Enjoy the sunny days with awesome activities that’ll make your summer shine. From chilling at the beach to grooving at music festivals, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. Explore new spots and cool shops to add some excitement to your summer days. Check out these eight activities happening this weekend to help soak up the sun!
Soak Up the Last Days of Summer
Head to Evanston to celebrate The Last Days of Summer Block Party and Concert. Enjoy live music accompanied by local food and beverages to enjoy these sweet summer days. Don’t miss the face painting and other fun activities for the whole family!
Date: August 18
Time: 5:30-7:30PM
Cost: Free
Location: Evanston, 500 Block of Dempster
More info: facebook.com
Vintage Lovers, This One’s for You
Immerse yourself in a realm of vintage delights, where fashion, music, and culture unite at Roxstar Vintage Fest. Discover curated vintage clothing, accessories, and collectibles from groovy bell-bottoms to classic vinyl records. The event offers a Kids Fun Zone featuring balloon toss, face painting, and more. Live performances by local bands will serenade you with golden era hits, inviting you to dance or unwind. Food trucks will ensure your appetite is satisfied while you mingle with fellow vintage enthusiasts.
Date: August 19
Time: 10AM-5PM
Cost: Free
Location: Skokie Village Hall, 5127 Oakton St, Skokie
More info: eventbrite.com
Bring Your Eyes & Stomach to the Art and Big Fork Event
The 2023 Evanston Art and Big Fork event seamlessly blends visual and culinary arts. This unique experience features a diverse range of artists alongside skilled chefs, creating an immersive fusion of creativity and gastronomy. Attendees can explore a variety of artworks while savoring gourmet cuisine, resulting in a captivating multisensory affair that celebrates the interplay between different art forms.
Date: August 18-20
Time: Fri 12-5PM; Sat & Sun 10AM-5PM
Cost: Free
Location: 800 Church St, Evanston
More info: amdurproductions.com
Let it Stick to Your Ribs at Ribfest
One of the city’s best and biggest food fests is back in North Center with 50,000 lbs. of pork and over 20 food vendors. Ribfest is for everyone, from families looking to check out the fun in ‘Kids Square’ to long-time BBQ aficionados testing all the offerings up for “Best Ribs.” Prepare to get saucey!
Date: August 18-20
Time: Fri 5-10PM; Sat & Sun 12-10PM
Cost: Free
Location: North Center, Lincoln & Damen Ave
More info: ribfest-chicago.com
Fly High at The Air & Water Show!
The largest free show of its kind in the United States, The Air & Water Show, returns with a variety of aerial and naval teams showcasing their best moves over Lake Michigan. You can view the air show portion across the city, but the best viewing happens from Fullerton to Oak Street, with North Avenue Beach as the center point.
Date: August 19 & 20
Time: 10:30AM – 3:00PM
Cost: Free
Location: North Ave Beach & the Lakefront
More info: chicago.gov
Sun & Sangria in Humboldt Park
Sip sangria in the sun while you enjoy live bands, dance performances, and shopping from local pop-ups at Sangria Festival Chicago. Upgrade to the VIP suite for extra goodies or try one of the Instagram-friendly contests and photo ops to have fun and win some prizes!
Date: August 19 & 20
Time: 12-10PM
Cost: $20+
Location: Humboldt Park, 3021 W Division St
More info: sangriafestivalchicago.com
Get Artsy at Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest
The Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest has been a favorite community event for over 20 years. This free arts festival has 100+ artist booths, open studios, live entertainment, and the chance to buy unique handmade art. The event offers live music, performances, art demos, street food, and local craft beer on the charming cobblestone streets of Chicago’s Rogers Park neighborhood.
Date: August 18-20
Time: Fri 6-10PM; Sat 11AM-9PM; Sun 11AM-7PM
Cost: Free
Location: Glenwood Ave & Morse Ave
More info: glenwoodave.org
Donut Miss the Stan’s Donut Race
Experience the excitement of the Stan’s Donut Race! Lace up your running shoes and join a thrilling race that combines fitness with delectable treats. Runners of all levels can participate in this delightful event, which features scenic routes and a unique donut challenge. Whether you’re a competitive racer or simply looking for a fun and flavorful experience, the Stan’s Donut Race offers a one-of-a-kind adventure.
Date: August 19
Time: Starts at 7AM
Cost: $54.99+
Location: South Loop, 1410 Special Olympics Dr
More info: donut5k.com
