Things To Do This Week September 26-28, 2025

By: Stephanie Wylie 09/25/2025

Fall has officially arrived, and with it, a calendar packed with autumnal delights. From glowing jack-o'-lanterns to the sweet scent of fresh apples, our communities are celebrating the season with a variety of unique events. Whether you're looking for family-friendly fun, a taste of live theater or a unique day out, you'll find plenty to do right here in our own backyard. So grab a cozy sweater and get ready to explore the best of fall!

To see all of the events throughout September, continue here.  Here are the top 5 things to do this weekend September 26-28, 2025.

1. Jack-O’-Lantern World and A Bushel of Apples Fall Fest in Village of Lake Zurich

There’s plenty of autumn fun taking over Paulus Park this fall as two seasonal celebrations bring the community together in a swirl of glowing jack-o’-lanterns, crisp apples and family-friendly festivities. Lake Zurich will welcome the return of Jack-O’-Lantern World, the trail, which winds through thousands of intricately carved pumpkins, has been hailed as “incredible” by WGN-TV. More than 50 artisans have spent months shaping nearly 5,000 gourds into towering displays. But before the lanterns glow in full force, Paulus Park will set the stage for another tradition. Phase Three Brewing Co. is hosting its Bushel of Apples Fall Fest, offering live music, hearty fall eats and a variety of children’s activities . The brewery’s seasonal event also carries a charitable twist: a portion of proceeds will benefit GiGi’s Playhouse Deerfield, a nonprofit that provides educational and therapeutic programs for individuals with Down syndrome. Though distinct in theme, the two festivals overlap in spirit, showcasing Lake Zurich’s commitment to blending artistry, community and autumn nostalgia. Jack-O’Lantern World runs on select days through, Sunday November 1. For more information visit LakeZurich.org. 

Friday-Sunday, September 26-28; Fri. and Sat.: 6:45-9 p.m. and Sun.: 6:45 a.m.-8:30 p.m. Tickets start at $17.99. Paulus Park, 200 S. Rand Rd., Lake Zurich.

2. Long Grove Apple Fest

For one weekend each fall, the air in Historic Downtown Long Grove fills with the scent of cinnamon, caramel and baked apples. The festival is a showcase of apples in every form imaginable: pies fresh from the oven, warm donuts dusted with sugar, crisp candied apples on sticks and decadent caramel-dipped creations. Beyond the food, Apple Fest transforms the streets of Long Grove into a lively hub of music and artistry. A full lineup of bands is set to perform throughout the weekend like Hi-Infidelity, 7th Heaven, American English and more, while artisans display handcrafted goods and unique wares. As one of Lake County’s signature fall festivals, Apple Fest captures the essence of the season, Long Grove offers a taste of autumn worth savoring. For further details, visit LongGrove.org. 

Friday-Sunday, September 26-28; Fri.: 12-11 p.m., Sat.: 10 a.m.-11 p.. and Sun.: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. General admission is $7. Historic Downtown Long Grove, various locations on Old McHenry and Robert Parker Coffin Roads, Long Grove. 

3. “Catch Me If You Can” at Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire

Audiences at the Marriott Theatre are being whisked back to the jet-setting 1960s this fall with the musical “Catch Me If You Can,” a high-energy production inspired by the true story of one of America’s most infamous con men. The Lincolnshire show follows the exploits of Frank Abagnale Jr., a teenager who managed to pass himself off as an airline pilot, lawyer and doctor—all before turning 22. His daring escapades and knack for reinvention set the stage for a thrilling game of cat and mouse with an FBI agent determined to bring him down. For Marriott Theatre, known for its intimate in-the-round performances, “Catch Me If You Can” offers audiences an immersive experience that puts them right in the middle of Frank’s whirlwind world. The musical runs on select days through October 19. For tickets and more information, visit MarriottTheatre.com

Friday-Sunday, September 26-28; Fri.: 7:30 p.m., Sat.: 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sun.: 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Tickets start at $70. Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Dr., Lincolnshire.

4.Cirque Italia Water Circus at Gurnee Mills

Beneath a towering white-and-blue tent in the Gurnee Mills parking lot, 35,000 gallons of water will set the stage for acrobatics, artistry and awe. Cirque Italia’s Water Circus invites audiences into a dazzling world where fountains dance, lights shimmer and performers defy gravity above a one-of-a-kind aquatic arena. The “Aquatic Spectacular,” as the show is called, blends traditional European circus flair with modern innovation. For families and thrill-seekers, Gurnee Mills becomes the backdrop for a show where magic flows as freely as the water beneath the stage.

Friday-Monday, September 26-29; Fri.: 7:30 p.m., Sat.: 1:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., Sun.: 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. and Monday at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $15. Gurnee Mills, Parking Lot E, 6170 W. Grand Ave., Gurnee.

5. Veterans Memorial Golf Course in North Chicago

Tucked within Naval Station Great Lakes, Veterans Memorial Golf Course offers players more than just a round of golf. With its rolling fairways, tree-lined vistas and welcoming layout, the 18-hole, North Chicago course has become a favorite destination for both experienced golfers and casual players looking to experience the game at a relaxed pace. Practice facilities, including a putting green and a driving range with natural grass tee stations, give players the chance to fine-tune their swing before heading to the first tee. Whether chasing birdies or simply savoring a peaceful walk along the fairways, the course offers a reminder of why golf endures as a timeless pastime. Be sure to visit the onsite restaurant in Buckley’s that offers an array of American eats.

Friday-Sunday, September 26-28; Fri.-Sun.: 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Admission: $20-30 per person. Veterans Memorial Golf Course, 2821 Great Lakes Dr., North Chicago.

  For more things to do this weekend September 26-28, 2025 continue here.