Top 10 Things To Do in May 2025

By: Sam Ornig 05/01/2025

May is a busy month in Lake County, with warmer weather and spring events taking over calendars all month long. While you're off having loads of fun in the land of lakes, make sure you get your cameras ready for the #LETSSNAPLAKECOUNTY Photo Contest! Through June 30, submit your best pictures of Lake County for a chance to win exclusive and have your work featured in future tourism marketing materials. Don't miss this opportunity to capture the beauty of Lake County and join the contest today — learn more and upload your pics! 

May 4-10 marks the 42nd U.S. Travel Association's National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW). Join Visit Lake County in celebrating #NTTW25 as we recognize how tourism empowers our economics, communities and connections.  Follow us on social media and check out our website as we highlight the impact of travel and tourism in Lake County. 

Here are the top 10 things to do in May in Lake County! 

1. Lake County Beer Gardens

Relax outdoors with gorgeous views and a cold craft beer at Lake County beer gardens. The Beer Garden at Independence Grove in Libertyville boasts picturesque forest and lake views, with amenities that make it an ideal venue for birthday parties, reunions, corporate retreats or just a casual day out with friends. Enjoy a selection of local craft brews, packaged snacks and other beverages. Buffalo Creek Brewing's Biergarten offers a ton of seating, including a gazebo, and is lit up in the evenings. Harbor Brewing Co. Lakefront Craft Biergarten at North Point Marina in Winthrop Harbor serves up favorite local craft beers, wines and spirits, while also serving up stunning views of Lake Michigan. Join them for their seventh anniversary celebration on May 3, with live music and tasty local brews. 

2. Festivals in Lake County (All month)

Soak up the sun and May weather at Lake County's festivals this month. Celebrate with tasty food, refreshing drinks, live music and more at these spring festivals: 

• Dos de Mayo at Patty Turner Center in Deerfield (May 2) INFO»
• First Fridays in MainStreet Libertyville (May 2) INFO»
• Opening Day at Brother's Field in Long Grove (May 2) INFO»
• 13th Annual GLMV Extreme Block Party Family Expo and "Taste of the Towns" (May 3) INFO»
• Buffalo Creek Brewing's Maifest in Long Grove (May 9-10) INFO»
• CarFun on 21 in MainStreet Libertyville (begins May 15) INFO»
• Illinois Craft Beer Week (May 9-16) INFO»
• Park on Park in Mundelein (May 14) INFO»
• Long Grove Chocolate Festival (May 16-18) INFO»
• Lake Zurich Water Lantern Festival (May 17) INFO»
• ArtWauk in Waukegan (May 17) INFO»
• Lake County Food Truck Festival at Lake County Fairgrounds (May 23) INFO»
• Taste of Summer Festival in Antioch (May 29-June 1) INFO»
• Beer Garden at Independence Grove Brews & Views (May 30) INFO
• Craft Beer Festival at Century Park in Vernon Hills (May 31) INFO»

3. Concerts in Lake County (All Month)

Head to a concert in Lake County this May. Performances are wrapping up for the academic year at the College of Lake County while Ravinia Festival is gearing up for the summer season. Chek out the following events:

• Voyage Celebrating the Music of Journey at Genesee Theatre in Waukegan (May 1) INFO»
• Jazz Ensembles Spring Concert at the College of Lake County (May 2) INFO»
• Jahari Stampley Trio at Ravinia Festival's Bennett Gordon Hall (May 2) INFO»
• WindSync at Ravinia Festival's Bennett Gordon Hall (May 3) INFO»
• Wind Ensemble Spring Concert at the College of Lake County (May 4) INFO»
• Black Oak Ensemble at Ravinia Festival's Bennett Gordon Hall (May 4) INFO»
• Choral Ensembles Spring Concert at the College of Lake County (May 10) INFO»
• Lynyrd Skynyrd performed by Classic Albums at Genesee Theatre in Waukegan (May 10) INFO»
• Concert Band Spring Concert at the College of Lake County (May 14) INFO»
• "Sesame Street Live" at Genesee Theatre in Waukegan (May 16) INFO»

4. Mother's Day in Lake County

Mother's Day is Sunday, May 11, and Lake County's calendar is packed with events and activities to celebrate mom. Whether the moms in your life are artsy, adventurous or in need of some relaxation, the land of lakes has something for every mother to enjoy on this special day. Here are just a few examples of the fun that awaits you and your mom on Mother's Day:  

• "Let's Celebrate! Brunch and Mimosas Workshop" at The Joyful Gourmet in Libertyville (May 10) INFO»
• Mother's Day Mini Golf in Highland Park (May 11) INFO»
• Mother's Day 5K Run in Barrington (May 11) INFO»
• Special Mother's Day at Volo Museum and Jurassic Gardens (May 11) INFO»
• Mother's Day at Dover Straits Seafood House in Mundelein (May 11) INFO»
• And so many delicious brunches to choose from!

