The 2026 Kentucky Derby is Saturday, May 2. Celebrate at these events in Kane, Will, Cook and McHenry counties.

Starting June 20, a full slate of special events, features and throwbacks are planned to honor the park’s heritage and 50th anniversary.

The Orion Ensemble will perform at 3 p.m. May 3 at New England Congregational Church in Aurora.

Cantigny in Wheaton will celebrate the grand reopening of the Robert R. McCormick House from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, April 25 and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, April 26.

Upcoming events include the Spritz Stroll, the return of Innovator Hale Street Tents and more!

Across the suburbs and throughout the region, you’ll find fascinating spots dedicated to art, history, science and unique local stories.

Delmark Day will begin with a live blues rehearsal session with The Delmark All-Stars and 18-year-old vocal prodigy Jaden Allen. The interactive masterclass will offer attendees the opportunity to watch Blues musicians at work, honing their craft of authentic Chicago Blues. 

From animal encounters to Glow Wild nights and dino-sized adventures, Brookfield Zoo Chicago offers new experiences and seasonal favorites for guests of all ages.

These flower-filled events in the Midwest go beyond the blooms, offering everything from artisan markets and live music to garden tours and family-friendly activities.

The new Guzman Y Gomez restaurant will be located on South Route 59 in Naperville, and will open later this year.

The Tequila Dinner is Thursday, May 7, and the Spring Wine Tasting event is Saturday, May 9.

Third Eye Blind will perform Aug. 23, while Six One Five Collective takes the stage July 25.

The concert will feature guest soloist Cornelius Chiu, violinist with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, who will performing Sibelius’ Violin Concerto, op. 47, D minor.

The 2026 summer series events include live music, theater, visual arts and more.

Wheaton Park District’s Superhero 3K Fun Run is at 8:30 a.m. Saturday, April 18 at the Sensory Garden Playground.

Chicago-based comedians will take the stage at the Copley Theatre in downtown Aurora on select Saturday nights through May 2 as part of the Copley Comedy Series.

Northern Illinois is home to some notably beautiful botanical gardens and arboretums waiting to be explored.

Other performers this summer include The Beach Boys, Gov't Mule, Poi Dog Pondering, Lauren Alaina and tributes to Bee Gees, Led Zeppelin and many more.

The 50th anniversary season includes works by Mendelssohn, John Williams, Beethoven and more.

Oberweis and Giordano’s announced Monday that they’ll be teaming up in downtown Naperville, with the dairy opening its first scoop shop inside the iconic pizza chain’s restaurant at 119 S. Main St.

Spring is here, and that means it's the perfect season to get out and explore new destinations.

Spring and the return of baseball bring hot dogs back to the forefront. So here are 10 places to get a legit, Chicago-style hot dog in the suburbs.

Families can explore equipment used at Morton Arboretum, and get up close to trucks, municipal emergency vehicles and more.

The concert will feature a video retrospective that includes songs covering five decades and the band's 14 studio records.

Brookfield Zoo Chicago is gearing up for an action-packed spring with new experiences for all ages.

Spring festivals are blooming across northern Illinois in April and May.

The hit Broadway musical opens April 29 and runs through June 14. The show is the theatre’s 2025-26 Broadway Series finale.

The Spring Valley ‘Uriah’ Walla Walla Valley Red Wine 2022 is a dark, brooding red with blackberry, plum, cedar, tobacco leaf and cracked pepper flavors.

The event takes place Sept. 4-7 along Jackson Avenue in the city’s downtown.

Spring is here, and that means the return of some of the area's most popular beer and wine festivals of the year.

Six Flags Great America in Gurnee has announced plans to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2026.

"Shen Yun 2026" will be at the Paramount Theatre April 2-4.

Pick up your Easter chocolate at these fine chocolatiers in northern Illinois. Easter is Sunday, April 5.

Easter is Sunday, April 5.

Additional shows in the 2026-27 season include "Annie," "9 to 5" and "Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story."

After a breakout run in Oak Brook, immersive entertainment brand brings its live studio-style game show to Woodfield Mall.

Everclear will take the stage on Thursday, Aug. 6 at the Romeoville Toyota Pavilion to headline the first night of RomeoFest.

The 1986 film, starring Charlie Sheen, Winona Ryder and the late Corey Haim, was filmed in Glen Ellyn.

The new 'Riverdance 30' production features new choreography, lighting and “The New Generation” of performers.

Enjoy tastings of 10 locally-crafted margaritas and fruity sangrias at participating downtown Wheaton businesses.

Check out Easter fun for all ages at these suburban events happening this weekend through Easter Sunday, April 5.

Upcoming events include Felix & Fingers on March 13, Murder Mystery Dinner on March 27 and the annual Easter Egg Hunt & Brunch March 28-29.

'Shen Yun' will be at the Paramount Theatre in Aurora April 2-4.

Since Riverdance first emerged onto the world stage, its fusion of Irish and international dance and music has captured the hearts of millions worldwide.

The Abbey Resort, located near Lake Geneva, offers fresh-air adventures, family-friendly activities, seasonal dining and relaxing spa experiences this spring.

Two music-packed weekends offer an expanded concert experience and powerhouse lineup with performances by Melissa Etheridge on June 7, Blues Traveler on July 24 and Nelly on July 25.

The Belfry House creates an intimate experience for couples and adult travelers, bringing together seasonal fine dining, live entertainment and personalized hospitality.

These concerts celebrate the work of Neil Diamond and Garth Brooks as embodied by Broadway performer Eric Gutman and international touring star Brandon Bennett.

The Glen Ellyn Park District will host egg hunts for both kids and adults.

The concert’s special theme is Broadway and popular music, along with musical selections to appeal to all audiences.