Summer Festival Season in Lake County 2025
By: Stephanie Wylie 05/19/2025
Summer in Lake County isn’t just a season—it’s a full-on celebration. From the moment the first festival tent goes up to the final firework lighting up the night sky, this corner of the Midwest transforms into a vibrant playground of music, food and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker chasing carnival rides, a foodie on the hunt for local bites or a live music junkie looking to dance the day (and night) away, Lake County’s summer festivals deliver the perfect vibe.
So rally your crew, grab your sunnies and dive into our ultimate guide to summer festivals—because in the land of lakes, the good times don’t just roll, they rock.
Once a rarity on city streets, food trucks have exploded in popularity across the country over the last decade. This shift paved the way for a vibrant food truck scene, leading to Lake County now boasting four fantastic food events every summer:
- 2nd Thursday Nite Bites in North Chicago (Now-Oct. 9) INFO»
- Food Truck Wednesdays in Deerfield (Now-Aug. 20) INFO»
- Food Truck Thursdays in Lincolnshire (Now-Sept. 13) INFO»
- Ravinia District Food Truck Thursdays in Highland Park (June 5-Sept. 18) INFO»
- Food Truck Series at Deer Park Town Center (May 17-Sept. 13) INFO»
- Hawthorn Summer Market at Hawthorn Row (July 19-Sept. 20) INFO»
- Antioch Annual Food Truck Event (June 14) INFO»
- MainStreet Libertyville Lunch in the Park (June 20-Aug. 15) INFO»
Throughout the year, Lake County revs up with a variety of car shows, showcasing an impressive array of classic, vintage, and custom vehicles. Whether you're a fan of gleaming antiques or unique, modified rides, these events offer something to delight every automotive enthusiast.
- Park on Park Cruise Night in Mundelein (May 14-Sept. 10) INFO»
- CarFun on 21 in LIbertyville (May 21-Sept. 17) INFO»
- Zion Nostalgia Days (June 13-14) INFO»
- Wauconda Cruise Night (June 17-Sept. 16) INFO»
- Celebrate Fox Lake (June 28) INFO»
- Slammedenuff Chicago Car Show at the Lake County Fairgrounds (June 29) INFO»
- Scoop Waukegan 2025 (July 11-12) INFO»
- 13th Annual Lambs Farm Car Show in Libertyville (July 27) INFO»
- Beelow's Car Show in Lake Zurich (July 27) INFO»
- Vintage Car Show at The Lot in Highland Park (Sept. 6) INFO»
Get ready to snack, sip and stroll your way through one of Lake County’s tastiest traditions. The Lake County Food Truck Festival returns to the Fairgrounds in Grayslake, bringing with it a mouthwatering lineup of culinary creativity. Now in its third year, this foodie favorite features a diverse fleet of food trucks dishing out everything from bold global flavors to classic comfort food—and plenty of sweet treats in between. Whether you're rolling solo or rounding up your food-loving crew, come hungry and leave happy. Admission is free, flavors are endless and the vibes are unmatched.
The Waterfront Market at Waukegan Harbor and Marina will kick off its summer series Friday, May 23. The market will run on the fourth Friday of each month through September, offering local artisan goods, food, a family game station and community businesses.
Harbor Brewing Co.'s Lakefront Craft Biergarten will launch its outdoor market season with Crafts with a Brew & View at North Point Marina. The event will feature more than 20 local craft vendors offering handmade goods ranging from custom jewelry and candles to hot sauces and baked treats. Shoppers can sip on craft brews while browsing artisan creations, listening to live music by Jessica Brown and enjoying lakefront views.
Brothers' Field in Long Grove will host a series of summer events, offering diverse entertainment for all ages. The festivities begin with Flavor Days: South of the Border, featuring Latin American food vendors, live music and the Tiki Bar. Experience Havana Nights kicks off its summer series with a beginner-friendly dance lesson by Fred Astaire Dance Studios Long Grove, live Cuban music from Los Perros Cubanos, Cuban-inspired dishes from El Zorro Taco Truck and a Tiki Bar. Family Fun Days for all ages includes inflatable games, live reptile shows, crafts, carnival rides and tractor wagon rides. The Brothers' Field Blues Fest features multiple blues artists, Brothers' BBQ and the Tiki Bar. Finally, America the Beautiful: Sock Hop,1950s-themed event will include dance lessons, live rock 'n' roll music, classic American fare from AJ Kapps and themed cocktails from the Tiki Bar.
