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

Lambs Farm Famous Farmyard

The Lambs Farm Farmyard will open on daily March through October and weekends only in November. Come and enjoy Lambs Farm's famous Farmyard. Meet Miss Wiggles, the 450-pound pig with an affinity for Bavarian Crème donuts and Oreo Cookies® and meet all of the new miniature animals, including Levi the miniature horse. Climb into the petting zoo with goats, sheep and lambs. Check out the llamas, alpacas, cows, horses, ducks and more. Enjoy a ride on the old-fashion carousel or the train. Then challenge your friends and family to a round of mini golf! Farmyard memberships are available. Day passes for all activities available for $8 for adults and $12 for children 2-12.

CITY: Libertyville

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

Long Grove's Annual Strawberry Festival

The pleasures of summer are celebrated with “berry” wonderful strawberry-inspired treats. Strawberry lovers of all ages flock to Long Grove’s renown fest to enjoy chocolate covered strawberries, fruit smoothies, and other strawberry drinks, ice creams, strawberry donuts, baked goods and, of course, the farm-fresh berries themselves. There is free live entertainment all three days at venues all over town and most of Long Grove’s many shops, galleries, cafes, and restaurants offer variations of strawberry-themed foods, drinks, and merchandise. Fun for All Ages Strawberry Fest features plenty of activities and fun for children, including a variety of kiddie rides, face painting and outdoor activities and tents full of family and education-oriented products.

CITY: Long Grove

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

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

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

I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change

Fall head over heels for this hilarious musical comedy about that terribly wonderful, simply complex thing called love. From dressing for a first date, marriage and babies, in-laws and the injustice of long lines for the ladies room, this musical romp through the everyday relationships will have everyone rolling in the aisles with laughter.

CITY: Lincolnshire

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

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

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

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

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

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

Our Quilts in Bloom - NSQG Quilt Show 2013

Stroll through a cotton botanical garden of over 300 quilts created by the Northwest Suburban Quilters Guild on display at the Prairie Stone Sports & Wellness Center in Hoffman Estates on September 20-21, 2013. Judge and admire quilts of all sizes, shapes and techniques. NSQG is one of the oldest and largest quilt guilds in Northern Illinois. Hours: Fri: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. AND Sat. 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Admission: $7.00, $1.00 off coupon available on our website. Children under 17 free with adult.

CITY: Hoffman Estates

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

85th Annual Lake County Fair

Join in the fun with the annual Lake County Fair! Motocross, pro rodeo, monster trucks, demo derby, carnival, games, live entertainment, queen pageants and lots of food. Fun for the whole family! Unlimited ride wristband specials. Military visitors in uniform will receive free admission (without uniform $5.00.)

CITY: Grayslake

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

Six Flags Great America FrightFest

It's Thrills by Day, Chills by Night at Fright Fest Presented by Snickers®. Six Flags Great America will be totally transformed into a Halloween playground, Fridays - Sundays. Have a ghoulish good time with hair-raising shows, electrifying street entertainment and thrilling haunted houses. Plus, experience all the rides in the dark. There will also be a special trick-or-treat trail just for kids.

CITY: Gurnee

Tempel Lipizzans Performances

Witness artistry and history come to life as the Tempel Lipizzan stallions enchant audiences with their power, intelligence and grace. From the play of newborn foals to the leaps of athletic stallions, the Tempel Lipizzans are an experience for the entire family. This unique performance set to music has become a Lake County favorite. Evening performances are scheduled 6pm for Saturdays June 8, 15, 22, July 6, 13, 20, August 3, 10, 17 and 5pm on September 14. Evening Toast and Performance held on June 8th and September 14th to celebrate the beginning and end of the season with advance tickets only. Matinee performances are scheduled for 1pm Sundays and Wednesdays, June 30, July 24, 28, August 21 and 25 and September 8 and 22.

CITY: Wadsworth

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

Mucha: Expanding Art Nouveau Exhibit

Alphonse Mucha brought the elegance of the Art Nouveau movement to everyday and commercial objects through his designs for posters, magazines, jewelry and much more. Featuring objects from the John High Collection, one of the world's leading collections of Mucha postcards, from the Lake County Discovery Museum. Exhibit is free with museum admission.

CITY: Wauconda

Chicago Botanic Garden Art Festival

Located on the Esplanade at the beautiful Chicago Botanic Garden, the Festival features original works for purchase from a select crowd of 80 acclaimed artists. All of the artwork embodies a botanic theme, use, or material. The incredible artwork available at the Festival is rivaled only by the beauty of the setting. Admission is free. Regular parking rates apply.

