Summer is here with plenty of opportunities to explore different communities, enjoy music and food at festivals, and discover new cultural opportunities. Here’s a round-up of five activities that we found most interesting for you this week!
Shop ’Til You Drop in Downtown Evanston
Downtown Evanston’s sidewalk sale kicks off this weekend with a chalk art contest to add some color under your feet. 22 artists of all ages compete while you and your friends enjoy the summer savings at dozens of local businesses.
Date: July 22 – 24
Time: 9:00AM – 3:00PM
Cost: Free
Location: Downtown Evanston
More info: downtownevanston.org
Soak in the Smoothest Voice on Broadway
Known as the original Aaron Burr on Broadway’s Hamilton, Leslie Odom Jr. brings his signature Jazzy vocals to Ravinia, supported by conductor Marin Alsop and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. The Tony and Grammy Award-winning triple threat makes his Ravinia debut with an evening of Broadway, film, and original music.
Date: July 24
Time: 6:00PM
Cost: Starting at $35
Location: 200 Ravinia Park Rd, Highland Park
More info: ravinia.org
See Why Daniel Burnham Loved Evanston
Known as the mastermind behind Chicago’s layout, parks, and architecture, Daniel Burnham lived out his later years in what he called “bucolic Evanston.” Take a walking tour of Burnham’s work and discover why he called Evanston “the most beautiful city in the world.”
Date: July 23
Time: 11:00AM
Cost: $20
Location: Evanston History Center, 225 Greenwood Street, Evanston
More info: evanstonhistorycenter.org
Cover Downtown Glencoe with Spectacular Art
The Glencoe Festival of Art kicks off its 13th year with art, kids activities, and nonstop live music. Stroll through town to look at the work of more than 90 artists in a huge array of mediums right in your backyard! Pick up some delicious meals and tasty treats along the way from local restaurants.
Date: July 23 & 24
Time: 10:00AM – 5:00PM
Cost: Free
Location: 700 Vernon Ave, Glencoe
More info: amdurproductions.com
Harness the Awesome Power of the Sun
Bring the family out to the Emily Oaks Nature Center to discover how solar power is created. Then, race your very own solar-vehicle down the race trick and try for first prize to use the sun’s power for good!
Date: July 24
Time: 1:30PM
Cost: Starting at $16
Location: 4650 Brummel St, Skokie
More info: skokieparks.org
