Things To Do This Weekend January 31-February 2, 2025

By: Stephanie Wylie 01/30/2025

This weekend, break free from the ordinary and discover the enchantment of Lake County. Pack your bags, grab your walking shoes and let your sense of wonder lead the way. This weekend, Lake County is your canvas for adventure. Stay tuned as we uncover hidden gems, share unforgettable experiences and offer insider tips to make your Lake County getaway truly extraordinary. Let's explore the exciting possibilities awaiting you this weekend, January 31-February 2, 2025.

Don't miss out on our resaturant and libation spotlight coming up as the Lake County February Flavor Fest kicks off in February! 

1. Lake County February Flavor Festival

Foodies, the month has finally arrived! Lake County February Flavor Fest is set to take place throughout the month, offering a feast for the senses with exclusive dining deals, creative libations and live entertainment. Organized by Visit Lake County, the February Flavor Fest brings together two of the organization’s signature initiatives—Lake County Restaurant Week and the Libation Trail—into one enticing campaign. The festival showcases 80+ local restaurants, 25+ breweries, distilleries and wineries, spanning 29 communities and offering residents and visitors a chance to explore the culinary gems of the region. Participants can expect a wide variety of experiences, including exclusive dining offers, thoughtfully crafted food and drink pairings, chef-led demonstrations, innovative libation creations and live entertainment. Adding a layer of excitement, food enthusiasts can participate in a special check-in challenge. Guests who visit five or more participating locations will be entered to win an array of prizes. Stay updated on event details, participating locations and prize information by visiting our website at VisitLakeCounty.org/Flavor-Festival.

Saturday-Sunday, February 1-2; various hours. Various locations in Lake County.

2. 16th Annual LVVA Ice Fishing Derby in Wauconda

Anglers and outdoor enthusiasts are gearing up for the 16th annual LVVA Ice Fishing Derby. This beloved event has grown to become one of the largest and most successful ice fishing tournaments in Northern Illinois, offering participants the chance to win big while supporting military veterans. The derby features an array of prizes, raffles and "big fish" contests. Pack your lines, hooks and spears and go for the gold trying to nab fish like pike, crappie, perch, largemouth bass, walleye and bluegill at the Wauconda Bangs Lake derby. Proceeds from this year’s derby will benefit Veterans Path to Hope Outdoors, formerly known as TLS Veterans Outdoors. This organization offers outdoor recreational activities as a form of alternative therapy and stress relief for veterans. For more information, visit waucondaicefishingderby.com or download the FishDonkey App to join the action and show your support for veterans.

Friday-Sunday, January 31-February 2; Fri.: 7 a.m.- 4 p.m., Sat.: 7 a.m.-2 p.m. and Sun.: 7-10 a.m. $25 to enter. Bangs Lake, 112 Park St., Wauconda.

3. 42nd Annual Profiles in Excellence: Untold Stories Celebrating Local African American History and Legacy at the Greenbelt Cultural Center

The 42nd annual Profiles in Excellence event honors Black History Month with an afternoon of inspiring presentations and performances. This year’s theme, “Untold Stories: Celebrating Local African American History and Legacy,” focuses on the Black citizens of Lake County. The event will highlight the importance of tracing roots and preserving legacies, offering a unique glimpse into the often-overlooked stories that shaped the region’s history. Guest speaker and local author James Ciccone, a historical fiction author, will speak about his works which explore the struggles and triumphs of Black figures including the first Lake County, African-American settler in Warren Township named Amos Bennett. The event is free and open to the public, with no registration required. For additional details, visit LCFPD.org.

Sunday, February 2; 3-5 p.m. Free admission. Greenbelt Cultural Center, 1215 Green Bay Rd., North Chicago.

4. Half Day Brewing Co. 5k Frozen Tundra and Post Race Party in Lincolnshire

Lace up your running shoes and bundle up for the return of the Frozen Tundra 5K, hosted by Half Day Brewing Co. The Lincolnshire event invites runners to tackle an out-and-back 5K course along the scenic Des Plaines River Trail. After crossing the finish line, the celebration continues with a lively post-race party at Lake County Libation Trail partner Half Day Brewing Co. (also a Flavor Festival participant). The festivities include live music, refreshing beers (including the brewery’s Frozen Tundra IPA) and prizes such as gift cards from the brewery. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking for a unique way to embrace the winter season, the Frozen Tundra 5K is the perfect opportunity to stay active and enjoy a vibrant community gathering. For registration details, visit FrozenTundra5k.com.

Saturday, February 1; 10 a.m.-1 p.m. The 5k race is $45 and after party is $25. Half Day Brewing Co., 200 Village Green St., Lincolnshire.

5. Year of the Snake at Hawthorn in Vernon Hills

Celebrate the Year of the Snake at The Hawthorn’s Lunar New Year. This  vibrant, family-friendly Vernon Hills event offers a rich cultural experience filled with tradition, performances and interactive activities. Visitors can enjoy lion dances, an iconic Lunar New Year tradition and explore an Asian vendor market, offering a variety of goods and authentic items. Attendees can also engage in Lunar New Year-themed crafts, face painting and balloon artistry, along with giveaways and the cherished tradition of red envelopes filled with prizes. Guests will have the opportunity to make wishes on Hawthorn’s wishing tree, a custom symbolizing hope and prosperity for the new year. Don’t miss this unforgettable opportunity to honor the Lunar New Year with your family and friends. To learn more, visit VisitHawthorn.com.

Saturday, February 1; noon-2 p.m. Free admission. Hawthorn Mall, 122 Hawthorn Center, Vernon Hills.

Click here to see more things to do this weekend January 31-February 2, 2025.