CITY: Glencoe

Yellow Moon

Writers’ Theatre continues its season with Yellow Moon, by David Greig and directed by Associate Artistic Director Stuart Carden. This is the ballad of Leila and Lee—a modern-day Bonnie and Clyde who learn that they aren’t alone in the world the night that they discover each other. Their wild ramble across the Scottish highlands in search of an absent father is told in a series of lyrical narratives that will immerse audiences in the action, forging a breathless drama of beauty in the darkness.

CITY: Glencoe

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

Long Grove's 21st Annual Apple Festival

More than 50 distinctive Long Grove shops and restaurants help celebrate the Apple Festival with unique seasonal gifts and foods, including cider donuts, caramel apples and the Long Grove Apple Haus’ famous brown bag apple pie. Live toe-tapping music, carriage rides, hayrides and children’s activities round out the fest.

CITY: Long Grove

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

Antioch's Taste of Summer

Antioch’s huge summer festival will celebrate its 23rd year in Downtown Antioch offering food, entertainment, carnival, sidewalk sales, and many other activities that make up a great 4 day family fun festival. Dine in the relaxing sunshine, or under the "Big Top" while listening to top entertainment from the Brook Bandshell. Food booths will offer the consumer a fantastic array of foods and drinks featuring Mexican, Chinese, American, BBQ, Italian and many others that will delight people with discriminating tastes. Then stroll through the town for the best sidewalk sales in the area. This year's Taste will offer a section of exhibitors new to Antioch's Taste of Summer! Visit website for more information.

CITY: Antioch

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

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

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

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

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

Six Flags Great America & Hurricane Harbor 2013

Six Flags Great America is fun for the whole family with 14 heart-pounding roller coasters, a free water park with over 30 heart pounding water slides, spectacular shows and parades, family rides and big pint-sized fun for the kids with children's areas and over 35 rides for the little ones. New for 2013 is the igNIGHT - Grand Finale, a mesmerizing and vibrant nighttime spectacle bursting with energy, vivid colors, brilliant visual effects, lively performances, fascinating imagery, and pure imagination. Riptide Bay, the newly expanded water park that boasts more slides and attractions was added in Hurricane Harbor in 2011! Catch a wave at the only place to surf on Lake Michigan.

CITY: Gurnee

BMW Championship 2013

Lake County and Conway Farms are pleased to host the BMW Championship for 2013. Spectators can purchase tickets to watch the greatest of all players compete for the title. Players like Tiger Woods, Rory Mcllroy, Phil Mickelson, Nick Watney and many more will be playing for a chance at the trophy. Please visit our website for more information. To book a hotel room of 10 or more please contact Teresa@lakecounty.org or call Visit Lake County at (800)525-3669.

CITY: Lake Forest

Vernon Hills Summer Celebration 2013

Join in the fun for 4 days of food, carnival rides, bingo, children's activities and free entertainment and a huge beer tent. Bring a blanket but leave the coolers home; no alcohol can be brought into the park. Please visit the website for a complete lineup of live entertainment.

CITY: Vernon Hills

Chicago Botanic Garden Farmer's Market

First and third Sundays of the month (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) Gather seasonal produce, flowers, herbs, and other local, sustainable products at this bimonthly Garden event that is held rain or shine. Talk with vendors and sample fresh fare. Visitors may purchase a special market bag from the Garden Shop to carry their purchases home. Free admission; $25 per car (includes tax) .

CITY: Glencoe

The 12th Annual Buffalo Grove Invitational Art Festival

The festival, held at the Buffalo Grove Town Center Corner of Lake Cook Road and Route 83, boasts exceptional artwork, live music, great festival food and fun art activities for kids! Now rated as one of the top 50 shows in the United States by Sunshine Artist magazine, this stellar art festival takes has a rich history of great sales. Buffalo Grove is home to more than 44,000 loyal festival supporters and some of the most reputable business organizations in the Midwest. The festival offers ample artist, free admission and free patron parking.

CITY: Buffalo Grove

2013 Taste of Lincolnshire

Bring family, friends and co-workers to sample food from top local restaurants without paying high prices this summer. Enjoy live entertainment all day long in the wonderful Village Green setting. There's something for everyone and lots of free parking! For more information please call (847)793-2409 or visit the website at http://lincolnshirechamber.org/.