Read our full Mother's Day guide for more ideas for spoiling mom this May. 

5. Food Trucks in Lake County

Lake County's food truck scene offers a diverse and delicious array of culinary delights to satisfy every palate. From gourmet tacos to savory barbecue and sweet treats, these food trucks bring a world of flavors right to your doorstep. Whether you're exploring a local event or simply craving something tasty on the go, Lake County's food trucks have you covered. Test out some of Lake County's best food truck fare at these events: 

• Brother's Field in Long Grove (opens May 2) INFO»
• Art in the Garden in Fox Lake (May 3) INFO»
• Van Vlissingen's Food Truck Thursdays in Lincolnshire (begins May 8) INFO»
• Food Truck Nights in North Chicago (begins May 8) INFO»
• Food Truck Wednesdays in Deerfield (begins May 21) INFO»
• Lake County Food Truck Festival at the Lake County Fairgrounds (May 23) INFO»
• Ravinia District Food Truck Thursdays (opens June 5) INFO»

6. Illinois Craft Beer Week (May 9-16)

Illinois craft beer enthusiasts' favorite week returns May 9-16: Illinois Craft Beer Week! Hosted by the Illinois Craft Brewing Guild, this highly anticipated event celebrates the important influence craft breweries have on their local communities. As a "Crafted Community," Lake County is the proud home of numerous craft breweries throughout the land of lakes. Check out Lake County's Libation Trail partners during Craft Beer Week for fun events and exciting opportunities to support #IllinoisBeer.  

7. Des Plaines River Canoe and Kayak Marathon (may 18)

For over fifty years, the Des Plaines River Canoe and Kayak Marathon has been a beloved event, offering an 18.5-mile race along the historic Des Plaines River, commencing at the Oak Spring Road Canoe Launch in Libertyville. As the second oldest canoe race in the United States, this event now includes a new 5.25-mile mini-thon starting at Potawatomi Woods in Wheeling, perfect for families. With races tailored to different age groups, there's something for everyone. Don't forget to enjoy the scenic views as you paddle! Race registration is available at the start line or mini-thon start, payable via check or cash.

8. Theatre Events in Lake County (all Month)

Lake County boasts a dynamic theater scene, offering a rich tapestry of performances throughout the year. From classic plays to innovative new productions, theater enthusiasts can immerse themselves in captivating stories brought to life by talented local and touring performers in venues that range from intimate black box theaters to grand historic stages.

• "Rebel Without a Clause" at Wayfarer Theaters in Highland Park (May 1) INFO»
•  "Ramona at Midlife" at Wayfarer Theaters in Highland Park (May 8) INFO»
• "Sesame Street Live" at Genesee Theatre in Waukegan (May 16) INFO»
• "A Jukebox for Algonquin" at Citadel Theatre in Lake Forest (through May 18) INFO»
• "Titanic The Musical" at Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire (dates throughout May) INFO»

9. Museums in Lake County

Whether you're looking to learn about Lake County's historic landmarks and rich history or see some really cool exhibits, like the World's Largest Handmade Sock Monkey Collection, the land of lakes is home to wonderful museums fit for the whole family. Spend the day learning something new and exploring the community, with displays both indoors and outdoors. Observe the beautiful architecture that adorns Lake County at Cuneo Mansion and Gardens in Vernon Hills or Shiloh House in Zion. Walk with the dinosaurs at Jurassic Gardens and see old Hollywood cars at the Auto Museum in Volo. Discover the Dunn Museum in Libertyville, which highlights the interconnected stories of people, events, and nature through exhibitions, education, and community engagement. Learn about local history at the Waukegan History Museum or Grayslake Heritage Center and Museum. There are so many wonderful museums and exhibits to check out in Lake County!  

10. Hurricane Harbor Chicago Opens for the SeasoN (May 24) 

Dive into a summer of excitement — Hurricane Harbor Chicago opens Memorial Day weekend (May 24) for the season. Adventure awaits at this Gurnee water park, with exciting rides and attractions like the Surf Rider surfing simulator, the wild Wipeout waterslide, the 132-foot tunnel Tornado raft slide, the 40-mph high-speed Paradise Plunge and Riptide and so much more! Relax in the scenic Castaway Creek lazy river and Monsoon Lagoon, the giant interactive pool. Whether you split your time with the rollercoasters at Great America or spend the whole day at Hurricane Harbor, you and the family will have a fun-filled day at this popular attraction.  

Check out more things to do this May in Lake County!