Wednesday 1
Taste of Chicago,
All Ages, Free Admission, 11 a.m.-9
p.m., Grant Park, Jackson Blvd. &
Columbus Drive, Chicago, (312)
744-3315. In addition to a line-up
of restaurants that includes new
entries such as Blue Bayou,
Garrett’s Popcorn Shops and Manny’s
Cafeteria and Delicatessen, Taste of
Chicago will bring back many
favorites, totaling 56 food booths.
Taste continues to be a value: not
only is it a free admission
festival, but also each food booth
will be offering two Taste of
portions. A Taste of portion is a
smaller serving for 2-4 tickets.
This event runs daily through July
5. www.tasteofchicago.us
Kankakee Fishing Derby,
All Ages, $20/Family, Kankakee
River, Kankakee, (815) 939-2675.
Twenty-six years of the Fishing
Derby and counting! Catch a fish
with a special tag and “reel” in a
prize. Registration forms and
additional information are available
on the website below. Proceeds from
the annual fishing contest help
support the Kankakee River Clean Up,
Adopt-A-River-Mile campaign, Kids
Fishing Day, and the Gordon Graves
Environmental Library at Kankakee
Community. Registration is required.
This event runs through July 5.
www.kankakeefishingderby.com
Disney’s Aladdin,
All Ages, $23 Adults & $18 Children,
11 a.m., Courtyard Theater, Chicago
Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier,
800 E. Grand Avenue, Chicago, (312)
595-5600. An enchanting adaptation
of the Academy Award-winning Disney
film to the stage, continuing CST’s
tradition of bringing
family-friendly theater to Navy Pier
all summer long. Take your family to
a magical, faraway land and join
Aladdin, Jasmine and the lovable
Genie in this exciting musical
adventure. Filled with unforgettable
songs such as “A Whole New World”
and “Friend Like Me,” Disney’s
Aladdin will enchant audiences of
all ages. This event runs through
August 30. www.chicagoshakes.com
Pop-In Playtime,
Ages 6 & Under, $10/Child, Call For
Summer Hours, Pump It Up Chicago,
821 W Eastman, Chicago, (312)
664-7867. Play in either the Junior
Arena, customized for 1-5 year olds,
or Classic Arena, ages 2-6. This
event runs Monday through Friday
through the month of July.
www.pumpitupchicago.com or
www.pumpitupjrchicago.com.
The Princess and the Pea,
All Ages, $10, 10:30 a.m., Beverly
Arts Center, 111th & Western Avenue,
Chicago, (773) 205-9600. The Prince
wants to marry a real princess. He
travels about the world searching
for a real princess but returns home
disappointed. One evening, a young
woman claiming to be a real princess
seeks shelter from a storm in the
prince’s castle. Additional
performances are July 2, 8, 9, 10,
15, 16, 17, 18, 22, 23, 23, 24, 29,
30, & 31. www.chicagokidscompany.com
Radio Disney AM 1300,
All Ages, Free With Park Admission,
2-4 p.m., Kiddieland Amusement Park,
8400 W. North Avenue, Melrose Park,
(708) 343-8000. Radio Disney
presents Wacky Wildcat Wednesday-The
Radio Disney Road Crew will be out
every Wednesday through August 19.
www.kiddieland.com
Outdoor Market, All
Ages, Free Admission, 4-8 p.m.,
Striker’s Bowling Alley, 643
Dixie Highway, Beecher, (708)
946-2261. Featuring produce, fresh
eggs, flowers, bakery goods, fruit &
honey. It’s something for everybody.
This event runs every Wednesday
through October 7.
www.villageofbeecher.org
Wednesday Wheels,
All Ages, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Historic
Kankakee Railroad Depot197 S. East
Avenue, Kankakee, (800) 747-4837.
The Kankakee Chamber of Commerce
will present a car, truck and
motorcycle show. Food and
entertainment will be available.
This event runs the first Wednesday
of every month through October.
www.kankakeechamber.com
PAWS for Reading,
Grades K-6, Free Admission, 6:30
p.m., Carol Stream Public Library,
616 Hiawatha Drive, Carol Stream,
(630) 653-0755. Share your love of
reading with a furry, four-legged
friend! Choose a 15-minute time slot
to read with a therapy animal who
has been trained to be a good
listener. Registration is required.
www.cslibrary.org
Willowbrook High School
Summer Band & The Legacy Girls,
All Ages, Free Admission, 6:30 p.m.,
Prairie Path at
the Rugaard Gazebo, Harvard,
Villa Park, (630) 834-8970. They’re
back and better than ever. This
talented high school band kicks off
this year’s concert series.
www.vprd.org
The Alpha Course,
Adults, 6:30 p.m., Palos Park
Presbyterian, 12312 S. 88th Avenue,
Palos Park, (708) 448-5220.
Interested in the BIG questions:
What is the meaning of life?
Why am I here? Come and
explore some answers with others who
are seeking at the Alpha Course.
This 10-week course explores some of
the basic truths of Christianity
from an open-minded and
discussion-oriented perspective.
We start at 6:30 with dinner, watch
a video presentation, and then
discuss it in small groups. This is
an adult course, childcare is
available with advanced notice.
www.pppcc.org
Boleros for the
Disenchanted, $22-$60, 7:30
p.m., Goodman Theatre, 170 North
Dearborn Street, Chicago, (312)
443-3800. Two worlds, 40 years and
many life journeys later...can love
still endure? In this moving new
play by José Rivera, Oscar-nominated
screenwriter of The Motorcycle
Diaries, Flora vows never to fall
for an unfaithful man again after
her fiancé breaks her heart. Then
she meets Eusebio, who sweeps her
off her feet and off to America—away
from her family and her familiar
life in Puerto Rico. This event runs
through July 26; checkout the
website at
www.goodmantheatre.com
Music Festival 75th Birthday
Concert, All Ages, Free
Admission, 8 p.m., Jay Pritzker
Pavilion, Millennium Park,
Michigan Avenue & Randolph
Street, Chicago, (312) 742-1168.
Travel back in time to the year of
the Grant Park Music Festival’s
founding in 1935, with a program
that recreates the very first Grant
Park orchestral concert.
www.millenniumpark.org
Thursday
2
Daley Plaza Farmers Market,
All Ages, Free Admission, 7 a.m.-3
p.m., Daley Plaza 50 W. Washington,
Chicago. Chicago’s Farmers Markets
bring many vendors selling fresh
fruits, vegetables, plants and
flowers. This event runs every
Thursday through October 15.
www.cityofchicago.org
Hyde Park Farmers Market,
All Ages, Free Admission, 8
a.m.-3 p.m., On the Cul-de-sac at
Harper Court, 5200 S. Harper Avenue,
Chicago. Chicago’s Farmers Markets
bring more than 70 vendors selling
fresh fruits, vegetables, plants and
flowers. This event runs every
Thursday through October 29.
www.cityofchicago.org
Family Fun Festival:
Wiggleworms®, All Ages, Free
Admission, 10-11 a.m., Chase
Promenade North, Millennium Park,
Michigan Avenue & Randolph Street,
Chicago, (312-742-1168. Join the
Wiggleworms® instructors from the
Old Town School of Folk Music as
they lead young children in sing-alongs,
circle dances, finger games and
more. End the hour playing
with rhythm instruments specially
designed for little hands to enjoy.
This event runs everyday through
September 4. www.millenniumpark.org
Cinderella, All
Ages, $10, 10:30 a.m., Stahl Family
Theater, 5900 W. Belmont, Chicago,
(773) 205-9600. Dreams really do
come true. Additional performances
are July 7-11.
www.chicagokidscompany.com
4th of July Celebration,
All Ages, 6 p.m.-Midnight, Firemen’s
Park, 673 Penfield Street, Beecher,
(708) 946-2261. Carnival, food,
raffles, live music, beer tent and
bingo. This event runs through July
5. www.villageofbeecher.org
Exploring Music-Grant Park
Music Festival, All Ages,
Free Admission, 6:30 p.m., Harris
Music Theater, Millennium Park, 205
E. Randolph Street, Chicago, (312)
334-7777. Bill McGlaughlin, host of
WFMT’s popular Exploring Music
program, narrates a concert of some
of the most stirring American choral
works from recent decades by Barber,
Copland, Corigliano, Crabtree,
Hovhaness, Lauridsen and Sametz.
www.harristheaterchicago.org
Illinois Shakespeare
Festival-Midsummer Nights Dream, All
Ages, $16-$40, 7:30 p.m., Ewing
Manor, 48 Sunset Road, Bloomington,
866-IL- SHAKE.
To escape an arranged
marriage with Demetrius, Hermia runs
off to an enchanted forest with her
lover, Lysander. The two are closely
pursued by Demetrius, who is closely
pursued by Helena, the girl he’s
discarded for Hermia. When a fairy
named Puck tries to straighten out
the pairs using a magical love
potion, he only makes things worse.