Beer lovers will gather at Century Park for the 12th annual Craft Beer Tasting, featuring some of the Chicago area’s top breweries such Lake County Libation Partners Roaring Table Brewing Co. in Lake Zurich, Tighthead Brewing Co. in Mundelein and Mickey Finn's Brewery in Libertyville. Attendees can enjoy live music, food vendors and a complimentary tasting glass with each ticket.
Downtown Deerfield will transform into a hub of creativity as the Deerfield Art Festival brings more than 100 juried artists to this event. Visitors can enjoy live art demonstrations, a Kids Art Zone and a hands-on painting class, all while exploring original works in a variety of media. Food, beverages and family-friendly fun will be available throughout the weekend, with nearby restaurants and retailers also welcoming festivalgoers.
The Village of Fox Lake Parks and Recreation Department and Police Department will host a Lakefront Beach Party & Bike Rodeo at Lakefront Park. The event will celebrate the anticipated opening of the new Lakefront Park Beach (pending permit approval) and National Bike Safety Month with family-friendly activities including a DJ, games, family Zumba in the amphitheater and a bicycle obstacle course. Additional highlights include bike safety training, free helmet giveaways, tuneups by Antioch Cyclery, appearances by the Hamburglar from Arc Limited Family McDonald’s and food vendors such as Stix & Noodles, Erika’s Odd Coffee Co. and Kiki’s Cotton Candy.
The City of Waukegan will celebrate LGBTQ+ pride with a Pride Parade and Festival. The parade steps off at 3 p.m. along Sheridan Road, followed by a community festival at 4 p.m. Additional event details and festival programming are expected to be announced. Stay tuned for updates!
Antioch’s Taste of Summer Festival is back with a new date and an exciting new carnival for 2025. This year’s festival features expanded offerings, including 12 sold-out food vendors, new exhibitors, headline entertainment each day and the Fantasy Amusement Carnival. Live music will span from tributes to Elton John, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and Queen, to teen bands and a Sunday performance by the Blooze Brothers.
The Bitter Jester Music Festival, the nation's longest-running multi-state music competition for emerging artists, returns for its 19th season, offering free, family-friendly concerts throughout the summer. The festival, a program of the Bitter Jester Foundation for the Arts, showcases diverse musical genres and aims to promote young talent from across the Midwest and beyond. Attendees can discover new bands and support the foundation's mission to foster artistic development and unite diverse audiences and local businesses through original music and theatrical productions.
Downtown Libertyville will host its monthly First Friday throughout the summer, beginning at 5 p.m., encouraging residents and visitors to shop, dine and explore local businesses. Shops will stay open late, offering refreshments, special discounts and a festive atmosphere. Diners are also invited to enjoy one of Libertyville’s award-winning restaurants during the event. Event organizers encourage guests to check back for updated lists of participating stores and restaurant deals.
The Ravinia Festival, North America's oldest outdoor music festival, has unveiled its 2025 summer concert series, featuring over 100 performances from June 6 through August 31. The season boasts a diverse array of artists across genres, including James Taylor, Janelle Monáe, The Roots, Beck, and Cynthia Erivo. Some marquee upcoming performers include:
- Grace Jones and Janelle Monáe (June 7) INFO»
- The Black Crowes (June 18) INFO»
- Al Green with The O’Jays (June 28) INFO»
- Nas with the Chicago Philharmonic (July 2) INFO»
- Chicago Symphony Orchestra's annual residency and the "Breaking Barriers" series (July 25-26) INFO»
- John Legend (Aug. 24-27) INFO»
Tickets are available at ravinia.org, with free Metra Union Pacific North Line fare included.
The Village of Fox Lake is launching Friday Night Live, a new summer event series set to run weekly from June through August at the new Lakefront Park and Beach. Presented by Ray Auto Group, the series will feature an artisan market from 4 to 7 p.m., followed by free live music from 7 to 9 p.m., along with food and beverage options from local vendors and food trucks. The 2025 concert lineup includes performances by Kevin Purcell & the Nightburners (June 6), Classical Blast (June 13) and more. In addition to music and shopping, the series will feature themed market nights and partnerships with local nonprofits.
