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.
Please click here to view our blog and to find out the latest information about what is happening this weekend in the Chicago Southland.
Cultural Events
Fairs / Carnivals
Parades
Below are the next 30 upcoming events in the Chicago Southland. Use the form above to search for specific events.
Wheelchair Accessibled Displays/Arts/Crafts
ag Agricultural/Food/Harvest
c Cultural Event
w Workshop/Seminar
$ Admission Fee
h Holiday Celebration
o Outdoor Activity
s Sports Event/Recreational
f Fair, Carnival
e Expo/Consumer Show
p Parade
STEP BACK INTO A 1950s CHRISTMAS EXHIBIT
Dec 1, 2018 - Dec 29, 2018
1950s Park Forest House Museum
St. Mary's Church, 227 Monee Road, Park Forest, IL
708-481-4252
Vintage Christmas includes Gurley Candles, a rotating Black Forest Green tree decorated in Mid-Century Modern ornaments. Decorations in every room. Nostalgic look at Christmas Past.
W & Sa 1-3:30PM or by appointment
Visit Website $ c h
1950s Park Forest House Museum
St. Mary's Church, 227 Monee Road, Park Forest, IL
708-481-4252
Vintage Christmas includes Gurley Candles, a rotating Black Forest Green tree decorated in Mid-Century Modern ornaments. Decorations in every room. Nostalgic look at Christmas Past.
W & Sa 1-3:30PM or by appointment
Visit Website $ c h
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS, CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD
Dec 1, 2018 - Dec 29, 2018
Lansing Historical Museum
Lower Level of Lansing Public Library, 2750 Indiana Avenue, Lansing, IL
708-474-7497
A display of more than 30 Christmas trees with exhibits, costumes, Nativity scenes, Santa dolls, recipes and explanations of holiday customs around the world
M-Tu 6-8PM; W-Th 3-5PM; Sa 11AM-1PM Closed Christmas Eve and Day, New Years Eve and Day. Tours arranged at other times by calling.
Visit Website h
Lansing Historical Museum
Lower Level of Lansing Public Library, 2750 Indiana Avenue, Lansing, IL
708-474-7497
A display of more than 30 Christmas trees with exhibits, costumes, Nativity scenes, Santa dolls, recipes and explanations of holiday customs around the world
M-Tu 6-8PM; W-Th 3-5PM; Sa 11AM-1PM Closed Christmas Eve and Day, New Years Eve and Day. Tours arranged at other times by calling.
Visit Website h
70TH ANNIVERSARY OF PARK FOREST, ILLINOIS EXHIBIT AND DISPLAY
Dec 1, 2018 - Dec 29, 2018
1950s Park Forest House Museum, St. Mary's Church
227 Monee Road, Park Forest, IL
708-481-4252
Park Forest residents began arriving August 30, 1948. Incorporation was February 1, 1949. Displays and tours highlight the first five years of Park Forest. $5, 12 & UNDER FREE
W & Sa 1-3:30PM or by appointment
Visit Website $ c
1950s Park Forest House Museum, St. Mary's Church
227 Monee Road, Park Forest, IL
708-481-4252
Park Forest residents began arriving August 30, 1948. Incorporation was February 1, 1949. Displays and tours highlight the first five years of Park Forest. $5, 12 & UNDER FREE
W & Sa 1-3:30PM or by appointment
Visit Website $ c
SWAP O RAMA FLEA MARKET
Dec 1, 2018 - Dec 30, 2018
4350 West 129th Street
Alsip, IL
708-344-7300
Chicagoland's finest-most modern indoor/outdoor permanent flea market. Over 800 individual booths of merchandise at bargain prices - every weekend.
W 7AM-2PM; Sa & Su 7AM-4PM
Visit Website $ d o
4350 West 129th Street
Alsip, IL
708-344-7300
Chicagoland's finest-most modern indoor/outdoor permanent flea market. Over 800 individual booths of merchandise at bargain prices - every weekend.
