6 Outdoor Events In Illinois Before Summer Ends

The days are getting shorter, but summer’s not done in Illinois.

The August calendar is full of outdoor events that make the most of summer before vacation season ends, schools start and life gets in the way.

If you do nothing else in August, go to a farmers market. You’ll find not only homegrown tomatoes, just-picked sweet corn and other garden delights but also music, artists and a sense of community. Throughout Illinois, towns, villages and cities host farmers markets, many of which stay open into early October.

Other can’t-miss outdoor events in August are:

Chicago Gaelic Park Irish Fest

Chicago Gaelic Park will host its 2026 Irish Fest Aug. 21 through Aug. 23. The three-day event features performances from more than two dozen Irish music artists and dance schools. There will also be an Irish Cultural Tent and a Leprechaun Tent featuring activities for kids.

Chicagoland Halal Fest

Billed as "one of the largest halal festivals in the nation," Chicagoland Halal Fest will feature halal cuisine, artisans and vendors, live music and more. The event will be held at Kane County Fairgrounds Aug. 8 and Aug. 9 from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Evanston Art and Big Fork Festival

On Aug. 22 and 23, 150 artists will show off their work for the Evanston Art and Big Fork Festival. The juried art show also features live music, food trucks and a kids' activity area. The festival will tae place in downtown Evanston from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Aug. 22 and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m .on Aug. 23.

Illinois Vintage Fest

DuPage County Fairgrounds hosts Illinois Vintage Fest Aug. 8 and Aug. 9.

Over 100 vendors will be in attendance at this open-air market to sell antiques, collectible items, vintage clothing and other treasures. There is no cost to attend.

RomeoFest

Romeoville will host its four-day RomeoFest Aug. 6 through Aug. 9. The festival features carnival rides, live music, a car and bike show, food and drink vendors and a beer garden. A fireworks show will be held Friday at 9:30 p.m.

Starved Rock Nationals

Downtown Joliet will be filled with the sounds of revving engines and live music for the Starved Rock Nationals car show on Aug. 14 and Aug. 15. The event features a burnout competition, a dyno competition and other opprtunities to check out classic, rare, and souped-up cars, bikes and trucks.

Are you planning an event yet this summer or fall? Feature it so nearby readers see it all across Patch — including in roundups like this!