Spend your weekend shopping and dining in Evanston, sampling beer or sangria at two different Chicago events, cheering on performers at the Chicago Air and Water Show, and more.
Evanston Art & Big Fork Festival
Aug. 16-18
Evanston
Shop paintings, photography, jewelry, home goods, and more from roughly 150 juried artists while also enjoying food and drinks from Evanston restaurants.
The Big North 2019
Aug. 17
Chicago
Best of 2019 winner Half Acre Beer Company hosts this annual party with live music, food, activities, and a beer list with more than 50 brews.
Chicago Air and Water Show
Aug. 17-18
Chicago
This annual show is back with headliners U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the Royal Air Force Red Arrows.
Pilsen Fest
Aug. 17-18
Chicago
This festival features three music stages; an art pavilion with visual art, theater performances, and authors and poets; a kids pavilion with arts and crafts; and food and drink from Pilsen-area restaurants and food trucks.
Sangria Festival
Aug. 17-18
Chicago
Sample from more than 20 sangrias while also enjoying food, live music, and dance performances.
More Can’t-Miss Events:
- Visit downtown Long Grove Aug. 17-18 to find more than 40 vendors selling vintage, handmade, and repurposed goods during Vintage Days. The event also features live music, carnival games, tractor rides, food, and local craft beer.
- Wheeling’s International Festival, this year on Aug. 18, celebrates the community’s diversity with performances, demonstrations, and food from around the world.
- Kids Nature Funfest, hosted by Lake County Forest Preserves in North Chicago on Aug. 18, gives kiddos a chance to connect with nature through arts and crafts, critter exploration, and more.
Make a Difference:
- Help Fill a Heart 4 Kids provide school supplies for homeless kids and foster children. Learn more about current projects, including Lemonade 4 Brighter Futures, on the organization’s website.
Anna Carlson writes the weekly Weekend 101 column and monthly Recommended Events. A graduate of the University of Missouri, her work has been published in Chicago Parent, Inside Columbia Magazine, and Central California Parent Magazine. She is a proud supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