Celebrate Highwood will host its annual Kick-Off to Summer Carnival from Friday, June 6, through Sunday, June 8, at the Metra station in downtown Highwood. The family-friendly start to summer marks the end of the school year, offering classic carnival rides, games and food. Adults can enjoy beverages from an on-site booth while kids take in the festivities.
The Grayslake Area Chamber of Commerce will host its annual Arts Festival & Wine Tasting in downtown Grayslake. The free event will feature live music, a variety of local arts vendors and wine offerings from five regional wineries. Wine tasting tickets includes a souvenir glass and six tastings.
The 12th Annual Mundelein Craft Beer Festival will take place at Tighthead Brewery. Known as a “brewer’s beer festival,” the event will feature craft beer from 40 Chicagoland breweries, including Lake County Libation Trail partners 9th Hour Brewing and Harbor Brewing Co. in Lake Villa, Phase Three Brewing and Roaring Table Brewing Co. in Lake Zurich, Mickey Finn's Brewery and Perfect Brewing Supply in Libertyville, Buffalo Creek Brewing in Long Grove, Steep Ravine Brewing Co. in Highland Park and Half Day Brewing Co. in Lincolnshire. The event is expected to draw more than 1,000 attendees. Hosted by Tighthead Brewery, the festival has earned a reputation for its strong brewer participation and award-winning selections.
The B4 Summer Festival, billed as the Midwest’s biggest “party for a purpose,” will return to Richardson Adventure Farm with proceeds benefiting five local nonprofit organizations. The event will feature live music from headliners Modern Day Romeos, Rok Brigade, Pino Farina Band and DJ Marc Esses. Attendees can enjoy local food trucks, craft brews from five area breweries and indoor bourbon and wine tastings. Many of the farm’s adventure attractions are included with admission, with optional activities like zip lining and gemstone mining available for an extra fee. The festival concludes with a fireworks finale.
Reclaimed Artisans Inc. will host its 14th Annual Summer Outdoor Vintage Market. The free event will feature 40 to 60 vendors offering vintage and artisan goods, along with live music by Kyle Young. Food and drinks will be available from Pizzeria DeVille and Badazz Marketing.
Wine lovers are invited to sip, shop and stroll through downtown Antioch during the village’s annual Summer Wine Walk! The Wine Walk offers participants the chance to sample dozens of wines while exploring local shops and restaurants along Main Street in Antioch. Tickets include a commemorative wine glass, a keepsake tote bag, snacks, bottled water and access to a wide variety of wine tastings.
The Libertyville Days Festival returns to downtown Libertyville with the theme “Aloha Summer '25.” The family-friendly festival will feature a parade, carnival rides, a rib cook-off, a beer tent, live entertainment and an arts and crafts fair. Additional highlights include a Baggo tournament, kids’ party, food vendors and live demonstrations.
Now in its 38th year, Zion's Nostalgia Days is Lake County’s largest and longest-running car, truck and motorcycle show, featuring over 600 vintage and custom vehicles across 30 judged classes. Trophies will be awarded for first, second and third place in each category. The festival also includes a massive cruise event, food vendors, kids' activities, live DJs and radio station appearances, offering fun for all ages.
The Grayslake Craft Beer Festival will take over downtown, offering beer enthusiasts a chance to sample a wide variety of local brews. The festival will feature craft beers, ales, lagers, stouts and more from breweries along the Lake County Libation Trail, including 9th Hour Brewing and Harbor Brewing Co. in Lake Villa, Phase Three Brewing and Roaring Table Brewing Co. in Lake Zurich, Tighthead Brewery in Mundelein, Buffalo Creek Brewing in Long Grove and Half Day Brewing Co. in Lincolnshire.
Wizards, witches and muggles of all ages are invited to Antioch’s Wizards Weekend Day. The family-friendly fantasy event will feature magical bands, a newly expanded Diagon Alley, a Kids School of Magic, the all-new Marauders Experience, crafts, scavenger hunts, meetups and more. Organizers are seeking magical crafters and volunteers to join the festivities.
Lake County PrideFest, the region’s largest annual LGBTQ+ celebration, will return for its fifth year. The event will feature food trucks, artisan vendors, a resource fair, games, children’s entertainment, drag shows and live music. Highlights from the main stage include performances by Nanny Nikki, Mami Zaddy and drag acts Auntie Heroine and Carmel Bliss. A $5 donation at the door is suggested to support the LGBTQ+ Center Lake County.
