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.

Agricultural / Food / Harvest

Cultural Events

Displays / Arts & Crafts

Below are the next 30 upcoming Outdoor 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

o Outdoor Activity

s Sports Event/Recreational

f Fair, Carnival

e Expo/Consumer Show

p Parade

SWAP O RAMA FLEA MARKET (W, SA-SU) Oct 2, 2019 - Oct 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

FARMERS MARKET - EVERGREEN PARK Oct 3, 2019 - Oct 31, 2019
Yukich Field
88th Street & Kedzie Avenue, Evergreen Park, IL
708-422-8776
13th Season of Evergreen Park Farmers' Market - 25 Vendors, every Thursday, May 4-October 26
Th 7AM-1PM
Visit Website ag o

FARMERS MARKET - PARK FOREST Oct 5, 2019 - Oct 26, 2019
271 Lakewood Boulevard
Corner of Lakewood Boulevard & Cunningham Drive, Park Forest, IL
708-748-1118
This market offers fresh garden produce, bakery items and herbs. Freshly cooked pork sandwiches and tamales are also available. Come to the market to meet friends, chat, browse and shop. For more information, visit our website or call.
Sa 7AM-12PM
Visit Website ag d o

FARMERS MARKET - HOMEWOOD Oct 5, 2019 - Oct 26, 2019
Martin Avenue Square
18020 Martin Avenue, Homewood, IL
708-798-3000
Homewood’s Farmers Market provides a fun atmosphere for shopping the best produce, baked goods, and prepared foods. All will enjoy live music and children’s activities.
Sa 8AM-1PM
Visit Website ag d o

COUNTRY MARKETS - FRANKFORT Oct 6, 2019 - Oct 27, 2019
Village Green
Kansas & White Streets, Frankfort, IL
815-469-2177
The market features locally grown produce, grass-fed meats, eggs, baked goods, infused oils, freshly prepared foods and so much more. Enjoy live music on our local flavor stage and other special events throughout the season.
Su 9AM-1PM
Visit Website ag o

BOO! AT THE ZOO Oct 12, 2019 - Oct 27, 2019
Brookfield Zoo
3300 Golf Road, Brookfield, IL
708-688-8000
Little ghosts and goblins of all ages are sure to have a howlin’ good time! Our not-so-scary and fun-filled event has something for the entire family to enjoy!
Sa & Su
Visit Website $ ag c f h o p

CHILDREN'S HALLOWEEN PARTY Oct 25, 2019
Chicago Gaelic Park
6119 147th Street, Oak Forest, IL
708-687-9323
The Halloween party includes activities inside and out. A popular favorite is the haunted hay ride. The evening also includes broomstick limbo, making smores around the fire pit, spooky bozo buckets, Halloween movies and plenty of other surprises. Costumes and screams are optional. Food and refreshments are available for purchase.
6PM
Visit Website ag d h o

SUPER HALLOWEEN BASH AT HAUNTED TRAILS BURBANK Oct 25, 2019
Haunted Trails Family Entertainment Center
7759 South Harlem Avenue, Burbank, IL
708-598-8580
Calling all Creatures of the Night – join us for Haunted Trails’ “Super Heroes” Halloween Party. TWO Super Heroes will be hosting this year’s party. Party package includes $10 in Game Play, “Monster” slice of pizza and pop, Super Heroes Meet and Greet, UNLIMITED Crazy Cabs and Miner Mike Coaster Rides, costume parade, raffle prize entry, “Trick or Treat” candy stations and a grand Halloween Balloon Drop finale! Only $16.95/guest, plus tax (adults and kids). Looking for added thrills? Upgrade to the Premium UNLIMITED Wristband and get UNLIMITED Go-Karts, Jr. Karts and award-winning “Haunt-themed” Miniature Golf for just $10 more! (Valid for 2 hours on Oct. 25th only. Sorry, no refunds due to rain.) Seating is limited! Reservations required. Call 708-598-8580 or register online at www.hauntedtrailsburbank.com.
Visit Website $ h o

HALLOWEEN HAPPENINGS Oct 25, 2019
Firemen's Park
5162 West Court Street, Monee, IL
708-534-8302
Join the Village of Monee for a FREE evening for the kids to take a hay ride, costume contest, Trunk-or-Treat, DJ and more at Firemen's Park.
6-8PM
Visit Website d f o p

