"Jersey Boys" Peoria Civic Center

The 2006 Tony Award®-winning Best Musical about Rock and Roll Hall of Famers, The Four Seasons: Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Tommy DeVito and Nick Massi. This is the story of how four blue-collar kids became one of the greatest successes in pop music history. They wrote their own songs, invented their own sounds and sold 175 million records worldwide – all before they were 30! Jersey Boys, winner of the 2006 Grammy® Award for Best Musical Show Album and most recently, the 2009 Olivier Award for Best New Musical, features their hit songs “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Rag Doll,” “Oh What a Night” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.

CITY: Peoria

"Treasure!" Traveling Exhibition - Discovery Center Museum & Burpee Museum

Explore the history and the hunting of treasure in our newest immersive exhibition. Delve into the technology employed by treasure hunters and focus on the people and personalities lured by the promise of prosperity. Be enticed by shipwreck and treasure site artifacts, and learn to use the tools you'd need to find a fortune. Treasure! is a joint adventure with the Burpee Museum of Natural History, and can be uncovered in the Woodward Exhibit Hall.

CITY: Rockford

$5 Friday Summer Concerts: Changes in Latitudes

The first concert of the season will feature Changes in Latitude - a tribute to Jimmy Buffett. Tickets are $5 per person. Changes in Latitude is known as one of the country’s premier tribute bands to Jimmy Buffett. The band has 10 members including Steve Kareta (vocals, guitars), Allen Stevens (guitars/vocals), Amy Sullivan (vocals, Jon Berman (saxophone), Clark Seibold (drums), Bob Casinghino (keyboard/vocals), Brandon Marger (percussion), Jason Roseman (steel pan drums) Mark Neveu (bass) and Don Hemmer (pedal steel guitar). For more information call (800) 258-6645 or visit www.riverfrontamphitheater.com.

CITY: Alton

114th Infantry Regiment Flag Lowering Ceremony

The Regiment, in authentic Civil War uniforms, demonstrates drill movements and performs a beautiful flag-lowering ceremony in front of the Lincoln Tomb. The flag is presented to a member of the audience. Ceremony every Tuesday evening.

CITY: Springfield

12th Annual Country Youth Classic Golf Tournament

The Country Youth Classic golf tournament, one of the largest youth golf tournaments in the United States, will run June 24-26, 2013 at five Bloomington-Normal courses. The event holds competition in 24 divisions, including 8 special needs divisions. Golfers are offered a practice round and two days of competition along with a Parent-Child Tournament and Country Skills Challenge. Last year’s tournament attracted more than 360 golfers, ranging in age from 3 through 22, including participants from six states and two foreign countries.

CITY: Bloomington

12th Annual International Route 66 Mother Road Festival

Come take part in a celebration of America's Highway, Route 66, at the 11th Annual International Route 66 Mother Road Festival. More than 1,000 cool cars will roll into the heart of Springfield's historic downtown this September. Enjoy music, entertainment, great food and a great time as well as visit some of the nation's most popular automotive aftermarket vendors. It's a great time for the whole family!

CITY: Springfield

12th Annual 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

14th Annual Ray Bradbury's Dandelion Wine Fine Arts Festival

This is Waukegan's 14th Annual Ray Bradbury's Dandelion Wine Fine Arts Festival! Artists, Music, Dance and Drum Circle "As Waukegan Grows" This event is sponsored by the City of Waukegan and the Waukegan Park District. Come and enjoy this one-of -a-kind festival.

CITY: Waukegan

15th Annual Intertribal Pow Wow

Held at the Grand Village of the Kickapoo Park, the Intertribal Pow Wow has something for the whole family to experience! There will be dancing, handmade jewelry, native crafts, children’s activities, food and viewing of the buffalo herd! This outdoor event is held rain or shine. Don’t forget your lawn chairs. Camping in tents or tipis is welcome.

CITY: Le Roy

15th Annual Route 66 Festival

The second weekend of June every year, the Edwardsville Route 66 Festival welcomes 100-150 classic cars touring the state as part of the annual Illinois Route 66 Association Motor Tour. The two day event includes food entertainment, classic car show, children's area with inflatables and activities, beer tent, bike ramble, 10K run and more!