This event which runs through August
8; checkout the website at
www.TheFestival.org
Oumou Sangare’, All
Ages, Free Admission, 8 p.m., Jay
Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park,
Michigan Avenue & Randolph Street,
Chicago, (312) 742-1168. This singer
from Southern Mali’s Wassoulou area
was one of the first female artists
in West Africa to openly deal with
social problems through her song
lyrics www.millenniumpark.org
Friday
3
Museum of Science and
Industry Farmers Market,
All Ages, Free Admission, 7 a.m.-2
p.m., Museum of Science and
Industry, 57th & Lake Shore Drive,
Chicago. Chicago’s Farmers Markets
bring many vendors selling fresh
fruits, vegetables, plants and
flowers.Additional dates for this
event are July 17, August 7 & 21,
September 4 & 18, October 2 & 16.
www.cityofchicago.org
Farmers Market, All
Ages, Free Admission, 7 a.m.- 1p.m.,
American Indian Center’s
Trickster Gallery in Town Square,
Roselle and Schaumburg Roads,
Schaumburg, (847) 923-3855. The
market features a cornucopia of
homegrown fruits, vegetables,
flowers, and baked goods. The market
is located on the south side of the
barn-shaped Trickster Gallery. This
event runs every Friday through
October 9.
Farmers Market, All
Ages, Free Admission, 7:30 a.m.- 1
p.m., Orland Park Village Center,
14700 Ravinia Avenue, Orland Park,
(708) 403-5370. Over 25 vendors
offer a variety of fresh produce,
flowers, plants, beauty items,
products for the home and garden,
jewelry, purses, bakery items,
gourmet spices and more. This event
runs every Friday through October 2.
www.orland-park.il.us
Thee Olde Time Farm Show,
9 a.m.-5 p.m., $5 12 & Up, Perry
Farm Park 459 N. Kennedy Drive,
Bourbonnais, (815) 933-4119. Learn
about the early life through actual
working tractors, threshers, and
steam engines from the past century.
Demonstrations, contests, petting
zoo, live entertainment and food
concessions. Additional dates for
this event is July 4 & 5.
www.oldetimefarmshow.com
WBIG AM1280, All
Ages, Free With Park Admission, 2-4
p.m., Kiddieland Amusement Park,
8400 W. North Avenue, Melrose Park,
(708) 343-8000. WBIG will be out to
host a “Spin and Win.” Guests will
spin a prize wheel and win.
www.kiddieland.com
P-Town Throw Down,
Ages 11-17, $35/Team, Time Varies by
Ages, Plainfield Central High School
parking lot, 24120 W. Fort Beggs,
Plainfield, (815) 436-8812. Get your
3- or 4-person team together for the
FIRST EVER P-Town Throw Down 3-on-3
Basketball Tournament as part of the
Plainfield Park District’s Patriotic
Picnic. Each team is guaranteed at
least two games. Teams may be all
male, all female or co-ed.
www.plainfieldparkdistrict.com.
Dora the Explorer,
All Ages, Free With Park Admission,
2-7 p.m., Kiddieland Amusement Park,
8400 W. North Avenue, Melrose Park,
(708) 343-8000. Meet and greet our
guest at the gazebo.
Additional dates for this
event is July 4 & 5.
www.kiddieland.com
2nd Annual Plainfield
Patriotic Picnic & Fireworks,
5-9:30 p.m., Plainfield Central High
School, 24120 W. Fort Beggs,
Plainfield, (815) 436-8812. Gather
your family for an evening of free
family fun and fireworks! Activities
include a bean bag toss, PlayZone,
inflatables, touch-a-truck,
chalk-it-up, and more! Food will be
available for purchase.
www.plainfieldparkdistrict.com.
Independence
Spectacular, All Ages, Free
Admission, 5-11 p.m., Centennial
Park, 15600 West Avenue, Orland
Park, (708) 403-PARK. Come and enjoy
a full day of events: family
camping, rides, games, Pet Parade,
Bike Parade, Live Entertainment,
Movies on the Lawn and much more.
Registration for is required for
some of the events.
www.orland-park.il.us
PJ Adventures-Enchanted
Forest, Ages 3-5, $65,
5:30-8 p.m., Bubbles Academy, 1504
N. Fremont, Chicago, (312) 944-7677.
In the Enchanted Forest we’ll find
our way to the Fairy Queen’s kingdom
and attend a Woodland Party. Your
child will love this magical
adventure with trolls, fairies,
disappearing gardens, unicorns and
lots of imagination. Registration is
required. www.bubblesacademy.com
4th of July Celebration,
All Ages, $50 Adults & $25 Children,
6-10 p.m., Lake Katherine, 7402 Lake
Katherine Drive, Palos Heights,
(708)361-1873. This is no ordinary
celebration as the nature center
will be having a cookout, games,
live entertainment, a silent
auction, and free fireworks at dusk.
Kids can take advantage of our face
painting, games and balloons while
adults can take part in our silent
auction with generous donations from
prominent local businesses. Everyone
will love the live music of the
Tinley Park Arts Alive! concert band
and watching the fireworks
spectacular light up the night sky!
Registration is required.
www.lakekatherine.org
3rd of July Fireworks,
All Ages, Free Admission, 7:30 p.m.,
Grant Park & Lakefront Columbus
Drive & Jackson Blvd., Chicago,
(312)744-3315. Upon sampling the
array of food selections at Taste of
Chicago, festival attendees will
slowly make their way to the
Petrillo Music Shell for the
pre-fireworks entertainment. The
85th Army Band will dazzle the
audience with their harmonious
sound. The view of the show is best
throughout Grant Park and museum
campus to the south, as each
explosion of color in the sky, along
with the musical accompaniment,
builds up to the grand finale.
www.tasteofchicago.us
Kankakee County Speedway
Races, All Ages, Kankakee
County Fairgrounds, 213 W. 4000 S.
Road, Kankakee, (815) 932-1690. Indy
racing may rule the Hoosier State
and NASCAR may be king in Joliet but
in Kankakee the dirt-track action at
the Kankakee Motor Speedway is tough
to beat. This event runs every
Friday night through September.
www.kankakeecountyspeedway.com
Saturday
4
Tai Chi, Yoga, Pilates,
Martial Arts Workouts, 7- 11 a.m.,
All Ages, Free Admission, Millennium
Park, Michigan Avenue & Monroe,
Chicago, (312) 742-1168. Millennium
Park and McDonald’s invite
Chicagoans and visitors to kick off
their weekends with energizing
workouts on the Great Lawn of the
Jay Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium
Park. Workouts are open to
people with all levels of
experience, are 45 minutes long.
Each week, instructors from
Lakeshore Athletic Club—Illinois
Center will lead classes in Tai Chi
at 7 a.m., Yoga sessions at 8 a.m.,
Pilates workouts at 9 a.m.,
and Martial Arts workout at
10 a.m. This event runs every
Saturday through September 19.
www.millenniumpark.org
Tinley Park 4th of July
Celebration, All Ages, Free
Admission, 8 a.m.-9:45 p.m.,
McCarthy Park, 16801 S. 80th Avenue,
Tinley Park, (708) 444-5000. Come
and enjoy a full day event starting
with Stars and Stripes 5K Run and
finishing with the Grand Finale
Fireworks Extravaganza.
Additional events include
penny carnival, horseshoe
tournament, face painting, spin art,
bingo, free watermelon, tug-a-war,
wet & wild sponge relay, water
balloon toss, pie eating contest and
much more.
Checkout the website for
times of various events.
www.tinleyparkdistrict.org
4th of July Jubilee,
All Ages, Free Admission, 9 a.m.-3
p.m., Hidden Cove Sportsplex 70 Ken
Hayes Drive, Bourbonnais, (815)
432-2639. See a wide variety of
handmade crafts in addition to
resale items. Booths will be located
inside.
www.springcreekcraftshows.bravehost.com
July 4th Celebration,
All Ages, $5 Adults & $15 Children,
10 a.m.-1 p.m., Pump It Up Chicago,
821 W Eastman, Chicago, (312)
664-7867. Wear red, white and blue
to come and jump with special guest
Uncle Sam. Don’t miss this festive
celebration that includes
inflatables, music, rock climbing,
lunch, and will conclude with
Firecracker Popsicles.
www.pumpitupchicago.com
Independence Day in
Millennium Park, All Ages,
Free Admission, 1:30 p.m., Jay
Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park,
Michigan Avenue & Randolph, Chicago,
(312) 742-1168. Join us for a new
Independence Day tradition as the
Grant Park Orchestra presents the
first-ever July 4th concert at the
Jay Pritzker Pavilion, featuring tap
dancer Lane Alexander
www.millenniumpark.org
KISS-FM 103.5 Street Freaks,
All Ages, Free With Park Admission,
2-4 p.m., Kiddieland Amusement Park,
8400 W. North Avenue, Melrose Park,
(708) 343-8000. KISS-FM Street
Freaks will be at Kiddieland to host
win a Wii.
www.kiddieland.com
July 4th Concerts &
Fireworks, All Ages,
$15/Car, 3-10 p.m., Kankakee
Community College, 100 College
Drive, Kankakee, (815) 933-3119.
Grounds open at 3 p.m. for
Picnicking KVSO Concert at 5:30 p.m.
and KVSO Concert at 7 p.m.
—-Fireworks following.
www.kvso.org
4th of July Celebrations,
All Ages, $10 Wristband, 5-9 p.m.,
Main Park, 400 W. Nebraska,
Frankfort, (815) 469-9400.