The Mundelein Park District will host its seventh annual Beach Bash at Diamond Lake Beach & Recreational Center. The free, family-friendly beach day will feature a full day of summer fun, including music, crafts, face painting, beach games, a foam party, inflatable water slide and free kayak and paddle boat rentals. Attendees are encouraged to bring towels, picnic lunches and beach chairs for a day at one of Mundelein’s hidden gems.
The Skokie Valley Kennel Club and the Great Lakes All Terrier Association will host the Grayslake Summer Cluster Dog Shows at the Lake County Fairgrounds. The weekend event features AKC All-Breed and Specialty shows, guided tours, vendors offering dog breed–specific gifts and jewelry, a health and wellness clinic and food options.
The City of Highland Park will bring the ultimate outdoor dining and entertainment experience to downtown. The Taste of Highland Park, the city’s premier dining and music festival, will feature a dozen local food and beverage vendors offering a variety of cuisines, including Italian, Mexican, Indian, American, European and Asian, plus sweet treats, wine, beer and cocktails. This year’s family-friendly entertainment includes Too Hype Crew’s old school hip hop tribute on Friday and Queen tribute band Queenflash on Saturday. Attendees can also enjoy special performances from the musicals Rent on Friday and Hairspray on Saturday. Returning as the city’s resident DJ, globally recognized DJ Madrid will keep the energy high on Friday night. Mark your calendars for this two-night celebration of food, music and community in downtown Highland Park.
The third annual Grayslake AuthorFest will be held at the Grayslake Heritage Center & Museum. The free event brings together authors, readers and aspiring writers from Lake and McHenry counties and beyond. Attendees can meet a wide range of featured authors, including Tara N. Gabrys, Randi Moxi, Amy L. Sauder and many more. Organized by local writers and community supporters, AuthorFest offers book signings, workshops and opportunities to connect with the literary community.
The Juneteenth Lake County Parade and Festival will return to downtown Waukegan, celebrating Black history, freedom and community pride. Organized by the African American Museum at England Manor, the event will feature a high-energy parade with performances by the Elite Striders Drill Team & Drum Corps, South Shore Drill Team, local school marching bands, lowriders, motorcycles and appearances by Mr. and Ms. Juneteenth. The celebration continues with a vibrant festival highlighting Black culture, music, food and family-friendly activities.
North Shore Distillery will celebrate the official start of summer with its Midsommar event. Guests can enjoy handcrafted cocktails, including aquavit served chilled in blocks of ice. The celebration features flower crown making, Viking chess, a fire pit and a Midsommar pole with traditional songs and dances, weather permitting.
Celebrate love, diversity and community at the free Pride Event and Market at Hawthorn Row. The event kicks off Hawthorn Row’s Summer Series Markets and features local makers, music, food and more. Attendees can support local businesses and enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere.
ArtWauk, the city's renowned monthly event, transforms downtown Waukegan into a vibrant tapestry of creativity. This free Saturday happening invites you to immerse yourself in a diverse array of artistic expressions, from captivating sculptures and compelling films to engaging theatrical performances, hilarious comedy and live music. Explore the open doors of every art gallery, satisfy your creative appetite with an abundance of visual art and tantalize your taste buds with delectable downtown dining options. Let the rhythm of live entertainment move you as you discover the ever-evolving artistic landscape of ArtWauk.
Wauconda Fest returns for its 2025 edition featuring bands like Hi Infidelity, 7th Heaven, Don't Rock the Jukebox and more. The four-day festival features a beer and wine tent, carnival rides, a craft show, a bags tournament and a car show. Admission is $5 cash for a button valid all weekend.
The annual Long Grove Strawberry Festival will return to Historic Downtown Long Grove, celebrating the sweet start of summer with strawberry-themed treats, family-friendly activities and live entertainment. Hosted by the Historic Downtown Business Association, the weekend festival draws thousands each year. Visitors can expect vendors offering strawberry-inspired foods and drinks, artisan goods and local entertainment. Proceeds from the event support revitalization projects in downtown Long Grove.
