Chicago Southland CVB - Things To Do

Events

With over 800 Festivals & Events running year round, concerts that include the top touring musical acts, countless farmers markets and car shows in the Chicago Southland, the hard part isn’t deciding IF you should come but rather which event you ARE going to attend.

Whether it is Snow Day Festival at the Plum Creek Nature Center in January, Irish Fest at Chicago’s Gaelic Park in May, any of our year round farmers markets or Lansing Autumn Fest in October, you won’t have to travel far to find family friendly activities for any age.

Due to COVID-19 recommendations, many events in the Chicago Southland are being postponed or cancelled. Please check the event website or call the number listed to get up-to-date information on specific events. For more information on the Restore Illinois plan, please click here. Although events may be postponed or cancelled, virtual events are still taking place.

For a current list of virtual events taking place throughout the Chicago Southland, please click here.

Agricultural / Food / Harvest

Cultural Events

Displays / Arts & Crafts

Below are the next 30 upcoming events in the Chicago Southland. Use the form above to search for specific events.

Wheelchair Accessible

d Displays/Arts/Crafts

ag Agricultural/Food/Harvest

c Cultural Event

w Workshop/Seminar

$ Admission Fee

h Holiday Celebration

m Music (Live)

o Outdoor Activity

s Sports Event/Recreational

f Fair, Carnival

e Expo/Consumer Show

p Parade

IPO REIMAGINED: POETIC STRINGS-VIRTUAL Apr 9, 2021 - Apr 23, 2021
VIRTUAL
Park Forest, IL
708-481-7774
A virtual hour-long concert featuring works by American modernist composer with Chicago roots. Ruth Crawford (1901-1953) & Jewish Austrian-American composer Arnold Schoenberg (1874-1951) Tickets are $15 & now available at ipomusic.org.
Visit Website $ c m

RECYCLE YOUR BICYCLE Apr 10, 2021 - Apr 25, 2021
Monee Reservoir
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27341 Ridgeland Avenue, Monee, IL
708-534-8499
What better way to celebrate Earth Day than to repurpose your bike? Drop your bikes off on the north side of the concessions’ paved parking lot. No bike is too old or rusty! Bikes are given to Working Bikes https://workingbikes.org, an organization that refurbishes bicycles for kids, individuals with disabilities & families in developing countries for transportation. Be green–reduce, reuse, recycle & benefit someone in need.
7AM-6PM
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Wild About Woodpeckers (Zoom webinar) Apr 12, 2021
Virtual
Beecher, IL
815-722-9470
In this virtual presentation, we’ll take a closer look at the woodpeckers of Will County! From the downy woodpecker to the pileated woodpecker, you’ll learn fun facts about these creatures, their preferred habitats and how you can attract woodpeckers to your yard! Registration required: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_quihhmIrQ8eB_PXeKmqxeg For questions about this program, contact Four Rivers Environmental Education Center: 815.722.9470.
10-11AM
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Follow the Flowers with Phenology (Zoom webinar) Apr 14, 2021
Zoom webinar
Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
The forest floor wakes up to transform into blankets of greens, blues, yellows, reds & more. The tricky thing is that most of our blooms only last a small window of time. Learn how to track these flowers with phenology so you know what species to expect and when. Then learn about a few favorite preserves that should be added to your must-hike list. Registration required: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN__7WSbGRfREKB17KWaW8sMA For questions about this program, contact Plum Creek Nature Center: 708.946.2216
7-8PM
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Planting Natives in the Spring (Zoom webinar) Apr 14, 2021
Virtual
Beecher, IL
815-722-9470
In this webinar, learn which plants are best to plant in the spring for a summer of color. Discover why natives are a better fit for your yard & how to incorporate them within your budget. Gain confidence dealing with germination & the different soil & sunlight requirements that make every yard unique. Registration required: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_7Y5DbFm9Ty26d1F-Dj5S7Q For questions about this program, contact Four Rivers Environmental Education Center: 815.722.9470
6PM-7PM
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IT'S SUMMER AT THE MUSEUM Apr 15, 2021 - Apr 30, 2021
1950s Park Forest House Museum
St. Mary's Catholic Church, 227 Monee Road, Park Forest, IL
708-481-4252
The museum is decorated in summer colors. Aqua Center history display is up. Call to verify exhibit. Watch for possible regular hours resuming. By appointment only.
By appointment only.
Visit Website $ c

