Summer is swinging into high gear and that means more fun, more culture and more things to do around town. Here’s a round-up of five activities that we found especially appealing.
Don’t forget: Limited capacities, timed entries, mask requirements, social distancing and other policies are still in effect at many venues and events, so please check the details before finalizing your plans!
Hit the Backlot Bash in Skokie
With live music, a carnival midway, 5K run, classic car show, bingo, Sunday pancake breakfast and so much more, there is no shortage of fun at Skokie’s annual Backlot Bash.
Date: Fri, Aug 27 to Sun, Aug 29
Time: 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm on Fri; 6:00 am to 10:00 pm on Sat; and 7:30 am to 8:00 pm on Sun
Cost: Free
Location: Skokie Village Green between the Public Library and Village Hall at 5127 Oakton St, Skokie
More Info:backlotbash.com
Delight in a Summer Pops Concert
Join the Evanston Symphony Orchestra for a 1-hour outdoor concert of light classics, Broadway show tunes and movie soundtracks – performed at Wallace Bowl in Wilmette.
Date: Sun, Aug 29
Time: 6:00 pm
Cost: Free
Location: Wallace Bowl at Gillson Park, 225 Sheridan Rd, Wilmette
More Info: evanstonsymphony.org
Enjoy Fantastical Theatrical Entertainment!
Presented by Oil Lamp Theater, “Shipwrecked! An Entertainment” is a quirky and wondrous outdoor production filled with whimsey and adventure.
Date: Thu, Aug 26 to Sun, Aug 29
Time: 8:00 pm on Thu; 8:00 pm on Fri; 3:00 pm & 8:00 pm on Sat; and 3:00 pm on Sun
Cost: $45
Location: The lawn at St. David’s Episcopal Church, 2410 Glenview Rd, Glenview
More Info: oillamptheater.org
Savor Barbecue & Brews
Choose from a tempting menu of barbecue classics including 14-hour smoked brisket, pulled pork and baby back ribs. And if you can’t decide which craft beer will go best, create your own tasting board of 5 oz pours!
Date: Thu, Aug 26 to Sun, Aug 29
Time: 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Sun and Thu; 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm on Fri and Sat
Cost: Smokehouse BBQ items from $14
Location: Smylie Brothers Brewing Company, 1615 Oak Ave, Evanston
More Info: smyliebros.com
Visit a Classic Neighborhood Ice Cream Stand
Still family-owned, this small but legendary walk-up ice cream stand has been drawing North Shore residents for more than 50 years. Choose from soft serve classics including hard-shell dips in a wide variety of flavors.
Date: Thu, Aug 26 to Sun, Aug 29
Time: 10:30 am to 9:00 pm on Thu; 10:30 am to 10:00 pm on Fri & Sat; 11:00 am to 9:00 pm on Sun
Cost: Varies by Item
Location: Glenview Dairy Bar, 1015 Harlem Ave, Glenview
More Info: glenviewdairybar.square.site