Lake County is gearing up for a vibrant Fourth of July celebration, offering a diverse array of community festivals for all ages. Residents and visitors can enjoy traditional parades, live music and family-friendly activities across various towns. These festivities culminate in dazzling fireworks displays, marking Independence Day with patriotic spirit. Here's a look at some of the Fourth of July festivals in Lake County:
- Celebrate Fox Lake (June 28) INFO»
- Taste of Grayslake (June 28) INFO»
- Red, White & Boom! in Lincolnshire (July 3-4) INFO»
- Star Spangled Nights at Six Flags Great America (July 3-5) INFO»
- Mundelein Community Days (July 3-6) INFO»
- Deerfield Family Days (July 3-4) INFO»
- BeachFest in Round Lake Beach (July 5) INFO»
This weekend, leave modern times behind and transport yourself to the 16th century at the Bristol Renaissance Faire, just a short trip north of Lake County. The opening weekend is packed with savory treats, a vibrant marketplace showcasing artisan wares, an engaging theatrical gaming adventure, and a myriad of other period-authentic celebrations. While consistently recognized as a top 10 family-friendly festival for almost a decade, offering plenty for the little ones, the Faire also caters to adults. Those 21 and older can embark on a tour of the Kenosha, WI grounds that hosts their renowned pub crawl. Embrace the spirit of the era by dressing in your finest Renaissance-inspired garb and soak in the captivating ambiance of Medieval Europe. This grand Olde English festival will be open every Saturday and Sunday until Labor Day weekend.
Get ready for a feast for the senses this weekend as the annual Lincolnshire Arts Festival takes over Route 22. Over 100 award-winning artists from all over the country will be on hand, presenting and selling exceptional works across a spectrum of artistic mediums and price points. Bring the kids along for engaging activities, including an exciting art scavenger hunt and fun spin art. Once you've admired the creations of all the talented vendors, kick back and enjoy live music on the Village Green stage. Plus, attendees can leave their mark by contributing to the communal mural!
Classic car enthusiasts will gather in Downtown Waukegan for Scoop Waukegan 2025, the city’s signature summer car show and cruising event. This free car show features a vibrant display of vintage and custom vehicles, live music, food vendors and family-friendly activities. The highlight of the weekend is the beloved “scooping” parade, where cars cruise through the streets in a celebration of Waukegan’s automotive culture.
The 16th annual Dog Days of Summer returns to Libertyville, offering a free, canine-centric event for families and pet enthusiasts. The festival will once again feature the nationally recognized DockDogs National Canine Aquatic Competition, where dogs of all skill levels leap into a 27,000-gallon pool to compete in events such as Big Air waves, Extreme Vertical and Speed Retrieve. Beyond the thrilling aquatic displays, the event in Cook Park will include dog-oriented activities, pet product vendors and local dog rescues, with proceeds benefiting local animal shelters and food pantries.
Harbor Brewing Co.'s Lakefront Biergarten will come alive with a three-day celebration featuring a craft market, food vendors and live music along the scenic North Point Marina. Check out live music, local artisans and eats all weekend long. Live performances include The Unusual Suspects, LJT & The Leftovers followed by the Judson Brown Band and the Shapeshifters wrapping up the festivities on Sunday.
Highwood’s oldest and most beloved tradition returns this summer with Highwood Days, featuring a large-scale carnival at the downtown Metra station parking lot. New this year, the Taste of Highwood joins the festivities, showcasing the city’s culinary scene with bites from local restaurants, full-service booze tents and the chance for attendees to vote for the People's Choice Award for Best Taste. The celebration also includes the Highwood 5K Run, Walk & Stroll on Saturday, July 19. With carnival rides, games, live music and flavorful eats, the weekend promises fun for all ages.
Vernon Hills Days returns to Century Park bringing four days of live entertainment, carnival rides, family activities and food vendors to the heart of the village. Highlights include headline performances by Too Hype Crew (July 17), Switchfoot (July 18) and Boston’s lead singer Tommy DeCarlo (July 19). Modern Day Romeos will close out the festival. A massive beer tent, fireworks and a “Cream a Cop” fundraiser. A full carnival will operate daily, with sensory-friendly “Flower Hour” access. The 13th annual bags tournament also returns with prizes including Yeti coolers and gift certificates. Families can enjoy crafts, face painting and a petting zoo under the big tent, while food lovers will find more than a dozen vendors offering everything from Filipino skewers to Italian pizza and Mexican street fare.
