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Get a head start on Mother's Day and Cinco de Mayo, participate in Independent Bookstore Day, meet a film director, discover new and exciting dining, and enjoy a variety of live performances. Get all the details and more in this edition of the Weekender.
📸: Nico Trattoria & Pizzeria is officially open in the Ravinia District. Read this week's New Business Spotlight to get the scoop on Highland Park's newest Italian and brick oven pizza hotspot.
581 Roger Williams Ave. / 847.926.3441
Explore more delicious dining with our dining guide.
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CITY OF HIGHLAND PARK
Arbor Day 2026
APR. 25 | 9 AM - 11 AM
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The City of Highland Park's annual Arbor Day Celebration will take place on Saturday April 25 from 9 AM -11 AM at the Ravinia Festival West parking lot (301 Ravinia Park Rd.). Check out dozens of exhibits, demos, and giveaways to brighten up your home and garden. This year, the fun includes plant and tree giveaways to add some green to your home and garden, a tree planting demonstration and Q&A session, meet & greet with birds of prey hosted by Northern Illinois Raptor Rehab & Education, bicycle recycling with Working Bikes, a touch-a-truck exhibit, insect safety for kids courtesy of North Shore Mosquito Abatement District, an electric vehicle showcase, information on backyard chickens and making sure your windows are bird-friendly, tool sharpening with Veteran's Edge Sharpening, meet JR the therapy chicken, write a haiku and receive a copy of Leaf Town Forever (while supplies last), and so much more! As always, Arbor Day is pet-friendly; well-behaved and leashed dogs are welcome!
Ravinia Festival West Parking Lot - 301 Ravinia Park Rd. (Entrance off of Green Bay Rd.)
| DON'T MISS THIS! ELECTRIC VEHICLE SHOWCASE | | Don't miss the EV Showcase at this year's Arbor Day celebration presented by Go Green Highland Park and the City of Highland Park's Sustainability Advisory Group. With over 20 different models on display, get an idea of the variety and versatility of the electric vehicles on the market today. Speak with EV owners who happen to be Highland Park residents and learn more about what EV ownership looks like: from driving to maintenance to charging and more. Discover how EVs are changing the market and if an EV could be the right move for you and your family. | | |
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MATCHMAKER BOOKSHOP
Independent
Bookstore Day
APR. 25 | 9 AM - 5 PM
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The last Saturday in April is Independent Bookstore Day! Matchmaker Bookshop is joining independent bookstores across the country on April 25 to mark the occasion. Doors will open early at 9 AM for a whole day of literary fun. Throughout the day, participate in different experiences such as author meet & greets, story time, a craft activity, and more. Plus, hidden somewhere inside the shop will be a "golden ticket" redeemable for ONE FULL year of free audiobooks with Libro.fm!
FREE
1891 Second St. / 847.926.7554
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SECRET WORLD BOOKS
Secret World Books Turns Two!
APR. 25 | 9 AM - 7 PM
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Secret World Books has a lot to celebrate this weekend, and you're invited to join the festivities! Ring in Independent Bookstore Day and Secret World Books' second anniversary on April 25. Enjoy special treats and giveaways all weekend long.
PS, an extra special congratulations to Secret World Books for winning the 2026 Arts Award! Secret World Books was recognized Thursday evening during the Highland Park Awards for its catalytic community engagement and dedication to supporting and fostering the arts in Highland Park. Since the business’s opening in 2023, Secret World Books has hosted numerous events, partnered with other local businesses and organizations, welcomed high-profile visiting writers, and nurtured Highland Park’s literary arts community.
1774 Second St. / 847.469.4875
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STYLE SHACK
Capture A Moment Worth Remembering
APR. 25 | 12 PM - 4 PM
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Capture a moment worth remembering at Style Shack on April 25 with an exclusive photo booth experience. Bring your mothers, daughters, sisters, aunts, and friends and receive a complimentary photo booth photo. Then, shop Style Shack's impressive array of unique gifts, decor, and accessories to further commemorate the relationships with those who matter most.
