITY: Park Ridge

Guinness Oyster Fest

Fresh & cooked oysters, great live music and—of course—great autumn beers combine to help kick off the unofficial start of fall at this acclaimed weekend festival held in Chicago’s trendy Roscoe Village neighborhood. Celebrating its 15th year in 2013, this popular fest also features an eclectic music lineup that includes several acclaimed Irish music acts.

CITY: Chicago

Chicago Aids Run & Walk

The 12th AIDS Run & Walk will take place in Chicago on Sunday, September 29, 2013. Since its inception in 2001, more than 20,000 participants, raising more than $3.5 million net, have converged in Grant Park to get moving against HIV/AIDS. Join the fight with thousands of others to help more than 36 AIDS service organizations!

CITY: Chicago

"Concerts On The Hill" 39th Season

Relax on the big grassy hill while enjoying a variety of free family entertainment. Enjoy tasty, affordable concessions in a scenic setting along the waterway. Great $2 hot dogs! Picnic baskets welcome. Bring blankets and chairs for hill seating. Free parking. Visit the park’s website for the week’s line-up. Every Thursday night at 6:30pm.

CITY: Joliet

St. Alphonsus Oktoberfest

Put on your Lederhosen and get your stein ready for this popular Oktoberfest in Chicago's upscale West Lakeview neighborhood that's celebrating its 13th year in 2013. Attendees can enjoy traditional German foods, great beers, and enjoy an eclectic music lineup on both indoor and outdoor stages with local pop acts and traditional Bavarian bands. An added draw for kids and families is the popular "Kinderfest" on Sunday.

CITY: Chicago

Roscoe Village Burger Fest

Now celebrating its fourth year, this fest has tapped a new level of popularity among the public for Chicago summer festivals! The crowds are large, the music first-class, and the showcase vendors are among the most acclaimed restaurants and burger hot spots in the city!

CITY: Chicago

Wood Dale Prairie Fest

It's all about community pride when west suburban Wood Dale's popular "Prairie Fest" returns for its 11th year in 2013. Held at the DuPage County city's Town Square, the weekend kicks off with carnival rides and food vendors before three days of expanded activities. In addition to food, arts/craft vendors and the always-popular carnival, Prairie Fest features live music, kids' entertainers, bingo play and a fireworks display on Saturday night.

CITY: Wood Dale

ABBA the Concert at Rosemont Theatre

Come out and enjoy the amazing sounds of ABBA at the Rosemont Theatre. Saturday, July 20th at 7:30 PM. The producers have had to cancel the April leg of the US Tour, but we are pleased to announce a new show for Saturday, July 20th at 7:30PM at the Rosemont Theatre! The Music of Abba is considered to be the finest Abba show in the world and is direct from Sweden!

CITY: Rosemont

Kidzfest

Kidzfest is held on the first Saturday of August from 10am until 3pm each year. The event includes many types of interactive, educational and fun activities sponsored by a variety of vendors, i.e. Lewis University Kids Campus, Joliet Park District, Rialto Square Theatre, the Library, the Forest Preserve District and numerous other vendors planning special activities for kids. Food and entertainment provided.

CITY: Joliet

Oak Brook Polo

Polo has been played for more than 80 years at the historic Oak Brook Polo Grounds and everyone is invited to come out and watch the exciting "game of kings!" Polo is an exciting team sport played on a large grass field. Players on horseback attempt to score by driving a small ball into the opposing team's goal using a long-handled wooden mallet. The Oak Brook Polo Club has six match dates scheduled for 2013.

CITY: Oak Brook

Glen Ellyn Farmer's Market

Visit downtown Glen Ellyn every Friday, late May through October to find locally grown produce, organic meats, fresh flowers, baked goods, jewelry and more.

CITY: Glen Ellyn

Cruisin' Lockport Classic Car Show

Sponsored by the City of Lockport, Lockport Township Park District, and Lockport Township Government, the Cruisin’ Into Lockport Classic Car Show will return for our 10th season. Come see the finest classic cars of not only Lockport, but from a tri-county area. There will be a different featured car every week (although all makes and models are welcome). Also, we will have live bands; a clown for face painting and balloons; free snowcones and/or popcorn; an inflated obstacle course for children; food vendors, plus much more. Every Monday night 6:30pm-8:30pm!

CITY: Lockport

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts

The festival, which will be in its ninth year and attracts more than 40,000 people, will take place in Lakeview, a dynamic and diversified neighborhood community rich in culture, history and the arts, on Broadway Ave., from Belmont Ave. to Roscoe Street. The 2013 Lakeview East Festival of the Arts will showcase more than 175-juried artists featuring world-class original paintings, sculpture, photography, furniture, jewelry and more. In addition to the artists’ booths, the Festival features two live music tents featuring some of Chicago’s favorite performers, a beer and wine garden, a landscape garden oasis, interactive children’s area and much more. The Lakeview East Festival of the Arts is a free outdoor event and hours are 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. (Saturday) and 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (Sunday). Artists in almost every medium are represented including photography, printmaking, mixed media, ceramics, clay, collage, fiber, glass, sculpture, furniture and more. Unique and original artwork is for sale in all price ranges.