Doggie Eggstravaganza Apr 17, 2021
Canine Campus
18200 84th Avenue, Tinley Park, IL
708-342-4200
Celebrate Spring at the Canine Campus with a bone-afide egg hunt for our four legged friends. Will your pet find the special golden egg for a special prize? Other activities include a spring theme photo area. Easter Bonnet contest, crafts, raffles and more!
10:30AM-12PM
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Wildflower Search and Study Apr 17, 2021
Raccoon Grove
5821 W Pauling Road, Monee, IL
708-534-8499
Spring is the time for wildflowers & Raccoon Grove Nature Preserve is one of the best places to see them. Come out & hike the preserve in search of wildflowers. A naturalist will be at the trailhead to get you started. Maps, flower guides, hand lenses & information on what you are likely to find will be provided. Challenge yourself to find & identify the various flowers in this beautiful woodland. The trail is approximately three-quarters of a mile in length on natural surface with some hills. Spring rains can make the trail a bit muddy; please dress with that in mind.
1-3PM
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Jack Byron Live @ Ed N & Joe's Apr 17, 2021
Ed & Joe's Restaurant & Pizzeria
17332 Oak Park Avenue, Tinley Park, IL
Join us on Saturday, April 17th for great food, company & live music with singer songwriter Jack Byron! visit: jackbyron.hearnow.com. A Chicago native with musical roots in Americana, Motown, British Rock & Folk music alike, Jack Byron delivers his folk/Americana sound. Byron has appeared on Northwestern University Radio in Evanston, Il, Elmhurst College Radio in Elmhurst, IL, WGN radio in Chicago & Guaranteed Raw radio out of Kenosha, WI & has played songwriter showcases at Chicago favorites including the Elbo Room, Uncommon Ground, House of Blues as well as made an appearance on Showcase at the Homeplace, in Nashville, TN. He released his official debut album, Two Travelers in Jan 2020 & his first official single, 'The Hill' on Dec 4, 2020.
7:30PM
m

M & J SPORTSMAN GROUP GUN SHOW Apr 17, 2021 - Apr 18, 2021
Will County Fairgrounds
710 West Street, Peotone, IL
630-254-0221
Sa 8-3PM; Su 8-2PM

EARTH DAY SAFARI Apr 17, 2021 - Apr 18, 2021
Monee Reservoir
27341 Ridgeland Avenue, Monee, IL
708-534-8499
Visit our facility and pick up an adventure pack! The safari backpack includes a safari hat, binoculars, critter containers, magnifying lenses, a journal, a critter net, reference books and more. Indoor facilities are accessible; outdoor hikes may take place on natural surfaces across uneven terrain.
Sa, Su: 7AM-5PM
Visit Website o

EARTH DAY SAFARI Apr 17, 2021 - Apr 18, 2021
Plum Creek Nature Center
27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Visit the nature center & pick up an adventure pack to begin your safari! The safari backpack includes a safari hat, binoculars, critter containers, magnifying lenses, a journal, a critter net, reference books & more. Indoor facilities are accessible; outdoor hikes may take place on natural surfaces across uneven terrain.
Sa: 10AM-4PM; Su: 12PM-4PM
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Evil Horse Open Mic 1st n 3rd Sundays! Apr 18, 2021
Evil Horse Brewing Company
1338 Main Street, Crete, IL
708-304-2907
IT'S BACK!!! I'm hosting at Evil Horse on 1ST AND 3RD Sundays 5 to 8. Bring a mic if you got it! (if not I do have some extras you can use). MAKE A JOYFUL SOUND!! STARTING ON THE 21ST OF FEB!!
5PM-8PM
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Flats & Vines Wine Tasting Apr 18, 2021
The Whistle Sports Bar & Grill
7537 W 159th Street, Tinley Park, IL
708-904-4990
Join us for the TP Chamber Flats & Vines - Wine Tasting Event. Hosted by The Whistle Bar & Grill at 7537 W 159th St, Tinley Park Date: Sunday, April 18, 2021 Time: 1:00 PM- 4:00 PM Experience a collection of eight exceptional wines, accompanied by your choice of one of Whistle’s delicious flatbreads. Each Ticket includes reserved seating with eight unique wine tastings, a choice of flatbread & one raffle ticket. Limited seating is available, so get your tickets now. https://www.universe.com/flatsandvines For additional questions or sponsorship opportunities, please call the Chamber at 708-532-5700.
1PM-4PM
Visit Website $ c

Living With Wildlife (Zoom webinar) Apr 18, 2021
Virtual
Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Many species of wildlife are welcome visitors to our yards and help us maintain our connection with nature. However, some animals may wear out their welcome, ending up in places that are not safe for them or for people and pets with whom they come into contact. Fortunately, taking a few simple steps can help prevent many of the most common wildlife-related problems around your home. A number of proven methods can be used to solve the problems when they cannot be prevented. In this program, learn how to coexist with wildlife. Registration required: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_XjQhg1vZTZa3XDUlTVBslw For questions about this program, contact Isle a la Cache Museum: 815.886.1467.
2PM-3PM
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GOT HOMEWORK? NEED HELP? Apr 21, 2021

