Things To Do This Weekend February 21-23, 2025

By: Stephanie Wylie 02/20/2025

February in Lake County is packed with can’t-miss events, from cultural celebrations and craft beer tastings to live theater and daring winter plunges. Whether you’re looking to honor Black History Month, sip on seasonal brews, enjoy a thought-provoking play or take part in a thrilling icy challenge, there’s something for everyone. Check out these top events happening this weekend!

Don't miss out on all the flavors that Lake County February Flavor Festival has to offer and your chance to win prizes with the Lake County Check-in Challenge! Find out how to sign up here.

 Let's delve into the top five activities to embrace this weekend, February 21-23, 2025.

1. 35th Annual Black History Celebration at Zion Township High School

Zion-Benton Township High School and Zion Park District will host their 35th annual Black History Program on Saturday, February 22 at the Horizon Campus Performing Arts Center. Organized under the theme “African Americans Striving to Make a Difference,” the event will feature live performances, including singing, dancing, poetry readings and surprise entertainers. Guest speakers will also take the stage to share stories and insights on the impact of African American contributions to society. The program is open to the public and welcomes families to participate in the festivities. Lunch will be provided for attendees. For more information, visit ZionParkDistrict.com.

February 22; noon-2 p.m. Zion-Benton Township High School, 3901 21st St., Zion.

2. Lake County Craft Beer Festival at Lake County Fairgrounds in Grayslake

The 10th annual Lake County Craft Beer Festival is set to bring the vibrant energy of Mardi Gras to the Lake County Fairgrounds and Event Center this weekend. The Grayslake event will feature a diverse lineup of local, regional and national breweries, distilleries and wineries, offering specialty and seasonal beers for sampling. Lake County Libation Trail partners in attendance include 9th Hour Brewing Co. and Harbor Brewing Co. in Lake Villa, Black Lung Brewing Co. in Round Lake Beach and Fox Lake, Half Day Brewing Co. in Lincolnshire, Perfect Brewing Supply in Libertyville, Tighthead Brewing Co., Tonality Brewing Co. and Bosacki’s Brewing in Mundelein, Steep Ravine Brewing Co. in Highland Park and Tangled Roots Brewing Co. in Vernon Hills. Festivalgoers can enjoy live entertainment, food, games and music, with a special performance by Zydeco Voodoo. The festival promises an immersive experience with interactive entertainment and a celebration of craft beverages in a dynamic atmosphere. Visitors can also check in to win as this event is a part of Lake County Flavor Festival. For more details, visit LCFairgrounds.com. To check-in for Lake County Flavor Festival, head to VisitLakeCounty.org.

Saturday, February 22; VIP: 4-9 p.m. and General Admission: 5-9 p.m.  Admission: $60-$80. Lake County Fairgrounds and Event Center, 1060 E. Peterson Rd., Grayslake.

3. "I and You " at Citadel Theatre in Lake Forest

Citadel Theatre Company will stage “I and You,” a poignant drama by acclaimed playwright Lauren Gunderson. An ode to youth, life, love and the intricate bonds that connect humanity. “I and You” follows two teenagers as they navigate an unexpected encounter that leads to a profound revelation. Gunderson, whose “Silent Sky” received a Jeff Award nomination last season, delivers a compelling story with intriguing characters. The Lake Forest production runs on select days through March 23. Tickets and additional information can be found at CitadelTheatre.org.

Friday-Sunday, February 21-23; Fri. and Sat.: 7:30 p.m. and Sun.: 3:00 p.m. Tickets start at $45. Citadel Theatre Company, 300 S. Waukegan Rd., Lake Forest.

4. Fox Lake Polar Plunge at Lakefront Park in Fox Lake

Dive headfirst as brave souls dip in the frozen waters and chill out at Fox Lake’s Polar Plunge. Because of the weather’s sub-zero temperatures, the plunge will occur in a porta-tank instead of the Nippersink Lake in this year’s installment of the event provided by the Fox Lake Fire Department. A warm lunch will be provided for plungers for by Mindful Roots food truck. Ice splashers can win prizes depending on how many funds you and/or your team build. Participants who’ve raised a minimum of $100, receive a commemorative sweatshirt while supplies last. Individuals who don’t receive their 2025 Polar Plunge sweatshirt on event day will obtain their garb in the coming weeks. Be sure to dress to impress by wearing your best plunging attire or costume to take on the frigid waters. All plungers can receive a grilled cheese, soup and a hot beverage from a food truck onsite. To register for the Fox Lake Polar Plunge, visit PlungeIllinois.com. 

Sunday, February 23; 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Donation suggested. Lakefront Park, 10 Riverview Ave., Fox Lake. 

5. Lake County February Flavor Fest

This is the final weekend of Lake County Flavor Festival. Embark on a sensory journey through Lake County as you sample and savor some of our most delectable and divine local eats and drinks during monthlong foodie fest! The Visit Lake County initiative combines its Restaurant Week and the Libation Trail into one delicious celebration offering exclusive dining promotions, inventive drinks, yummy fare and live entertainment all month long. Over 100 local restaurants, breweries, distilleries and wineries in Lake County are showcasing their culinary treasures and hosting fun experiences like special dining deals, curated food and drink pairings, chef-led demos, creative cocktails and vibrant live shows. Food enthusiasts who visit five or more participating spots are entered to win amazing prizes. All you have to do is point your mobile device to the participating restaurant’s QR code, register and check in to win. Myriad winners will take home overnight stays, a dinner for two, a cooking class and more. Lake County Flavor Festival runs daily through February 28. For more event details and a list of participating venues, head to VisitLakeCounty.org/Flavor-Festival. 

Friday-Sunday, February 21-23; Various locations in Lake County. 

Remember that our annual Lake County February Flavor Fest going on all month long! And don't forget to join the Flavor Fest Check-In Challenges. Click here to learn more about this month-long celebration. 

Click here to see more things to do this weekend February 21-23, 2025.