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.

From a massive warehouse of vinyl deep dives to shops that stock the latest releases, four Starved Rock Country record stores have something for every music buff.

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

More than 100 local, national and international artists will be display work at the two day event.

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.

Los Lonely Boys will perform April 24 while MJ Live takes the stage April 25 at the Rialto Square Theatre in downtown Joliet.

Willrett Flower Company will host the Downtown DeKalb Flower Walk on Saturday, April 25.

Tony Danza will perform his favorite standards from the Great American Songbook while interweaving stories about his life and connection to the music.

The Oswego Country Market is Saturday, April 25 at Prairie Point Community Park.

Singer John Waite, known for the smash hit "Missing You," will perform at the Arcada Theatre in dowtown St. Charles April 23.

The Dole Mansion in Crystal Lake will host 4th Fridays, an art show with live music, on Friday, April 24.

Enjoy sweet treats from Utica businesses and play some carnival-themed games at Utica's Sweet Stroll: The Sweet Escape Carnival on Saturday, April 25.

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

Check out an architectural masterpiece, a thrilling escape room or a local festival this spring in Kendall County.

Businesses on the historic Woodstock Square and in the surrounding downtown area will represent a different country, each offering a small drink paired with a themed bite.

Actor Tony Danza and his band will be at The Dixon Historic Theatre April 25.

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

Sometimes a trip off the beaten path can give people more things to learn and talk about. Take a drive from Mount Carroll to Scales Mound, and there's something for everyone.

Special dining experience to feature whisky by Mississippi River Distilling ft. Cody Road

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.

Hailing from San Angelo, Texas, the Garza brothers coined their own sound—bluesy “Texican rock & roll”—and turned it into a global sensation.

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.

Grappling competition returns to The Vixen in McHenry May 9.

Summerfield Zoo will open Saturday, April 18 for the season.

May brings live theater, tribute bands and movies to the stage at The Dixon Historic Theatre.

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

Free, family-friendly fun will also include youth cultural performances, live music and DJ services from A Positive Image, tacos from Taqueria Aurora and door prizes.

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.

Shining Star delivers a powerful tribute concert celebrating the legendary music of Earth, Wind & Fire.

One million blooms are expected this year at Kuipers Family Farm in Maple Park, which is celebrating 25 years this spring.

The Water Street Studios Community Gallery offers recurring opportunities for area artists to display and sell artwork in a professional setting.

These four comedians will bring honest, high-energy stand-up that taps into the wild world of parenting, the chaos of midlife, dating, marriage and more.

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

Fat Rosie's in Frankfort starts the party on May 5 with live Mariachi performances and face painting.

The Canterbury Concert Series presents "Music from the Movies" at The Dixon: Historic Theatre on Saturday, April 18.

Teams of 2-4 people will try to assemble a 300-piece puzzle at Puzzle-Palooza, a fun, family-friendly competition in Oswego Saturday, April 18.

Stage 212's "The Play That Goes Wrong" opens Friday, April 17.

Celebrate Earth Day at Geneva's Peck Farm Park on Saturday, April 18.

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

The NIU Steelband will perform a free concert at the DeKalb Public Library Friday, April 17.

The Woodstock Opera House will host a performance from Levi Kreis, best known for originating the role of Jerry Lee Lewis in Broadway’s “Million Dollar Quartet,” at 3 p.m. Sunday, April 19.

World Ballet Company's 'Cinderella' is a Broadway-style production that blends humor, romance and exceptional artistry for all ages.

Check out these restaurants where you can find the best breakfast and brunch in the Illinois Valley.

Broadway star Levi Kreis will perform at the Woodstock Opera House on April 19, while David Maraniss will speak on April 16.

BG Hospitality Group’s new restaurant elevates the local dining experience in Fox Haven Square, located at Main Street and Kirk Road.

“The Play That Goes Wrong” will be presented April 17-19 and 24-26 at Stage 212 in La Salle.