Spring energy is in the air, and May is packed with reasons to get out and enjoy it. Celebrate Mom, check out a buzzworthy street art installation at Chicago Botanic Garden, browse markets, and soak up the season at festivals and shows all month long. Click here to see what else is blooming on Chicago’s North Shore this season. | | |
Mother’s Day on the North Shore
Sunday, May 11
This Mother’s Day, treat Mom to a day she’ll never forget! Start with a delicious brunch, then surprise her with a thoughtful gift she’ll love. Whether it’s spa pampering, unique finds from local shops, or a fun family outing, Chicago’s North Shore has everything to make her feel like the queen she is!
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Greg Goya Makes U.S. Debut at Chicago Botanic Garden
Saturday, May 10 - Saturday, May 17
Chicago Botanic Garden | 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe
Italian street artist Greg Goya debuts three interactive installations at the Chicago Botanic Garden this May, Home is Whenever I'm with You (May 10, 3-6pm), Love Emergency (May 14, 3-6pm) and Ever After (Ma 17, 3-6pm). These art performances will explore love, emotion and the changing seasons. Each piece invites visitors to become part of the experience.
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Evanston Made Maker's Market
Sunday, May 4
Maple Street Garage | 1800 Maple St., Evanston
Come experience one of Evanston's most accessible and fun community art and shopping events! Taking place outdoors, in a covered parking garage, this market features hundreds of unique and one-of-a-kind handmade goods like art, craft, wearables, jewelry, stationery, handbags and more! Shop for free, park for free and meet the makers!
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Northbrook Art in the Park
Saturday, May 10 - Sunday, May 11
Village Green | 1810 Walters Ave., Northbrook
Art in the Park returns to downtown Northbrook’s Village Green Park from 10am to 5pm each day! More than 80 artists will show and sell their beautiful creations, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, ceramics, and more. Live music in the gazebo, festival food, and youth art activities make this a family-friendly event for all.
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50th Annual Mother’s Day House Walk
Sunday, May 11
Evanston History Center | 225 Greenwood St., Evanston
Celebrating 50 years, this beloved tradition invites you to step inside some of Evanston’s most stunning and historically significant homes, each with a unique story to tell. These homes have been selected for their architectural significance, important histories, and stunning interiors. Treat mom (or yourself!) to a memorable day of beauty, history, and charm!
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Tuesday Night Market
Tuesday, May 27
Wheeling Town Center | 375 W. Dundee Rd., Wheeling
Wheeling Town Center comes alive with Tuesday Night Markets! Bread, jams, jellies, sweet treats, specialty sauces, flowers, seasonings, candles, beverages, jewelry, home decor, and more – come stroll the plaza while enjoying samples and live music! The kick-off event is May 27, followed by the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of June, July and August.
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Umbrella Arts Festival
Saturday, May 31
Evanston Fountain Square | Corner of Davis St., Orrington Ave., and Sherman Ave., Evanston
The Umbrella Arts Festival is a celebration of Asian American art, music, dance, food and culture featuring over 50 artists, artisans and food vendors, traditional and contemporary performances, and many hands-on art and cultural activities. The festival is free, and all ages are welcome to come and enjoy!
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Translations
THROUGH MAY 4, 2025
Writers Theatre, Glencoe
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Man of La Mancha
THROUGH MAY 4, 2025
Wirtz Center for the Performing Arts, Northwestern University, Evanston
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A Tale of Peter Rabbit
THROUGH MAY 11, 2025
Wirtz Center for the Performing Arts, Northwestern University, Evanston
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Strawberry Fest
MAY 17-18, 2025
Chalet Home + Garden, Wilmette
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GLI Carfest
MAY 18, 2025
Church St. and Colonial Court Parking Lot, Downtown Glenview
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Mary Fahl
MAY 18, 2025
Evanston SPACE, Evanston
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Live at Studio5! The Last Word
MAY 23, 2025
Studio5 Performing Arts Center, Evanston
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As it is in Heaven
MAY 23, 2025 - JUNE 1, 2025
Wirtz Center for the Performing Arts, Northwestern University, Evanston
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Diana
MAY 23, 2025 - JULY 6, 2025
Theo Ubique Cabaret Theatre, Evanston
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