CITY: Chicago

Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest

The Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest (GAAF) is a free, weekend-long event, drawing approximately 10,000 visitors per day, celebrating its 12th Anniversary. The Fest includes a street art fair, indoor art displays, and live entertainment on three outdoor stages featuring 48 acts. Experience art, theater, music, as well as food and drink, on the brick-laid streets of the Glenwood Avenue Arts District in Chicago’s historic Rogers Park neighborhood. The Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest takes place in the Glenwood Avenue Arts District on Chicago’s North Side, in the heart of Rogers Park, on Glenwood Ave., 6900–7000 North (between Farwell and Lunt) and the 1400 block of Morse Avenue, steps from the Morse Ave stop on the CTA Red Line. The Outdoor Fest and many art studios are ADA accessible.

CITY: Chicago

International Quilt Festival Chicago 2013

Quilt! Knit! Stitch! will feature exhibitor booths, quilts and fabric art on display, and many educational opportunities on the show floor. But what will set it apart from the International Quilt Festivals currently held in Cincinnati, Chicago, Long Beach and Houston will be a greater emphasis across the board on needle arts like knitting, embroidery, crocheting, cross-stitch, tatting, and sewing. June 21-23, 2013 with a preview night on June 20.

CITY: Rosemont

The National Sports Collectors Convention 2013

Activities include VIP Reception, an Autograph Pavilion, hosted by Tristar Productions Inc, with 70+ athletes. Other activities to be announced. The National offers a full range of sports, entertainment and gaming cards and collectibles, toys, event-used equipment and sports & entertainment autographs. The event is open to the general public July 31-Aug 4, 2013.

CITY: Rosemont

A Christmas Carol

Charles Dickens’ timeless tale of hope and redemption comes to life in an enchanting 35th anniversary production that promises more magic and merriment than ever before. Join us as we celebrate three and a half decades of the beloved holiday tradition, and experience the electrifying arrival of the ghosts, the jubilant musical numbers, the “Bah Humbugs” and Scrooge’s joyful discovery of life and love.

CITY: Chicago

Chicago Jazz Festival

The longest running of the city's lakefront music festivals, the Chicago Jazz Festival has been a Labor Day weekend tradition for the past three decades. See some of the biggest names in jazz, along with local talent.

CITY: Chicago

Hickory Hills Street Fair and Concert

The Hickory Hills Street Fair has been an annual event for over 26 years. It includes a beer tent with entertainment; food booths and craft fair. There are also bingo and rides for the kids - something for everyone.

CITY: Hickory Hills

King BMX Action Sports Show

The King BMX Stunt Team will provide a High Energy 25 - 30 minute Bike Stunt Show consisting of both flatland and ramp stunts. The show is fully self contained and the team will bring their own sound system and ramps. June 28th at 7 PM, 9 PM & 11 PM and June 29th at 4 PM, 7 PM, 10 PM.

CITY: Rosemont

Cody Simpson

Come out and see the amazing Cody Simpson, Australian pop singer from Gold Coast, Queensland, live at the Rosemont Theatre Friday, July 5th at 7 PM.

CITY: Rosemont

Chicago Rush vs. Cleveland Gladiators

Come out and watch the Rush vs. the Gladiators! The Chicago Rush, who has the largest market in the Arena Football League, has played at the Allstate Arena since 2001. The team has qualified for the playoffs eleven out of twelve seasons and won the AFL championship, ArenaBowl XX in 2006. During its history, the team has won its division five times and advanced to the AFL Conference Championship six times, including four consecutive appearances from 2004 to 2007.

CITY: Rosemont

Taste of Park Ridge

Taste of Park Ridge. Community festival complete with live entertainment, plenty of food vendors, activities for the entire family, and so much more. Held at various locations in downtown Park Ridge near the Metra Station and the Library. Visit the website for more details about specific performers that include American English, Evolution, and The Chicago Catz.

CITY: Park Ridge

Tony Rock at UP Comedy

American actor and stand-up comic Tony Rock, the younger brother of actor Chris Rock, grew up in Bedford-Stuyvesant, one of the toughest neighborhoods in Brooklyn. His first big break came when he booked some comedy gigs in Amsterdam, Netherlands, and soon after he was named one of the hot young talents to come out of New York in 'The Hollywood Reporter.' In April 2001, he starred in the pilot for the ABC series "Me and My Needs" and later he got a job hosting the short-lived game show "Can You Tell?" Tony has lent his voice to the show "Battle Bots," and he is best known for his role as Dirk Black in the CW series "All Of Us."

CITY: Chicago

Alexian Brothers Tour of Elk Grove

Prestigious Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) Designation. Athletes from around the world come to compete in the tour. Includes some of the richest pro cycling purses in the world. Food, exhibits, cycling vendors, & entertainment.

