Embrace the crisp fall days with exciting activities that’ll make your autumn glow. From checking out charming boutiques to savoring pumpkin spice treats at seasonal festivals, there is so much to see and enjoy. Venture into fall foliage trails and local landmarks to infuse a dash of adventure into your autumn plans. Don’t miss out on these activities scheduled for this weekend to fully savor the changing leaves!
See a Piano Prodigy at SPACE
Jahari Stampley, started playing piano at 14 and swiftly conquered competitions like Best High School Jazz Soloist and National YoungArts within 2 years. At 18, he earned admiration from music legends like Yebba Smith, Jill Scott, Robert Glasper, Cory Henry, Jacob Collier, Stanley Clarke, Derrick Hodge, and more. Jahari even toured with Stanley Clarke and left his mark on Derrick Hodges’ “Color of Noise” album. Don’t miss this musical sensation!
Date: September 17
Time: 7PM
Cost: $20-40
Location: SPACE, 1245 Chicago Ave, Evanston
More info: https://www.evanstonspace.com/
Experience the Taste of Evanston
Indulge in a fun culinary journey at the Taste of Evanston! From savory bites to sweet treats, local restaurants and eateries showcase their culinary prowess. With live music, great food, and a vibrant atmosphere, the Taste of Evanston is not just a food festival, it’s a community building event!
Date: September 17
Time: 3-6PM
Cost: $90
Location: Charles Gates Dawes House, 225 Greenwood St, Evanston
More info: tasteofevanston.org
Sew Cool at the Back-to-School Sewing Event
Send your tween back to school with a new skill with the Skokie Park District’s Back to School Sewing. All materials will be provided to teach them how to sew backpacks and pencil cases. No sewing experience is required for this fun and educational experience.
Date: September 16
Time: 12-3PM
Cost: $42+
Location: Devonshire Cultural Center, 4400 Greenwood Ave, Skokie
More info: skokieparks.org
Rage on at Riot Fest!
Riot Fest, the ultimate celebration of punk, rock, and alternative music, is back! This three-day extravaganza is filled with performances from a diverse lineup of artists: headliners include the Foo Fighters, The Postal Service, Death Cab for Cutie, The Cure, and many more names you’ll recognize alongside emerging talents. Beyond the music, Riot Fest offers carnival rides, delicious food vendors, and a punk-rock atmosphere that radiates pure energy.
Date: September 15-17
Time: 11AM-10PM
Cost: $104+
Location: Douglass Park, 1401 S Sacramento Dr
More info: riotfest.org
Art, Music, and More at the Edgewater Arts Festival
Step into a world of creativity and inspiration at the 2023 Edgewater Arts Festival! From captivating visual artworks by local artists to live music performances, this festival promises to inspire your passion for the arts. Stroll through a lively marketplace, savor culinary delights, and immerse yourself in interactive art experiences that will leave you with lasting memories.
Date: September 16-17
Time: 11AM-7PM
Cost: Free
Location: Edgewater Artists in Motion, 1070 W Granville St
More info: edgewaterartists.com
Walk the ArtWalk in Ravenswood
The Ravenswood ArtWalk is an annual celebration of creativity that transforms Ravenswood into an artistic showcase. This event invites you to explore a diverse range of art forms, from fine art to immersive installations. Stroll through the historic Ravenswood Corridor, where you’ll encounter open studios, galleries, and interactive art experiences, all while enjoying live music, delicious food, and a lively, community-driven atmosphere.
Date: September 16-17
Time: 11AM-6PM
Cost: Free
Location: Ravenswood Industrial Corridor, Lawrence Ave to Irving Park Rd
More info: ravenswoodchicago.org
Get Jazzy at the Englewood Jazz Festival
Celebrate the soulful rhythms jazz at the Englewood Jazz Festival, where music, culture, and community combine. This landmark event in Chicago’s vibrant Englewood neighborhood is a testament to the enduring power of jazz, featuring a stellar lineup of talented musicians. From smooth jazz to bebop, this festival honors the genre’s diversity while fostering a sense of togetherness and creativity.
Date: September 16
Time: 11:30AM-6PM
Cost: Free
Location: Hamilton Park, 513 W 72nd St
More info: hcenter.org
Prost to the West Loop Bavarian Block Party
Get ready to raise your steins and embrace the spirit of Bavaria at the West Loop Bavarian Block Party! With a bustling beer garden, delectable German cuisine, and an authentic oompah band, you’ll be transported to the heart of Oktoberfest. Join fellow revelers in donning lederhosen and dirndls as you enjoy a day of merriment, dance, and all things Bavarian.
Date: September 16-17
Time: Sat 12-10PM, Sun 12PM-8PM
Cost: Free
Location: West Loop, Washington Blvd and Sangamon St
More info: englewoodjazzfest.org
