2013 Nielsen USTA Pro Tennis Championship

This one of a kind event attracts some of the finest tennis players in the world drawing local, national and international attention. We invite you to come out with your family and friends to experience the event for yourself, or consider partnering with the Nielsen Pro Tennis Championship as a valued sponsor. Net proceeds from this event benefit the North Suburban Recreation Association (NSSRA).

CITY: Winnetka

2nd Annual Inferno Fest

Inferno Fest is the hottest challenge for bold and daring foods enthusiasts. The action-packed event will feature an official flag retirement,"burning ceremony, cooking demonstrations, 'fire-off' contests, sampling of the hottest foods and drinks around, live music, lots of milk to cool the tastebuds and more. Come out to City Hall Park and and enjoy the heat.

CITY: Highwood

7th Annual Kops N Kidz Day

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

CITY: Lemont

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

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

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

Alabama 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 pavilion seats.

CITY: Highland Park

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

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

An Evening of Midsummer Magic

Enjoy children's carnival games, a bounce house, a coloring/activity station, and a live performance by Magician Michael Darnell!

CITY: Lansing

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

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

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 Highwood Pumpkin Festival

Home of the World Record for the longest line of pumpkin pies, the Highwood Pumpkin Festival will be packed with daily events, vendors galore, live music, hay rides, pumpkin carving, massive pumpkin displays, nightly lightings, a parade, 5K/10K Pumpkin run and so much more.

CITY: Highwood

Annual Highwood's Taste of Summer

Party in the Park at the Taste of the North Shore. Come out and enjoy 3 days in the beautiful park. Highwood's Taste of Summer will be three days of fun in beautiful Everts Park with great tastes of the North Shore, live music, family activities, beer garden, and plenty of new and exciting carnival rides for all ages.

CITY: Highwood

Antiques and Modernism Winnetka Show

This spectacular show is a fusion of the former Winnetka Antiques Show, combining a 60-year history and prevailing reputation. Encompassing periods of design ranging from the 17th century to the mid 20th century. Esteemed dealers from across the country will showcase fine examples of American, British, French and Asian antiques, as well as pieces from the Arts and Crafts, Art Nouveau, Art Deco and Mid-Century design movements. Offering furniture, silver, ceramics, jewelry, garden antiques, lighting, rugs, fine and folk art, architectural artifacts and even more! Varies; 1-3 day admission tickets.

CITY: Winnetka

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

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

Artifact Talk: Rescue and Renewal

Grace Cohen Grossman, Curator Emerita, Skirball Museum, Los Angeles, details the history of the JCR & its task at the end of World War II to identify looted, "heirless" Jewish ceremonial objects and books, and to reclaim them for the Jewish people. Over sixty objects were placed in the care of the HTC. On loan to the Museum, these treasured artifacts will now be on display in the Feis Family Lobby. Reservations required; reservations@ilhmec.org. Museum admission.

CITY: Skokie

Autumn in the Park Festival

Autumn in the Park Festival has something for the entire family and then some. Two Chili Cook-Off's, BBQ Rib Competition, entertainment, food, drinks and fun.

CITY: Palos Park

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

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

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

Blues & BBQ

Enjoy a live blues performance by BMR4 & Toronzo Cannon! Lynnie Ques BBQ will be available for purchase. Don't forget your blanket or lawn chair.

CITY: Lansing

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

Boeing, Boeing

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

CITY: Oakbrook Terrace

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

Brian Wilson/Al Jardine/David Marks 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

Bryan Wallick, Piano 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 pavilion seats.

CITY: Highland Park

Buddy Guy/George Thorogood and the Destroyers 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 pavilion seats.

CITY: Highland Park

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

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

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

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

Chicago 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 pavilion seats.

CITY: Highland Park

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

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

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

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 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

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

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

Chicago Rush vs. Cleveland Gladiators

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

CITY: Rosemont

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

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

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

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

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

Cody Simpson

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

CITY: Rosemont

Concerts in the Park - Park Ridge

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

CITY: Park Ridge

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

CSO/ Itzhak Perlman/Alisa Weilerstein, Cello 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 pavilion seats.

CITY: Highland Park

CSO/ Lords of the Rings-The Two Towers 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 pavilion seats.

CITY: Highland Park

CSO/Carlos Miguel Prieto: Bolero and More 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 pavilion seats.

CITY: Highland Park

CSO/James Conlon/ Jorge Federico Osorio, 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

CSO/James Conlon/James Ehnes, Violin 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

CSO/James Conlon/Maxim Vengerov, Violin 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

CSO/James Conlon/Orchestral Showcase 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

CSO/Leon Fleisher: All-Mozart Evening 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 pavilion seats.

CITY: Highland Park

CSO/Tchaikovsky Spectacular: "1812" 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 pavilion seats.

CITY: Highland Park

CSO/Verdi's Aida 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 pavilion seats.

CITY: Highland Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

David Fung, Piano: Rachmaninoffs Preludes 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 pavilion seats. This event is part of Ravinia's $10 series.

CITY: Highland Park

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

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

Dutch Festival

Your family will enjoy exploring traditional Dutch food, crafts and entertainment at this year's Dutch Festival.

CITY: Palos Heights

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

Emerson String Quartet 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 pavilion seats.

CITY: Highland Park

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

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

EXPO CHICAGO

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

CITY: Chicago

Fall on the Green Festival

The annual Fall on the Green Festival is held the weekend after Labor Day. This family friendly event has everything you look for in a festival, great food, wonderful entertainment, games, and vendors of all types. This event takes place on the village green located at 95th Street & Cook Avenue. There is no charge for admission, parking or rides. The only cost to attendees is the purchase of food and drink.

CITY: Oak Lawn

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

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

Fire in my heart- The Story of Hannah Senesh

Hannah Senesh came of age as a promising poet in Budapest. Becoming a Zionist, she immigrated to British Mandate Palestine in 1939. Four years later hoping to aid Hungary’s embattled Jews, the 22 year old Hannah volunteered to penetrate Nazi-controlled Europe as a British intelligence officer. The story of Hannah Senesh tells the story of a courageous heroine and how a person motivated by ideals can act in extraordinary ways and contribute to causes greater than one’s self. $12; Seniors (65+): $8.00, Students (12-22): $8.00; Children (5-11): $6.00.

CITY: Skokie

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

Gipsy Kings 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 pavilion seats.

CITY: Highland Park

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

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

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

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

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

Hamlet

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

CITY: Palos Hills

Hello, Dolly!

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

CITY: Oakbrook Terrace

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

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

Highwood Last Call Art Fair

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

CITY: Highwood

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