FREE
1839 Second St. / 847.579.4525
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DOWNTOWN HIGHLAND PARK
Second Annual Downtown HP Women-Owned Business Whistle Stop Trolley Tour
MAY 7 | 4 PM - 9 PM | $20
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All aboard! Get ready for the second annual Downtown Highland Park Women-Owned Business Whistle Stop Trolley Tour! Visit over 35 women-owned businesses throughout Downtown Highland Park on May 7 from 4 PM - 7 PM. After the tour, enjoy an after party and prize giveaway from 7 PM - 9 PM at Dayhouse Coworking (2057 Green Bay Rd., Ste. A).
There are over 140 self-identified women-owned businesses located in Downtown Highland Park. This fun event is the perfect way to support local businesses and the women in our community. Stroll throughout the Central Business District, and hop on and off of a festive trolley circuit. At each of the 35 participating trolley stops, guests will find a celebratory atmosphere, experience various free demonstrations, find specials and giveaways, and enjoy complimentary sips and sweets.
Each registered guest will also receive a boarding passport in which to collect ribbons at each of the 35 participating businesses. The more ribbons collected, the more prize tickets guests will receive at the afterparty.
The afterparty will take place at Dayhouse Coworking (2057 Green Bay Rd., Ste. A) from 7 PM - 9 PM. Sips and snacks will be provided by Ami, Curt’s Café, Indus Progressive Indian, and Lynfred Winery.
Join is in tipping our hats to the wonderful women-owned businesses that help to make Downtown Highland Park a premier shopping destination on Chicago’s North Shore!
This spotlight on Downtown Highland Park's women-owned businesses is presented by the Downtown Highland Park Alliance (Special Service Area 19).
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| ABC Design Jewelers, Academic Tutoring Centers, AcuCare NorthShore Wellness, Adesso, Atelier by elliestyled, The Bar Method, The Barn Steakhouse, The Beauty Library, Chicago Dance Therapy, Citywoods, Curt’s Café, Dayhouse Coworking, Diana Gran Portraits, Eye Magic by Michael Scott, Face Foundrié, Gordon Aveda Salon, Harmony Coffee Bar, Indus Progressive Indian, Kaizen Electrolysis, Katy the Butcher, Local Leaf Farm, Love That Spice, Matchmaker Bookshop, Onward Physical Therapy, Over the Top Boutique, Pets4Life, Pulling Down the Moon, Ripple Public Relations, Rock N Rags, Secret World Books, Style Shack, SugaringNYC, Therapeutic Kneads, Tria Salon, The Vault Creative, and YogaSix | | | | |
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DR. MARK & THE SUTURES
Misericordia Candy Days Concert
APR. 25 | 12 PM - 4 PM
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Enjoy a free concert for a great cause! Join Highland Park's very own Dr. Mark & the Sutures at Port Clinton Square on April 25 for the annual Misericordia Candy Days fundraiser. Rain date: April 26.
FREE
Port Clinton Square - 600 Central Ave.
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MADAME ZUZU'S
Music for Mutts
APR. 25 | 8 PM - 10 PM
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Join the School of Rock and The Rosenthal Family Foundation as they present Music for Mutts at Madame ZuZu's on April 25. This family-friendly, paw-some concert will benefit a number of local animal shelters and foster-based rescues that pull pets in need from Chicago Animal Care and Control. Bar, tea, coffee, signature pastries, and shopping will be available throughout the event.
$18
1876 First St. / 847.926.7359
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CURT'S CAFE
Earth Day High Tea
APR. 26 | 1 PM - 3 PM
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Celebrate Earth Day at Curt's Cafe with a charming high tea on April 26. Enjoy a selection of seasonal teas, delicate finger sandwiches, and sweet treats made with fresh ingredients. Gather your friends and family for a cozy, eco-inspired afternoon and raise a teacup to the beauty of our planet.