2019 HALLOWEEN WEEKEND Oct 25, 2019 - Oct 26, 2019
Main Park
8 Blue Devil Drive, Peotone, IL
708-258-3343
Oct 25. - Movie in the Park; Oct 26 - Zombie Run/Walk, Chili Cook-off, Bean Bag Tournament, Trunk or Treat. See YOU at the Park!
See Website for Hours
Visit Website $ o s

KIDS IN COSTUMES AND BARK IN THE PARK Oct 26, 2019
Nathan Manilow Sculpture Park
1 University Parkway, University Park, IL
708-534-4021
Dress up the kids and/or the dogs for a trick-or-treating event in the sculpture park. Treats of art supplies and candy, while supplies last, will be passed out for the kids at 12 sculptures. In conjunction with this family fun-filled event, South Suburban Humane Society will be holding a pet adoption at the park. Free and open to the public.
10:30AM-1PM
h o

FALL NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY HIKE Oct 26, 2019
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Meet inside Plum Creek Nature Center to briefly learn what seasonal changes and other nature notes are happening in fall at Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve. Then, enjoy a hike with a naturalist and take photos along the way. This program is recommended for any camera – smartphones through digital SLRs – and will focus on technique and composition, not on camera operation. The program begins indoors in an accessible facility and continues outside for a hike of approximately 1 mile on natural terrain across uneven surfaces. Ages 16 or older. Registration required by Thursday, October 25.
4-6PM
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TRUNK OR TREAT Oct 26, 2019
Village Hall Parking Lot
14240 West 151st Street, Homer Glen, IL
708-301-0632
Drop by for a free, spooktacular afternoon of trick-or-treating in our safe, family-friendly environment. Wear your costumes and meander our decorated, candy-filled vehicle trunks. To sign up your car visit our website at homerglenil.org
3-5PM
Visit Website h o

SUPER HALLOWEEN BREAKFAST BASH AT HAUNTED TRAILS JOLIET Oct 26, 2019
Joliet
1423 North Broadway (Rt. 53), Joliet, IL
815-722-7800
For those who like getting an early start on FUN! Meet and greet TWO of your favorite “Super Heroes” while enjoying a Hot Breakfast of Scrambled Eggs, French Toast Sticks, Bacon and Sausage plus Milk, Juice, Coffee and Tea. Breakfast admission also includes $10 in Game Play, UNLIMITED Amusement Rides (Monster Hop, Bone Shaker & Tornado), costume parade, raffle prize entry, “Trick or Treat” candy stations and a Halloween Balloon Drop finale! Only $19.95/guest, plus tax (adults and kids). Want even more fun? Upgrade to the Premium UNLIMITED Wristband and get UNLIMITED Go-Karts, Laser Tag and TWO Haunted Miniature Golf Courses for just $10 more! (Valid for 2 hours on Oct. 26th only. Sorry, no refunds due to rain.) Seating is limited! Reservations required. Call 815-722-7800 or register online at www.hauntedtrailsjoliet.com
Visit Website $ h o

DOWNTOWN TINLEY BOO BASH Oct 27, 2019
Oak Park Avenue Train Station
174th & Oak Park Avenue, Tinley Park, IL
708-444-5678
The annual Boo Bash includes spooky hayrides, games, crafts, DJ entertainment, costume contest, and much more. Food and beverages are available.
12-3PM
Visit Website h o

BENGTSON'S PUMPKIN FARM Nov 1, 2019 - Nov 3, 2019
13341 West 151st Street
Homer Glen, IL
708-301-3276
Visit Website $ h o

PUMPKIN SMASH Nov 2, 2019
Community Park Parking Lot
8221 West 171st Street, Tinley Park, IL
708-342-4200
Don’t trash your pumpkin, smash it. Bring your Halloween jack-o-lantern and smash it with a variety of tools; we will then haul it away to be composted. Please make sure pumpkin is free from paint and decorations.
9-11AM
Visit Website o

PUMPKIN SMASH Nov 2, 2019
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Come smash and bash your pumpkin to save the earth! Your jack-o-lantern will be composted rather than letting it languish in a landfill. By composting your pumpkin, you are keeping waste out of landfills, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and creating a natural fertilizer for our soils. It’s going to be a smashing good time! Afterwards, enjoy roasting marshmallows and crackling hot dogs over a campfire. Note: Remove candles and decorations (stickers, yarn, googly eyes, etc.) from your pumpkin before dropping it off. Pumpkins are only accepted from Noon-3pm on November 2. The program will take place outdoors on natural surfaces across uneven terrain.
12-3PM
Visit Website o

SWAP O RAMA FLEA MARKET Nov 2, 2019 - Nov 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

