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

Festival of the Vine

Geneva restaurants create an array of specialties under an outdoor tent at the “Flavor Fare” partnered with wine and live musical entertainment. The Fall Harvest Market offers food and floral demos, unique displays plus Kid’s Patch activities. An arts and crafts show, flower market, horse-drawn carriage rides and several exceptional wine tasting and dinner events also take place around the historic downtown.

CITY: Geneva

Oliver!

DuPage County, Chicago's Western Suburbs - One of the most beloved classics of all time, Oliver! is the wildly successful British musical based on the Charles Dickens novel. After a successful opening run in the West End in 1960, Oliver! has brought Dickens' ageless characters to life, enjoying numerous critically acclaimed runs and revivals in the United States and England. Audiences will follow orphan Oliver Twist as he embarks on a life-threatening adventure through the dismal streets of nineteenth-century England. The sensational score includes "Food Glorious Food," "Consider Yourself," "You've Got to Pick-a-Pocket or Two," "I'd Do Anything," "As Long As He Needs Me" and many more.

CITY: Oakbrook Terrace

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

Kane County Flea Market - July 2013

Monthly flea market at the Kane County Fairgrounds. "The Best in the Midwest or Anywhere". Up to 1000 dealers display and sell antiques, collectibles & Fancy Junque. Food served all day.

CITY: St. Charles

Red, White & BBQ Festival

A weekend of tasty barbecue, music and fun at Ty Warner Park in Westmont. Start off the summer with great food, live music, and an all-ages carnival, and observe some of the best BBQ experts compete to win prize money, learn BBQ tips, and enjoy Ty Warner Park!

CITY: Westmont

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

64th Annual Midsommar Swedish Days Festival

This “Granddaddy” of Illinois festivals features a host of family-friendly activities with live musical entertainment, a carnival, Rosemaling show, pet parade, Kids’ Day fun, Grand Parade, the state’s largest Music Competition, multi-ethnic food plus great shopping in our historic downtown. Geneva’s train station is located just blocks from the festivities.

CITY: Geneva

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

Pride of the Fox Riverfest

Unique among Chicagoland festivals, Riverfest features the annual running of the ancient sport of dragon boat racing, a 40-ton Fantasy Sand Sculpture, water ski shows, and an assortment of events and entertainment for all ages.

CITY: St. Charles

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

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

Annual Iris Walk

Walk through fields of irises during the spring time. At peak bloom, the Iris Farm is expecting acres of flowers at their new location. Photographers, day-trippers, weekenders and families are welcome. When it's closer to bloom time, a peak bloom report will be recorded on the phone's answering service.

CITY: Wayne City

Barrington Art Festival

Amdur Productions proudly kicks off its 30th season with the Barrington Art Festival on Memorial Day weekend. Free and open to the public, the Barrington Art Festival will offer the work of 120 juried artists from around the world in a variety of mediums, including ceramics, fiber, glass, jewelry, metal, photography, watercolors, wood and more. In addition to the incredible artwork available for purchase at the festival, guests will be able to enjoy live music throughout the weekend.

CITY: Barrington

Geneva Arts Fair

The Geneva Arts Fair transforms downtown Geneva into a venue for over 150 esteemed artists and draws a crowd of more than 20,000. The juried show was voted a Top 200 Fine Craft Fair by Art Fair SourceBook and a previous winner of “Best Craft or Art Show” by West Suburban Living magazine. Admission is free and includes a children’s art area with special activities.

CITY: Geneva

Kane County Flea Market - June 2013

Monthly flea market at the Kane County Fairgrounds. "The best in the midwest or Anywhere". Up to 1000 dealers display and sell antiques, collectibles & Fancy Junque. Food served all day,

CITY: St. Charles

Annual St. Charles Fine Art Show

Located along the banks of the Fox River, this juried art show features 100 fine artists, live music, demonstrations and artists’ awards.

CITY: St. Charles

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

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

Festival of the Horse & Drum

Festival of the Horse & Drum is an equestrian festival with a diverse and exciting twist. American Indian Pow-Wow, Horsemen of Spain, Portugal & Mexico, Tanner & Glaze. Equestrian games, Equine abilities expo & more.