Dolton, IL
708-849-2385
For ages 5-14 years old. Chat with us the 1st & 3rd Wednesday's of each month at www.doltonpubliclibrary.org or phone in 708-849-2385 ext. 4 from 3:30PM-5:30PM. Sessions limited to 15 minutes each.
3:30-5:30PM
Visit Website c

Put Your Foot Down on Earth Day! (Zoom webinar) Apr 22, 2021
Virtual
Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
There’s only one Earth, yet humans consume 1.6 planets’ worth of resources every year, according to the Global Footprint Network. Find out how to use the Global Footprint Calculator to adjust your resource consumption so that we can all stay within our planet’s capacity. Practical ideas & discussion will be a part of this Zoom presentation. Ages 16 or older. Registration required: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIudeGgrzMqGNfAYu-U-PodFQaqUTv6Z-nw For questions about this program, contact Plum Creek Nature Center: 708.946.2216.
7-8PM
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World Turtle Day (Zoom Webinar) Apr 23, 2021
Virtual
Beecher, IL
815-886-1467
Discover what species of turtles we have in our area and the special adaptations that make them turtle-y awesome! We will also virtually introduce you to Isle a la Cache Museum’s endangered Blanding’s turtles: H3, Taco & Shirlee. Registration required: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_1aU6ELn0TvGU3XaV3-Oa5A For questions about this program, contact Isle a la Cache Museum: 815.886.1467.
5-5:45PM
Visit Website w

MORNING BIRD HIKE Apr 24, 2021
Monee Reservoir
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27341 Ridgeland Avenue, Monee, IL
708-534-8499
***Please note that using this Facebook Event page to indicate you are going does not mean you are registered for the event. You must register by using the link or calling the number below.*** Please note:Masks are required for all in-person, indoor and outdoor program participants, with the exception of those younger than 2 years old & those with a medical condition or disability that prevents them from wearing one, per state guidelines. Spring is the time of the year to see the most variety of birds before the leaves are fully out. This hike will highlight birds arriving after spending the winter farther south. Some are just passing through;others will stay & nest in Will County. Each day can bring different birds, because they are constantly on the move. Join other birders as we learn, explore & search for birds in the preserve. Bring your binoculars & favorite bird guide. New birders are welcome, as this is an excellent way to increase bird knowledge. Fee: Free! Age: Ages 16 or older. Registration required by Fri, April 23, by calling 708.946.2216 or online: https://apm.activecommunities.com/.../morning-bird-hike/7480 Be sure to dress for the weather. Meet at the Monee Reservoir’s visitor center. Participants will enjoy a hike of 1.5 miles to 2 miles on paved & natural surfaces across uneven terrain. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should submit a request online (https://www.reconnectwithnature.org/americans-with...)no later than 48 hours before the program.
8-10AM
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SPRINGTIME STORY WALK-EARTH WIND & FIRE EARTH DAY Apr 24, 2021
McCarthy Park
16801 South 80th Avenue, Tinley Park, IL
708-342-4200
Celebrate Earth Day with hands-on games, scavenger hunts and activities as you stroll through our StoryWalk. The Wind will be blowing in the kite fly on McCarthy Field, bring a kite to fly and fill the sky! Stop by the warming Bon Fire for roasted marshmallows.
10AM-12PM
h o

PARTY FOR THE PLANET Apr 24, 2021
Brookfield Zoo
3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL
708-688-8400
If you've been storing items in your basement and garage waiting for the perfect time and most Earth-friendly way to dispose of them, you can recycle them at Brookfield Zoo!
9AM-2PM
Visit Website

ATTRACTING BEES & BENEFICIAL INSECTS WITH NATIVE PLANTS-VIRTUAL Apr 24, 2021
Forest Preserve District of Will County
VIRTUAL, Joliet, IL
815-727-8700
Please note this program is being offered virtually via Zoom. Using this Facebook Event page to indicate you are going does not mean you are registered for the event. You must register by using the link below. Learn about the positive impact insects have in our landscapes & how native plants can be selected to attract specific bees & beneficial insects with Heather Holm, a biologist, pollinator conservationist & award-winning author. Participants will be able to ask questions at the end of Holm's presentation. Fee: Free! Age: Ages 18 or older. This event is sponsored by The Nature Foundation of Will County. Registration is required: https://www.willcountynature.org/learn--grow.html
10AM-11:15AM
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THE WAR IN THE SOUTH PACIFIC Apr 24, 2021
Orland Park History Museum
14415 Beacon Avenue, Orland Park, IL
708-403-5000
Learn about the battles that took place in the South Pacific, including 2 Jima & Okinawa, during WWII in this detailed & engaging presentation. FEE: $10 members $15 non-members
11AM-12PM
Visit Website $ c

