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.
Cruise Through Time at the Highland Park Vintage Car Show
Highland Park rolls out the red carpet for car enthusiasts and families alike! Stroll the St. John’s lot and admire an impressive collection of vintage vehicles, from antique classics to roaring muscle cars and iconic pop culture models. Enjoy live music with DJ Russ Fritz and a broadcast from Free Country 102.3, then grab a bite from local favorites like Steep Ravine Brewing Company, BWB Shakes, and more. Kids can join in games and activities while adults sip ice-cold beverages and chat with fellow car fans.
Date: September 6
Time: 12PM-4PM
Cost: Free
Location: St. John’s North Lot, 525 Central Ave, Highland Park
More Info: enjoyhighlandpark.com
Explore the Mundelein Arts Festival
Over 50 fine artists will showcase original works across a variety of media, with live local music providing the perfect backdrop. Visitors can sample tasty treats from vendors like Tamales Diana and Hay Botana while exploring student artwork from Carmel Catholic and Mundelein High Schools, in addition to professional artists. Awards include Best of Show, Best in Category, and scholarships for promising young artists.
Date: September 6-7
Time: 10AM-5PM
Cost: Free
Location: Courtland Commons, 444 E. Courtland St, Mundelein
More Info: mundeleincommunityconnection.org
Have Fun at the Evanston Folk Festival
More than 30 world-class musical artists take the stage, including headliners Iron & Wine and Margo Price, while panels and interviews offer a closer look at folk traditions. A Conversation Tent and pop-up activities provide hands-on experiences throughout the day, and evening performances at Cahn Auditorium extend the magic after sunset. Grab your weekend or single-day passes and join fellow folk fans to celebrate music, culture, and community along the stunning North Shore lakefront.
Date: September 6-7
Time: Sat & Sun 11:30AM-8:30PM
Cost: Free
Location: Dawes Park, 1700 Sheridan Rd, Evanston
More Info: evanstonfolkfestival.com
Stomp Your Feet at Brewgrass
Mark your calendars for Black Lung Brewing’s annual bluegrass bash! Local legends take the stage, including 5 Foot Stompin’, The Three Sons, and Tony John & the Flatland String Band. Kick back with a freshly poured, newly released, Fest Bier, but don’t get too comfortable-this is one festival where dancing is inevitable.
Date: September 6
Time: 3PM-10PM
Cost: $25
Location: Black Lung Brewing Co.,115 Nippersink Blvd, Fox Lake
More Info: blacklungbrewing.com
Try it All at Bacon Bash
Bacon Bash is your chance to indulge in everything crispy, savory, and sweet. From thick-cut bacon to bacon-inspired pizzas, paninis, and chocolate-covered bacon treats, there’s something for every palate. Pair your favorites with local craft brews from Buffalo Creek Brewing, then try your luck at games and prizes-including a chance to win an Alpine Bar. All proceeds benefit the TOTS Therapeutic Child Care Center, supporting children with special needs.
Date: September 6
Time: 2PM-5PM
Cost: Free
Location: Buffalo Creek Brewing, 360 Historical Ln, Long Grove
More Info: masterhappiness.com