$40
1766 Second St. / 847.748.8086
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Nico Trattoria & Pizzeria | |
Three words stand out when describing Nico Trattoria & Pizzeria: family, food, and tradition. Nico is more than just a restaurant, it’s a place where family and friends congregate, share meals, and celebrate all the good things in life. In Italy, cooking is more than just preparing food. Cooking means connecting, laughing, and sharing stories. Nico brings that energy to each dish served. Not only will you enjoy a meal crafted with the freshest, highest quality ingredients, but you will taste the love and tradition infused into every bite. Good food facilitates good conversation, and good conversation strengthens the bonds between friends, neighbors, and family members. Nico Trattoria & Pizzeria is more than a place to indulge in delicious, authentic Italian cuisine and brick oven pizza, it’s a culinary experience that will leave you feeling more connected to the people who matter most in your life.
581 Roger Williams Ave. / 847.926.3441 / viaggiohighlandpark.com
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RAVINIA FESTIVAL
International Jazz Day
APR. 26 | 7 PM
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International Jazz Day is happening in Chicago later this month, and Ravinia Festival is playing an integral part in the festivities leading up to the global concert. John Clayton and Steve Wilson will be joined by alumni from Ravinia's Steans Institute and the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz on April 26 at Bennett Gordon Hall. Tickets for this exceptional jazz performance are free and are available now.
FREE
Bennett Gordon Hall - 201 St. Johns Ave.
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TRINITY EPISCOPAL CHURCH
Schubert Octet
APR. 26 | 3 PM
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Franz Schubert composed Octet in F major, D. 803 in 1824, over two centuries ago. This remarkable octet was inspired by Beethoven's Septet, Op. 20, and is noted as Schubert's most substantial chamber work. The Artemis Chamber Orchestra will perform a free concert highlighting Schubert's Octet in F major, D. 803 on April 26 at Trinity Episcopal Church.
FREE
425 Laurel Ave.
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HIGHLAND PARK COMMUNITY HOUSE
Pilgrim Chamber Players: Voyage en France
APR. 26 | 3 PM
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Take a musical journey through French masterworks with the Pilgrim Chamber Players on April 26 at the Highland Park Community House. More than a concert, this event is a captivating exploration of French chamber music featuring works by Debussy, Ravel, and Saint-Saëns. Special guest artists include CSO Concertmaster Robert Chen on the violin, Rose Armbrust Griffin on the viola, Steven Honigberg on the cello, and Marta Aznavoorian on the piano. Tickets include a post-concert reception and the opportunity to mingle with the musicians.
$20 Adults / $10 Students
1991 Sheridan Rd.
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ENJOY HIGHLAND PARK
Outdoor Dining
HAPPENING NOW
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Spring has sprung, the sun is shining, and warmer weather is upon us! Savor a delicious meal, treat, beverage, or light bite from a local Highland Park restaurant alfresco in the sunshine! We’ve put together a list of restaurants offering outdoor dining so that you can make the most of the season. This guide is continuously updated as more restaurants dust off their outdoor dining spaces. Be sure to check back often to see all the new places you can dine under blue skies and starry nights this season.
📸: The patio is open for dining at Steep Ravine Brewing Company! Additional outdoor dining expected to open soon
582 Roger William Ave. / 847.780.8127
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TAMALES
Cinco de Mayo
at Tamales
APR. 28 - MAY 5
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Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at Tamales! Dig into fresh, authentic Mexican food and margaritas all week long. Enjoy Tamales' newly renovated restaurant.
PS - hosting a Cinco de Mayo party or other event? Catering is booking quickly - contact Tamales to help plan your fiesta!
493 Central Ave. / 847.433.4070
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GO GREEN HIGHLAND PARK
Compost & Shredding Event
MAY 9 | 9 AM - 1 PM
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Celebrate International Compost Awareness week with Go Green Highland Park, in partnership with Swalco, the Park District of Highland Park, and the City of Highland Park, on May 9 at Hidden Creek AquaPark. A truckload of locally-made, nutrient-rich compost will be waiting for Highland Park residents from 9 AM - 10 AM. With up to 20 gallons available per household, you'll be able to spread the love in your vegetable gardens, flowerbeds, planters and lawns with this naturally produced soil amendment.
