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.
Rock Out at Winnetka Music Festival
Two days, two stages, and a serious lineup. The Winnetka Music Festival returns with indie rockers Cold War Kids and New Orleans groove band The Revivalists headlining. The fest brings big-name acts and rising stars to the North Shore, with food trucks, family activities, and a beer garden rounding out the experience.
Date: June 20-21
Time: Fri 5PM-10:30PM; Sat 11AM-10:30PM
Cost: $95+
Location: 620 Lincoln Ave, Winnetka
More Info: winnetkamusicfestival.com
Get a Taste of Highland Park
Downtown Highland Park transforms into a music-filled food fest, with Too Hype Crew delivering a throwback hip-hop set on Friday and Queen tribute band Queenflash bringing the drama on Saturday. Sample bites from local favorites and sip cocktails while catching pop-up performances from Rent and Hairspray.
Date: June 20-21
Time: 5PM-10PM
Cost: Free
Location: 600 Central Ave, Highland Park
More Info: enjoyhighlandpark.com
Bring the Whole Family to Kids Fest
Little ones can jump, paint, play, and groove at this kid-focused day out in Wheeling. Expect bounce houses, balloon animals, face painting, and performances from Wendy & DB and Mr. Scott’s Giant Bubble Show; plus a meet-and-greet with costumed characters to top it all off.
Date: June 21
Time: 11AM-2PM
Cost: Free
Location: Heritage Park Performance Pavilion, 201 Community Blvd, Wheeling
More Info: wheelingparkdistrict.com
Soak Up Summer at Blues Fest
Blues takes center stage at this outdoor music fest in Long Grove. Bring a blanket, grab a beer, and settle in for a soulful lineup of local and regional acts, all performing under the summer sky at Brothers Field. Food trucks and craft brews keep the good vibes flowing.
Date: June 21-22
Time: Sat 2PM-10PM; Sun 12PM-6PM
Cost: Sat $5; Sun Free
Location: Brothers’ Field. 340 Old McHenry Rd, Long Grove
More Info: brothersfieldlonggrove.com
Make Memories at Fun Friday – Celebrate Summer
Perfect for younger kids, this one-day class is packed with summer-themed crafts, games, and activities. From water play to creative projects, it’s a cheerful way to kick off the season and squeeze in some quality bonding time.
Date: June 20
Time: 10AM-11AM
Cost: $12+
Location: 814 Hart Rd, Round Lake
More Info: anc.apm.activecommunities.com
