Enjoy the spring season with new experiences to make your days brighter! From outdoor activities like nature walks and festivals, to exploring new areas and shops, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a round-up of five activities this weekend that we think you will love to kick off the spring season!

Celebrate Skokie’s Cultural Diversity
From live music and dance performances to food, beverage and merchandise vendors, the Skokie Festival of Cultures is a celebration of the community’s rich diversity. With interactive cultural booths and a children’s activity area, the event will showcase more than 25 global cultures, including Bulgarian, German, Indian, Laotian, Kurdish, Israeli and Tibetan.
Date: May 18-19
Time: 11:00AM to 6:00PM
Cost: Free
Location: Oakton Park, 4701 Oakton St, Skokie
More Info: skokieculturefest.org

Exotic Car Show
The 3rd annual Glenview Luxury Imports Exotic Car Show is a charity event that raises money for The 100 Club of Illinois, an organization that provides resources and support for the families of first responders. See exotic imports, luxury sports cars and vintage vehicles in pristine condition. Live entertainment by the cover band Brass From the Past.
Date: May 19
Time: 11:00AM to 2:00PM
Cost: Free for all spectators
Location: Railroad Avenue between Glenview Rd and Dewes St, Glenview
More Info: glicarshow.com

Water Lantern Festival
Gather your friends and family for an enchanting evening of fun as people come together to create a peaceful, memorable experience. Design and create your own floating lantern, complete with LED candle, and launch it onto the calm waters of Lake Zurich… maybe with a wish or prayer. There will be food trucks and music at the festival site.
Date: May 18
Time: 5:30 to 9:30PM (Lantern Launch starts at 8:30PM)
Cost: $56
Location: Paulus Park, 200 S. Rand Rd, Lake Zurich
More Info: waterlanternfestival.com

Calling All Chocolate Lovers!
The historic streets and parkways of downtown Long Grove will be humming this weekend with chocolate vendors, chocolate experiences, and chocolate-themed specialties and sales from local merchants. In addition to a dedicated children’s area and carnival, a terrific line-up of bands includes Sixteen Candles, InFunktious and Daniel Cronson Band.
Date: May 17-19
Time: Fri 12:00 to 11:00PM; Sat 10:00AM to 11:00PM; Sun 10:00AM to 6:00PM
Cost: $5; 3 Day Pass for $10; Carnival rides are additional
Location: 145 Old McHenry Rd, Long Grove
More Info: longgrove.org

Big Rigs: Up Close
Touch A Truck is a unique and fun event sponsored by the Wilmette Parks District for kids and the young at heart. See a variety of trucks and big rigs and meet the men and women who operate these amazing vehicles. You can inspect them up close and ask questions.
Date: May 18
Time: 10:00AM to 12:00PM
Cost: Free
Location: Centennial Recreation Center Parking Lot, 2300 Old Glenview Rd, Wilmette
More Info: wilmettepark.org