W 7AM-2PM; Sa & Su 7AM-4PM
Visit Website $ d o
WINTER WONDERLAND ICE RINK
Dec 1, 2018 - Dec 31, 2018
Centennial Park
15600 West Avenue at Fun Drive, Orland Park, IL
708-403-7275
Skaters with their own skates may use ice rink daily beginning at sunrise. Rink closes when warming house closes.
Warming house/Skate Rental Hours (subject to change) M-Th 4-7PM; F 4-9PM; Sa 11AM-9PM; Su 12-7PM
Visit Website o s
Centennial Park
15600 West Avenue at Fun Drive, Orland Park, IL
708-403-7275
Skaters with their own skates may use ice rink daily beginning at sunrise. Rink closes when warming house closes.
Warming house/Skate Rental Hours (subject to change) M-Th 4-7PM; F 4-9PM; Sa 11AM-9PM; Su 12-7PM
Visit Website o s
CHRISTMAS IN THE COMMONS
Dec 2, 2018 - Dec 23, 2018
Village Commons
101 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL
815-462-6400
Christmas in the Commons features a holiday market, a skating rink, visits from Santa, and a light display that is second to none!
Sa, Su 4-8PM
Visit Website h
Village Commons
101 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL
815-462-6400
Christmas in the Commons features a holiday market, a skating rink, visits from Santa, and a light display that is second to none!
Sa, Su 4-8PM
Visit Website h
LUNCH WITH THE GRINCH
Dec 19, 2018 - Dec 23, 2018
Chuck's Southern Comforts Cafe
6501 West 79th Street, Burbank, IL
708-229-8700
Join us as we play the animated movie during hours of operation, plus Mr. Grinch walks around and takes pictures. Order some special kids menu items/desserts. Reservations required.
Visit Website $ h
Chuck's Southern Comforts Cafe
6501 West 79th Street, Burbank, IL
708-229-8700
Join us as we play the animated movie during hours of operation, plus Mr. Grinch walks around and takes pictures. Order some special kids menu items/desserts. Reservations required.
Visit Website $ h
MINGLE & JINGLE CHRISTMAS PARTY
Dec 20, 2018
Chicago Gaelic Park
6119 West 147th Street, Oak Forest, IL
708-687-9323
Perfect solution for small businesses who like to celebrate the holiday season with a spirited and reasonably priced celebration. Reservations required – tickets $37.00
Visit Website $ h
Chicago Gaelic Park
6119 West 147th Street, Oak Forest, IL
708-687-9323
Perfect solution for small businesses who like to celebrate the holiday season with a spirited and reasonably priced celebration. Reservations required – tickets $37.00
Visit Website $ h
WINTER SOLSTICE BUCKTHORN BURN
Dec 21, 2018
Lake Katherine Nature Center & Botanic Gardens
7402 West Lake Katherine Drive, Palos Heights, IL
708-361-1873
Visit Website $ d o
Lake Katherine Nature Center & Botanic Gardens
7402 West Lake Katherine Drive, Palos Heights, IL
708-361-1873
Visit Website $ d o
JERRY ROSSEN PUBLIC AUCTION
Dec 21, 2018
Will County Fairgrounds
710 West Street, Peotone, IL
708-997-0245
Visit Website
Will County Fairgrounds
710 West Street, Peotone, IL
708-997-0245
Visit Website
HOLIDAY MAGIC
Dec 22, 2018 - Dec 23, 2018
Brookfield Zoo
3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL
708-688-8000
Start a new family tradition at Chicagoland's largest holiday lights festival featuring over one million twinkling lights, animated light displays and a laser light show! Many of our indoor exhibits will be open for viewing favorite animals, including our newest, Great Bear Wilderness. Plus, there is a special dolphin show each evening at 6:30 p.m. In addition, the zoo restaurants and food stands will be open with full menus and holiday treats, and gift shops will have hundreds of unique items for those hard-to-shop-for loved ones. Enjoy a full schedule of nightly music and entertainment in the Pavilions. Outside enjoy nightly ice carving and an amazing magic show. Then step inside the Holly Jolly Theater and enjoy performances by local choirs and many more holiday themed performances.