CITY: St. Charles

37th Annual Kane County Railroad Collectibles & Model Train Show

One of two Annual Railroad Collectible Shows in Chicago with model trains and operating layouts. Railroad collectibles include items used by railroads such as lanterns, china, silverware, keys, locks, timetables, train parts and maps as well as books, photographs and DVDs on railroad topics.

CITY: St. Charles

28th Annual St. Charles Scarecrow Festival

Enjoy more than 100 handcrafted scarecrows on display (vote for your favorite), a huge craft show, carnival, great food, live entertainment and free children's activities, including make-your-own-scarecrow workshops.

CITY: St. Charles

Why Do Fools Fall In Love

Millie's getting married and when three of her girlfriends throw her a bachelorette party, the girls end up sharing more than a great time after tequila shots and Snowball sugar highs. Rating: PG

CITY: St. Charles

Kane County Fair

Affordable family fun - carnival, entertainment, thrill events, farm animals, kids events, food, fun & more! Wed. 3pm-11pm; Thurs. noon-11pm; Fri. & Sat. noon-midnight; Sun. noon-10pm. For information visit www.kanecountyfair.com. Follow on Facebook and Twitter.

CITY: St. Charles

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

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

Kane County Flea Market / August 2013

Monthly flea market at the Kane County Fairgrounds. "The Best in the Midwest or Anywhere". Up to 1000 dealers display and sell antiques, collectibles & Fancy Junque. Food served all day.

CITY: St. Charles

22nd Annual Chicago Railroad Collectibles and Model Train Show

The last Chicago Railroad Collectibles Show before Christmas! Now with model trains and operating layouts. Collectibles include items used by railroads such as: lanterns, china, silverware, keys, locks, timetables, train parts and maps as well as books, photographs and DVDs on railroads.

CITY: St. Charles

Country Folk Art Festival 31st year

31st year. Extraordinary handmade arts and crafts made by award winning artisans, many whose work has been featured in magazines! Reproductions of antique American furniture, historic crafts, folk art, primitives and unique Halloween and Christmas creations! Also some original antiques!

CITY: St. Charles

Geneva's Christmas Walk & House Tour

On Friday evening, Santa Lucia arrives by horse-drawn carriage and Santa arrives to open his Gingerbread House. Enjoy carolers, the Great Tree lighting, roasted chestnuts, Swedish cookies, and old-fashioned candy cane pull, and holiday shopping. On Friday & Saturday, five distinctive homes festively decorated for the holidays by local decorators open their doors to visitors for self-guided tours.

CITY: Geneva

42nd Annual Northern Illinois Art Show

The Kishwaukee Valley Art League is proud to bring its annual Northern Illinois Art Show to the public. Held each spring in Sycamore, Illinois on the Dekalb County Courthouse lawn and now in its 42nd year, the Northern Illinois Art Show features the work of artists in fine arts and fine crafts from across the Midwest. This show is an outstanding opportunity for fine artists to reach a wide audience and a great place for shoppers to find unique gifts. Easily accessible and highly publicized, the Northern Illinois Art Show attracts artists, residents, and tourists from across Northern Illinois and beyond. Applications to the show from artists will be accepted through April 12. Accepted artists will be contacted directly by KVAL. Applications are available on their website. Admission: Free for visitors

CITY: Sycamore

Kane County Flea Market / October, 2013

Monthly flea market at the Kane County Fairgrounds. "The Best in the Midwest or Anywhere". Up to 1000 dealaers display and sell antiques, collectibles & Fancy Junque. Food served all day.

CITY: St. Charles

Let's Misbehave

Celebrate the life and times of legendary Broadway wit and composer Cole Porter in a must see revue showcasing over 30 of his classic songs.

CITY: St. Charles

39th Fall Fox Valley Antique Show

Antiques are exhibited indoors at the bright and spacious Kane County Fairgrounds. Catered lunch is available and there is free parking. Admission $8 benefits local historical and educational endeavors. For information, visit csada.com.

CITY: St. Charles

Old House New House Home Show

Explore 300 deluxe displays with the latest in kitchens, baths, building, remodeling and landscaping. Meet award-winning contractors and creative craftsmen to improve your home surroundings.