Come and enjoy Giant
Inflatables, Reptile Rampage,
Rainbow the Clown, popcorn wagon,
carnival games, face tattoos,
refreshments & fireworks at dusk.
www.frankfortparks.org
Independence Spectacular,
All Ages, Free Admission, 6-9:15
p.m., Centennial Park, 15600 West
Avenue, Orland Park, (708) 403-PARK.
Come and enjoy Battle of the Bands
Winner, kids’ rides, games, Nova
Soul, presentation of colors and
Fireworks at dusk.
www.orland-park.il.us
“Supercar Saturday,”
All Ages, Free Admission, 9-11 a.m.,
The Glen Town Center, Waukegan Road
Between Lake & Willow, Glenview,
(847) 724-2025. Featuring Classic,
Muscle and Exotic Cars the First
Saturday of Every Month! This
diverse event will feature
everything from classics and muscle
cars to exotics and modified
contemporary cars.
www.theglentowncenter.com
Sunday
5
Maxwell Street Market,
All Ages, Free Admission, 7 a.m.-3
p.m., South Loop DesPlaines Street &
Roosevelt Road, Chicago. The Maxwell
Street Market is a Chicago tradition
of bargains and bargaining with an
international flavor. This event
runs every Sunday through October
31st. www.cityofchicago.org
Beverly Farmers Market,
All Ages, Free Admission, 7 a.m.-2
p.m., City Parking Lot-Southeast
Corner, 9500 S. Longwood Drive,
Chicago. Beverly Farmers Market is a
Chicago tradition of bargains and
bargaining with an international
flavor. This event runs every Sunday
through October 25th.
www.cityofchicago.org
Bronzeville Community
Market, All Ages, Free
Admission, 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.,
Bronzeville 4400 S. Cottage Grove,
Chicago. The market will feature a
wide variety of fresh fruits and
vegetables; a selection of meats,
cooking oils, honey, and wine; a
range of baked goods and prepared
foods; vendors selling plants,
beauty products and other non-food
items, and a variety of fair trade
vendors in cooperation with the
Chicago Fair Trade Association.
Market goers can also visit the
market’s wellness area that will
feature a chiropractor and health
screenings provided by a local
medical facility. This event runs
every Sunday through October 31.
www.cityofchicago.org
Farmer’s Market,
All Ages, Free Admission, 10 a.m.-2
p.m., Breidert Green, Oak & Kansas
Street, Frankfort, (815) 469-3356.
Enjoy the local flavor. This event
runs every Sunday through October 11
www.frankfortcountrymarket.org
9th Annual Pork Chop Dinner,
All Ages, 4-7 p.m., Firemen’s Park,
673 Penfield Street, Beecher, (708)
946-2261. Delicious pork chop dinner
with the trimmings: baked potato,
roll and applesauce.
www.beecherchamber.com
Frankfort Brass Band &
Joliet American Legion Band,
All Ages, Free Admission,
6:30 p.m., Breidert Green, Oak &
Kansas Street, Frankfort, (815)
469-3356 www.villageoffrankfort.com
Monday
6
Jump-N-Art Camp,
All Ages, Pump It Up of Orland Park,
11411 W. 183rd Street, Orland Park,
(708) 479-2220. Jump-N-Art is a one
of a kind camp exclusively at Pump
It Up, where kids spend part of
their day exploring their inner
artists and the rest of their time
laughing, enjoying snacks, playing
games and, of course,
bouncing. Registration is required.
Additional dates for this event are
July 7 & 9.
www.pumpitupparty.com
7th Annual Crown Point Latin
Summer, Grades 5-7, $50,
8-11:30 a.m., Crown Point High
School, 1500 S. Main Street, Crown
Point, Indiana, (219) 663-4885.
Students attending the program will
have the opportunity to learn about
Classical mythology, Roman culture
and daily life, and Roman history.
They will also attend courses such
as conversational Latin and
participate in artistic and group
activities. Registration is
required.
www.crownpoint.ijcl.org
Circus Carnival Week:
The Art Institute of Chicago, All
Ages, Free Admission, 10 a.m. - 3
p.m., Chase Promenade North,
Millennium Park, Chicago, (312)
742-1168. Juggle, be a stilt walker
or paint your face like a clown.
Over the weekend, take part
in the Great Performers of Illinois
Festival, meet Abraham Lincoln and
celebrate all things Illinois! This
event runs daily through July 12.
www.millenniumpark.org
Private Sensory Night,
All Ages, $15, 6:15-7:45 p.m., Pump
It Up of Orland Park, 11411 W 183rd
Street, Orland Park, (708) 479-2220.
Pump It Up is offering jump sessions
for children with special needs who
benefit from a smaller, more
controlled and private jumping
environment (open to siblings also).
Jumping and pizza included.
Registration is
required. www.pumpitupparty.com
Tuesday
7
Federal Plaza Farmers
Market, All Ages, Free
Admission, 7 a.m.-3 p.m., Federal
Plaza Adams Street & Dearborn
Street, Chicago. Chicago’s Farmers
Markets brings many vendors selling
fresh fruits, vegetables, plants and
flowers. This event runs every
Tuesday until October 27.
www.cityofchicago.org
Young Naturalists,
Ages 7-11, $20, 9-11:30 a.m., Little
Red Schoolhouse Nature Center, 9800
Willow Springs Road, Willow Springs,
(708) 839-6897. Children will be
able to work alongside a Naturalist
and participate in a variety of
nature related activities.
Activities, crafts and experiments
will fill this 3 day camp.
Additional dates for this event are
July 8 & 9, Registration is
required. www.fpdcc.com
Pop In Playtime,
Ages 2-12, $7, 9:30-11 a.m., $7,
Pump It Up of Orland Park, 11411 W.
183rd Street, Orland Park, (708)
479-2220. Bring the kids for open
jump on our NEW inflatables. Parents
are required to stay but jump for
free. This event runs every Tuesday,
Thursday & Friday through the month
of July. www.pumpitupparty.com
Picture Book Picnic-Zoo Time,
All Ages, 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m.,
North Terrace Park, 300 N. Westmore,
Villa Park, (630) 834-8970. Bring
the kids, a blanket and picnic lunch
for a delightful afternoon of
storytelling. www.vprd.org
Chautauqua Express,
All Ages, Free Admission, Noon-12:45
p.m., Riverwalk, 736 Sindt Court,
Naperville, (630) 848-5000. Since
1986, Guy Louis has presented over
4000 performances to schools, family
and community audiences always to
rave reviews. Shows are fast-paced,
musical adventures celebrating
community, educational excellence
and original creative expression.
www.napervilleparks.org
Summer Fun & Games,
All Ages, $2, 1-3 p.m., Elmhurst
Historical Museum, 120 E. Park
Avenue, Elmhurst, (630) 833-1457.
Kids can channel their inner super
heroes all summer long with this fun
and reasonably-priced family craft
program. Drop in each week for a
different comic book-themed craft in
the Education Center just south of
the Glos Mansion. This event runs
every Tuesday through August 18.
www.elmhursthistory.org
Family Jump Night,
All Ages, $10/Child, 5:30-7 p.m.,
Pump It Up Chicago, 821 W Eastman,
Chicago, (312) 664-7867. Bounce,
slide, climb and play in either our
Classic or Junior Arena. Now
includes rock climbing! We are also
offering a pizza dinner option for
an additional $3/person.
www.pumpitupchicago.com
Wednesday
8
The 25th Annual Putnam
County Spelling Bee, All
Ages, 1 & 8 p.m., Marriott Theatre
in Lincolnshire, Ten Marriott Drive,
Lincolnshire, (847) 634-0200. This
Tony Award®-winning new musical
comedy follows six kids in the
throes of puberty, overseen by
grown-ups who barely managed to
escape childhood themselves! They
may be able to spell strabismus,
capybara and phylactery, but that
doesn’t make it any easier growing
up. This event runs Wednesday,
Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday
through July 19.
www.marriotttheatre.com
Cinderella, All
Ages, $12, 10 a.m., Marriott Theatre
in Lincolnshire, Ten Marriott Drive,
Lincolnshire, (847) 634-0200. This
classic fairy tale comes to life in
a fanciful and fun musical. Join in
the journey as Cinderella overcomes
her evil stepmother and stepsisters
to find the Prince of her dreams.
This heartwarming and charming story
fills the theatre with music and
magic as “Happily Ever After” comes
true. This event runs every
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and
Saturday through August 29.
www.marriotttheatre.com
Radio Disney AM 1300,
All Ages, Free With Park Admission,
2-4 p.m., Kiddieland Amusement Park,
8400 W. North Avenue, Melrose Park,
(708) 343-8000. Radio Disney
presents Wacky Wildcat Wednesday-The
Radio Disney Road Crew will be out
every Wednesday through August 19.
www.kiddieland.com
Fishin’ Kids, Ages
5-11, $8 Residents & $12
Non-Residents, 5-7 p.m., May Watts
Park, Whispering Hills Drive,
Naperville, (630) 848-5000. Kids
learn the basics of fishing.
Parents are asked to remain
with their child. All bait and
tackle are provided.