Sa-Su 4-9PM
Visit Website $ h o
Brookfield Zoo
3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL
708-688-8000
Start a new family tradition at Chicagoland's largest holiday lights festival featuring over one million twinkling lights, animated light displays and a laser light show! Many of our indoor exhibits will be open for viewing favorite animals, including our newest, Great Bear Wilderness. Plus, there is a special dolphin show each evening at 6:30 p.m. In addition, the zoo restaurants and food stands will be open with full menus and holiday treats, and gift shops will have hundreds of unique items for those hard-to-shop-for loved ones. Enjoy a full schedule of nightly music and entertainment in the Pavilions. Outside enjoy nightly ice carving and an amazing magic show. Then step inside the Holly Jolly Theater and enjoy performances by local choirs and many more holiday themed performances.
Sa-Su 4-9PM
Visit Website $ h o
SPORTS CARDS AND MORE SHOW
Dec 23, 2018
Orland Park Civic Center
14750 Ravinia Avenue, Orland Park, IL
708-334-4237
9AM-2PM
Visit Website $ d s
Orland Park Civic Center
14750 Ravinia Avenue, Orland Park, IL
708-334-4237
9AM-2PM
Visit Website $ d s
HOLIDAY MAGIC
Dec 26, 2018 - Dec 31, 2018
Brookfield Zoo
3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL
708-688-8000
Start a new family tradition at Chicagoland's largest holiday lights festival featuring over one million twinkling lights, animated light displays and a laser light show! Many of our indoor exhibits will be open for viewing favorite animals, including our newest, Great Bear Wilderness. Plus, there is a special dolphin show each evening at 6:30 p.m. In addition, the zoo restaurants and food stands will be open with full menus and holiday treats, and gift shops will have hundreds of unique items for those hard-to-shop-for loved ones. Enjoy a full schedule of nightly music and entertainment in the Pavilions. Outside enjoy nightly ice carving and an amazing magic show. Then step inside the Holly Jolly Theater and enjoy performances by local choirs and many more holiday themed performances.
W-SU 4-9PM
Visit Website $ h o
Brookfield Zoo
3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL
708-688-8000
Start a new family tradition at Chicagoland's largest holiday lights festival featuring over one million twinkling lights, animated light displays and a laser light show! Many of our indoor exhibits will be open for viewing favorite animals, including our newest, Great Bear Wilderness. Plus, there is a special dolphin show each evening at 6:30 p.m. In addition, the zoo restaurants and food stands will be open with full menus and holiday treats, and gift shops will have hundreds of unique items for those hard-to-shop-for loved ones. Enjoy a full schedule of nightly music and entertainment in the Pavilions. Outside enjoy nightly ice carving and an amazing magic show. Then step inside the Holly Jolly Theater and enjoy performances by local choirs and many more holiday themed performances.