CITY: St. Charles

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

Kane County Flea Market / November, 2013

Monthly flea market at the Kane County Fairgrounds. "The Best in the Midwest or Anywhere". Up to 1000 dealers display and sell antiques, collectibles & Francy Funque. Food served all day.

CITY: St. Charles

Kane County Flea Market / September 2013

Monthly flea market at the Kane County Fairgrounds. "The Best in the Midwest or anywhere. Up to 1000 dealers display and sell antiques, collectibles & Fancy Junque. Food Served all day.

CITY: St. Charles

Kane County Flea Market / December, 2013

Monthly flea market at the Kane County Fairgrounds. "The Best in the Midwest or Anywhere". Up to 1000 dealers display and sell antiques, collectibles & Fancy Junque. Food served all day.

CITY: St. Charles

Making God Laugh

Join two empty-nesters as they welcome home their three grown kids for the holidays, a priest, an aspiring actress, and a former star athlete. Don't miss this hilarious performance at the Fox Valley Repertory Theater at Pheasant Run.

CITY: St. Charles

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

DeKalb Corn Fest

Corn Fest is one of the last, free, summer, music festivals among Illinois music and summer festivals in Illinois. Well over 100,000 people from around Illinois and the Midwest attend the music festival over a three day weekend. This festival features a carnival complete with rides and games, food booths, free live music, kiddie korner with large inflatables, family entertainment and much more. Friday night is carnival wristband nights for the kids with unlimited rides from 6-10pm. Festival areas feature food and business vendor booths, and a beer garden The festival hours are: Friday, August 30th, 3pm-11pm, Saturday, August 31st, 11am-11pm, Sunday, September 1st, 11am-6pm.

CITY: DeKalb

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

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

Fleetwood Mac

The Grammy Award-winning group rocked the world of music with the 1977 album, Rumours and on the record's 35th anniversary, they're celebrating with thousands of fans. Don't wait for your chance to hear Rock 'n Roll Hall of Famers, Fleetwood Mac LIVE at Allstate Arena on June 14th at 8pm.

CITY: Rosemont

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

Fireworks at the MB Financial Park

Come out and enjoy a free fireworks show at the MB Financial Park in Rosemont. Starting 10 PM on June 6th, July 3rd & August 8th.

CITY: Rosemont

27th Annual Scottish Festival & Highland Games

Experience the best of Scotland without leaving Chicago at the 27th Annual Scottish Festival & Highland Games, June 14-15, 2013 at Hamilton Lakes in Itasca, Illinois. Highland Dance competition, Heavy Athletics, Rugby Exhibition, Friday Night Fling, crowning of the Heather Queen and Court and a Ceilidh (pronounced Kay-Lee), a lively celebration of traditional and contemporary Celtic music. Champion Supreme Piping and Drumming competition; Heavy Athletics U.S. Open Championship featuring traditional Scottish contests including the Caber Toss (flipping 20-foot, 140-pound tree trunk), the 22-pound Hammer Throw, the Sheaf Toss (flipping a bale of hay over a high bar) and the Clachnert (throwing a 16-pound river stone); Highland Dance competition; Rugby Sevens Highland Challenge; Coerver Cup 3v3 youth soccer tournament; Dogs of Scotland and other animal presentations; Genealogy and cultural exhibits; Parade of Clan Tartans; Children's activities including mini golf, crafts and carnival attractions; and attendee competitions including the Kilted Mile Fun Run/Walk, British Car Show, Haggis Hurling Contest for women, Knobbly Knees contest for men, Haggis Eating Contest and Shortbread Contest. Attendees will also enjoy musical performances on the Celtic Rock Stage, Whisky tastings and seminars, traditional Scottish or American cuisine and shopping in the Celtic Marketplace.

CITY: Itasca

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

Genoa Days 2013!

Come enjoy fireworks, great food, live bands & amusement rides at Genoa Days, June 13 - 15. Don't miss the King & Queen Scholarship Contest on Wednesday, June 12th, 2013 at 8:00 PM. Sponsored by Genoa-Kingston Fire Department.