Head to MainStreet Libertyville for a fantastic day of deals and discoveries! Stroll through the charming downtown area and uncover incredible bargains at participating shops. Fuel your shopping adventure with a delicious lunch or dinner at one of the many superb local restaurants. Keep an eye out for updates on businesses, as sales might move indoors if weather doesn't cooperate. Get ready for a perfect blend of retail therapy and delightful dining in the heart of Libertyville!
AlpineFest in Lake Zurich offers a beloved tradition, inviting visitors to relive the nostalgic joy of yesteryear. This annual festival, proudly sponsored by the Lions Club, traces its roots to a 1942 celebration of World War II triumphs. Attendees can anticipate a full schedule of events, including a vibrant parade, exhilarating carnival rides, fun games, a wide array of tasty eats, family-focused entertainment, the popular Fire Fighters Water Fights and a fantastic lineup of live performances.
The streets of Mundelein will transform into a high-octane racecourse for the 2025 Mundelein Grand Prix, part of the nationally recognized Chicago Grit series. The criterium-style event features professional and amateur cyclists competing in fast-paced, multi-lap races on a tight circuit. The action peaks during pro-level races. Beyond the bike battles, spectators can enjoy a community ride, live music, children's games, art activities and a beer garden. Prime viewing is available along Courtland Street and at the start/finish line near Courtland Commons.
The 96th annual Lake County Fair rides into town bringing five days of family-friendly excitement to the Lake County Fairgrounds and Event Center in Grayslake. This year’s theme, “Save the Day,” promises superhero-sized thrills with free-with-admission arena events including motocross, monster trucks, a demolition derby and bull riding. In addition to adrenaline-packed attractions, the fair will feature traditional favorites like food vendors, carnival rides, live music and agricultural exhibits. Organizers encourage visitors to “suit up” and embrace the spirit of adventure as the fair transforms everyday fairgoers into heroes for a day. Learn more about the fair at lcfair.com.
Step into a world of timeless treasures at Long Grove's Vintage Days! This annual festival offers a delightful array of antique, reclaimed, repurposed, upcycled and handmade goods from a diverse group of vendors. Beyond the unique shopping experience, enjoy live entertainment, savor elegant and tasty eats and sip on delicious drinks. Kids will love the free tractor rides, and the Long Grove Historical Society's Farmhouse hosts a charming penny carnival.
Immerse yourself in the inspiring sounds of GospelFest at the Greenbelt Cultural Center. This free event will feature uplifting performances by the renowned Dr. Frozene Lott Hayes and other talented local choirs and soloists. Gather your loved ones for an afternoon of powerful music and shared celebration. Feel free to bring a picnic or enjoy offerings from on-site vendors. Remember to pack an umbrella, chair or blanket for comfort as you experience GospelFest within the beautiful Lake County Forest Preserves.
The Adler Arts Center will host the 44th Annual Festival of the Arts, transforming Cook Park in downtown Libertyville into a vibrant hub of creativity and culture. The two-day juried art and music festival features local and regional artists, live performances and community engagement. Presented by the Adler Arts Center, the festival celebrates the diverse artistic spirit of Lake County and aims to foster unity through shared cultural experiences. Admission is free.
Families are invited to begin the school year in style at the Back to School Bash & Market at Hawthorn Row. The free, community-focused event features shopping for unique gifts, food vendors, music and activities for all ages. The celebration honors local students and teachers and aims to bring the community together ahead of the new academic year. In the event of rain, festivities will move indoors to Hawthorn Mall.
Sweet tooths unite for the return of the MainSweet Dessert Walk in downtown Libertyville. Hosted by MainStreet Libertyville, the event invites visitors to stroll through a three-block stretch of the historic downtown district while sampling tasting-size portions of desserts from participating local businesses. The dessert walk coincides with the David Adler Music & Arts Center’s Festival of the Arts, making for a festive afternoon of treats, culture and community. Admission details and participating vendors will be announced soon.
The Adler Arts Center will host the 44th Annual Festival of the Arts, transforming Cook Park in downtown Libertyville into a vibrant hub of creativity and culture. The two-day juried art and music festival features local and regional artists, live performances and community engagement. Presented by the Adler Arts Center, the festival celebrates the diverse artistic spirit of Lake County and aims to foster unity through shared cultural experiences. Admission is free.