CITY: Lincolnshire

22nd Annual Civil War Days

Make plans to attend the Northern Illinois' largest Civil War reenactment. The Lake County Discovery Museum is proud to present the 22nd annual Civil War Days encampment. The event features infantry, cavalry and artillery reenactors, as well as musicians, sutlers, medical personnel and civilians. A large-scale battle reenactment, ongoing drills, kids' activities, and Civil War era shopping are available both days. Please call (847) 968-3400 or visit our website for more information.

CITY: Wauconda

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

The 16th Annual Lincolnshire Art Festival

The Lincolnshire Art Festival proudly celebrates its 16th year as a fine arts institution this summer. This Art Festival is currently ranked as one of the top 100 art festivals in the country by Sunshine Artist magazine. Located in one of Chicago's most prosperous suburbs, this popular art festival draws crowds from near and far. Live music and entertainment. Art activities for kids make the festival a destination for art lovers of all ages.

CITY: Lincolnshire

Highland Park's Art Center's Festival of Fine Craft

The Highland Park Festival of Fine Craft is a two-day outdoor celebration of the visual arts. A longstanding community tradition, the Festival of Fine Craft attracts a loyal audience of art lovers who patron the show annually. Hosted on the beautiful tree lined streets of Downtown Highland Park, the show emphasizes fine craft including glass, wood, ceramics, fiber, jewelry and more. Fun art activities for children and families, as well as live entertainment and tasty festival treats. Art enthusiasts will get a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into making these masterpieces with live art demos taking place all weekend long. Saturday and Sunday 10am-5pm and admission is free.

CITY: Highland Park

9 to 5

This hilarious new musical from Grammy Award-winner Dolly Parton features the hit title song and Tony Award-nominated score. 9 to 5 is the hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the rolodex era. When three unlikely friends take control of the office and put their sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot of a boss in his place, they learn there is nothing they can't do, even in a man's world.

CITY: Lincolnshire

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

Out in the Park

A spectacular night at Six Flags Great America of amusement and entertainment to help benefit Chicago House. Featuring live musical performances by Jess Goodwin and Eli Lieb.

CITY: Gurnee

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

Mary Poppins

The world's favorite nanny arrives on the Marriott stage! Mary Poppins, based on P.L. Travers' beloved stories and the classic Disney film, features a magical score and thrilling dancing with "A Spoonful of Sugar," "Chim Chim Cher-ee,""Feed the Birds" and "Let's Go Fly a Kite" coming to life in front of your eyes for the very first time. So bring the whole family and spend a Jolly Holiday with Mary and an irresistible cast of characters.

CITY: Lincolnshire

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

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

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

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

The Liar

Writers’ Theatre concludes its 2012-2013 Season with The Liar, by David Ives, sdapted from the comedy by Pierre Corneille, and directed by William Brown. Hours after arriving in Paris, charismatic scoundrel Dorante is smitten by a pair of comely young ladies and confounded by a case of mistaken identity. Not to worry, Dorante is handsome, charming—and a pathological liar. He wins admirers wherever he goes…so long as he never has to tell the truth! Misunderstandings, secret agendas, and witty wordplay abound in this ingenious and irreverent update of a classic French romp.

CITY: Glencoe

Highwood Last Call Art Fair

All of the artwork featured at this outdoor festival will be high quality and affordable. This festival gives art lovers the opportunity to purchase extraordinary pieces of all kinds at end-of-season discounted prices. The fair is located along Sheridan Road, the main downtown street near all the great restaurants. There will be free hands on art projects for children. In addition to great art at great prices, the festival features live music all weekend long. Delicious food from local restaurants will be available for festival-goers to enjoy while perusing and purchasing artwork. Saturday and Sunday 10am-5pm. Free admission.

CITY: Highwood

Chicago Botanic Garden- Weekend Family Classes

Together, adults and children can explore cool things about how plants connect to science, art, history, and culture. Each program includes a variety of hands-on activities and projects, as well as opportunities to bring the Garden home. Programs run from November through April on Saturdays.

CITY: Glencoe

LEGO Star Wars MINILAND Model Displey

Young Padawans will learn to harness the Force in LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Chicago’s first-ever LEGO Star Wars Miniland – a large-scale, interactive LEGO model display, chronicling the adventures of Star Wars: Episode I The Phantom Menace. Take part in a thrilling Podrace through treacherous terrain on the planet Tatooine, and help defeat the evil Droid Army on the rolling plains of Naboo.