CITY: Genoa

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

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

Sycamore's Turning Back Time

Join us Friday night for Summer on State, free outdoor movie for the whole family. Saturday night is Cruise Night, presented by Auto Meter Products, from 3-11pm. Bringing back the sounds of the 50’s and 60’s, Rick Lindy and the Wild Ones will take the stage from 7-10pm. Discover Sycamore’s Cruise Night will also include a Classic Car Cruise Parade, beer garden, Disc Jockey, food vendors and more! Sunday, July 28th brings the 14th Annual Fizz Ehrler Memorial Car Show to downtown Sycamore. Help the Turning Back Time Car Club reach their goal of 1,000 car show registrations. Registration will take place from 8am until noon with the award presentation at 3:30pm sharp. Attendees are encouraged to take advantage of Turning Back Time specials at downtown merchants and restaurants.

CITY: Sycamore

DeKalb Kite Fest

Looking for a fun family day out? The DeKalb Kite Fest is great fun for the whole family whether you choose to make, fly, or just watch the kites fly. There are lots of large beautiful kites that fill the sky. Location: Corner of Lucinda and Kishwaukee Drive DeKalb Kite Fest WhenSunday, Sep 8, 2013 WhereCorner of Lucinda Ave and Kishwaukee Drive, DeKalb (map) DescriptionCorner of Lucinda and Kishwaukee Drive, NIU Campus. Stunt kites, dancing kites, food, and activities for the kids & family. dekalbcountycvb.com

CITY: DeKalb

Sycamore Pumpkin Fest

2013 is the 52nd Annual Sycamore Pumpkin Festival downtown. Back in 1956, Wally Thurow, who is known as Sycamore’s "Mr. Pumpkin", began what was to become the Sycamore Pumpkin Festival when he displayed a few decorated pumpkins on his front lawn to turn Halloween into a time of fun and creativity. In 1962, through the efforts of Mr. Pumpkin and the Sycamore Lions Club, the Sycamore Pumpkin Festival became an official celebration in Sycamore. The Courthouse lawn is the center of activities, including thousands of decorated pumpkins on display, there are also art and craft shows, a house walk, a pie eating contest, a carnival, a fun fair, a race and other events. The festival is concluded by a giant parade on Sunday afternoon.

CITY: Sycamore

Blues on the Fox

The 17th Annual Blues on the Fox is the City of Aurora's annual festival that celebrates the city's rich history of the Blues. In the late 1930's literally hundred's of Blues recordings were made in Aurora's downtown at the Sky Club at the top of the Leland Hotel. Join us at RiverEdge Park to experience six amazing blues music acts over one incredible weekend.

CITY: Aurora

Sycamore's Steam Show and Threshing Bee

For the last 56 years, the Northern Illinois Steam Power Club has sponsored the Sycamore Steam Show & Threshing Bee the second Thursday in August. The event starts at 6:00 a.m. with breakfast and is then followed by a church service, the National Anthem, and the Raising of the Flag. The afternoon is filled with threshing of steam engines and tractors and spotlights a 1:30 p.m. parade of old steam engines, tractors, cars and other antique machines. Activities for kids, a petting zoo, bake sale and flea market all take place on the fairgrounds as well. OPEN DAILY 7 AM TO 6 PM. FREE PARKING. Admission: Adults $6, Children under 12 Free. Thursday Senior Citizens $3

CITY: Sycamore

Summer Solstice Indie Music and Craft Beer Festival

"Summer Solstice", the ultimate pairing of ground to glass brewed beverages and independent minded musicians on the cusp of greatness. The scenic Fox River will serve as the backdrop for this unique event in historic downtown Yorkville.

CITY: Yorkville

Binny's Taste at the Track

The Biggest and Best Wine Event of the Spring Season is Back! You’re invited to join us to watch and wager on the heart pounding sport of Thoroughbred horse racing while enjoying a sampling of over 400 domestic and international wines from Binny’s. Plus, top Chicagoland restaurants will be providing a sampling of signature dishes to pair with your favorite wine. This ticketed event includes general admission to Arlington Park, entrance into the exclusive Taste at the Track event in the Park, a Govino wine glass and wine tastings, and three food sample tickets. In addition to your sample tasting options, you’ll also enjoy chef demonstrations and delicious small plate offerings available for purchase. You MUST be 21+ to enter the exclusive Taste at the Track event. Be sure to get your tickets early as they will sell out! For more information visit the Binny's Taste at the Track ticket page.

