With long days and warm nights, summer weekends are made for exploring. Whether you’re staying local or venturing out, here are a few events worth adding to your calendar.
Celebrate Creativity at Festival of the Arts
Downtown Libertyville transforms into a colorful celebration for the 44th annual Festival of the Arts. Presented by the Adler Arts Center, the event features a juried selection of artists from across the Midwest showcasing paintings, jewelry, ceramics, photography, and more. You’ll also find live music performances, art demos, and food trucks!
Date: August 2-3
Time: Sat 10AM-6PM; Sun 10AM-5PM
Cost: Free
Location: Cook Park, 413 N Milwaukee Ave, Libertyville
More Info: adlercenter.org
Make Memories at Family Friday
Little ones can explore, play, and create at this drop-in morning event hosted on the Vernon Area Public Library’s Annex lawn. Designed for children through grade 5, Family Friday offers sensory stations, imaginative activities, and take-home crafts. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, the event moves inside, so families can still enjoy a playful start to the weekend.
Date: August 1
Time: 10AM-11AM
Cost: Free
Location: Vernon Area Public Library, 4 Indian Creek Rd, Lincolnshire
More Info: calendar.vapld.info
Discover Unique Art at Wilmette Art Fair
This two-day juried fair takes over downtown Wilmette with over 100 local and national artists lining Central and Wilmette Avenues. Expect everything from fine art to handcrafted goods, along with interactive artist demos, family-friendly activities in the Kid Zone, and live music. Grab a drink or bite from nearby businesses and make a day of it.
Date: August 2-3
Time: 10PM-5PM
Cost: Free
Location: 1141 Central Ave, Wilmette
More Info: amdurproductions.com
Pet Furry Friends at Family Fun Fridays: A Zoo To You
Get up close with furry and feathered friends during this free event hosted by the Village of Round Lake Beach. Part of the Family Fun Fridays series, A Zoo To You brings a hands-on animal experience to the Cultural and Civic Center grounds. Kids can meet and feed a variety of animals while enjoying an afternoon outdoors.
Date: August 1
Time: 1PM-2PM
Cost: Free
Location: Round Lake Beach Cultural and Civic Center, 2007 N Civic Center Way, Round Lake Beach
More Info: rsgchamber.chambermaster.com
Have a Blast at All Saints Lutheran Church Family Fun Fair
Kick off the month with a neighborhood celebration marking the 20th anniversary of Little Saints Christian Preschool. Hosted in the parking lot of All Saints Lutheran Church in Palatine, the Family Fun Fair features classic games, a silent auction, sweet treats from Daisy’s Ice Cream, and plenty of activities for little ones. The event is organized with help from local Girl Scouts, adding a community-minded touch to the festivities.
Date: August 1
Time: 4PM-6PM
Cost: $10 Suggested Donation
Location: All Saints Lutheran Church’s Parking Lot, 630 S Quentin Rd, Palatine
More Info: palatine.il.us