Gurnee Days features live music, food vendors, a parade, fireworks and family-friendly activities. Saturday's events include a bags tournament, kids' zone, talent showcase and live music performances. Sunday features a car show, farmers market and the Gurnee Days parade at noon.
The 14th Annual Little Bear Ribfest will fire up the grills at Century Park Arboretum, serving up award-winning ribs, cold brews, and live country and blues music along the scenic shores of Little Bear Lake. New for 2025, Friday night will feature country music acts, joining a stacked lineup of blues performers. Guests can enjoy a bourbon bar, a beer tent and mouthwatering barbecue from local vendors. Admission supports the Vernon Hills Park District’s Family Scholarship Fund. Bring lawn chairs and join the community celebration at one of Lake County’s premier festival locations.
The Waukegan Park District will celebrate literary legend Ray Bradbury with the 25th Annual Dandelion Wine Arts and Music Festival honoring Bradbury's legacy. The festival will showcase of local painters, sculptors and photographers, along with live music performances. Born in Waukegan in 1920, Bradbury often referenced his hometown in his acclaimed works of science fiction and fantasy.
Immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere filled with live musical performances, savor an array of delectable culinary delights, experience the exhilaration of thrilling amusement rides and challenge yourself with a variety of engaging games and competitions, including the always-popular pie-eating contest and Bingo. No matter if you're looking for wholesome family fun or a memorable outing with friends, Grayslake SummerFest offers something to delight everyone. You won't want to miss this fantastic celebration of summer in Grayslake!
Afrofest returns to the Greenbelt Cultural Center for a day of vibrant celebration, music and food. The festival will feature a lineup of live music performances throughout the day, culminating with a headlining act. Attendees can also enjoy a variety of dishes from local food vendors.
Venetian Night returns to Lakefront Park offering a lakeside celebration to cap off the summer season in style. The event, hosted in partnership with the Village of Fox Lake, the Chain O’ Lakes Chamber of Commerce and the Fox Lake Lions Club, features a boat show, wine and beer tasting, historic walk, live music, food trucks, vendors and a dedicated kids’ area. The evening concludes with one of Illinois' largest drone light shows, visible from both Lakefront Park and anchored boats on Nippersink Lake. Presented by Fox Lake Harbor, admission is free to the public, with select ticketed experiences.
The Port Clinton Art Festival, marking more than four decades of artistic expression, will take place in downtown Highland Park. The nationally recognized event features more than 200 juried artists presenting a variety of art forms, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry and fashion wearables. Attendees are encouraged to bring gently used wall art for donation to the Chicago Furniture Bank, supporting a charitable cause.
The Elote Festival will offer Spanish and English music, various elote vendors and carnival rides at the Cultural & Civic Center Grounds. The event will feature a variety of performances. Admission is free, and family-friendly activities include bouncy houses and a foam blaster. Attendees can also see the Northern Lights Drone Show on Sunday. Guests should bring blankets or chairs for seating.
Downtown Highwood will channel the spirit of Nashville this Labor Day weekend with the return of Nashwood. The city’s restaurants and bars will host more than 100 free live performances, showcasing a mix of country, southern blues and rock—both classic and contemporary. Music kicks off with Friday’s happy hour and continues throughout the day and evening Saturday and Sunday. With its vibrant atmosphere and nonstop tunes, Nashwood offers a Southern-style soundtrack to cap off the summer.
Long Grove is ready to host its annual Irish Days celebration, offering an American twist on the traditional festivities. The event in Historic Downtown Long Grove will showcase authentic Irish food, traditional Irish beverages and live performances by musicians and dancers. Attendees can also enjoy a men's kilt contest, bagpipers, a best-dressed dog competition and various children's activities. Everyone can embrace their inner Irish spirit this September.
For more summer festivals, be sure to check back for further details:
- Juneteenth Lake County in North Chicago
- Venetian Night at North Point Marina in Winthrop Harbor
- Potawatomi Trails Pow Wow in Zion
- Jubilee Days in Zion
- Sunflower Festival at Richardson's Adventure Farm
For more information about summer festival season, continue here. Stay tuned for Lake County Road Trips in late June.
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