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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

EXPO CHICAGO

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

CITY: Chicago

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dave Foley at UP Comedy

Join us for a night of stand-up with Kids in the Hall alum, Dave Foley. After the successful television run of Kids in the Hall, Dave signed onto the long running NBC series, Newsradio. In between seasons, he forged a feature film career that is still very active today. In addition to his comedic work, Foley has also been seen in HBO’s critically-acclaimed mini-series From the Earth to the Moon.

CITY: Chicago

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

Ian Bagg at UP Comedy

Do not miss your chance to see Ian. After moving to New York City, he quickly became a regular at all the major comedy clubs. After a short three years in New York, Ian had made three appearances on NBC’s “The Conan O’Brien Show”, rocked HBO’s “Aspen Comedy Festival”, and destroyed “Just For Laughs Montreal Comedy Festival”. He has worked as a correspondent for MySpace, hosted Ripe TV’s “The Hollywood Burn” and even had his own live talk show “The Ian Bagg Show”. He’s added credits like NBC’s “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno”, CBS’s “Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn” and CBS’s “The Craig Ferguson Show”. He was able to be apart of a half hour comedy special, “A Comic’s Climb” from HBO and “Comedy Central Presents Ian Bagg." In love with the art of stand up, he was thrilled when The History Channel asked him to be a part of their special, “The History of the Joke”.

CITY: Chicago

Christopher Titus at UP Comedy

Employing what he’s labeled “hard funny,” Christopher Titus has released three comedy albums in as many years and has had three one-hour comedy specials on Comedy Central. After years of experimentation with dark and personal storytelling, he debuted his one-man show “Norman Rockwell is Bleeding” at the Hudson Theater in Los Angeles. It was from this performance that the dark comedy, “Titus,” was born on Fox. The show earned Titus a Writer’s Guild nomination as well as an Emmy nomination, and Newsday called him “TV’s most original voice since Seinfeld.” After watching Christopher Titus perform live, there is no doubt that he is one of the best comics working today. With the complete package of comedy, acting and writing, there hasn’t been someone like him in a long time.

CITY: Chicago

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fountain Square

Now celebrating its 34th year, Fountain Square Art Festival is the largest and oldest fine arts fair on Chicago's majestic North Shore. Featuring the eclectic works of more than 225 juried artists, this sprawling art showcase epitomizes words like "cosmopolitan” and "sophistication." The festival takes place in downtown Evanston, just steps from the eponymous Fountain Square. It also features a popular children's art tent with fun activities overseen by the acclaimed Evanston Art Center, food, and a soothing jazz-centric music lineup.

CITY: Evanston

Evanston Symphony Orchestra

The ESO was founded in 1945 by a handful of veteran and amateur musicians who were passionate about making music together. Concerts take place on Saturdays at 2:30 PM.

CITY: Evanston

Evanston Ethnic Arts Festival

Surrounded by the flags of more than 100 nations honoring the diversity of our planet. There is live music, art and craft work of juried artists and a poetry tent. People can also learn the folk dance of a far-away country and explore the intriguing spices and seasonings of new ethnic foods. Free.

CITY: Evanston

Evanston Lakeshore Arts Festival

Since 1973, the Lakeshore Arts Festival has taken place the first weekend in August on Evanston’s stunning, historic lakefront. The festival showcases live jazz and classical music, a silent art auction, and the popular Children’s Craft Tent. The festival hosts a dozen restaurants serving a variety of culinary delights. Free parking is available at the Northwestern University parking lot. Free.

CITY: Evanston

World Whiffleball Championship

The 34th annual open wiffleball tournament, the world's largest and oldest — set for June 29-30, 2013 — will host four- to five-player teams, ages 10+, all of whom will play a four-game schedule on Saturday, June 29, followed by a single elimination tournament for top qualifiers on either Saturday evening or on Sunday (depending on the number of entries). The tournament will be played rain or shine.

CITY: Evanston

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

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

8th Annual Kite Festival

In the open area near Evening Island, enjoy soaring stunt kite performances set to music by members of the Chicago Fire Kite Team and members of the Kite Society of Wisconsin & Illinois. The Chicago Fire Kite Team has been competing and demonstrating team sport kite ballet and precision since 1986. Invited to kite festivals around the world, they have flown in front of friendly crowds in England, France, Japan, and Canada as well as the United States. Free.

CITY: Glencoe

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

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

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

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

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

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

Biz! Bam! Bugs! Family Program at Chicago Botanic Garden

Join forces with award-winning childrens author and educator, Patricia J. Murphy, for a hands-on reading, writing, art and science exploration of the SUPERHEROES of natureBUGS! Help spread the word why bugs are SUPER and how we can save them and their habitats! Children ages 4 -10 and their families design a poster, take home a plant, and go on a tour of our exhibition, Butterflies & Blooms! Choose either 10 to 11:30 a.m. or 1 to 2:30 p.m. session. Adult must accompany children. Limit of three children per adult. $30 nonmember per child; Members receive 20% discount.

CITY: Glencoe

Dancin

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

Family Camp Out! At Chicago Botanic Garden!

Families can come pitch a tent in our Outdoor Classroom for a low-stress camping experience with flushing toilets and running water! Well go for a scavenger hunt and evening hike through the prairie and cook s'mores around a campfire. Please plan to spend the night. Activities are geared for participants ages 5 and 6, but younger campers are welcome. Please note the rain date when registering for the campout. Program runs 5 p.m. Saturday to 8 a.m. Sunday. Adult must accompany children. Limit of three children per adult. Campers should bring a sack lunch for dinner. S'mores and breakfast is provided. $50 per child; $20 per adult; Members receive 20% discount.

