Things To Do This Weekend June 20-22, 2025

By: Stephanie Wylie 06/19/2025

This weekend, Lake County is buzzing with an array of events that promise something for everyone, from cultural celebrations to culinary delights and outdoor adventures. Get ready to immerse yourself in community spirit with festivities like Waukegan's Juneteenth Parade and ArtWauk, where history and art converge. Foodies can indulge in the diverse flavors at the Taste of Highland Park, while music lovers can groove to the blues in Long Grove. For those seeking active fun, Fox Lake offers a unique fishing derby and cardboard boat race, and North Shore Distillery invites you to a festive Midsommar celebration. Dive into the details below to plan your perfect weekend!

Let's look at things to do this weekend June 20-22, 2025.

1. CELEBRATE JUNETEENTH AND ARTWAUK IN WAUKEGAN

Waukegan will come alive with celebration and community spirit on Saturday, June 21, as two major cultural events—the Juneteenth Lake County Parade and Festival and ArtWauk—take center stage in the city—the Emancipation Day celebration, organized by the African American Museum at England Manor. The City of Progress event commemorates Juneteenth, the federal holiday marking the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. This year's parade will feature an energetic lineup, including the Elite Striders Drill Team and Drum Corps, South Shore Drill Team and more. The festivity aims to honor the legacy and contributions of the Black community. Later that evening, from 5 to 8 p.m., downtown Waukegan's Green Town on the Rocks will host ArtWauk. This monthly arts event transforms the city's Arts and Entertainment District into a dynamic cultural experience. For more information, visit WaukeganIL.gov.

Saturday, June 21; Juneteenth Celebration: 1 p.m. and ArtWauk: 5-8 p.m. Free admission. Juneteenth Celebration, City of Waukegan, 100 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr., Waukegan. ArtWauk, Green Town on the Rocks, 175 N. Harbor Place, Waukegan.  

2. TASTE OF HIGHLAND PARK

Downtown Highland Park will transform again into a culinary and musical haven as the Taste of Highland Park returns June 20–21. Set in the heart of Port Clinton Square, the festival showcases some of Highland Park's most beloved restaurants. In 2024, the Taste of Highland Park drew over 7,500 attendees, with guests traveling from across Chicagoland and neighboring states. Fourteen restaurants participated, including Indus Progressive Indian, Pixca, Lake County Libation Trail partners Steep Ravine Brewing, Lynfred Winery and more. Last year's performances featured nationally recognized bands like Spin Doctors, Dishwalla and more. In partnership with the Bitter Jester Foundation for the Arts, festival organizers promise another high-energy schedule for 2025. With its savory bites, sweet treats and vibrant sounds, the Taste of Highland Park offers a festive experience for food lovers and music fans. For details, visit EnjoyHighlandPark.com.

Friday-Saturday 20-21; 5-10 p.m. Free admission. Port Clinton Square, 600 Central Ave., Highland Park.

3. BLUES FEST AT BROTHERS' FIELD IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN LONG GROVE

Blues Fest is back at Brothers' Field in downtown Long Grove this weekend, promising two days of live music, dancing and barbecue. Experience an all-day music experience with top regional blues artists like the Joey Acopiado Band, Mary Lane and The No Static Band. Brothers' BBQ and the Tiki Bar will serve food and drinks. The festivities continue Sunday, showcasing acts such as Paola Apuli and the John Kattke Trio, with El Zorro Taco Truck on site. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs to sit on and enjoy the open dance floor. Blues Fest offers a unique blend of rhythm, food and community. Learn more at BrothersFieldLongGrove.com.

Saturday-Sunday, June 21-22; Sat.: 2-10 p.m. and Sun.: noon-6 p.m. Tickets are $5 online for Saturday and free admission Sunday: Brothers' Field, 340 Old McHenry Rd., Long Grove.

4. FOX LAKE FISHING DERBY AND CARDBOARD BOAT RACE

Lakefront Park will bustle this Saturday as Fox Lake hosts its annual Fishing Derby and Cardboard Boat Race. The day begins with a Youth Fishing Derby, where young anglers can compete for prizes in various age groups. Participants under 16 do not need a fishing license, but those 16 and older must have a valid Illinois Fishing License. The Chain O'Lakes Fishing Club will also offer swap meets and mini seminars. At noon, the focus shifts to the water for the Cardboard Boat Race. Participants will launch handmade cardboard and duct tape vessels, competing for awards including "Fastest Boat" and "Best of Show." Visit FoxLake.org for event details. 

Saturday, June 21; Youth fishing derby: 9-11 a.m. and cardboard boat race: 12-2 p.m. Registration is $15, or $30 with a kit; all boaters must pre-register online. Lakefront Park and Beach, 10 Riverview Ave., Fox Lake.

5. MIDSOMMAR CELEBRATION AT NORTH SHORE DISTILLERY IN GREEN OAKS/LIBERTYVILLE AREA

A beloved seasonal North Shore Distillery tradition returns this weekend as the Midsommar Celebration welcomes the official start of summer with music, dancing, crafts and cocktails. Guests  can participate in classic Swedish-inspired festivities, including raising the traditional Midsommar pole, complete with songs and dances. Flower crown making, a fire pit with paper witches and lawn games will round out the evening's interactive experiences. In true summer fashion, the the Green Oaks Lake County Libation Trail partner celebration will also feature a specially curated menu of summer cocktails, allowing attendees to sip and socialize as the sun sets. To learn more, visit NorthShoreDistillery.com. 

Saturday, June 21; 6-10 p.m. Free admission. North Shore Distillery, 13990 Rockland Rd., Green Oaks.

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