CITY: Schaumburg

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

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

The Inside Art Show

A select group of artists showcase their artwork at the festival, which takes place indoors at the Highland Park Country Club located 1201 Park Ave West in Highland Park, just before Thanksgiving. Artwork of all mediums is welcome, with an emphasis on fine art for the home and jewelry for holiday gift giving. Come and enjoy the show Friday from 4pm-8pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am-5pm. Admission and parking are free.

CITY: Highland Park

Zion's 27th Nostalgia Days

Come out and enjoy the 27th Annual Nostalgia Days Carnival and Car Show. Listen to live music and DJ's, play our trivia games to win great prizes. Antique and Custom car show and cruise. Dance at 6:30pm on Friday night with outdoor movies following. Carnival rides, food vendors, lawn mower races, climbing wall, games and fun for everyone.

CITY: Zion

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

The Old Man and The Old Moon

Writers’ Theatre will open its 2013-2014 Season with the Midwest Premiere of The Old Man and The Old Moon, A New Play With Music by PigPen Theatre Co., directed by Associate Artistic Director Stuart Carden and PigPen Theatre Co. The Old Man and the Old Moon creates an epic new mythology, centered on a man whose job is to collect spilled light to refill the leaking moon. When his wife unexpectedly leaves home in pursuit of much-needed adventure, he abandons his post to follow her, throwing the world into chaos as he searches for his lost love, his fading memory and, ultimately, himself. A blend of resonant storytelling, spirited indie-folk music and inventive puppetry creates a theatrical experience that will win audiences over with its wit, style and depth of emotion. Writers’ Theatre is thrilled to collaborate with the young men of PigPen Theatre Co., who bring the story of The Old Man and the Old Moon to such brilliant, vibrant life that its New York production earned a coveted spot on multiple “Best of the Year” lists.

CITY: Glencoe

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

Port Authority

Acclaimed playwright Conor McPherson (The Seafarer, Shining City, Dublin Carol) crafts a series of interconnected monologues that explore the heart and soul of three generations of Irishmen. A young man escapes his parents’ house to share digs with two alcohol-soaked friends and a mesmerizing young woman; a middle-aged laborer lands a dream job that he’s not remotely qualified for; and a widower receives a mysterious package that touches a hidden part of his memory. The lightly interlocking stories of these three men at three different stages of life weave together a tale that is both spirited and moving in its portrait of ordinary lives. Directed by Writers’ Theatre favorite William Brown (A Little Night Music, Heartbreak House), Port Authority revels in the rough lyricism of McPherson’s language and the poignancy of these stories of lost love, big dreams and the consequences of even our smallest choices.

CITY: Glencoe

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

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

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

Arlington Million

The Arlington Million brings together horses, owners, trainers, jockeys and fans from every corner of the world. Immerse yourself in the Arlington Million experience... history and tradition, special performances, fashionable apparel, and delectable cuisine.

CITY: Arlington Heights

Des Plaines Summer Fling

It's a weekend-long shindig for both the community and its neighbors when Des Plaines Summer Fling returns for its second year to the near-northwest suburb. Back again will be a non-stop music lineup, arts & craft vendors, kids' activities (including pony rides and a petting zoo), food vendors and carnival rides (which kick off the weekend early on Thursday, July 18). Among the music performers in 2012 are '60s/'70s pop legends the Ides of March featuring Jim Peterik and '70s pop/teen idol David Cassidy.

CITY: Des Plaines

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

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

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

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

Dancin' Sprouts at the Chicago Botanic Garden

Dancin Sprouts features a fun evening full of free music for the Gardens youngest visitors every Wednesday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. through late August. Children may get up, dance, and sing during these lively evenings created just for them. Take advantage of extended hours at the Model Railroad Garden, which is open until 8 p.m. on Wednesdays, June 5 - August 28. These evenings reflect the Gardens role in the Chicago Wilderness Consortium to Leave No Child Inside. Picnicking is permitted during this event on the Esplanade only. Free Admission (does not include parking fees).

CITY: Glencoe

Septemberfest

Free, multi-day festival - one of Chicagoland’s biggest - featuring a parade, nationally known entertainment, arts & crafts, bingo tent, carnival rides, games, Taste of Schaumburg, demonstrations and fireworks.

CITY: Schaumburg