CITY: Elk Grove Village

7th Annual Kops N Kidz Day

Tons of activities! Tons of fun! Event starts at Timberline Park with a bike parade to Lemont Park District. Activities and refreshments follow at Centennial Park, Lemont Park District. For more information, call the Lemont Police Department at (630) 257-2229.

CITY: Lemont

Loni Love at UP Comedy

Just how funny is comedian and actress Loni Love? Ask both Variety and Comedy Central, both of which have named her among their Top 10 Comics to Watch, or Campus Activity magazine, which honored her as its Hot Comic for 2009. Love is not only one of the most hilarious and lovable comics performing stand-up on the comedy club and college circuits but also a busy TV host, guest and actress who has also appeared in films and dramatic plays. Love starred in her own half-hour special for Comedy Central in 2007 and has also been seen on the channel’s “Premium Blend,” “Weekends at the DL” and “Chocolate News”. Her many television appearances include “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno,” “The Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn,” “The Best Damn Sports Show Period”, VH1's “I Love the 70's/80's/90's,” “Vh1's The Great Debate” and “Comics Unleashed” among numerous others.

CITY: Chicago

Maz Jobrani at UP Comedy

Maz Jobrani is a founding member of The Axis of Evil Comedy Tour, which aired on Comedy Central in 2007. He has had two Showtime comedy specials, I Come In Peace and Brown and Friendly, and performs stand-up comedy around the world, including the Middle East where he performed in front of the King of Jordan. Maz starred in the films Friday After Next, 13 Going on 30, and The Interpreter. On TV he was a regular on ABC's Knights of Prosperity and FOX's Life on a Stick. He also recurred on ABC's Better Off Ted. Maz has guest starred on Curb Your Enthusiasm, 24, ER, NYPD Blue, Traffic Light, Man Up, Men at Work, and most recently Whitney. He has performed his standup on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, and Lopez Tonight. He has been featured on NPR, CNN, The BBC and in print in The New York Times, Time Magazine, and Newsweek. Maz also co-hosts a popular podcast about fatherhood called “Minivan Men,” and currently is gearing up to shoot JIMMY VESTVOOD: AMERIKAN HERO, a feature which he co-wrote and is starring in.

CITY: Chicago

Kyle Kinane at UP Comedy

Kyle Kinane has been up and at it for almost half his life, mostly searching for what "it" might be. In 1999, Kyle realized there might be something more to it all than pulling nights at a suburban gas station. "Something more" has taken him to comedy festivals across the US, Canada, and England. He has performed in the Leicester, Vancouver, Washington DC, Portland, Just For Laughs/Chicago, and the USCAF/Aspen comedy festivals, and his nights are now occupied with performances at popular venues such as the Upright Citizens Brigade theatre in Los Angeles and the national chain of Improv comedy clubs. He has been on the TV via "Last Call with Carson Daly," "The Very Funny Show" on TBS, "The World Stands Up" on the BBC and the Judd Apatow production Funny People. He was called "bleak and misanthropic" by the London Evening Standard, which he still feels may be a compliment. He is a regular opener for headliners such as Patton Oswalt and Brian Posehn. Askmen.com rated him #5 on their top 10 list of upcoming comedians.

CITY: Chicago

Homer Community Festival

The 3rd Annual Homer Community Festival is a 4 day event featuring a huge outdoor carnival, beer tent, live bands, great food and a bean bag tournament. Great family entertainment and free parking!

CITY: Homer Glen

"Family Fiesta" by Joliet's Spanish Center

Celebrate Spanish heritage with a wide variety of entertainment, food and activities for all ages. For event details, visit the Spanish Center’s website. Hours: Saturday 1:00pm- 11:00pm & Sunday 1:00pm- 10:00pm.

CITY: Joliet

Antique Tractor and Steam Engine Show

This mid-July gathering commemorates Will County's agricultural heritage and the tradition of neighbors gathering to thresh wheat after harvest. Those who attend the Will County Threshermen's Association Show can expect to be transported back to yesteryear. Steam engines, antique gasoline tractors, gas engines, antique automobiles, and other machines provide a working testimonial to the genius of previous generations. Visitors can also view live demonstrations of: an antique, steam-powered sawmill, antique plowing demonstrations, wheat threshing, corn shelling, and a tractor parade and tractor pull. Food is available for purchase and there is an on-site flea market.

CITY: Manhattan

New Kids on the Block

Come out and see the New Kids on the Block perform live at Rosemont's Allstate Arena. Thursday, July 18th at 7:30 PM and Friday, July 19th at 7:30 PM.

CITY: Rosemont

National Pro Fastpitch Championship Series

Seventy-mile per hour riseballs, 240-foot frozen ropes, soft hands and lightning-quick reactions all wound into seven feverish innings of gritty, gutsy, fast-paced action. Welcome to hard-hittin', fast-pitchin', affordable family fun. Welcome to National Pro Fastpitch! (NPF)

CITY: Rosemont