CITY: Edwardsville

1800's Craft Fair

The Postville Courthouse will once again host its 1800's Craft Fair on the final day of the Lincoln Art and Balloon Festival. The Public is invited to come and see 19th century crafters, music and other entertainment.

CITY: Lincoln

19th Century Christmas at Deere-Wiman House & Butterworth Center

Don't miss these two beautifully decorated Deere family mansions during the holiday season. The 19th Century Christmas features the interiors of the homes decorated for the holidays; along with living-history volunteers, Choir performances, Santa Claus, music, and make-and-take activities for the children. These homes once belonged to the John Deere family and are now operated by the William Butterworth Memorial Trust. Open noon to 5 p.m. Free admission.

CITY: Moline

1st Annual Mud Run

1st Annual Mud Run sponsored by assault and Abuse Services features a 5K run over obstables and through water and mud. Obstables are of varing difficulties and offers fun for the whole family.

CITY: Freeport

2012 Lincoln Art and Balloon Festival

Come out to the Logan County Airport to experience awesome hot air balloon launches and evening balloon glows. Downtown, enjoy musical entertainment, food, an art and craft show, the Art of Wine, and much more.

CITY: Lincoln

2013 Bald Eagle Bus Tours

Guided, four-hour tours of bald eagle, wintering communities. View and learn about the bald eagle's habits, life history, preservation efforts and threats to its future. Reservations required. Bus departs from Stoney Creek Inn.

CITY: Galena

2013 Cemetary Walk

Kankakee history comes to life with the guided history walk through Mound Grove Cemetary. Actors will portray historical figures sharing their lives and times in Kankakee County. Tours are at 11 a.m and 2 p.m.

CITY: Kankakee

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

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

25th Annual Open Horseshoe Tournament

The Danville Horseshoe Club hosts its 25th Annual Open Horseshoe Tournament at Douglas Park with competitors from across the country participating. Registration is $25.00 per person and can be completed by visiting http://www.active.com/miscellaneous-tournament/danville-il/danville-il-25th-annual-open-horseshoe-tournament-2013. Registration must be received no later than Friday, June 29. Prizes will be awarded in multiple categories.

CITY: Danville

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

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

30th Annual Pilot Home Tour & Tea

Visit beautifully decorated homes, sponsored by the International Pilot Club of Jacksonville.

CITY: Jacksonville

31st Annual Midwest Heritage Quilt Show

Beautiful quilts, some nearly 100 years old, will be on display at the Vermilion County Museum throughout the month of July. Awards will be given in 9 categories including bed quilts, purses and clothing, and wall hangings.

CITY: Danville

35th Annual Sunset Concert Series

The weekend begins on Thursday evening in Carbondale during the summer, as hundreds gather to attend the welcoming, relaxing and fun tradition that is the Sunset Concert series. Attendees bring everything from beer-pong tables and barbecue grills to pop-up tents and couches. The concerts rotate between two beautiful venues, with the more contemporary acts on the Steps of Shryock Auditorium and the mellower, more traditional bands playing under the Lenus Turley Park gazebo.

CITY: Carbondale

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

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

3rd Annual DownTown District MidSummer Madness

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

CITY: Park Forest

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

44th Annual Threshing Show and Antique Display

This show features over 300 gas tractors, steam engines and horse-powered equipment, antique tractor pulls, and horse pulls, along with exhibitors showing threshing, sawmills, blacksmithing, weaving, spinning and chair caning. The shows special features this year will be Massy Tractors and Equipment, Gasoline Alley will feature Odd Ball & Out of the Ordinary engines. Browse the huge flea market and ride the steam train at the depot.

CITY: Freeport

52nd Annual International Carillon Festival

Longest running carillon festival in the world! Carillonneurs from several countries will perform on this world class instrument. Bring a blanket or chair and enjoy the beautiful music of the bells at this family event.

CITY: Springfield

58th Annual Ice Cream Social

Start your summer in traditional Freeport Style at the Stephenson County Museum's Annual gathering with food, ice cream and pie, musuem tours, and entertainment. Tour the historic arboretum while you enjoy the company of friends. 5 pm - 8 pm. Admission: $5.

CITY: Freeport

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

7th Annual Galena Oktoberfest

Annual German celebration featuring live music, kids games, wiener dog races and lots of food and beverage.

