Get ready! Summer has arrived on Chicago's North Shore and is bringing everything with it. From free festivals and live music to sidewalk sales and hands-on adventures for kids, there's something for everyone this month. Farmers market season is thriving, our music and theater productions are in full stride, and our beaches are open. | | |
North Shore Chamber Music Festival
Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday - June 3, 5, and 6
The Village Church of Northbrook | 1300 Shermer Rd., Northbrook
Come celebrate the 16th season of the North Shore Chamber Music Festival - a celebration of extraordinary artistry and the next generation of musical voices! The 3-day event brings together world-class artists, the same caliber and quality of music one might find in the greatest concert halls of the world! Enjoy in person or online. Admission is free.
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Shimmering Summer
June 6 - September 20
Chicago Botanic Garden | 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe
There's something magical happening at Chicago Botanic Garden this summer. Explore Evanescent, a dazzling immersive sculpture that turns bubbles into art, get creative in a glassblowing or stained glass class, and enjoy free family events packed with live music, circus skills, and giant bubbles.
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Tuesday Night Markets
Tuesday, June 9 and 23
Wheeling Town Center | 375 W. Dundee Rd., Wheeling
The outdoor plaza of Wheeling Town Center comes alive with a variety of local vendors offering food, drinks, sweet treats, crafts, candles, jewelry, bath and beauty products, home goods and more! Come stroll the plaza while shopping and enjoy live music from 4:30 to 8:30 pm. Rain or shine.
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Glenview Summer Fest
Saturday, June 13
Adjacent to Jackman Park | Lehigh Ave. between Glenview Rd. and Washington St., Glenview
Celebrate summer with a lively street festival featuring local vendors, crafts, free games, health services, home enhancements, gift ideas, live entertainment and a variety of delectable foods and beverages. This event comes to life on two village blocks welcoming thousands of Glenview friends and families for a full day of fun! Free admission.
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Winnetka Music Festival
Friday and Saturday, June 19 and 20
Winnetka's Elm Street District | Intersection of Hibbard Rd. and Elm St., Winnetka
The Winnetka Music Festival celebrates its 10th anniversary, with two days of music and interactive experiences for the entire family, alongside a kids stage, food trucks, beer, wine, and craft cocktails! This year’s lineup includes Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Father John Misty, Grace Potter, Petey USA, Ben Kweller, Jonah Kagen, Lauren Watkins and many more!
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Glencoe Sidewalk Sale
Friday and Saturday, June 19 and 20
Downtown Business District | Tudor Ct., Park Ave., Vernon Ave., and Hazel Ave., Glencoe
Summer is here and that means it’s time for North Shore sidewalk sales! Head on over to Glencoe where you’ll find incredible deals and bargains galore! Dozens of tables will line the streets with great merchandise at amazing prices, plus special offers inside some of the stores as well. Come early, spend the day and shop local!
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Whirlwind: Control the Power of Air!
June 19 - August 30
Kohl Children's Museum | 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview
Young scientists, this one's for you. WhirlWind is a brand-new hands-on exhibit where kids can chase, float, flip, launch, and even fly — all powered by the invisible force of air. Designed for collaborative play and curiosity, it's the perfect place to ask big questions, make new discoveries, and maybe get a little swept away in the fun.
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Rock “N” Run The Runway
Saturday, June 27
Chicago Executive Airport (Southwest Corner) | Near the intersection of Wolf Rd. and Palatine Rd., Wheeling
Get ready for a full day of fun at Chicago Executive Airport celebrating its 100th anniversary! Kick things off with a 5K run, a 1-mile family walk, and a Kids Dash, then come back in the evening for food trucks, kids’ activities, airplane displays, live music by 7th Heaven, and an epic fireworks show!
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Main Street Fair
Saturday, June 27
Main St., & Chicago Ave., Evanston
One of Evanston's favorite summer festivals is back bringing live music across three stages, local artists and makers, food, drinks, performers, and family friendly activities to the heart of the city. Carrying on the spirit of the historic Custer Street Fair, it's a day all about community, creativity, and summertime fun!
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Evanston Garden Walk
Sunday, June 28
Evanston Ecology Center | 2024 McCormick Blvd., Evanston
Enjoy a walk through some of the most creative, beautiful, and personal gardens Evanston has to offer! Most gardens are accessible, although steep inclines and steps do occur in some. Maps are provided.
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Art, Theory, and Practice MFA Thesis Exhibition
THROUGH JUNE 14, 2026
Block Museum of Art, Northwestern University, Evanston
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Job
THROUGH JUNE 14, 2026
Writers Theatre, Glencoe
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Photography in Mali: Hamdia Traoré’s Marabouts of Jenne in Context
THROUGH JUNE 14, 2026
Block Museum of Art, Northwestern University, Evanston
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