Summer is here with plenty of opportunities to explore different communities, enjoy music and food at festivals, and discover new cultural opportunities. Here’s a round-up of five activities that we found most interesting for you this week!
Have a Blast at the Backlot Bash!
Celebrate all things Skokie with this incredible three-day festival. Highlighting Skokie’s history as a former location for a movie theater backlot for old Western flicks, the Backlot Bash is showcasing some fully modern entertainment. The amazing line-up of live bands, great food & drinks, and a variety of kid-friendly activities will keep everyone happy all weekend long!
Date: August 26-28
Time: Fri 5:30PM – 10:00PM; Sat 11:00AM – 10:00PM; Sun 12:00PM – 8:00PM
Cost: Free
Location: Skokie, Oakton St & Laramie Ave
More info: backlotbash.com
The 1980s Are Calling at Ravinia
‘Take Your Breath Away’ with Berlin & Culture Club at Ravinia. These powerhouse ‘80s hitmakers are performing together with a yacht rock DJ set to kick off the night. Be a ‘Karma Chameleon’ and call your friends to head to Ravinia for a fun night out on the town.
Date: August 26
Time: 4:30PM
Cost: Starting at $85
Location: Highland Park, 201 Ravinia Park Rd
More info: ravinia.org
‘King Richard’ in the Park
Bring your picnic blankets, lawn chairs, and snacks to Twiggs Park for this weekend’s Starlight Movies in the Park. They are showing the award-winning King Richard. With Serena William’s retirement on the horizon, watch this movie to learn the beginning of her story, with the tale of her father’s drive to make his children tennis champs.
Date: August 27
Time: 7:00PM
Cost: Free
Location: Evanston, Twiggs Park, 1901 Simpson St
More info: cityofevanston.org
The Dash to the Bash
Whether or not the Backlot Bash is on your calendar for the weekend, you should find time for the Backlot Dash 5k! Run/Walk Join your friends and neighbors for a run that prioritizes community and FUN. The kids can try the Half Mile Color Fun Run… everyone gets a free T-shirt and a great morning!
Date: August 27
Time: 8:30AM
Cost: Starting at $35
Location: Skokie, 5215 S Oakton St
More info: skokieparks.org
Chef Classes in the Flowers
Join chef Tony Gargano of Geneva’s Osteria Bigolaro at the Chicago Botanic Gardens Garden Chef Series as he prepares recipes in the Regenstein Fruit & Vegetable Garden. This outdoor class will highlight the best edible plants to grow in the Chicago area, so come by to get an amazing recipe after this in-depth demonstration.
Date: August 27
Time: 11:30AM & 12:30PM
Cost: Free with admission
Location: Glencoe, 1000 Lake Cook Rd
More info: chicagobotanic.org