CITY: Galena

8 Miles of Ag-tiques

This event begins on Highway 26 north of Orangeville. Each stop will feature different tractors including John Deere, Massey Harris, International Harvester, Oliver, Minneapolis-Moline, Allis Chalmers, and other old machinery from the Good Old Days. There will be food, craft shows, tractor drives on Saturday, lots of talk, and just lots of fun visiting with the guys and their toys...

CITY: Orangeville

8 Seasons in Sapmi Exhibit

Step into the northernmost reaches of Europe! The indigenous Sápmi are a people whose nation spans Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia. The Sapmi heritage is explored through their artwork and artifacts, and photographs of their traditionally nomadic lifestyle. We invite you to view garments, jewelry, musical instruments and more. Take the back roads this summer and experience our Utopian on the Prairie, Bishop Hill.

CITY: Bishop Hill

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

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

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

9th Annual Midwest Nationals Wrestling Tournament

The Midwest Nationals is organized by the Bloomington-Normal Area Sports Commission, Illinois Wrestling Coaches and Officials Association, Wrestling Aids and Illinois Coaches Association. Competitors will be matched by weight class in 7 different age divisions. Weight classes will be determined at the weigh-in on Friday, July 12. Competition will begin Saturday at 9:00 am. Those who are interested in participating have until weigh-in on Friday, July 12, from 5-8 pm to register.

CITY: Bloomington

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

A Day in Eagle Country

The limestone bluffs and woodlands that line the Mississippi River Valley offer the American bald eagle an ideal winter roosting site. We invite you to come view the magnificent birds in their natural habitat. Take a day long adventure of eagle and wildlife spotting with Bluff City Tours. The tour includes: transportation by motorcoach or trolley, professional tour guide, continental breakfast and lunch at Pere Marquette. All tours depart from and return to the Upper Level Parking Lot at Alton Square Mall off Homer Adams Parkway in Alton. These tours are scheduled on Wednesdays & Saturdays in January & February.

CITY: Alton

A Hog in Dog Heaven - Celebrating 20 Years of Walldogs

The Walldogs, a group of wall muralists and sign painters from around the globe, are celebrating their 20th birthday. We invite you to join in the celebration this summer in Kewanee, Illinois during this five day event. Watch over 190 artists paint 15 historical murals on downtown buildings. Be part of history and join in the fun!

CITY: Kewanee

A Taste of Christmas Progessive Dinner

Select inns will host appetizers, salads, entrees and dessert, with each guest dining at three different Galena bed-and-breakfasts. Tickets are limited to 50.

CITY: Galena

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

Abraham Lincoln: Self-Made in America Exhibit

The Grayslake Heritage Center will become one of only 11 places in the nation to host this traveling exhibition about Abraham Lincoln. This exhibition features high-quality reproductions of items ranging from Lincoln's surveying instruments to the gloves he wore on the night he was assassinated at Ford's Theater. Discover a wonderful overview of his life from boyhood to his years as President and Emancipator. The Heritage Center will be open six days a week with evening hours added to increase accessibility. No admission fee, but donations are accepted.

CITY: Grayslake

Acting Out Theatre Company presents "Chicago"

Acting Out Theatre Co. is producing the widely popular Broadway show, Chicago, the Musical, on July 26, 27, and 28, 2013 in downtown Momence. Chicago is a universal tale of fame, fortune, and “All That Jazz” that is full of one show-stopping song after another and “Razzle Dazzle” dance numbers. This popular sensation has been honored with six Tony Awards, two Olivier Awards and thousands of standing ovations! We will build a temporary stage in the middle of Washington Street to perform this musical and in keeping with the era, will feature a “speakeasy” each night before show time. The speakeasy will feature food and drink of that roaring era gone by. “Rouge your knew and grab you buckle shoes” and we will see you in Momence! Tickets available June 1.

CITY: Momence

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

Alton Block Party

Third Street in downtown Alton is the place to be for live music, food and dancing in the streets, held on the third Saturday of each month from June to August. Family activities from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. with the band to begin thereafter.

CITY: Alton

Alton Farmers' & Artisans' Market

The Alton Farmers’ & Artisans’ Market is held at the corner of Piasa and 9th streets beginning at 8 a.m. and ending at noon on Saturdays. There will be an abundance of delicious fresh produce, crafts, baked goods, plants & flowers, locally-raised hormone-free meat, handmade soaps, jewelry, artwork, pottery, art demonstrations and more at the Alton Farmers' & Artisans' Market. Have breakfast at the market – coffee and breakfast items are available.

