It’s time for another Chicago Air and Water Show, and this year’s event will feature a favorite former Cub. Plus, don’t miss two food festivals, a $1 shopping event, and a concert for “Lord of the Rings” fans.
And get ready for Monday’s eclipse with these Chicago events and tips.
Evanston Art & Big Fork Festival

Aug. 18-20
Evanston
Celebrate both local art and food all weekend long at this free annual festival. Art from 130 artists will be available to purchase, and if you purchase a piece with a green ribbon, the artist will donate 10 percent of proceeds to the Spinal Cord Injury Association of Illinois.
“The Lord of the Rings” in Concert
Experience all three “Lord of the Rings” films as you’ve never experienced them before as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra performs the scores live at Ravinia.
Tacos y Tamales Festival

Aug. 18-20
Chicago
Dine on authentic tacos and tamales as you browse local art, meet merchant vendors, listen to Latin music, watch dance performances, and more. A $5 suggested donation will support the Frida Kahlo Community Organization.
ORT America Metropolitan Chicago Region’s Resale Shop $1 Sale

Aug. 19
Highland Park
ORT America Metropolitan Chicago Region’s Downtown Highland Park Resale Shop is moving to 1710 First St. and to prepare, they’re hosting a $1 sale at their current location, 800 Central St. “You are not just supporting a store, but a mission driven organization who gives back education to thousands of students throughout the world,” says Barbara Statland, director of Metropolitan Chicago Region of ORT America.
- Save the date: ORT will celebrate the grand opening of their new shop on Oct. 2.
Chicago Air and Water Show

Aug. 19-20
Chicago
Former Cubs catcher David Ross headlines this year’s Chicago Air and Water Show as he will tandem jump with the U.S. Army Golden Knights. Catch all the action from The Signature Room or 360 Chicago, or aboard Odyssey Chicago.
Give Back Opportunities:
- WERQ for a cause on Aug. 20 at Evanston Township High School. This CharityWERQ event will be led by Sharon Robinson and benefit Girls Play Sports, an Evanston nonprofit that “encourages young girls to participate in multiple sports while promoting confidence and leadership.”
- Visit Chipotle at 1849 Green Bay Road, Suite 159, Highland Park on Aug. 20 from noon to 8 p.m. and 50 percent of your purchase will be donated to Friends For Health. You must bring in this flyer or tell the cashier you want to support FFH.
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Anna Carlson writes the weekly 5 Things to Do column and monthly Recommended Events. A graduate of Glenbrook South High School and the University of Missouri, she loves cheering on the Cubs and Blackhawks and also fears she watches too much Netflix.