LAKE COUNTY, IL — Summer is in full swing across Lake County, and there are plenty of outdoor concerts, community festivals, family attractions and seasonal celebrations worth checking out every week.
Whether you're looking for live music by the lake, food festivals, carnival rides or a reason to spend more time outside, there will be a lot happening across the county this week. From Ravinia's summer season and Pride celebrations to food truck nights, art festivals and family-friendly entertainment, here are some of the top events worth checking out in Lake County over the next several days:
Where: Ravinia Festival, Highland Park
When: Throughout June and summer season
The iconic Ravinia Festival officially kicks off its summer concert season this week with performances ranging from jazz and classical music to major national acts. Visitors can bring lawn chairs, blankets and picnic baskets for one of Chicagoland's signature summer traditions.
More info: https://www.ravinia.org/events
Where: Lake County Fairgrounds, Grayslake
When: Daily through June 7
The Garden Bros. Nuclear Circus is bringing its five-ring show to Grayslake with acrobats, aerial performers, daredevils and family entertainment. Multiple performances are scheduled daily throughout the week.
More info: https://www.lcfairgrounds.com/events/garden-bros-circus-june-2026
Where: Downtown Grayslake
When: 6 to 9 p.m., Friday, June 5
Downtown businesses will stay open late while visitors enjoy shopping, food, entertainment and community activities as part of Grayslake's monthly First Fridays event.
More info: facebook.com/GrayslakeVillageCenter/posts/we-are-so-excited-that-first-fridays-are-coming-to-the-historic-downtown-graysla/1500531691861176/
Where: Downtown Libertyville
When: 5 to 9 p.m., Friday, June 5
Libertyville's popular First Fridays program returns with specials from local restaurants, retailers and entertainment venues throughout downtown.
More info: mainstreetlibertyville.org/events/libertyville/first-fridays/?v=692e8df1db82
Where: Courtland Commons, Mundelein
When: 1 to 5 p.m., Saturday, June 6
Beer lovers can sample craft brews from across the region while enjoying food vendors, live entertainment and outdoor festivities.
More info: mundeleincommunityconnection.org/community-events/craft-beer-festival/
Where: Antioch
When: June 4-7
This multi-day community festival features carnival rides, food vendors, live entertainment and family activities in downtown Antioch.
More info: cm.antiochchamber.org/events/details/taste-of-summer-june-4-7-2026-with-carnival-ducks-8805
Where: Downtown Metra Station parking lot, Highwood
When: June 5-7
Families can enjoy carnival rides, games, food and live entertainment as Highwood celebrates the start of summer.
More info: celebratehighwood.org/kick-off-to-summer-carnival/
Where: Deerfield
When: June 6-7
Artists from around the Midwest will showcase paintings, jewelry, photography, sculpture and handcrafted goods during this outdoor art festival.
More info: deerfield.il.us/m/newsflash/home/detail/749
Where: Buffalo Grove
When: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, June 7
The family-friendly Pride celebration returns for its eighth year with community groups, entertainment and local organizations participating in the parade.
More info: pridechicago.org/event/buffalo-grove-pride-2026/
Where: Thrive Pet Supply, Antioch
When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, June 6
Pet lovers can browse local vendors, handmade products, treats and specialty goods while supporting local businesses and animal-focused organizations.
More info: eventbrite.com/e/thrive-barket-makers-market-tickets-1987664263318
For a full list of Lake County events, festivals and seasonal activities, visit the Visit Lake County's events calendar at https://www.visitlakecounty.org/events.
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