CITY: Alton

Alton Hauntings Tours

Based on the book Haunted Alton by Troy Taylor, Alton Hauntings Tours offers an entertaining and spine-tingling trip into the unknown, taking visitors to the most authentic haunted places in Alton. Uncover the eerie folklore, ghostly tales and documented haunted spots on a three-hour walking tour of the city’s most haunted sites. Visitors will see sites that have become nationally known, like the old Alton penitentiary, First Unitarian Church, Enos Sanitarium and many others. The tours have been proven to be popular with ghost enthusiasts and history buffs alike, and nowhere else can you learn as much about the real, haunted history of Alton. Walking tours and bus tours are offered during two touring seasons – Spring & Summer and the Haunted Fall Season. Private tours are also available for groups of 20 or more. Reservations must be made in advance for all tours.

CITY: Alton

Alton Little Theater: 9 to 5: The Musical

9 to 5: The Musical is based on the 1980s hit movie Nine to Five. Pushed to the boiling point by their boss, three female coworkers concoct a plan to get even with the sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot they call their boss. They conspire to take control of their company and learn there's nothing they can't do - even in a man's world. Set in the late 1970's, 9 to 5: The Musical is a hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era. Outrageous, thought-provoking, and even a little romantic, 9 to 5: The Musical is about teaming up and taking care of business. This production is scheduled for July 24 - 27 and July 31 - Aug. 3, 2014.

CITY: Alton

Alton Little Theater: Hallelujah Girls

Hilarity abounds when the feisty females of Eden Falls, Georgia, decide to shake up their lives. The action in this rollicking Southern comedy by the authors of Southern Hospitality takes place in SPA-DE-DAH!, the abandoned church-turned-day-spa where this group of friends gathers every Friday afternoon. After the loss of a dear friend, the women realize time is precious; and if they're going to change their lives and achieve their dreams, they have to do it now! But Sugar Lee, their high-spirited, determined leader, has her hands full keeping the women motivated. The comic tension mounts when a sexy ex-boyfriend shows up unexpectedly, a marriage proposal comes from an unlikely suitor, and Sugar Lee's archrival vows she'll stop at nothing to steal the spa away from her. By the time the women rally together to overcome these obstacls and launch their new, improved lives, you've got a side-splitting, joyful comedy that will make you laugh out loud and shout "Hallelujah!" This production is scheduled for May 1 - 4 and 8 - 11, 2014.

CITY: Alton

Alton Little Theater: Moonlight and Magnolias

Legendry Hollywood producer David O. Selznick has a problem. He has just fired the director of Gone With the Wind and the script is on its umpteenth version. He desperately needs a new director and writer -- immediately! However, the writer he wants, Ben Hecht, has never read the novel and his director of choice, Victor Fleming, is not sold on the success of the storyline; but Selznick believes in this movie so much that he locks the three of them in his office for five days, with bananas and peanuts as their only food, to pull together a new script. As work begins, Selznick and Fleming attempt to act out all the characters in the novel while Hecht types. Take a fun, farcical look at the behind-the-scene birth of one of the most beloved films of all time. This production is scheduled for Jan. 23 - 26 and Jan. 30 - Feb. 2, 2014.

CITY: Alton

Alton Little Theater: Sex, Please, We're 60

Mrs. Stancliffe's Rose Cottage Bed & Breakfast has been successful for many years because her guests (nearly all women) return year after year. Her next door neighbor, the elderly, silver-tongued "Bud the Stud" Davis, believes they come to spend time with him in romantic liaisons. The prim and proper Mrs. Stancliffe steadfastly denies this, but reluctantly accepts the fact that "Bud the Stud" is good for business. Her other neighbor and would-be suitor, Henry Mitchell, is a retired chemist who has developed a blue pill called "Venusia" to increase the libido of menopausal women. The pill has not been tested until Bud gets his hands on some and the fun begins. The women mix up Bud's Viagra pills with the Venusia, and we soon discover that it has a strange effect on men: it gives them all the symptoms of menopause, complete with hot flashes, mood swings, weeping and irritability! When the mayhem settles down, all the women find their lives moving in new and surprising directions. This production is scheduled for March 13 - 16 and March 20 - 23, 2014.