New for 2026, residents will be able to securely dispose of documents with confidential document shredding from 10 AM - 1 PM (limit of 6 banker boxes per household).
Hidden Creek AquaPark - 1220 Fredrickson Pl.
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ENAZ & UPSIDE EVENTS
Moms Need A Minute!
MAY 3 | 9 AM - 12 PM
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"Mom, Mom, Mom, MOMMMMM!!" Does that sound familiar? If so, treat yourself with Moms Need A Minute on May 3! In honor of Mother's Day, ENAZ and Upside Events have designed a morning to help you destress, recenter, and energize. Begin the morning with a signature Dance Sculpt class. This fun and energizing working that will leave you feeling strong and refreshed. Stick around to partake in a curated wellness experience complete with samples, treatments, and feel-good products from local Highland Park vendors including Face Foundrié, Curt's Cafe, Onward Physical Therapy, Local Leaf Farm, The Beauty Library, Love That Spice, and ENAZ.
$35
Upside Events - 440 Central Ave., 2nd Floor
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INDUS PROGRESSIVE INDIAN
Mother's Day
Afternoon Tea
MAY 3 | 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
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Celebrate the mothers and mother-figures in your life with the award-winning Indus Progressive Indian on May 3. Savor an afternoon tea experience at Indus with delicious savory bites and sweet treats, including chocolates from Vosges chocolatier. Quench your thirst with Indus' signature masala chai or choose from a selection of teas hand selected from Love that Spice. Use the button below to make your reservation.
$50 Adults / $25 Children 12 & Under
617 Central Ave. / 312.282.8064
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THERAPEUTIC KNEADS
Moms Knead
Time to Relax
THROUGH MAY 10
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Moms knead time to relax, and knot just on Mother's Day! Stumped on what to get the mom or mother-figure in your life for her special day? Through May 10, receive a free gift valued at $15 with your purchase of a $150+gift card at Therapeutic Kneads.
1779 Green Bay Rd. / 847.266.1031
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RAVINIA FARMERS MARKET
Indoor Farmers Market
SATURDAYS THROUGH APR. 25 | 10:30 AM - 2:30 PM
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Can’t wait for the return of the Ravinia Farmers Market this summer? Looking for a place to shop local, shielded from unpredictable spring weather? Want to discover exciting vendors offering fresh microgreens, handcrafted foods, baked treats, seasonal plants and artisan-made goods from local growers and makers, and a plethora of other finds? Catch the Ravinia Indoor Farmers Market at Wayfarer Theaters (1850 Second St.) each Saturday from 10:30 AM - 2:30 PM through April 25. Happy shopping!
📸 credit: Peggy Malecki
Wayfarer Theaters - 1850 Second St.
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WAYFARER THEATERS
Retrospective: Director Jessica Redish
MAY 3 | 4 PM - 5:15 PM
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Wayfarer Theaters presents a special spotlight screening of short films by director, writer, choreographer, and Highland Park native Jessica Redish on May 3. Enjoy a curated showcase of Redish’s acclaimed comedic and musical short films followed by exclusive previews of her newest work and upcoming projects. Known for blending humor, psychological insight, and stylized storytelling, Redish’s films often center on women navigating heightened, sometimes absurd circumstances. The retrospective will feature The Last Croissant, AIRWAY, Instacart, Getting Out, Tailored to You, Cat, Brighter Days, and Exit, Pursued by a Bear.
$15 General Admission / $12 Seniors & Children
1850 Second St. / 872.873.1030
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SOULSHINE BOUTIQUE & HEALING SANCTUARY
Full Moon Gathering: Flower Moon
APR. 30 | 7 PM - 8 PM
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Celebrate May's full moon, the flower moon, with Soulshine Boutique & Healing Sanctuary a day early on April 30. Learn about the flower moon's significance as well as the associated indigenous and shamanic traditions. Create sacred space with smudging, meditate with a sound bath, and take part in ceremony and rituals while connecting to the powerful and healing energy of the flower moon.
