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.
Summer Doesn’t End at Skokie’s Backlot Bash
Skokie’s Backlot Bash is three days of music, food, and fun for all ages! Expect live bands, carnival rides, a 5K run, color fun run for kids, art fair, movie marathon, and community resources. Music spans rock, funk, soul, Americana, and tribute bands, while kids can enjoy face painting, the Kid Zone, and family-friendly activities. Every day features beer, food, and after-parties at Ascione Bistro.
Date: August 22-24
Time: Fri 5:30PM-12AM; Sat 6AM-12AM, Sun 7:30AM-10PM
Cost: Free
Location: Oakton St. and Laramie Ave, Skokie
More Info: backlotbash.com
Make and See at Port Clinton Art Festival
The Port Clinton Art Festival returns to Highland Park for its 41st year, showcasing paintings, sculpture, mixed media, and more from over 200 artists nationwide. Browse the thousands of works along scenic streets, watch live art demonstrations, and sip coffee or a cold beer between exhibits, while kids can explore the Kids Art Zone with hands-on projects and face painting.
Date: August 24-25
Time: 10AM-5PM
Cost: Free
Location: 600 Central Ave, Highland Park
More Info: cityhpil.com
Experience Street Fest
Street Fest transforms downtown Palatine into a weekend-long celebration of food, music, and community. Enjoy live performances, carnival rides, local vendors, and interactive activities for all ages. From games and family zones to tasty treats and craft booths, Street Fest is a mix of entertainment and small-town charm perfect for a summer day out.
Date: August 22-24
Time: Fri 5PM-12AM; Sat 12PM-12AM; Sun 11:30AM-6PM
Cost: Free
Location: Brockway and Slade St, Palatine
More Info: palatine.il.us
Have Fun at Elote Festival
The Elote Festival is a lively celebration of Latin culture with music, food, carnival rides, and a spectacular musical lights drone show. Sample elote and other festival favorites, enjoy performances from Banda La Enkantadora, Angelina Victoria, and Revolución de Amor, and watch the Elote Queen Pageant. Kids will love the bouncies and foam party, making it a weekend full of flavor, fun, and festivity.
Date: August 22-24
Time: Fri 5PM-11PM; Sat 3PM-11PM; Sun 3PM-9:30PM
Cost: Free
Location: Cultural and Civic Center of Round Lake Beach, 2007 Civic Center Way, Round Lake Beach
More Info: rlbciviccenter.com
Put On Your Boots for Brothers’ Field Country Fest
Get ready for a weekend of boots, bands, and backyard fun! The festival kicks off Saturday (main day) with live country music, mechanical bull rides, and dance lessons. Savor mouthwatering BBQ from the Toasty Taco food truck and enjoy refreshing drinks at the Tiki Bar. Sunday offers more live music and family-friendly activities.
Date: August 23-24
Time: 2PM-6PM
Cost: $5
Location: Brothers’ Field, 240 Old McHenry Rd, Long Grove
More Info: brothersfieldlonggrove.com
