The city is packed with exciting events and activities to enjoy as the leaves change and the weather cools. From outdoor festivals and farmers’ markets to cozy fall treats and pumpkin patches, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the season. Take a look at these five events to plan your weekend!
Get Ready to Raise the Barn!
Enjoy an evening filled with chef-created bites, craft cocktails, and beer from local vendors. Explore a bespoke artisan craft market featuring a variety of vendors and live music from Judson Main and For The People, and enjoy a theatrical performance by Cabinet of Curiosity.
Date: September 28
Time: 4PM-8PM
Cost: $90+
Location: Howard Street Farm, 3669 Howard St, Skokie
More Info: thetalkingfarm.org
Enjoy Fall Family Festival
Preview the new Thomas & Friends™ exhibit and take a kiddie train through Habitat Park, visit a petting farm, and meet a sloth and tortoise. Additional activities include an old-fashioned apple cider press demonstration, a meet and greet with Princess Belle, and a unique art activity where children can paint a car.
Date: September 29
Time: 2:30PM-5PM
Cost: $17 Members; $30 Non-Members
Location: Kohl Children’s Museum, 2100 Patriot Blvd, Glenview
More Info: kohlchildrensmuseum.org
Ride on at Bike The Ridge
Participants can enjoy a car-free biking experience along Ridge Avenue. Along the route, riders can stop and enjoy live music and food trucks, while at Ridgeville Park, there will be a dedicated area for bike repairs. Additionally, the park will host interactive activities and family-friendly entertainment, making it a fun day for all ages.
Date: September 29
Time: 9AM-1PM
Cost: Free
Location: Ridge Ave between Howard St and Church St, Evanston
More Info: cityofevanston.org
Celebrate Oktoberfest at the Lot
This event offers plenty of traditional family-friendly activities from live entertainment to contests. Enjoy a CirquesExperience Wheel Show featuring 2022 Cyr Wheel bronze medalist Casey Crowe along with activities such as polka dancing, axe throwing, and pretzel necklace making.
Date: September 28
Time: 12PM-10PM
Cost: Free
Location: The Lot, 523 Central Vae, Highland Park
More Info: visitlakecounty.org
Visit Fall Fest
Celebrate Fall with a range of family-friendly activities including a petting zoo and pony rides. This event also features live music and a selection of food trucks. For children, there will be wristband-required attractions such as games, inflatables, balloon artists, face painting and rides.
Date: September 28
Time: 4PM-7PM
Cost: Free
Location: Skokie Playfield, 600 Hibbard Rd, Winnetka
More Info: winpark.org