CITY: Arlington Heights

Bike MS Tour De Farms

Thousand of cyclists to participate in Bike MS: Tour De Farms on June 22 & 23, 2013, in DeKalb. Bike MS: Tour de Farms is one of the largest fundraisers of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Greater Illinois Chapter. Children under 12 years old are invited to participate in a special Bike MS course exclusively for junior riders, on Saturday, June 22, at 3 p.m. All children must be accompanied by an adult 18 years of age or older and submit a $15 registration fee. Also on Saturday, five Chicago-based bands will perform from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Residents of DeKalb and the surrounding communities are invited to attend. Registration for Bike MS is open to individual riders, teams, volunteers and virtual riders.

CITY: DeKalb

PrairieFest

Celebrating our 25th Anniversary, this festival is attended by approximately 50,000 during the course of the weekend. PrairieFest events are held throughout Oswego with the main festival grounds located at PrairieFest Park, 91 Plank Road. The event features main stage entertainment, children's performers, expo village, petting zoos, pony rides, camel rides, children's activities, parade, bed races, touch a truck event and more. There is no gate admission. The event is free, compliments of our generous business sponsors.

CITY: Oswego

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

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

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

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

Smallville Superfest

This festival celebrates the spirit of everyone's favorite SuperHero and what he stands for. Warner Brothers and DC Comics chose Plano, IL to represent “Smallville” in the 2013 Superman movie "Man of Steel", a special place where a certain “super hero” came to Earth and spent his childhood days. It was here in Smallville that a “mild-mannered” boy learned the value of Truth, Justice, and the American Way.

CITY: Plano

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

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

Aurora Puerto Rican Heritage Festival

This festival is more than music and food, it is the celebration of Puerto Rican heritage. Traditional Puerto Rican music attracts island traditionalists, while the more modern music entertains the youth. The festival is a family event providing a social atmosphere for families to mingle and enjoy authentic foods while allowing time for the kids to play games. The main focus is the parade which provides an opportunity for the Puerto Rican community and friends to celebrate its culture.

CITY: Aurora

Windmill City Festival

Windmill City Festival has long been a staple of the community and has become a tradition for many families. This 3 day event includes a carnival, 5k race, pet parade, and an ice cream eating contest. Every member of the family is sure to find a new favorite activity! This year's festival will be held Friday, July 12 through Sunday, July 14 at the Riverwalk in downtown Batavia. Admission is free.

CITY: Batavia

Blacksmith Demonstrations and Tours

Live blacksmith demonstrations and tours at the Joseph F. Glidden Homestead June 9th and 23rd from Noon to 4:00 pm. and on the second and fourth Sunday of each month.

CITY: DeKalb

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

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

NIU Footbal - Akron vs NIU Huskies Homecoming Game!

Cheer on NIU Footbal at the Akron* vs NIU Huskies Homecoming Game! Saturday, October 12th at NIU, Mid-American Conference Game.

CITY: DeKalb

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

Character Caravan

Free Event. Bringing the best of Chicago's Northwest area attractions to you! Meet, greet, and play with Chicagoland's most lovable attraction mascots during Character Caravan! This one-of-a-kind free event lets you discover some of Chicagoland's best attractions. Games, prizes, face painting, goodie bags, and photos with your favorite Characters. Rain or Shine! Registration is required to receive goodie bag, limited to the first 500 registered children. Deadline for registration is May 31, 2013.

CITY: Schaumburg

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

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

WWE Payback at the Allstate Arena June 16

Chicago's Allstate Arena will again play home to WWE history when it hosts the first-ever edition of WWE Payback, live on pay-per-view, on Sunday, June 16 at 6:30 PM. Find out how to get tickets to the groundbreaking event at http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwe-payback.

CITY: Rosemont