10 Things To Do In Illinois If You Don't Care About The Super Bowl

The Super Bowl is Sunday, Feb. 8, but it’s not the only event competing for attention in Illinois.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy the day, including kid-friendly watch parties to events for people who don’t care about the NFL championship game between the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks.

We’ve rounded up 10 events in Illinois to appeal to a variety of tastes. You can see costumes from "Wicked" in person, visit the Chicago Auto Show or browse a Valentine Market, among other activities.

Are you planning an event this winter? Feature it, so nearby readers see it all across Patch — including in roundups like this!

Here are our picks:

Crafting Character: The Costumes of Paul Tazewell

The Museum of Science and Industry's Crafting Character: The Costumes of Paul Tazewell, features the designer's costumes from "Wicked," including Glinda's pink ballgown. Other featured costumes include Anita's yellow dress from the 2021 "West Side Story" movie and pieces from "Hamilton."

Chicago Auto Show

The 2026 Chicago Auto Show opens Feb. 7, bringing test tracks, concept cars, interactive exhibits and a family zone to McCormick Place.

Valentine's Day Craft and Vendor Market

Dozens of vendors will offer unique gifts, sweets and artisanal and handmade items at Yorktown Center in Lombard for the Chicago Valentine's Day Craft and Vendor Market. Admission is free.

"Dear Evan Hansen" at Paramount Theatre

Aurora's Paramount Theatre will present two performances of "Dear Evan Hansen" on Feb. 8. The first show is at 1 p.m. and the second is at 5:30 p.m.

Springfield Princess Day

Crowne Plaza Springfield is hosting Springfield Princess Day on Feb. 8 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The event features a meet-and-greet with beloved princesses, a princess parade and more.

ETHS Jazz Festival

This year marks the 21st Annual Evanston Township High School Jazz Festival. The all-day event includes performances from the high school's jazz ensemble, Anthony Bruno Quartet and The Chicago State University Community Jazz Band featuring Saxophone Soloist Tia Fuller.

Galentine's Day Skate and Journal Party

Head to Fleetwood Roller Rink in Summit on Feb. 8 from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. to take part in Chicas Journaling Club's Galentine's Day Skate and Journal Party. The festivities include roller skating, journaling time and a pizza party.

Black History Month Celebration

Oak Park's 2026 Black History Month Celebration is set for Feb 8. from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The event features spoken word poetry from Jeronimo Speaks and live music from Katika Neal, Erik Kirk and True Worship and Chicago West Community Music Center. Attendees can also take part in an interactive storytelling session with Breathe and Move-Ment Dance & Cultural Arts Co.

Ice Skate at Maggie Daly Park

The Maggie Daly Ice Skating Ribbon season extends into the first week of March, so it's a great alternative to sitting on the couch and watching the Super Bowl.

See Disney On Ice: Jump In!

More than 50 characters take to the ice for Disney On Ice: Jump In! at the All-State Arena in Rosemont. The performance features interactive elements, beloved Disney tunes and aerial acrobatics.