W-SU 4-9PM
Visit Website $ h o
JERRY ROSSEN PUBLIC AUCTION
Dec 28, 2018
Will County Fairgrounds
710 West Street, Peotone, IL
708-997-0245
Visit Website
Will County Fairgrounds
710 West Street, Peotone, IL
708-997-0245
Visit Website
NOON YEAR'S EVE DAY CELEBRATION
Dec 31, 2018
Homewood Auditorium
2010 Chestnut Road, Homewood, IL
708-798-3000
Bring the family out to ring in the New Year with a countdown and balloon drop at the stroke of noon! Enjoy treats and activities! Free
11AM-1PM
Visit Website h
Homewood Auditorium
2010 Chestnut Road, Homewood, IL
708-798-3000
Bring the family out to ring in the New Year with a countdown and balloon drop at the stroke of noon! Enjoy treats and activities! Free
11AM-1PM
Visit Website h
FAMILY/KIDS NEW YEAR'S EVE PARTY
Dec 31, 2018
Chicago Gaelic Park
6119 West 147th Street, Oak Forest, IL
708-687-9323
Family/Kids New Year’s Eve Party, reservations required – Adults $27.00, kids 12 and under $11.00
4-8pm
Visit Website $ c h
Chicago Gaelic Park
6119 West 147th Street, Oak Forest, IL
708-687-9323
Family/Kids New Year’s Eve Party, reservations required – Adults $27.00, kids 12 and under $11.00
4-8pm
Visit Website $ c h
NEW YEAR'S AT NOON
Dec 31, 2018
DoubleTree by Hilton Chicago - Alsip
5000 West 127th Street, Alsip, IL
708-389-1003
Join us for an exquisite three-course luncheon followed by a Champagne Toast and festive party favors at noon while you enjoy dancing and sounds of live entertainment with all the classic hits! Register at the Alsip Park District online, in-person or mail in by 12-18-18 - Registration code: 155582-A
Visit Website $ h
DoubleTree by Hilton Chicago - Alsip
5000 West 127th Street, Alsip, IL
708-389-1003
Join us for an exquisite three-course luncheon followed by a Champagne Toast and festive party favors at noon while you enjoy dancing and sounds of live entertainment with all the classic hits! Register at the Alsip Park District online, in-person or mail in by 12-18-18 - Registration code: 155582-A
Visit Website $ h
NEW YEAR'S COUNTDOWN
Dec 31, 2018
Founders Community Center
140 Oak Street, Frankfort, IL
815-469-9400
Kids, get ready to countdown to 2019!!! Celebrate New Year’s Eve with dancing, party games, a giant inflatable, crafts and ice cream. There will be a “Countdown to 2019” balloon drop at noon to celebrate the New Year! 4-10 Yrs.
11AM-12:30AM
Visit Website $ d h
Founders Community Center
140 Oak Street, Frankfort, IL
815-469-9400
Kids, get ready to countdown to 2019!!! Celebrate New Year’s Eve with dancing, party games, a giant inflatable, crafts and ice cream. There will be a “Countdown to 2019” balloon drop at noon to celebrate the New Year! 4-10 Yrs.
11AM-12:30AM
Visit Website $ d h
NEW YEAR'S EVE FAMILY PARTY
Dec 31, 2018
Haunted Trails Family Amusement Park
7759 South Harlem Avenue, Burbank, IL
708-598-8580
Celebrate 2019 at Chicago’s Greatest Family New Year’s Eve Bash – Monday, December 31st from 8 PM to Midnight! Enjoy great food and fun games plus ring in the New Year with a special balloon drop, toast and countdown celebration! Advanced reservations required. Visit www.hauntedtrailsburbank.com for more info! $25.95/guest
8PM-12AM
Visit Website $ h o
Haunted Trails Family Amusement Park
7759 South Harlem Avenue, Burbank, IL
708-598-8580
Celebrate 2019 at Chicago’s Greatest Family New Year’s Eve Bash – Monday, December 31st from 8 PM to Midnight! Enjoy great food and fun games plus ring in the New Year with a special balloon drop, toast and countdown celebration! Advanced reservations required. Visit www.hauntedtrailsburbank.com for more info! $25.95/guest
8PM-12AM
Visit Website $ h o
WINTER WONDERLAND ICE RINK
Jan 1, 2019 - Jan 31, 2019
Centennial Park
15600 West Avenue at Fun Drive, Orland Park, IL
708-403-7275
Skaters with their own skates may use ice rink daily beginning at sunrise. Rink closes when warming house closes.
Warming house/Skate Rental Hours (subject to change) M-Th 4-7PM; F 4-9PM; Sa 11AM-9PM; Su 12-7PM
Visit Website o s
Centennial Park
15600 West Avenue at Fun Drive, Orland Park, IL
708-403-7275
Skaters with their own skates may use ice rink daily beginning at sunrise. Rink closes when warming house closes.