CITY: Alton

Alton Little Theater: The Drowsy Chaperone

The curtain rises on a present-day musical theatre fanatic eager to tell you about his favorite Broadway musical - The Drowsy Chaperone. As he begins listening to the rare cast recording, the show cleverly blooms to life, telling the hilarious tale of a pampered Broadway starlet and her debonair fiance, an overzealous producer, a dizzy chorine, the Latin lover, and a couple of bumbling gangsters. Ruses are played. Hi-jinks occur. And the plot spins everyone into musica comedy euphoria. This production will Sept. 12 - 15 and Sept. 19 - 22.

CITY: Alton

Alton Little Theater: THe Haunting of Hill House

Dr. Montague, an anthropologist whose true passion is the supernatural, rents the supposedly cursed titular building in order to investigate the existence of psychic disturbances. His guests are the house's heir and two women with previous experience of the paranormal. The group bonds almost immediately, but fear is a corrosive emotion and the house's manifestations soon cause cracks to appear. The horror inherent in the play does not lie in Hill House (monsterous though it is) or the events that take place within it, but in the unexplored recesses or its characters' (and its audiences') minds. This is perhaps why it remains the definitive haunted house story. This mystery is scheduled for Oct. 24 - 27 and Oct. 31 - Nov. 3.

CITY: Alton

Alton Little Theater: The Music Man

The 80th season of Alton Little Theater kicks off with The Music Man. In July 1912, a traveling salesman, “Professor” Harold Hill, arrives in River City, Iowa, intrigued by the challenge of swindling the famously stubborn natives of Iowa. Masquerading as a traveling band instructor, Professor Hill plans to con the citizens of River City into paying him to create a boys’ marching band, including instruments, uniforms, and music instruction. Once he has collected the money and the instruments and uniforms have arrived, he will hop the next train out of town, leaving them without their money or a band. It’s all part of a big swindle, but falling in love with the town librarian wasn’t part of the deal. With classic tunes that include the show-stopping “Seventy-Six Trombones,” The Music Man is an irresistible, all-American musical for the entire family!This will be an all-youth production scheduled for July 18-21 and 25-28.

CITY: Alton

Alton Memorial Day Parade

Celebrate Memorial Day by experiencing the oldest consecutive running parade in the entire nation. This parade began in 1868. Celebrate the history of Pie Town, Upper Alton and those who serve our country.

CITY: Alton

Alton Summer Concert Series

Summer is here, and the sounds of summer will be bouncing off the Mississippi River during the “Five Dollar Friday” Summer Concert Series at the Alton Riverfront Amphitheater. The first concert of the season on June 14 will feature Changes in Latitude - a tribute to Jimmy Buffett . The second concert will feature Think Floyd USA - a tribute to Pink Floyd, June 21. The third concert will feature Street Fighters - a tribute to the Rolling Stones, Aug 16. The final concert of the season will feature House of the Holy - a tribute to Led Zeppelin on Aug 30.

CITY: Alton

Alton-Audubon Eagle Festival

Join us for the kick-off of the eagle watching season. Activities include: live eagle meet & greet, preview of events at the Eagle Watching Hot Spots, kid's activities, crafts and eagle viewing walks. Learn about eagle watching - how to spot eagles, where to look and what brings the eagles here each winter. Then, head across the river to Downtown Alton for ice sculpting on the streets.

CITY: Alton

Alton/Godfrey Fireworks on the Mississippi

Alton's spectacular fireworks display are a must see in Alton! With the Clark Bridge as a backdrop over the Mississippi River, this fireworks show is always a crowd pleaser. For more information, call (618) 465-6676.

CITY: Alton

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

American Indian and Ethnographic Show

Historic artifacts on display.

CITY: Collinsville

American Thresherman Show

The evening events for this five day steam and antique tractor show will feature a horse pull, antique tractor pull and, on Friday and Saturday nights, Illinois Tractor Pulling Associating pulls. Thursday night, head uptown for the big parade. The day events include plowing with horses, steam engine and tractors and a pedal tractor pull. There will also be demonstrations on sawmills, veneer mills, shingle mills and blacksmiths.