Registration is required.
www.napervilleparks.org
High School Students Game
Night, Free Admission, 6-8
p.m., Palos Park Presbyterian
Church, 12312 S. 88th Avenue, Palos
Park, (708) 448-5220.
Our High School Group is
having a game night where we will
play softball, football and ultimate
Frisbee. www.pppcc.org
Race Day, All Ages,
Free Admission, 6-8 p.m., Homewood
Public Library, 17917 Dixie Highway,
Homewood, (708) 798-0121. Enjoy race
cars from Illiana Motor Speedway and
purchase some yummy treats from the
teen bake sale.
www.homewoodlibrary.org
Evening Open Jump,
Ages 2-12, $7, 6:15-8:15 p.m., Pump
It Up, 11411 W 183rd Street, Orland
Park, (708) 479-2220. Open Jump is a
night full of jumping, games and
snacks. Adults play free!
www.pumpitupparty.com
Bruckner’s 4th, All
Ages, Free Admission, 6:30 p.m., Jay
Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park,
Michigan Avenue & Randolph Street,
Chicago, (312) 742-1168. Bask in the
sweeping romanticism of one of the
19th century’s most mesmerizing,
large-scale symphonies, by the great
Austrian composer.
www.millenniumpark.org
Outlet Praise Band,
All Ages, Free Admission, 6:30 p.m.,
Prairie Path at the Rugaard Gazebo,
Harvard, Villa Park, (630) 834-8970
www.vprd.org
Dog Training Classes,
16 & Up, $55 Residents & $65
Non-Residents,
7-8 p.m., Heritage Center 1
S. 325 Ardmore Avenue, Oakbrook
Terrace, (630) 627 -6100. Commands
that will be taught are:
sit, down, stay and much
more.
The goal is to teach you and
your dog to have fun while giving
your four legged friend the
opportunity to learn and socialize.
This event runs every
Wednesday through August 16.
Registration is required.
www.obtpd.org
Movie on the Green-Footloose,
All Age, Free Admission, 8:30 p.m.,
Breidert Green, Oak & Kansas Street,
Frankfort, (815) 469-2177. Grab a
blanket and head out for an
unforgettable evening of cinema
under the stars. Movies on the Green
will be featuring movies for the
entire family. Free popcorn will be
served. www.villageoffrankfort.com
Movies in the Park,
All Ages, Free Admission, Dusk,
Recreation Center Concert Shell,
8125 W. 171st Street, Tinley Park,
(708) 342-4200. Come one, come all
to watch The Wizard of Oz
“sing-a-long”. Dress like your
favorite character and get a free
prop kit. Concessions will be sold.
www.tinleyparkdistrict.org
Thursday
9
“Pump Boys and Dinettes,”
$29-33, 1:30 & 8 p.m.,
Drury Lane Oakbrook Terrace 100
Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace, (630)
530-8300. This toe-tapping revue is
a charming musical tribute to life
along the open road. The pump boys
sell high octane fuel on North
Carolina’s Highway 57 and the sassy
dinettes, Prudie and Rhetta Cupp,
run the Double Cupp diner next door.
Between changing tires and baking
pies, the gang performs a rousing,
down-home mix of country western,
rock n’ roll and blues in this
charming tale of friendship, romance
and life’s simple pleasures. This
event runs Wednesdays, Thursdays,
Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays through
August 2. www.drurylaneoakbrook.com
Cyber Safety,
Grades 1-4, Free Admission, 1:30
p.m., Carol Stream Public Library
616 Hiawatha Drive, Carol Stream,
(630) 653-0755. Kids in can learn
how to make the most of the
Internet. Explore Web resources that
encourage safe, healthy online
habits. Learn how to avoid dangerous
scenarios and what to do if you find
yourself in an uncomfortable
situation online. Registration is
requiredwww.cslibrary.org
Play in the Park,
All Ages, Free Admission, 6-7:30
p.m., Worthwoods Park, 109th & Oketo,
Worth, (708) 448-7080. Join us for
an evening of games, crafts, snacks
and more.
www.worthparkdistrict.org
Kung Fu Panda-Movies at the
Center, All Ages, Free
Admission, Dusk, Cultural Center
West Lawn, 14700 Park Lane, Orland
Park, (708) 403-6140. The grounds
will transform with a large movie
screen welcoming friends and family.
Bring a blanket or chair and enjoy.
www.orland-park.il.us
Lura & Chiwoniso,
All Ages, Free Admission, 6:30 p.m.,
Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium
Park, Michigan Avenue & Randolph,
Chicago, (312) 742-1168. Opening the
night is Zimbabwe’s music star
Chiwonisa, who combines modern
musical influences with the
traditional South African instrument
mbira. Lura’s unique musical
tradition embraces French Afro-pop,
Brazilian rhythms and earthy
traditional African music
www.millenniumpark.org
Friday
10
Friday Flings-Water Works,
Ages 1-5, $10 Residents & $15
Non-Residents, Times Varies by Age,
Riverwalk – Grand Pavilion, located
west of Centennial Beach,
Naperville, (630) 848-5000. We will
play cold potato, bucket brigade,
wet sponge toss, slip and slide and
water balloon toss so bring your
swim suit and a towel.
Registration is required.
www.napervilleparks.org
Forest View Petting Zoo,
All Ages, Free Admission, 10
a.m.-Noon, Homewood Public Library,
17917 Dixie Highway, Homewood, (708)
798-0121. Meet your favorite farm
animals at the library! Forest View
Livery will be bringing their
petting zoo to us for this special
hands-on Homewood Days event.
www.homewoodlibrary.org
The Scrambled States of
America, Grades 3-5, Free
Admission, 2 p.m., Joliet Public
Library, 150 N. Ottawa Street,
Joliet, (815) 740-2662. Celebrate a
different look at the United States
with fun games, snacks and plenty of
prizes. www.joliet.lib.il.us
Diary of a Wimpy Kid,
Grades 4-7.
3:30 p.m., Joliet Public
Library, 150 N. Ottawa Street,
Joliet, (815) 740-2662. Join us for
fun games, snacks and prizes!
Registration is required.
www.joliet.lib.il.us
Music at the Museum:
The Lincoln Trio, All Ages, 5:30
p.m., Kohl’s Children’s Museum,
Habitat Park, 2100 Patriot Blvd.,
Glenview, (847) 832-6917. One of
Chicago’s most celebrated ensembles,
the Trio’s polished presentations of
well-known chamber works and their
ability to forge new paths with
contemporary repertoire has led to
the group’s reputation as a first
rate ensemble, drawing an eclectic
audience of sophisticated music
lovers, young admirers of
contemporary programs, and students
discovering chamber music for the
first time. Registration is
required.
www.kohlchildrensmuseum.org
Parents Night Out,
Ages 6 & Up, $9, 6-9 p.m., Iowa
Community Center, 338 N. Iowa
Avenue, Villa Park, (630) 834-8970.
Drop your kids with us and take the
night off! Your kids will enjoy a
movie, crafts games and snacks.
Registration is required.
www.vprd.org
Pirates of Penzance
& The Mikado, All Ages, Free
Admission, 6:30 p.m., Jay Pritzker
Pavilion, Millennium Park, Michigan
Avenue & Randolph Street, Chicago,
(312) 742-1168. Selections from two
of Gilbert and Sullivan’s most
adored comic operettas are presented
in excerpts, with a witty dose of
contemporary tongue-in-cheek
commentary. Additional date for this
event is July 11 at 7:30 p.m.
www.millenniumpark.org
“Cool” Friday Nights,
All Ages, Free Admission, 7 p.m.,
Vogt Visual Arts Center, 17420 S.
67th Court, Tinley Park, (708)
342-4200. Come and listen to The
Nuclear Quarktet
www.tinleyparkdistrict.org
Movie in the Park-“Bee
Movie,” All Ages, Free Admission, 8
p.m., Settlers Park, 15251 S. Van
Dyke Road, Plainfield, (815)
43608812. Calling all movie buffs!
Bring some popcorn and snacks and
join us for a free movie under the
stars. Terraced seating is
available. Attendees are encouraged
to bring lawn chairs and blankets,
and even bug spray
www.plainfieldparkdistrict.com
Saturday
11
Tai Chi, Yoga, Pilates,
Martial Arts Workouts, 7-
11 a.m., All Ages, Free Admission,
Millennium Park, Michigan Avenue &
Monroe Street, Chicago, (312)
742-1168. Millennium Park and
McDonald’s invite Chicagoans and
visitors to kick off their weekends
with energizing workouts on the
Great Lawn of the Jay Pritzker
Pavilion in Millennium Park.
Workouts are open to people with all
levels of experience, are 45 minutes
long. Each week, instructors from
Lakeshore Athletic Club—Illinois
Center will lead classes in Tai Chi
at 7 a.m., Yoga sessions at 8 a.m.,
Pilates workouts at 9 a.m.,
and Martial Arts workout at
10 a.m. This event runs every
Saturday through September 19.
www.millenniumpark.org
Fishing Derby, Ages
3-12, $3 Residents & $10
Non-Residents, 8 a.m.-Noon, Prairie
Park, White Street & Old Plank Road,
Frankfort, (815) 469-2177. Bring a
lawn chair or blanket, and head
upstream and catch the fun. Prizes
will be awarded per age group.