$35
459 Central Ave., 2nd Floor / 224.805.1390
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HIGHLAND PARK FIRE DEPARTMENT
CPR-AED & STOP THE BLEED® Training Courses
MAY 6 | 9 AM & 1 PM
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The City of Highland Park Fire Department is proud to offer two separate, life-saving training courses at Station 33 on May 6.
First up at 9 AM, learn lifesaving skills to help others in need with CPR-AED training. Participants who successfully complete the course will receive an electronic card from the American Heart Association. There is a $50 fee for this course.
At 1 PM there will be a STOP THE BLEED® training course. STOP THE BLEED® is designed to help you gain the ability to recognize life-threatening bleeding and intervene effectively. The person next to a bleeding victim may be the one who’s most likely to save him or her. Take the course and become empowered to make a life or death difference when a bleeding emergency occurs. There is no fee for this course.
To register for either course, please call the Fire Department at 847.433.3110 or email fire@cityhpil.com.
Station 33 - 1130 Central Ave. / 847.433.3110
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Ravinia Books, Antiques, etc. is relocating! Pop in Wednesdays through Saturdays 12 PM - 5 PM through the end of the month and discover treasures at a great price. Find books, antiques, glassware (including uranium glass), Judaica, jewelry, children's items, and more.
469 Roger Williams Ave. / 224.522.6620
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NORTH SHORE YACHT CLUB
Adult Sailing Lessons
AVAILABLE NOW
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Summer is getting closer every day, what are your plans this year? Learn to sail with the North Shore Yacht Club! The North Shore Yacht Club offers a seven-week Learn to Sail course for adults held on Saturday or Sunday mornings. Spots are filling quickly! Become a member and set yourself up for a great summer on the lake.
21 Park Ave.
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CITY OF HIGHLAND PARK
Independence Day Parade Applications Now Open
OPEN THROUGH JUN. 5
| The City is calling on Highland Parkers to spotlight their American stories in this year's Independence Day parade with floats that celebrate our history and illustrate what America means to them! Whether through characters like Uncle Sam or Rosie the Riveter, floats that showcase the history of HP businesses or organizations, or entries that celebrate a special decade or time in our history, the sky's the limit! Participants are encouraged to create visually exciting entries with patriotic or historical decor that brings the America250 theme to life. Applications for the Independence Day parade are available now, and are due by June 5. | | | | |
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THE ART CENTER
Spring Benefit
MAY 8 | 7 PM
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The Art Center's annual Spring Benefit will take place on May 8. Enjoy an interactive evening of art, cocktails, light bites, demos, and a silent auction benefitting the galleries, art classes, scholarships, and community-building events produced all year round by The Art Center. This year’s event highlights the incredible work of celebrity photographer Sandro Miller, featuring his series on members of Chicago’s historic Steppenwolf Theatre.
$250
1957 Sheridan Rd. / 847.432.1888
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HIGHLAND PARK PUBLIC LIBRARY
Meet the Author:
Kevin Boehm
APR. 27 | 7 PM
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James Beard Award winner and Boka Restaurant Group cofounder Kevin Boehm has opened 50 restaurants, working alongside everyone from line cooks to celebrity chefs. Along the way, he has faced setbacks, earned Michelin stars, appeared on The Bear, and served as a judge on Top Chef. Join the Library at Edgewood Middle School on April 27 to meet Boehm and listen to him discuss his memoir, The Bottomless Cup, in conversation with award-winning veteran Chicago reporter Monica Eng. Books will be for sale, and the event will conclude with a book signing. The first 10* attendees to arrive will receive a copy of the book and lucky winners will take home delicious Milk Bar cookies.
*One per household, please.
FREE
Edgewood Middle School - 929 Edgewood Rd.
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