CITY: Pinckneyville

Andersonville Midsommarfest

Midsommarfest is Andersonville's annual summer street festival, now entering its 48th year. Each year, nearly 50,000 people throng Clark Street from Foster to Catalpa for two days of music, dancing, kids' entertainment, and delicious food. Vendors from around the region sell their wares to passers-by, while ethnic dance troupes and cutting-edge bands keep the party going.

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

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

Annual Fort de Chartres Rendezvous

The Rendezvous is a re-creation of the traditional French trappers' holiday of the Eighteenth Century, and is one of the oldest and largest events of its kind in the United States. Join with the buckskinners, militiamen, artisans, and entertainer as they celebrate life in the shadows of the great fortress known as Fort de Chartres.

CITY: Prairie du Rocher

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

Annual Lights Fantastic Activities & Parade

Take pictures with Santa’s reindeer in Carbondale's Town Square, stop by the Polar Express Station (the Old Train Depot) for candy cane treats, and enjoy the Holiday Cookie Walk, where downtown businesses offer cookies and refreshments. The Lights Fantastic Parade kicks off at 6pm.

CITY: Carbondale

Annual Rhubarb Festival

Bake sale features more than 2,000 rhubarb pies and other delicious desserts. In addition, there will be a huge craft show (on Saturday only) and flea market, music, food, trolley tours of the town and shopping in the historic district. If you want to be guaranteed an opportunity to sample the rhubarb you should be there by noon. Events take place in downtown Aledo, Illinois. Free Admission. The festival takes place in Aledo, Illinois Hwy. 67 South and Right on Route 17 Aledo, IL. 61231 Call (309) 582-7241 for more information. Admission is free. 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

CITY: Aledo

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

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

Antique Automobile Club of American Grand National Show

View over 300 antique cars on display in the heart of downtown Moline, Illinois and situated on River Drive by the world-famous John Deere Pavilion. Be sure to bring your camera to capture pictures of one-of-a-kind antique cars. Cars line River Drive and are arranged by year. If you like antique cars, this is a show not to be missed.

CITY: Moline

Antique Automobile Exhibit

This outdoor exhibit of vintage automobiles showcases the early history of the car in America and features everything from Model Ts to SmartCars. Held on the grounds of the historic David Davis Mansion in Bloomington.

CITY: Bloomington

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

Arrival at Camp River Dubois

Come celebrate the arrival of Lewis and Clark at Camp River Dubois. This annual event commemorates December 12, the day William Clark and the men of the detachment arrived at the confluence of the Riviere a Dubois, Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. The event will include members of the detachment portraying military life, re-enactors recreating the civilian population and demonstrations.

CITY: Hartford

Art in the Park

Join us in Krape Park along with the Freeport Art Museum and the Freeport Park District as we welcome back Art in the Park. This fine arts festival celebrates the visual and performing arts of Illinois. Featured are dozens of fine art booths, performing artists, demonstrations of various art mediums and art activities for shildren. Food will be available.

CITY: Freeport

Atlanta Fall Festival

Atlanta Fall Festival includes food, a carnival, a parade, children's activities and local royalty.

CITY: Atlanta

Atlanta, IL Electric Vehicle Cruise-in

A free, public Electric Vehicle Cruise-In will take place from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. along the original Mother Road in historic downtown Atlanta. The cruise-in is sponsored by the Atlanta Betterment Fund. Enjoy cool EV cars and a chance to learn more about how the Mother Road is working to give birth to a new travel infrastructure. All electric and hybrid cars are invited to participate in the cruise-in. The event will also feature vintage music, great food, a 50/50 drawing and hourly drawings.

CITY: Atlanta

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

Avenue of Lights

Avenue of Lights is a two-mile holiday display of animated lights at Moorman/Wavering Park in Quincy. It runs from Thanksgiving until New Years, nightly from 6-9:30pm. A staple attraction of Quincy during the holiday season.

CITY: Quincy

B.B. King Blues Festival

The Rock and Roll Hall of Famer B.B. King with opening act, The Stone Electric, will be performing live at the Effingham Performance Center! The event starts at 7:30 p.m. Get your tickets today and take a trip down memory lane with the legendary blues man himself!

CITY: Effingham

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

Backwater Gamblers Water Ski Shows

Enjoy this professional water ski team as they perform on the Rock River with jumps,human pyramids and more. Great fun for all ages and admission is free. Shows are offered every Wednesday and Sunday from Memorial Day through Labor Day beginning at 6:30pm.