Registration is required.
www.villageoffrankfort.com
WLIT 93.9, All
Ages, Free With Park Admission, 2-4
p.m., Kiddieland Amusement Park,
8400 W. North Avenue, Melrose Park,
(708) 343-8000
www.kiddieland.com.
Diego, All Ages,
Free With Park Admission, 2-7 p.m.,
Kiddieland Amusement Park, 8400 W.
North Avenue, Melrose Park, (708)
343-8000. Meet and greet our guest
at the gazebo. Additional date for
this event is July 12.
www.kiddieland.co
Pirate Brigade, All
Ages, $2 Residents & $5
Non-Residents, 6-8 p.m., Oak Brook
Park District Family Aquatic Center,
1450 Forest Gate Road, Oak Brook,
(630) 645-9590.
Ready, aim fire!
Bring your water guns for a
night of action packed combat!
Water balloons, relay races
and prizes will be given.
Registration is required.
www.obparks.org
PAWS for Reading,
Grades K-6, Free Admission, 6:30
p.m., Carol Stream Public Library,
616 Hiawatha Drive, Carol Stream,
(630) 653-0755. Share your love of
reading with a furry, four-legged
friend! Choose a 15-minute time slot
to read with a therapy animal who
has been trained to be a good
listener. Registration is required.
www.cslibrary.org
The Beginning -
Muntu Dance, All Ages, $15-$125
Adults & $12 Children, 7 p.m.,
Theater for Music and Dance
at Millennium Park, 205 E. Randolph
Drive, Chicago, (312) 334-7777.
Muntu Dance Theatre of Chicago
celebrates the human spirit through
traditional and social African and
African American dance. Muntu’s
exuberant performances pulsate with
the rhythms of the African world
from Mali to New Orleans. The
Company has received enthusiastic
and critical acclaim locally,
nationally and internationally for
the high artistic quality of its
work. www.harristheaterchicago.org
Roam the Garden After Hours
During Nature Nights, Ages
4-10, $20, 5-7:30 p.m., The Chicago
Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road,
Glencoe, (847) 835-5440. At “Prairie
Adventure,” families will visit the
Dixon Prairie and use scientific
tools to get a closer look at the
plants and animals, exploring how
they adapt to changing conditions in
their environment.
Registration is
required.www.chicagobotanic.org
Sunday
12
Back 2 Broadway Dinner
Theater, $40, 12:30-4:30
p.m., Orland Chateau, 14500 S.
LaGrange Road, Orland Park, (708)
403-PARK. Enjoy the sounds of Lerner
and Lowe, Rogers and Hammerstein,
Sondheim, Wilson, Gershwin, Webber,
Rice and many more. This musical
song and dance and witty narrated
extravaganza includes dinner.
Registration is required. Additional
date for this event is July 19.
www.orland-park.il.us
Vintage Baseball Game,
All Ages, Free Admission, 1 p.m.,
Berens Park, 493 Oak Lawn Avenue,
Elmhurst, (630) 833-1457. Come out
and watch America’s pastime played
by 1850s rules as the Chicago Salmon
vintage team takes on Elmhurst’s own
boys (and girls) of summer.
Old-fashioned fun for the whole
family. Bring your own chair or
blanket. www.elmhursthistory.org
Final Say Concert,
All Ages, Free Admission, 6:30 p.m.,
Breidert Green, Oak & Kansas Street,
Frankfort, (815) 469-3356.
Performing is Final Say (Mirror of
Maggie Speaks)
www.villageoffrankfort.com
Soda-Free Concert, All Ages, Free
Admission, 7 p.m., Outdoor
Amphitheater, 14750 Ravinia Avenue,
Orland Park, (708) 403-5370,
www.orland-park.il.us
The Neverly Brothers,
All Ages, Circle Park, 97th Street &
Homan Avenue, Evergreen Park, (708)
229-3373. The Neverly Brothers are
not an “oldies cover band,” nor are
they a tribute act.
They are a very unique and
exciting retro-sonic concepts, and
above all they are true
entertainers. Their enthusiastic
stage show will transport you back
in time on a virtual tour of one of
the most exciting unexplored phases
in rock history.
www.theneverlybrothers.com
Monday
13
Birthday Celebration Week:
Chicago Office of Tourism, All Ages,
Free Admission, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.,
Chase Promenade North, Millennium
Park, Chicago, (312) 742-1168. Join
in the birthday fun with a host of
activities that salute the many
different neighborhoods that make
Chicago special. This event runs
daily through July 19.
www.millenniumpark.org
Water, Sustainability, and
Your Garden, Adults, 7
p.m., Carol Stream Public Library
616 Hiawatha Drive, Carol Stream,
(630) 653-0755. Landscape architect
Marcus de la fleur explains how to
make a yard that is beautiful and
environmentally responsible. His
residential pilot project in
Elmhurst demonstrates the principles
of green gardening and responsible
treatment of rain water.
Registration is required.
www.cslibrary.org
SHELelbration: A Tribute to
Shel Silverstein, All Ages,
Free Admission, 6:30 p.m., Jay
Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park,
Chicago, (312) 742-1168. Frequent
Silverstein musical collaborators
and friends, including musicians
Bobby Bare, Sr., Bobby Bare Jr., Pat
Dailey, Chicagoans Jon Langford and
Sally Timms, plus an all-star band
from the worlds of indie-rock and
country, and surprise guest poetry
readers will bring this great
artist’s work to life.
www.millenniumpark.org
Tuesday
14
Picture Book
Picnic-Traveling Tales, All
Ages, 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m., Lufkin
Park, 1000 S. Ardmore, Villa Park,
(630) 834-8970. Bring the kids, a
blanket and picnic lunch for a
delightful afternoon of
storytelling. www.vprd.org
Rick Kelley-Fun in the Park,
All Ages, Free Admission, 11:30
a.m.- 1 p.m., Colonial Park, 9324
139th Street, Orland Park, (708)
403-727. This summer the Recreation
& Parks Department invites you to
bring your lunch and enjoy the
family entertainment provided at the
chosen parks.
The afternoon includes: Moon
Jump, helium balloons, face
painting, and entertainment.
www.orland-park.il.us
Family Magic Show,
All Ages, Free Admission, Noon-12:45
p.m., Riverwalk, 736 Sindt Court,
Naperville, (630) 848-5000. Jim
Jensen’s family show features
interactive magic that is totally
kid friendly but all adults will
watch in amazement, too.
Jim’s family magic style is
so much fun and presented in a
quick, high energy style.
www.napervilleparks.org
Family Jump Night,
All Ages, $10/Child, 5:30-7 p.m.,
Pump It Up Chicago, 821 W Eastman,
Chicago, (312) 664-7867. Bounce,
slide, climb and play in either our
Classic or Junior Arena. Now
includes rock climbing! We are also
offering a pizza dinner option for
an additional $3/person.
www.pumpitupchicago.com
Family Fun Night,
All Ages, $7.50 6:15-8:15 p.m., Pump
It Up, 11411 W 183rd Street, Orland
Park, (708) 479-2220. Looking for a
fun night out with the family?
Our Family Fun Night is a night full
of jumping, games and snacks. Adults
play free! www.pumpitupparty.com
Wine 101, Adults,
Free Admission, 7 p.m., Homewood
Public Library, 17917 Dixie Highway,
Homewood, (708) 798-0121.
Local freelance writer and
former wine shop manager, Nancy Yos,
will demystify the fundamentals of
grape growing, wine making, and the
major varietals as well as talk
about making good, budget-friendly
wine purchases. Come and join us!”
Registration is required.
www.homewoodlibrary.org
Wednesday
15
Radio Disney AM 1300,
All Ages, Free With Park Admission,
2-4 p.m.,
Kiddieland Amusement Park,
8400 W. North Avenue,
Melrose Park, (708) 343-8000. Radio
Disney presents Wacky Wildcat
Wednesday-The Radio Disney Road Crew
will be out every Wednesday through
August 19. www.kiddieland.com
Celebrate Harry Potter,
All Ages, Free Admission, 2:30 p.m.
- July 15 4 p.m., Joliet Public
Library, 150 N. Ottawa Street,
Joliet, (815) 740-2662. Rediscover
the wonder and magic of Harry’s
world as we celebrate the book
series and the release of the new
movie. Registration is required.
www.joliet.lib.il.us
The Sting Rays, All
Ages, Free Admission, 6:30 p.m.,
Prairie Path at the Rugaard Gazebo,
Harvard, Villa Park, (630) 834-8970.
Get ready to rock the night away
with this fabulous group as they
play your favorite Rock & Roll hits
from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s.
They’re sure to get the entire
family up and jiving. www.vprd.org
Dances & Fairytales,
All Ages, Free Admission, 6:30 p.m.,
Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium
Park, Michigan Avenue & Randolph,
Chicago, (312) 742-1168. Venture to
the underworld, the fairy tales of
Mother Goose and exotic realms in
this program of pieces by Ravel,
Offenbach, and others.
www.millenniumpark.org
Music & Movie in the Park-“The
Hillbilly Flash,” All Ages, Free
Admission, 7 p.m., Heritage Park,
Oakbrook Terrace Park District, 1 S
325 Ardmore Avenue, Oakbrook
Terrace, (630) 627-6100. “The
Hillbilly Flash” will perform music
from the 50’s and 60’s and the
movie, Igor, also rated PG, will
play at 8:45 PM.