TURKEY TROT Nov 3, 2019
Vogt Woods
6527 West 171st Street, Tinley Park, IL
708-342-4200
Awards will be given to first, second and third place runners in all age categories, male and female, based on chip timing. An award will also be given to the best overall resident and non-resident male and female runner. $16 without shirt/ $22 with shirt pre registration/ $30 with or without shirt on race day
8-10AM
Visit Website $ o s

STORIES AT THE LAKE Nov 7, 2019
Lake Katherine Nature Center & Botanic Gardens
7402 West Lake Katherine Drive, Palos Heights, IL
708-361-1873
Free event for kids! Lake Katherine volunteer educator Nicole Snyder will host story time, reading aloud from a nature-themed children's book. Plus fun activities. No need to book in advance - just turn up!
4PM
Visit Website o

26TH ANNUAL ORLAND HILLS TURKEY TROT Nov 9, 2019
Kelly Park
16675 South Haven Avenue, Orland Hills, IL
708-349-7211
26th Annual 1 Mile /5K Turkey Trot Race will be run through the streets and pathways of Orland Hills. Racers will receive a free sweatshirt, refreshments and awards.
10am
Visit Website $ o s

VETERAN'S DAY CELEBRATION Nov 10, 2019
Konow's Corn Maze
16849 South Cedar Road, Homer Glen, IL
708-301-0632
Join us for an afternoon of fun, family & food to Honor & Recognize all of those who are serving or that have served our country & their families!
12-2PM
Visit Website c o

OWL PROWL Nov 16, 2019
Irons Oaks Environmental Learning Center
20000 Western Avenue, Olympia Fields, IL
708-481-2330
Owls are the most vocal this time of year as they search for a mate. We’ll learn about the nocturnal predator, go on an owl hike and end with some hot chocolate to warm up! Dress for the weather and be prepared for wet or snowy trail conditions. Fee: $4R/$5NR per household
6:30-8PM
Visit Website $ o

THE SANDHILL CRANE EXPERIENCE Nov 16, 2019
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Sandhill cranes are one of the most primitive birds alive today. With a wingspan of 5-7 feet, this bird cuts a striking image while soaring high above during its annual fall migration. The program begins at Plum Creek Nature Center where we board a chartered bus that takes us to Jasper Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area near Medaryville, Indiana. Historically, large numbers of sandhill cranes gather there to feed and rest during their annual fall migration. This is truly something to be experienced and a special phenomenon of the Midwest. Bring binoculars and a camera for this unforgettable experience. The viewing area is outdoors and accessible. Fee includes travel expenses, snacks and experienced guides. For ages 18 or older. Registration required by Friday, November 2 $15/person
1-7PM
Visit Website $ o

NATURE PLAY DAY Nov 19, 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 all types of weather, rain or shine, so please dress accordingly. Indoor facilities are accessible. Outdoor activities may take place on natural surfaces across uneven terrain.
10-11:30AM
Visit Website o s

A NIGHT OF NATURE, ART & WINE Nov 20, 2019
Lake Katherine Nature Center & Botanic Gardens
7402 West Lake Katherine Drive, Palos Heights, IL
708-361-1873
$30 per person. Sip wine and indulge your creative side as we wood burn a natural ornament for the upcoming winter festivities. Register at the Nature Center.
7-8:30PM
Visit Website $ ag c o

WHO'S WHOO? Nov 21, 2019
Lake Katherine Nature Center & Botanic Gardens
7402 West Lake Katherine Drive, Palos Heights, IL
708-361-1873
Cost: $6 A naturalist will lead an interactive discussion of owl adaptations. While listening to eerie owl calls, children will become forensic scientists and dissect their own owl pellet. Students will use magnifying glasses to see the differences between goose feathers and owl feathers. To further understand the food chain, students will play games to help learn about animal strategies of survival.
1PM-2:30PM
Visit Website $ o w

MOKENA CHRISTMAS FEST Nov 23, 2019
Mokena Elementary School
11244 Willowcrest, Mokena, IL
708-609-6238
Children's crafts, pictures and lunch with Santa, balloon artist, waxed hands, parade, family dance.
10AM-10PM
Visit Website d h o p

STARRY, STARRY NIGHT Nov 23, 2019
Forest Preserves of Cook County, Little Red Schoolhouse
9800 Willow Springs Road, Willow Springs, IL
708-839-6897
Adults, this one’s for you! Enjoy an evening stroll under the fall stars followed by a tasty treat at the campfire. Adults only. Limit 20. Registration required.
7-8:30PM
Visit Website o