CITY: Rock Island

Bald Eagle Days Environmental Fair and Wildlife Art Show

Don't miss the Bald Eagle Days Environmental Fair and Wildlife Art Show at the QCCA Expo Center in Rock Island, Illinois. The show is heralded as the largest event in the Midwest dedicated to the United States' national symbol of freedom. The three-day event includes live eagle, hawk, owl and vulture flying demonstrations along with educational programs by the World Bird Sanctuary of St. Louis, Missouri. Also enjoy over 200 fun and informative exhibits. Free parking is available at the show. Hours are Friday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sunday 11 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission $4 for adults, $1 for children 6-15, free for children 5 and under. The event takes place at the QCCA Expo Center at 2621 4th Avenue Rock Island, IL. 61201 Call (309) 788-2543 for more information.

CITY: Rock Island

Bald Eagle Safari

Get an up close view on a Bald Eagle Safari with Bob Motz. He provides spotting scopes that magnify 15 to 45 times and mount on the car window frame for good viewing of eagles in trees. You can see the yellow of their eye, the nostrils in the beak, and the black talons of their feet. Binoculars are also provided to see eagles in flight. The safaris make good birthday and anniversary gifts. Cost is $20 per hour for one to four people. Two or three-hour safaris are recommended. Call Bob at 309-788-8389 or email him at eaglemotz@aol.com to arrange a safari.

CITY: Rock Island

Bald Eagle Trolley Tours

In January and February ride the trolley from Starved Rock Lodge to the Illinois Waterway Visitor Center for bald eagle viewing and an educational program. Includes lunch during the week and brunch on Sunday in the Main Dining Room.

CITY: Utica

Bald Eagle Watching in the Cache River Wetlands

The Cache River Wetlands offers great opportunities for eagle watching, as well as spotting other birds. The Cache River Wetland Center provides resource and identification materials to help you spot eagles and other birds in the area and along the rivers. They will provide maps and directions to the viewing station for the nest just off Illinois Route 37 off Perks road and south of the visitor's center.

CITY: Cypress

Balloon Fest

A fun filled family weekend featuring over 40 hot air balloons, balloon glows Friday and Saturday, entertainment throughout each day, fireworks, car show, craft fair, children's activity area and more.

CITY: Centralia

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

Basu Herb Farm Festival

Come see a working farm and learn more about practices like organic farming. Activities will include a farmers market, herb walks, children's games, guest speakers, seminars, drummers, African dancers, positive hip-hop, an open mic and more.

CITY: Pembroke Township

BBQ Fest on the River

A BBQ competition, vendors, beer tent, carnival, kids zone, car show, walk/run, and bean bag tourney. Kicking it off on Friday night Chicago 80’s tribute band Poison d Crue will perform on the Miller stage followed by 80’s rock icons Warrant and Great White who will perform on the Centrue Bank stage. Friday times are 6:00 p.m. until 12:00 a.m. Saturday’s country day begins at 11:00 a.m. through 12:00 a.m. On this eventful country day we will see local crowd favorites E3PO and Jason Bertrand perform before giving way to The Makena Hartlin Band on the Miller stage. Country stars Emerson Drive and Jack Ingram take over the Centrue Bank stage at 8:00 p.m. Sunday Blue’s lovers will take in the sweet sounds of Larry McCray for only $5. Sunday hours run from 12:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. A full listing of activities are available at kvpd.com including the full music lineup, wing eating contest, 5k run+walk/2,013 yard dash, car, truck, & motorcycle show, carnival, police vs. fire tug-of-war, kids zone and of course the BBQ cook-off competition!

CITY: Kankakee

Bengtson's Pumpkin Farm

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

CITY: Homer Glen

Big Bang at Hidden Lake Winery

Dueling piano's. Meal prepared by Winery Chef.

CITY: Aviston

Big Love

The term “battle of the sexes” gets a whole new meaning when a group of brides-to-be on the run from the altar face down their jilted grooms at an Italian villa. Strawdog Artistic Associate Matt Hawkins, director of The House Theatre’s Cyrano and Strawdog’s award winning smash hit Red Noses returns (triumphantly) to the mainstage with Mee’s poetic, madcap riff on love, violence and gender roles. Produced by the Strawdog Theatre Company.

CITY: Chicago