Concessions will be available
at both movies.
Be sure to bring a blanket or
lawn chair to sit on. www.obptd.org
Thursday
16
Jim Gill, All Ages,
Free Admission, Noon-12:45 p.m.,
Frontier Park, 3380 Cedar Glade
Drive, Naperville, (630) 848-5000.
Jim is known as a musician and
author but he also is, by training,
a child development specialist. His
goal has always been to promote
active play among adults and
children with his music. Rather than
performing for children and parents,
Jim leads them in singing and
playing together.
www.napervilleparks.org
World Class Birds,
All Ages, Free Admission, 1:30 p.m.,
Carol Stream Public Library
616 Hiawatha Drive, Carol Stream,
(630) 653-0755. Meet Community
Officer Lou Estrada and the birds
from around the world that she has
adopted. She will share interesting
facts about them and their native
lands. Registration is required.
www.cslibrary.org
Najat Aataboa/Justin Adams &
Juldeh Camara, All Ages,
Free Admission, 6:30 p.m., Jay
Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park,
Michigan Avenue & Randolph Street,
Chicago, (312) 742-1168. World
renowned for her songs that fuse
traditional Arabic and indigenous
music, as well as her influence on
the Moroccan women’s movement.
www.millenniumpark.org
Rabbit Tales, Ages
3-10, $5, 7 p.m., The Lake View
Nature Center, 17 W 063 Hodges Road,
Oakbrook Terrace, (630) 941-8747.
Children are invited to come to the
Lake View Nature Center in their
pajamas to listen to nature stories
and participate in a related
activity or craft.
Kids will enjoy the nature
center’s exhibits before saying good
night to the animals. Registration
is required. www.obtpd.org
Movie in the Park,
All Ages, Free Admission, 8 p.m.,
Gale Moore Park, 109th & Nordica,
Worth,
(708) 448-7080
www.worthparkdistrict.org.
Speed Racer-Movies
at the Center, All Ages, Free
Admission, Dusk, Cultural Center
West Lawn, 14700 Park Lane, Orland
Park, (708) 403-6140. The grounds
will transform with a large movie
screen welcoming friends and family.
Bring a blanket or chair and enjoy.
www.orland-park.il.us
Friday
17
Caudill Café,
Grades 4-8, Free Admission, 1:30
p.m., Carol Stream Public Library
616 Hiawatha Drive, Carol Stream,
(630) 653-0755. Get a sneak peak at
the twenty books nominated for the
2010 Rebecca Caudill Award.
Refreshments will be
served.Registration is required.
www.cslibrary.org
34th Annual Herscher
Corn Bowl, All Ages, Free
Admission, 5 p.m., Downtown Herscher,
Herscher, (800) 747-4837.
Herscher Corn Bowl is hosted
by the Herscher Lions Club. They
will be serving their delicious
sweet corn, brats, pork sandwiches
and hot dogs.
www.visitkankakeecounty.com
Family Camp Out,
All Ages, $15/Campsite, 5:30p.m.-10
a.m., Community Park West Parking,
8221 W. 171st Street, Tinley Park,
(708) 342-4200. Bring your tent and
sleeping bags for a fun fill night
under the stars. Activities planned
include a late night movie on our
giant blimp screen, campfire
complete with s’mores, star gazing
and more. Registration is required.
www.tinleyparkdistrict.org
Khachaturian’s Spartacus,
All Ages, Free Admission, 6:30 p.m.,
Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium
Park, Michigan Avenue & Randolph,
Chicago, (312) 742-1168. An evening
of Slavic intensity featuring
Shostakovich’s Violin Concerto No. 1
and culminating in the Suite from
Spartacus, one of the 20th century’s
most riveting ballet scores.
www.millennimpark.org
Firefly Campfire,
Age 5 & Up, $8 Residents & $12
Non-Residents, 6:30-8:30 p.m.,
Conservation Foundation,
10S404 Knoch Knolls Road,
Naperville, (630) 848-5000. Bring
the whole family to McDonald Farm to
enjoy the outdoors, watch for the
beautiful sunset and await the
creatures of the night! A campfire,
s’mores, stories and activities will
make for a fun experience. Then,
wander the grounds and make your own
discoveries, and maybe catch a
firefly or two! Please bring
flashlights.
Registration is required.
www.napervilleparks.org
Shakespeare in the Park,
All Ages, Free Admission, 7 p.m.,
Central Park, 104 E. Benton Avenue,
Naperville, (630)848-5000.
Shakespeare in the Park provides
audience members of all ages with a
unique, outdoor theater experience
in a beautiful park setting. Join
the Naperville Park District and
Midsummer Theatre Troupe for this
year’s free, all-ages performance,
The Taming of the Shrew.
www.napervilleparks.org
Saturday
18
Music Play Dates,
Ages 2-5, Free Admission, 10-11
a.m., The Music Connection, 10751
15th Street, Orland Park, (708)
364-7590. Music activities for
parents and children. Registration
is required.
www.theconnection2music.com
B96 Street Team,
All Ages, Free With Park Admission,
2-4 p.m., Kiddieland Amusement Park,
8400 W. North Avenue, Melrose Park,
(708) 343-8000. B96 Street Team will
make a van stop with a Pepsi wrapped
vehicle.
www.kiddieland.com
SpongeBob Square Pants,
All Ages, Free With Park Admission,
2-7 p.m., Kiddieland Amusement Park,
8400 W. North Avenue, Melrose Park,
(708) 343-8000. Meet and greet our
guests at our Gazebo.
Additional date for this
event is July 19. www.kiddieland.com
“The Bird is the Word,”
All Ages, $5, 6-10:30 p.m., Bird
Park, 893 W Station Street,
Kankakee, (815) 933-8421. Summer
Family Concert featuring
Kankakeeland’s Silhouettes and
Everyday People. This concert
benefit is for the Salvation Army
and Center of Hope Food Pantry who
will receive all proceeds.
Bring blankets and lawn
chairs.
www.visitkankakeecounty.com
Dances & Fairytales,
All Ages, Free Admission, 7:30 p.m.,
Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium
Park, Michigan Avenue & Randolph,
Chicago, (312) 742-1168. Venture to
the underworld, the fairy tales of
Mother Goose and exotic realms in
this program of pieces by Ravel,
Offenbach, and others.
www.millenniumpark.org
Sunday
19
Bats, All Ages,
Free Admission, 1:30 p.m., Little
Red Schoolhouse Nature Center, 9800
Willow Springs Road, Willow Springs,
(708) 839-6897. This afternoon will
be devoted to the topic BATS.
Activities and crafts will be
available for youngsters.
www.fpdcc.com
ABBA Salute, All
Ages, Free Admission, 6:30 p.m.,
Breidert Green, Oak & Kansas Street,
Frankfort, (815) 469-3356,
www.villageoffrankfort.com
Monday
20
China Week: American Museum
of Chicago, All Ages, Free
Admission, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Chase
Promenade North, Millennium Park,
Chicago, (312) 742-1168. Discover
the playful side of Chinese culture
with arts and crafts, board games
and games of chance—all part of the
Chinese Cultural Week in Chicago.
This event runs daily through July
26. www.millenniumpark.org
Tuesday
21
Family Jump Night,
All Ages, $10/Child, 5:30-7 p.m.,
Pump It Up Chicago, 821 W. Eastman,
Chicago, (312) 664-7867. Bounce,
slide, climb and play in either our
Classic or Junior Arena. Now
includes rock climbing! We are also
offering a pizza dinner option for
an additional $3/person.
www.pumpitupchicago.com
“The African Queen,”
All Ages, Free Admission,
Noon, Homewood Public Library, 17917
Dixie Highway, Homewood, (708)
798-0121. Please join us every third
Tuesday of the month at the Homewood
Public Library for a big screen
presentation of some of your
favorite movies from the past!
The African Queen stars
Humphrey Bogart and Katharine
Hepburn, who are determine to pilot
the boat down an uncharted river in
an effort to destroy a German
gunboat. This movie runs 105
minutes. Feel free to bring a sack
lunch if you like.
Snacks, dessert, and a
beverage will be served.
www.homewoodlibrary.org
Go Wild with Tropical Sound,
All Ages, Free Admission, 7
p.m., Carol Stream Public Library,
616 Hiawatha Drive, Carol Stream,
(630) 653-0755. Dave Seagren and his
Tropical Sound Steelband bring the
spirit of the Caribbean Islands to
life. Each set includes songs
varying from Jimmy Buffet to Bob
Marley to Harry Belafonte, as well
as the traditional songs of the
steel band. Registration is
required. www.cslibrary.org
Wednesday
22
Radio Disney AM 1300,
All Ages, Free With Park Admission,
2-4 p.m., Kiddieland Amusement Park,
8400 W. North Avenue, Melrose Park,
(708) 343-8000. Radio Disney
presents Wacky Wildcat Wednesday-The
Radio Disney Road Crew will be out
every Wednesday through August 19.
www.kiddieland.com
Paws & Pages, All
Ages, Free Admission, 4-5 p.m.,
Homewood Public Library, 17917 Dixie
Highway, Homewood, (708) 798-0121.