Warming house/Skate Rental Hours (subject to change) M-Th 4-7PM; F 4-9PM; Sa 11AM-9PM; Su 12-7PM
Visit Website o s
STEP BACK INTO A 1950s CHRISTMAS EXHIBIT
Jan 2, 2019 - Jan 5, 2019
1950s Park Forest House Museum
227 Monee Road, Park Forest, IL
708-481-4252
Vintage Christmas includes Gurley Candles, a rotating Black Forest Green tree decorated in Mid-Century Modern ornaments. Decorations in every room. Nostalgic look at Christmas Past.
W & Sa 1-3:30 or by appointment
Visit Website $ c h
1950s Park Forest House Museum
227 Monee Road, Park Forest, IL
708-481-4252
Vintage Christmas includes Gurley Candles, a rotating Black Forest Green tree decorated in Mid-Century Modern ornaments. Decorations in every room. Nostalgic look at Christmas Past.
W & Sa 1-3:30 or by appointment
Visit Website $ c h
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS, CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD
Jan 2, 2019 - Jan 5, 2019
Lansing Historical Museum
Lower Level of Lansing Public Library, 2750 Indiana Avenue, Lansing, IL
708-474-7497
A display of more than 30 Christmas trees with exhibits, costumes, Nativity scenes, Santa dolls, recipes and explanations of holiday customs around the world
M-Tu 6-8PM; W-Th 3-5PM; Sa 11AM-1PM Closed Christmas Eve and Day, New Years Eve and Day. Tours arranged at other times by calling.
Visit Website h
Lansing Historical Museum
Lower Level of Lansing Public Library, 2750 Indiana Avenue, Lansing, IL
708-474-7497
A display of more than 30 Christmas trees with exhibits, costumes, Nativity scenes, Santa dolls, recipes and explanations of holiday customs around the world
M-Tu 6-8PM; W-Th 3-5PM; Sa 11AM-1PM Closed Christmas Eve and Day, New Years Eve and Day. Tours arranged at other times by calling.
Visit Website h
SWAP O RAMA FLEA MARKET
Jan 2, 2019 - Jan 30, 2019
4350 West 129th Street
Alsip, IL
708-344-7300
Chicagoland's finest-most modern indoor/outdoor permanent flea market. Over 800 individual booths of merchandise at bargain prices - every weekend.
W 7AM-2PM; Sa & Su 7AM-4PM
Visit Website $ d o
4350 West 129th Street
Alsip, IL
708-344-7300
Chicagoland's finest-most modern indoor/outdoor permanent flea market. Over 800 individual booths of merchandise at bargain prices - every weekend.
W 7AM-2PM; Sa & Su 7AM-4PM
Visit Website $ d o
70TH ANNIVERSARY OF PARK FOREST, ILLINOIS EXHIBIT AND DISPLAY
Jan 2, 2019 - Jan 31, 2019
1950s Park Forest House Museum, St. Mary's Church
227 Monee Road, Park Forest, IL
708-481-4252
Park Forest residents began arriving August 30, 1948. Incorporation was February 1, 1949. Displays and tours highlight the first five years of Park Forest. $5, 12 & UNDER FREE
W & Sa 1-3:30PM or by appointment
Visit Website $ c
1950s Park Forest House Museum, St. Mary's Church
227 Monee Road, Park Forest, IL
708-481-4252
Park Forest residents began arriving August 30, 1948. Incorporation was February 1, 1949. Displays and tours highlight the first five years of Park Forest. $5, 12 & UNDER FREE
W & Sa 1-3:30PM or by appointment
Visit Website $ c
WINTER BREAK JUMPFEST
Jan 3, 2019
The Oaks Recreation & Fitness Center
10847 West La Porte Road, Mokena, IL
708-390-2401
Does the winter weather have you stuck indoors and the kids stuck in front of the TV? Then bring them to Jumpfest! Jumpfest wristbands include unlimited jump time on tons of inflatables. Early Bird registrants by Dec. 3 receive a VIP wristband for an extra hour of jump time from 2-3pm. VIP wristbands are limited. Children 11 & younger must have a guardian with them. All ages welcome. Registration is taken at the door for $12 a jumper. No refunds.
