Things To Do This Weekend September 12-14, 2025

By: Stephanie Wylie 09/11/2025

Fall is officially here, and with it comes a lineup of spirited events across Lake County. From frights to festivals, this weekend is packed with ways to celebrate the new season. Whether you’re looking for family fun or a night out with friends, this weekend’s events have you covered. 

Fall in Lake County is filled with numerous festivals you'll want to be a part of. For a list of Fall Festivals in Lake County, click here.

Continue here to learn more about the top 10 things to do in September in Lake County.

Let's look at Lake County's top things to do this weekend, September 12-14, 2025. 

1. Spooks and Spirits Autumn Celebration

Lake County is embracing the autumn season with its annual Spooks and Spirits Autumn Celebration, a showcase of Halloween thrills, harvest traditions and locally-crafted beverages. Running this weekend through Halloween, the event blends family activities such as pumpkin picking, corn mazes and fall festivals with seasonal offerings for adults, including tastings along the county’s Libation Trail of breweries, wineries and distilleries. Haunted houses and Halloween attractions also highlight the month-long and a half festivities. A centerpiece of the celebration is the Spooks and Spirits Check-In Challenge. Participants who visit at least five Libation Trail locations throughout October will be entered into a drawing for a 95 WIIL-Rock FM party bus to three of your favorite watering holes. The challenge encourages both residents and visitors to explore Lake County’s breweries, wineries and distilleries while supporting local businesses. Travelers can find a full calendar of events, attractions and exclusive travel packages at VisitLakeCounty.org/Spooks. 

Friday-Sunday, September 12-14. Various locations in Lake County. 

2. Fright Fest Presented by SNICKERS at Six Flags Great America

Six Flags Great America is once again transforming into a world of thrills and chills as Fright Fest, presented by SNICKERS®, kicks off its annual run of Halloween festivities. The Gurnee amusement park’s seasonal celebration runs on select days through November 2, featuring haunted houses, scare zones, seasonal shows and nighttime roller coasters. Families can enjoy daytime entertainment at Kids Boo Fest, featuring Halloween-themed attractions and activities specifically designed for younger visitors. Alongside the scares, the park is adding seasonal flavors with an Oktoberfest celebration on select dates, offering German-inspired food and drinks. Besides the park’s thrilling coasters, Great America’s Fright Fest is also known for its spook haunted houses with experiences pulled from the Hollywood horror flicks and shows like “Texas Chainsaw Massacre,” “The Conjuring” and more. Admission starts at $40, with haunted house attractions requiring separate admission. For more details on Fright Fest, including ticket information, visit SixFlags.com/GreatAmerica. 

Saturday-Sunday, September 13-14; Sat.: 11 a.m.-11 p.m. and Sun.: 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Admission: Starts at $40, haunted attractions require separate admission. Six Flags Great America, 1 Great America Pkwy., Gurnee. 

3. Rock the Block in Village of Lake Zurich

Downtown Lake Zurich will turn into an outdoor block party as the village hosts its 12th annual Rock the Block festival. The event will feature live music on a covered stage, food and drinks from local vendors, and activities that highlight the charm of the village’s Main Street. This year’s music lineup includes Rosie and the Rivets followed by Breakfast Club and Fool House closing the night. Admission is free, and guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating. More information is available at LakeZurich.org. 

Saturday, September 13; 5-11 p.m. Free admission. Village of Lake Zurich, 70 E. Main St., Lake Zurich. 

4. “Misery” at Citadel Theatre  

The Citadel Theatre Company will kick off its fall season with a stage adaptation of Stephen King’s “Misery,” running through October 12. Directed by Scott Westerman, the psychological thriller follows author Paul Sheldon after a car crash, when he is rescued—and held captive—by his obsessive fan, Annie Wilkes. The theatre, known for its intimate and engaging productions, promises an immersive experience that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats. This Lake Forest production continues Citadel's commitment to presenting bold and powerful stories that resonate with modern audiences. Tickets and a full performance schedule are available at CitadelTheatre.org. 

Friday-Sunday, September 12-14; Fri. and Sat.: 7:30 p.m. and Sun.: 3 p.m. Tickets start at $48. Citadel Theatre Company, 300 S. Waukegan Rd., Lake Forest. 

5. 16th Annual Bourbon and Beer Festival at The Vine in Grayslake

The Vine Martini and Wine Bar will celebrate its 16th annual Bourbon and Beer Festival on Saturday, September 13, offering an evening of tastings, live music and culinary treats. Originally launched as a small bourbon tasting to mark the bar’s anniversary, the event has grown into a fall highlight featuring more than 20 breweries pouring over 40 beers, and 80 types of whiskey. Guests can also enjoy live bands, food vendors and cigar offerings. Tickets and event details are available at TheVineGrayslake.com. 

Saturday, September 13; 6-10 p.m. Tickets: $25-$50. The Vine Martini and Wine Bar, 101 Center St., Grayslake. 

For more things to do this weekend, September 12-14, 2025, click here.