Bring your kids and go to the
dogs…literally. Read to these
specially trained, gentle dogs to
add to your summer reading log.
Parents must stay with their
children.
www.homewoodlibrary.org
Evening Open Jump,
Ages 2-12, $7, 6:15-8:15 p.m., Pump
It Up, 11411 W 183rd Street, Orland
Park, (708) 479-2220. Open Jump is a
night full of jumping, games and
snacks. Adults play free!
www.pumpitupparty.com
8 Miles South, All
Ages, Free Admission, 6:30 p.m.,
Prairie Path at
the Rugaard Gazebo, Harvard,
Villa Park, (630) 834-8970. It will
be a performance you won’t soon
forget when this seven piece band
entertains you with southern rock,
blues and more. Wear your dancing
shoes. www.vprd.org
Luna Negra Dance Theater &
Luciana Souza, All Ages,
Free Admission, 6:30 p.m., Jay
Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park,
Michigan Avenue & Randolph, Chicago,
(312) 742-1168. A match made in
heaven, as the Grant Park Orchestra
is joined by Brazilian jazz singer
Luciana Souza and Chicago’s own Luna
Negra Dance Theater, presenting
works inspired by Spanish and Latin
flavors. www.millenniumpark.org
Jazz Dance Festival,
All Ages, $45-$60, 8 p.m., Harris
Theater. Millennium Park, 205 E.
Randolph Drive, Chicago, (312)
334-7777. Feel the pulse of the
greatest jazz dance event in the
world! From traditional jazz dance
to contemporary blends, Giordano
Jazz Dance Chicago and the Chicago
Department of Cultural Affairs
present four evenings of the best,
performed by companies from around
the world sharing the stage with
some of Chicago’s best. Additional
dates for this event is July 23, 24
& 25 (8 p.m.)
www.harristheaterchicago.org
Thursday
23
Cinderella, All
Ages, 11 a.m., $9, The Center for
Performing Arts, Governors State
University, 1 University Parkway,
University Park, (708) 235-2222.
Anybody who’s anybody is going to
the Royal Sweetheart Ball. Anybody,
that is, except Cinderella, whose
feet are such an unusual size, there
are no shoes to fit them. But with
the help of a fairy godmother, a
little sword-fighting and some
sensible footwear, a happy ending is
certainly in sight!
www.centertickets.net
Ridge Fest 09, All
Ages, 5:30-10:30 p.m., Freedom Park,
Birmingham & Oak Avenue, Chicago
Ridge, (708) 425-7700. Annual
festival with national bands/acts,
diverse ethnic food vendors, huge
carnival, arts/crafts, special
guests & children’s entertainment.
This event runs through July 26.
www.chicagoridge.org
Novalima & Issa Bagayoga,
All Ages, Free Admission, 6:30 p.m.,
Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium
Park, Michigan Avenue & Randolph,
Chicago, (312) 742-1168. The night
opens with West African artist Issa
Bagayogo, nicknamed “Techno Issa”
for his blending of native Mali
sounds with electronic technique
Novalima’s pioneering blend of
soulful Afro-Peruvian melodies with
reggae, electronica and a Latin beat
creates an irresistible match of old
school traditions and modern trends.
www.millenniumpark.org
Annie-Movies at the Center,
All Ages, Free Admission,
Dusk, Cultural Center West Lawn,
14700 Park Lane, Orland Park, (708)
403-6140. The grounds will transform
with a large movie screen welcoming
friends and family. Bring a blanket
or chair and enjoy.
www.orland-park.il.us
Friday
24
Mud Madness, Ages 5
& Up, Free Admission, 1-3 p.m.,
Lions Park, 320 E. Wildwood, Villa
Park, (630) 834-8970. We’re bringing
in truckloads of top quality black
dirt and watering it down to make
beautiful mud. Then it’s playtime!
Dance to the music, play tug o’ war
or just get muddy. At the end of the
day, we’ll crown the Mud King and
Queen. Shower stations will be
available for rinse off.
www.vprd.org
Music Mania, Grades
6-12, Free Admission, 6-8 p.m.,
Joliet Public Library-Black Road
Branch, 3395 Black Road, Joliet,
(815) 740-2663. Dance Dance
Revolution and Guitar Hero are games
of skill where people dance and play
music to win. Music Mania features
free play and a tournament. People
are free to watch or play, but we
know - young or old, skilled or new
- you can’t resist the beat.
www.joliet.lib.il.us
Luna Negra Dance Theater &
Luciana Souza, All Ages,
Free Admission, 6:30 p.m., Jay
Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park,
Michigan Avenue & Randolph, Chicago,
(312) 742-1168. A match made in
heaven, as the Grant Park Orchestra
is joined by Brazilian jazz singer
Luciana Souza and Chicago’s own Luna
Negra Dance Theater, presenting
works inspired by Spanish and Latin
flavors. www.millenniumpark.org
Jazz Ensemble’s “Hot Summer
Jazz” Concert, All Ages,
$12 Adults & $10 Students,
7:30 p.m., Dorothy Menker Theater,
Moraine Valley Community College,
9000 W. College Parkway, Palos
Hills, (708) 974-4300. Cool off with
the Moraine Valley Jazz Ensemble in
its 3rd annual summer extravaganza.
www.morainevalley.edu
Jammin’ at the Zoo,
All Ages, $21-$28, 6:15-10:30 p.m.,
Lincoln Park Zoo, Cannon Drive at
Fullerton Parkway, Chicago, (312)
742-2283. Chicago’s wildest concert
venue, Lincoln Park Zoo, is gearing
up for headliner performances by
singer songwriters Matt Nathanson
and Brett Dennen with an opening act
by Pat McGee Band. www.lpzoo.org
Go Wild with Harry Potter,
All Ages, Free Admission, 9
a.m.-9 p.m., Carol Stream Public
Library, 616 Hiawatha Drive, Carol
Stream, (630) 653-0755. Stop by the
Library and join in the Harry Potter
fun. There will be crafts to make
and trivia contest for the wizarding
experts. www.cslibrary.org
Saturday
25
Chicago Portage Walk & Work
Day, All Ages, Free
Admission, 9 a.m.-Noon, Chicago
Portage National Historic Site, 49th
& Harlem, Chicago, (708) 839-6897.
Step back in time as we trace this
site’s history through an
informative walk and discussion.
Afterwards, you’re welcome to assist
in the removal of invasive plant
species that are destroying the
biodiversity that once thrived here.
www.fpdcc.org
Community Garage Sale,
All Ages, Free Admission, 9
a.m.-1 p.m., Rugaard Gazebo on the
Prairie Path, Ardmore Avenue, Villa
Park, (630) 834-8970, www.vprd.org
Music Play Dates,
Ages 2-5, Free Admission, 10-11
a.m., The Music Connection, 10751
15th Street, Orland Park, (708)
364-7590. Music activities for
parents and children. Registration
is required.
www.theconnection2music.com
Opera Hits on Venetian
Night, All Ages, Free
Admission, 6:30 p.m., Jay Pritzker
Pavilion, Millennium Park, Michigan
Avenue & Randolph, Chicago, (312)
742-1168. Sensuous arias featuring
Nicole Cabell and Russell Thomas,
with fireworks over the lakefront
and echoes of Venice will make this
one of the most unforgettable nights
of the summer.
www.millenniumpark.org
Patriotic Chorale Concert,
All Ages, $12 Adults & $10
Students, 7:30 p.m., Dorothy Menker
Theater, Moraine Valley Community
College, 9000 W. College Parkway,
Palos Hills, (708) 974-4300. Join
Chorale director Nicholas Thomas and
the Moraine Chorale and Chamber
Singers for an evening of the best
of the best patriotic music.
www.morainevalley.edu
Movie in the Park-“The
Polar Express,” All Ages, Free
Admission, 8 p.m., Settlers Park,
15251 S. Van Dyke Road, Plainfield,
(815)436-8812. Calling all movie
buffs! Bring some popcorn and snacks
and join us for a free movie under
the stars. Terraced seating is
available. Attendees are encouraged
to bring lawn chairs and blankets,
and even bug spray.
www.plainfieldparkdistrict.com.
Sunday
2
Chicago Criterium,
7 a.m., Grant Park, Columbus &
Congress, Chicago, Chicago, (773)
868-3010
Criterium spectators will
have a unique opportunity to
experience one of cycling’s most
exciting racing events from several
route locations including a
grandstand at the start/finish area
located on Columbus Drive in front
of Buckingham Fountain (Columbus and
Balbo). There are also giant
jumbotrons to catch all the racing
action on the big screen. The
criterium also features a sports
expo with sponsor booths as well as
those of other vendors.
www.chicagocriterium.us
Mad Science Show, All Ages, Free
Admission, 10 a.m., 1 & 3 p.m.,
Joliet Public Library 150 N. Ottawa
Street, Joliet, (815) 740-2662.
