Spring has sprung across Chicagoland and there many exciting events to fill your calendar! From family events to date night activities, there’s something for everyone—here are a few of our top picks to check out this weekend.
Celebrate Culture at Umbrella Arts Festival
This sprawling celebration of Asian American heritage takes over Evanston with live performances, art demos, and food from across the diaspora. Highlights include traditional lion dance, K-pop, Filipino folk music, and a Japanese tea ceremony. Wander through stations offering everything from yarn weaving to jeepney art, or browse vendors selling small-batch goods and international bites (don’t skip the Filipino parols or the dumplings).
Date: May 31
Time: 12PM-5PM
Cost: Free
Location: Fountain Square, 1601 Sherman Ave, Evanston
More Info: evanstonaspa.org
Raise a Glass at Craft Beer Tasting
Cheers to the 12th annual celebration of Chicagoland’s best brews. Over 20 breweries (including Revolution, Half Acre, and Three Floyds) will be pouring their top picks. Between sips, catch a live DJ, hit the food trucks, and learn to line dance with Kickin’ It With Carol.
Date: May 31
Time: 3PM-7PM
Cost: $40
Location: Century Park, 1001 Lakeview Parkway, Vernon Hills
More Info: vhparkdistrict.org
Step Back in Time at Chicagoland Antique Advertising, Slot Machine & Jukebox Show
A nostalgia-fueled wonderland for collectors and the curious alike. This massive show features everything from vintage Coca-Cola signs to fully restored jukeboxes and rare slot machines. Whether you’re buying, browsing, or just in it for the stories, there’s plenty to ogle.
Date: May 30-31
Time: Fri 7AM-4PM; Sat 9AM-3PM
Cost: $10+
Location: Lake County Fairgrounds & Event Center, 1060 E Peterson Rd, Grayslake
More Info: chicagolandshow.com
Enjoy Nature at Spring Paddle
Explore the quieter corners of Skokie Lagoon by canoe with the help of local naturalists. You’ll get a quick paddling lesson before heading out on the water, where you can take in the sights and sounds of spring from a fresh perspective. Keep an eye out for herons, turtles, and other wildlife that call the lagoon home. It’s a low-key adventure perfect for beginners and nature lovers alike.
Date: May 31
Time: 12PM-2:30PM
Cost: $28
Location: Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Rd, Highland Park
More Info: pdhp.org
Paddle Through the Botanic Garden’s at Canoe Adventure
The Chicago Botanic Garden doesn’t often open its lakes to visitors, but when it does, you’ll want to be on the water. In partnership with Friends of the Chicago River, this guided paddle offers an hour-long canoeing experience through lush, scenic waterways. Expect close-up views of birds, frogs, and turtles as you float along. No canoeing experience? No problem. All gear is provided, and instruction is included.
Date: May 31-June 1
Time: 9AM-10AM; 11AM-12PM; 1PM-2PM
Cost: $120
Location: Chicago Botanic Graden, 1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe
More Info: chicagobotanic.org