43rd Annual Showers of Sound Gala-Virtual Apr 24, 2021
Virtual-IPO
Park Forest, IL
The hour-long Showers of Sound Gala will celebrate IPO’s achievements to date—from the organization’s beginnings as an innovative volunteer community orchestra, to its excellence in arts engagement and live classical music performances—and will include a presentation of the sixth Leo Michuda IPO Award for Lifetime Service to IPO Life Director Jerri Greer. Those who purchase tickets by April 17 will receive wine from Cooper’s Hawk and chocolate from Cocoaworks Chocolate. IPO is pleased to announce headlining performances taking place virtually via livestream on Saturday, April 24, 2021 at 7 p.m. CST. The one-night-only musical soirée includes performances and remarks by internationally renowned musicians Jeffrey Mattsey (Baritone, The Metropolitan Opera), Chicago South Side native Anthony McGill (Principal Clarinet, New York Philharmonic), Chicago resident Rachel Barton Pine (Violin Soloist) and Chicago native Lisa Tannebaum (Harp Soloist). Tickets are $175 and are available now at ipomusic.org/gala2021.
7PM
Visit Website $ m

EARTH DAY SAFARI Apr 24, 2021 - Apr 25, 2021
Monee Reservoir
27341 Ridgeland Avenue, Monee, IL
708-534-8499
Visit our facility and pick up an adventure pack! The safari backpack includes a safari hat, binoculars, critter containers, magnifying lenses, a journal, a critter net, reference books and more. Indoor facilities are accessible; outdoor hikes may take place on natural surfaces across uneven terrain.
Sa, Su: 7AM-5PM
Visit Website o

EARTH DAY SAFARI Apr 24, 2021 - Apr 25, 2021
Plum Creek Nature Center
27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Visit the nature center & pick up an adventure pack to begin your safari! The safari backpack includes a safari hat, binoculars, critter containers, magnifying lenses, a journal, a critter net, reference books & more. Indoor facilities are accessible; outdoor hikes may take place on natural surfaces across uneven terrain.
Sa: 10AM-4PM; Su: 12PM-4PM
Visit Website o

WonderKids: Bees (Zoom webinar) Apr 25, 2021
Virtual
Beecher, IL
815-886-1467
Join us for a virtual circle time designed for your little one. We will explore bees & why they are so important. This Zoom program is complete with tons of bee facts, singing, a story time & a craft that you can easily do at home. Ages 2-5. Registration required: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_eRzK4oB4TA6qtJffXQwTZA For questions about this program, contact Isle a la Cache Museum: 815.886.1467.
11-11:15AM
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FISHING FOR TRASH Apr 27, 2021 - Apr 30, 2021
Monee Reservoir
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27341 Ridgeland Avenue, Monee, IL
708-534-8499
Please note:Masks are required for all in-person, indoor & outdoor program participants, with the exception of those younger than 2 yrs old & those with a medical condition or disability that prevents them from wearing one, per state guidelines. Visit Monee Reservoir and help keep the preserve trash free for patrons & wildlife. Fishing line & other debris pose serious threats to our furry, finned & feathered friends. Animals become entangled in fishing line or swallow hooks or bits of plastic. Stop by the concessions window to pick up a trash bag and gloves, then fill the bag with any trash you collect. Bring the bag back to the concessions window & receive a token gift for your efforts. Fee: Free! Age: All ages. No registration is required for this program. Sidewalks are easily accessible; trails are on natural, uneven terrain. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should submit a request online https://www.reconnectwithnature.org/americans-with...)no later than 48 hours before the program
6AM-7PM
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Frogs of Will County (Zoom webinar) Apr 28, 2021
Virtual
Beecher, IL
815-886-1467
In this webinar, you will learn the basics about our amphibious friends, frogs. Find out the differences between a frog & a toad. Meet our local residents. Discover their amazing adaptions, preferred habitats & when & where to hear the males calling. This presentation will be a hopping good time! Registration required: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_WI_EjO6NQRuEiJ8s9RJseA For questions about this program, contact Four Rivers Environmental Education Center: 815.722.9470.
6-7PM
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Companion Planting (Zoom webinar) Apr 28, 2021
Virtual
Beecher, IL
815-886-1467
Planting different vegetables & flowers together is one of the oldest ways to create a healthy, bountiful garden. Many people know companion planting through the three sisters–corn, beans & squash–but there are so many other great companions that benefit from this technique. Naturally fight garden pests! Increase yields! Support biodiversity! We’ll walk you through the ins & outs of starting a companion garden that meets your needs. Ages 13 or older. Registration required: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_X9pL49pjQFaKuQhXanUopA For questions about this program, contact Isle a la Cache Museum: 815.886.1467.
6-7PM
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