Science comes out of the classroom
in this fun interactive show for
kids and adults.
www.joliet.lib.il.us
B96 Street Team,
All Ages, Free With Park Admission,
2-4 p.m., Kiddieland Amusement Park,
8400 W. North Avenue, Melrose Park,
(708) 343-8000. B96 Street Team will
be out and host Kiddie Kart Grant
Prix. Guest will ride “Big Wheel”
tricycles to win prizes.
www.kiddieland.com
Rock & Roll Legends Revival,
All Ages, Free Admission, 5-6 p.m.,
Breidert Green, Oak & Kansas Street,
Frankfort, (815) 469-3356. Dave
“Elvis” Thomas Route 66 (Rock & Roll
Legends Revival).
www.villageoffrankfort.com
Hooked on Sonics-Free
Concert, All Ages, Free
Admission, 7 p.m., Outdoor
Amphitheater, 14750 Ravinia Avenue,
Orland Park, (708) 403-5370,
www.orland-park.il.us
The United States Coast
Guard Band, All Ages, Free
Admission, 6:30 p.m., Jay Pritzker
Pavilion, Millennium Park, Chicago,
(312) 742-1168. The premier band
representing the United States Coast
Guard and the Department of Homeland
Security comes to Millennium Park
with a program that ranges from wind
ensemble classics to swinging jazz
charts. In addition to
performing concert tours around the
nation, the 55-member band has
played in the former Soviet Union,
Canada, England and Japan.
www.millenniumpark.org
Monday
27
Health & Safety Week:
Chicago Children’s Museum, All Ages,
Free Admission, 10 a.m.- 3 p.m.,
Chase Promenade North, Millennium
Park, Chicago, (312) 742-1168. Enjoy
fitness and health-awareness
activities; take part in an art
project and performances by After
School Matters. This event runs
daily through August 2.
www.millenniumpark.org
Makin’ Waves with Leonardo!,
All Ages, Free Admission, 7
p.m., Carol Stream Public Library,
616 Hiawatha Drive, Carol Stream,
(630) 653-0755. Musician and
composer Leonardo will be making
waves at the Library! Bring the
family to a fun-filled evening of
music when Leonardo shakes things up
in this interactive musical
celebration. Registration is
required. www.cslibrary.org
Tuesday
28
Naturalist for a Day,
Ages 12-14, $20, 9 a.m.-Noon, Little
Red Schoolhouse Nature Center, 9800
Willow Springs Road, Willow Springs,
(708) 839-6897. Children will join
in for a three days of
Naturalist-style work in the field.
These days will include hand-on
animal care, wildlife and fisheries
activities. Registration is
required. Additional dates for this
event are July 29 & 30.
www.fpdcc.com
Family Jump Night,
All Ages, $10/Child, 5:30-7 p.m.,
Pump It Up Chicago, 821 W Eastman,
Chicago, (312) 664-7867. Bounce,
slide, climb and play in either our
Classic or Junior Arena. Now
includes rock climbing! We are also
offering a pizza dinner option for
an additional $3/person.
www.pumpitupchicago.com
Family Fun Night,
All Ages, $7.50, 6:15-8:15 p.m.,
Pump It Up, 11411 W 183rd Street,
Orland Park, (708) 479-2220. Looking
for a fun night out with the family?
Our Family Fun Night is a night full
of jumping, games and snacks. Adults
play free! www.pumpitupparty.com
Summer Percussion Concert,
All Ages, Free Admission,
7:30 p.m., Dorothy Menker Theater,
Moraine Valley Community College,
9000 W. College Parkway, Palos
Hills, (708) 974-4300. Join the
Moraine Valley Percussion Ensemble
for eclectic music played on
instruments ranging from traditional
to the very unusual.
www.morainevalley.edu
Wednesday
29
Kankakee County Fair,
All Ages, 7 a.m.-Midnight,
Kankakee County Fairgrounds, 213 W.
4000 S. Road, Kankakee, (815)
932-6714. Annual County Fair,
Carnival, Grandstand Shows,
Livestock Shows, Arts and Craft
Shows and 4-H Shows. Daily side
shows and lots of food!!
This event runs daily through
August 2. www.kankakeefair.org
Radio Disney AM 1300,
All Ages, Free With Park
Admission, 2-4 p.m., Kiddieland
Amusement Park, 8400 W. North
Avenue, Melrose Park, (708)
343-8000. Radio Disney presents
Wacky Wildcat Wednesday-The Radio
Disney Road Crew will be out every
Wednesday through August 19.
www.kiddieland.com
The Wizard of Oz Marionette
Show, All Ages, Free
Admission, 4-5 p.m., Homewood Public
Library, 17917 Dixie Highway,
Homewood, (708) 798-0121. See the
characters of the Wizard of Oz come
to life at a nationally known puppet
show! www.homewoodlibrary.org
High School Students Game
Night, Free Admission, 6-8
p.m., Palos Park Presbyterian
Church, 12312 S. 88th Avenue, Palos
Park, (708) 448-5220.
Our High School Group is
having a game night where we will
play softball, football and ultimate
Frisbee. www.pppcc.org
Sibelius Symphony No. 1,
All Ages, Free Admission,
6:30 p.m., Jay Pritzker Pavilion,
Millennium Park, Michigan Avenue &
Randolph, Chicago, (312) 742-1168. A
program of Sibelius, Arvo Part and
others will transport audiences to
the twilight Baltic north, led by
one of Finland’s most celebrated
conductors. www.millenniumpark.org
Wild Side Reader’s Theater,
All Ages, Free Admission, 7 p.m.,
Carol Stream Public Library, 616
Hiawatha Drive, Carol Stream, (630)
653-0755. Enjoy a wild show at the
Library. Local teen volunteers will
be performing a short play for
children of all ages. Registration
is required.
www.cslibrary.org
Thursday
30
Comic Book Artist’s Workshop,
Ages 10-17, $5, 3-5 p.m., Elmhurst
Historical Museum, 120 E. Park
Avenue, Elmhurst, (630) 833-1457.
Aspiring comic book designers
interested in honing skills are
invited to a hands-on workshop with
professional comic book artists
whose work has been published by
companies such as Marvel and DC
Comics. Participants will learn
about drawing and inking techniques.
Registration is required.
www.elmhursthistory.org
Music at the Museum:
BritBeat, All Ages, $5, 5:30 p.m.,
Kohl’s Children’s Museum, Habitat
Park, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview,
(847) 832-6917.
Their ages, English accents,
and retro costumes, along with their
musical talents combine for one of
the closest re-creations of a
Beatles concert that you will find.
BritBeat is unmatched in bringing
the vintage 60s Beatles concert
experience to the ultimate level.
BritBeat’s charm and dynamic
musicianship will take you back in
time to experience what it was
really like to see the young ‘Fab
Four.’ Registration is required.
www.kohlchildrensmuseum.org
As You Like It, All Ages,
Free Admission, 7:30 p.m., Campus
Grounds, Moraine Valley Community
College, 9000 W. College Parkway,
Palos Hills, (708) 974-4300. Bring a
picnic basket and a blanket or
chairs for the annual Theater Under
the Stars presentation: William
Shakespeare’s As You Like It. In
this lyrical and pastoral comedy,
banished Rosalind discovers a world
of passionate possibility in the
Forest of Arden. Enchantment abounds
as chance encounters blossom into
the entanglement of love. Additional
date for this event is August 1.
www.morainevalley.edu
Friday
31
2009 Chicago Bears Training
Camp, All Ages, 3 p.m.,
Olivet Nazarene University, One
University Avenue, Bourbonnais,
(800) 747-4837. Opening day for the
Chicago Bears Training Camp.
Practice dates and times are subject
to change at any time.
www.visitkankakeecounty.com
Taste of Orland Park, All
Ages, Free Admission, 5-11
p.m., Orland Park Village Center,
14700 Ravinia Avenue, Orland Park,
(708) 403-PARK. This year brings the
sixth annual Taste, showcasing some
of the community’s finest eateries.
This event includes live
entertainment on two stages,
community and sponsor booths,
activities for children, country
line dancing and much more.
Additional dates for this event are
August 1 & 2.
www.orland-park.il.us
The Dream Gerontius, All
Ages, Free Admission, 6:30 p.m., Jay
Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park,
Michigan Avenue & Randolph, Chicago,
(312) 742-1168. Experience one of
the great, if seldom heard,
English-language choral works,
Elgar’s gripping voyage through
life’s end and into the unknown.
Additional performance August 1,
7:30 p.m. www.millenniumpark.org
Local Band Night, Grades
7-12, Free Admission, 7-10
p.m., Homewood Public Library, 17917
Dixie Highway, Homewood, (708)
798-0121. Enjoy a night of local
teen bands at the library, after
hours. Refreshments will be served.
www.homewoodlibrary.org
Kankakee County Speedway
Races, All Ages, Kankakee
County Fairgrounds, 213 W. 4000 S.
Road, Kankakee, (815) 932-1690. Indy
racing may rule the Hoosier State
and NASCAR may be king in Joliet but
in Kankakee the dirt-track action at
the Kankakee Motor Speedway is tough
to beat. Come join us on Friday
nights from April to September to
see all the different classes race.
Races held during the Kankakee
County Fair with special payouts for
the UMP Late Models, UMP Street
Stocks, and I-Mods in addition to
the 600 Racing Legends. This event
runs every Friday night through
September.
www.kankakeecountyspeedway.com