CITY: Glencoe

Herb Garden Weekend at the Chicago Botanic Garden

Learn about a variety of kitchen garden herbs in the Regenstein Fruit & Vegetable Garden at Herb Garden Weekend. Staff, volunteers and outside experts will talk about their top ten herbs, how to grow herbs in containers, herbs in the kitchen and more. Herb Discovery Carts will introduce visitors to the herbs and edible flowers they can grow in their own gardens. Marcia Carmichael, herbal expert and historical gardener at Old World Wisconsin, will answer herb gardening questions throughout the weekend. Select vendors will offer plants and herbal products for sale. Visitors can take part in a number of family-friendly activities, including a sniff guess game, planting an herb seed and making a dried herb mix for herb butter. As part of the Plant Giveaway Program, visitors can take a marjoram seedling home (while supplies last). Hours are from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free; parking fees apply.

CITY: Glencoe

Art at the Glen Festival

One of the TOP 12 shows in the country! From opening until shows end, the streets at this free festival are flooded each day by an enormous crowd bustling to get their hands on the work of the 175 juried artists participating. Located on the former site of the Glenview Naval Air Station and its historic Hangar One, the Glen Town Center is home to some of the finest stores in the Midwest and is an enduring reminder of the community’s role in aviation history. Free.

CITY: Glenview

Hickory Hills Pumpkin Fest

Rides, games, music, face painting, balloon animals, pony rides, candy and much more all at our annual Pumpkin Fest in Hickory Hills.

CITY: Hickory Hills

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

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

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

Bodeans at Ravinia

Ravinia Festival is the oldest outdoor music festival in the United States with a series of outdoor concerts and performances held every summer from June to September. A perfect evening - listening to music, drinks and a picnic under the stars on Ravinia's lawn. Pavilion seating also available! Prices vary for lawn and pavillion seats.

CITY: Highland Park

Jackson Browne & special guest Sara Watkins at Ravinia

Ravinia Festival is the oldest outdoor music festival in the United States with a series of outdoor concerts and performances held every summer from June to September. A perfect evening - listening to music, drinks and a picnic under the stars on Ravinia's lawn. Pavilion seating also available! Prices vary for lawn and pavillion seats.

CITY: Highland Park

Los Lonely Boys/Los Lobos & special guest, Alejandro Escovedo at Ravinia

Ravinia Festival is the oldest outdoor music festival in the United States with a series of outdoor concerts and performances held every summer from June to September. A perfect evening - listening to music, drinks and a picnic under the stars on Ravinia's lawn. Pavilion seating also available! Prices vary for lawn and pavillion seats.

CITY: Highland Park

Darius Rucker/Rodney Atkins/Jana Kramer at Ravinia

Ravinia Festival is the oldest outdoor music festival in the United States with a series of outdoor concerts and performances held every summer from June to September. A perfect evening - listening to music, drinks and a picnic under the stars on Ravinia's lawn. Pavilion seating also available! Prices vary for lawn and pavillion seats.

CITY: Highland Park

Melissa Etheridge Live/Joan Osborne/Paula Cole at Ravinia

Concert begins at 7:30pm. Ravinia Festival is the oldest outdoor music festival in the United States with a series of outdoor concerts and performances held every summer from June to September. A perfect evening - listening to music, drinks and a picnic under the stars on Ravinia's lawn. Pavilion seating also available! Prices vary for lawn and pavillion seats.

CITY: Highland Park

Go-Go's/The B-52s at Ravinia

Concert begins at 7:30pm. Ravinia Festival is the oldest outdoor music festival in the United States with a series of outdoor concerts and performances held every summer from June to September. A perfect evening - listening to music, drinks and a picnic under the stars on Ravinia's lawn. Pavilion seating also available! Prices vary for lawn and pavillion seats.

CITY: Highland Park

Matthias Goerne, Baritone & Alexander Schmalcz, Piano at Ravinia

Concert begins at 7:30pm. Ravinia Festival is the oldest outdoor music festival in the United States with a series of outdoor concerts and performances held every summer from June to September. A perfect evening - listening to music, drinks and a picnic under the stars on Ravinia's lawn. Pavilion seating also available! Prices vary for lawn and pavilion seats.

CITY: Highland Park

Goo Goo Dolls/Matchbox 20 at Ravinia

Concert begins at 7:30pm. Ravinia Festival is the oldest outdoor music festival in the United States with a series of outdoor concerts and performances held every summer from June to September. A perfect evening - listening to music, drinks and a picnic under the stars on Ravinia's lawn. Pavilion seating also available! Prices vary for lawn and pavilion seats.

CITY: Highland Park

David Byrne & St. Vincent at Ravinia

Concert begins at 7:30pm. Ravinia Festival is the oldest outdoor music festival in the United States with a series of outdoor concerts and performances held every summer from June to September. A perfect evening - listening to music, drinks and a picnic under the stars on Ravinia's lawn. Pavilion seating also available! Prices vary for lawn and pavilion seats.

CITY: Highland Park

Anita Baker at Ravinia

Concert begins at 7:30pm. Ravinia Festival is the oldest outdoor music festival in the United States with a series of outdoor concerts and performances held every summer from June to September. A perfect evening - listening to music, drinks and a picnic under the stars on Ravinia's lawn. Pavilion seating also available! Prices vary for lawn and pavillion seats

CITY: Highland Park