Summer is right around the corner, and we’ve rounded up the best events of the summer including live music, fresh food, and family fun.

Rotary-GroveFest-Photo-by-Atticus-Fair-1-e1715536466229

Beautiful: The Carole King Musical
Paramount Theatre
April 24-June 16
paramountaurora.com

Enjoy an evening at one of Chicagoland’s most highly esteemed theatres for their production of Beautiful: The Carole King Musical. This Tony and Grammy-award-winning show tells the true story of King’s rise to fame, starting from her days dreaming of stardom in Brooklyn. Set to the soundtrack of King’s work, this is a must-see jukebox musical. Showtimes vary by date.

Spring Road and Elmhurst Kiwanis Pet Parade
May 18, 11:30 AM-2 PM
springroad.com

Pets and parades! What could be better than that? The Spring Road Business Association and Elmhurt Kiwanis agree that this is a fan-favorite event in Elmhurst. Bring your furry friends – dogs, cats, bunnies, birds (you name it!) – on out for fun contests, cool costumes, arts and crafts, and an opportunity to spend time with other pet parents. Registration is open now.

Cori’s Kids Triathlon
Oak Brook Park District
June 1, 8 AM
obparks.org

Calling all kids who love to run, swim, and bike: it’s time to test your skills! This triathlon is a great way for kids 6-14 (split into different age groups) to experience some friendly competition while enjoying exercise in a fun and energetic way. Participants’ ages will determine distances for each portion of the race.

Hinsdale Fine Arts Festival
June 1-2, 10 AM-5 PM
Burlington Park
hinsdalechamber.com

The Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce proudly presents the 51st annual Fine Arts Festival. This summer staple brings people from all over the Chicagoland area to Hinsdale. Walk through Burlington Park and enjoy a variety of booths featuring unique art, while enjoying new food truck additions!

Elmhurst Cycling Classic & Elmhurst Twilight Mile
June 8
elmhurstcyclingclassic.com

DuPage Cycling Foundation presents this fantastic, free cycling event to anyone wanting to enjoy a full day of exciting bike racing around some of Elmhurst’s prime destinations: Elmhurst University, scenic Wilder Park, and the historic Wilder Mansion. The race serves as the Illinois State Championship venue, meaning athletes from all over Illinois will make the trip to compete. The event’s goal is to raise money for local charities in the community.

Uniquely Thursdays l Photo from Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce

Uniquely Thursdays
Thursdays, June 13-August 22 Burlington Park
hinsdalechamber.com

One of Hinsdale’s most popular events is back and better than ever with new music groups, food trucks, and more. Presented by UChicagoMedicine/AdventHealth Hinsdale & the Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce, Uniquely Thursdays is a great opportunity for the whole family to enjoy a summer concert right in your backyard.

Rotary GroveFest
June 20-23
Downtown Downers Grove
rotarygrovefest.com

The heart of downtown Downers Grove will turn into a full-fledged carnival for four days to kick off the start of the summer. The event is fitting for all ages, from kiddie rides to musical performances and a beer garden. All proceeds from the event benefit 27 nonprofit organizations in and around Downers Grove. Presale carnival tickets are on sale now.

Westmont Cruisin’ Nights | Photo courtesy of Westmont Special Events

Local Car Shows

Check out some of the street fairs and car shows happening this summer! With so many local dealerships and a fantastic selection of vehicles, there’s always something new to see. Visit Westmont Cruisin’ Nights on Thursdays from 5-9 PM from June to August. On Friday nights starting May 31 from 4-8 PM, Moose Cruise Nights in Downers Grove always has a unique selection of hot rods and classic cars. Also, on May 26, Supercar Sunday returns to Hyatt Lodge Oak Brook, sponsored by Chicago Motor Cars. See local listings for more shows.

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