3-8PM
Visit Website $ s
The Oaks Recreation & Fitness Center
10847 West La Porte Road, Mokena, IL
708-390-2401
Does the winter weather have you stuck indoors and the kids stuck in front of the TV? Then bring them to Jumpfest! Jumpfest wristbands include unlimited jump time on tons of inflatables. Early Bird registrants by Dec. 3 receive a VIP wristband for an extra hour of jump time from 2-3pm. VIP wristbands are limited. Children 11 & younger must have a guardian with them. All ages welcome. Registration is taken at the door for $12 a jumper. No refunds.
3-8PM
Visit Website $ s
GIANT GAMES
Jan 4, 2019
Crete Public Library District
1177 North Main Street, Crete, IL
708-672-8017
Double the size equals double the fun! Come and play Giant Jenga, Colossal Connect Four, and more. For ages 6-12. Pre-registration is requested.
2-3:30PM
Visit Website d
Crete Public Library District
1177 North Main Street, Crete, IL
708-672-8017
Double the size equals double the fun! Come and play Giant Jenga, Colossal Connect Four, and more. For ages 6-12. Pre-registration is requested.
2-3:30PM
Visit Website d
WINTER ON THE GREEN
Jan 5, 2019 - Jan 26, 2019
Breidert Green
Kansas Street & Ash Street, Frankfort, IL
815-469-2177
Share hot cocoa and cookies with your family and friends while participating in various winter activities. Experience the magic of the season.
12-2PM
Visit Website o
Breidert Green
Kansas Street & Ash Street, Frankfort, IL
815-469-2177
Share hot cocoa and cookies with your family and friends while participating in various winter activities. Experience the magic of the season.
12-2PM
Visit Website o
MYSTERIOUS MYANMAR
Jan 6, 2019
Palos Heights Public Library
12501 South 71st Avenue, Palos Heights, IL
708-448-1473
Come along on this photo-rich adventure as we examine visa processes, regional safety, obstacles and solutions while traveling through this immensely rewarding Southeast Asian gem.
2PM
Visit Website c w
Palos Heights Public Library
12501 South 71st Avenue, Palos Heights, IL
708-448-1473
Come along on this photo-rich adventure as we examine visa processes, regional safety, obstacles and solutions while traveling through this immensely rewarding Southeast Asian gem.
2PM
Visit Website c w
BEEKEEPING: MEET A BEEKEEPER
Jan 6, 2019
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Meet local beekeeper Mike Rusnak to discuss the art of beekeeping. Feel free to ask questions. Rusnak has more than 15 years of beekeeping experience. Pick up specific beekeeping tips or simply learn more about the world of beekeeping.
12:30-2:30PM
Visit Website ag
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Meet local beekeeper Mike Rusnak to discuss the art of beekeeping. Feel free to ask questions. Rusnak has more than 15 years of beekeeping experience. Pick up specific beekeeping tips or simply learn more about the world of beekeeping.
12:30-2:30PM
Visit Website ag
NATURE PLAY DAY
Jan 9, 2019
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Join us monthly for nature-themed programs geared toward 3-5 year olds. Hands-on activities may include a hike, story, games, music, art and more. Be prepared for indoor and outdoor activities. We encourage experiencing the outdoors, rain or shine, so please dress accordingly.
10-11:30AM
Visit Website o s
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Join us monthly for nature-themed programs geared toward 3-5 year olds. Hands-on activities may include a hike, story, games, music, art and more. Be prepared for indoor and outdoor activities. We encourage experiencing the outdoors, rain or shine, so please dress accordingly.
10-11:30AM
Visit Website o s
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12/11/2018 - 2019 National Junior Wheelchair Basketball Tournaments
12/07/2018 - Chicago Chicago Southland Convention & Visitors Bureau a 2019 Readers’ Choice Award Winner
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