The Art Center Highland Park

The Art Center Highland Park (TAC) is kicking off National Picnic Month with an evening designed for pure summer joy: Music on the Lawn, a relaxed, family‑friendly outdoor concert featuring Chicago multi‑instrumentalist and singer‑songwriter Danny Cohen. Guests are invited to spread out on the TAC lawn with blankets, lawn chairs, and their favorite picnic treats while enjoying Cohen’s blend of original music and classics spanning the 1950s to today.
In true Highland Park spirit, the event is offered on a “pay what you can” basis, ensuring that everyone in the community can join in. TAC is also partnering with its longtime neighbors at Norton’s Restaurant, who will offer 10% off carry‑out orders for attendees who show their digital ticket confirmation.
Cohen, known for his work with Midwest bands including Terriers, Jenni Stark, and Sewingneedle, brings an eclectic, soulful energy perfect for a summer evening under the trees.
Whether you’re a music lover, a picnic enthusiast, or simply looking for a moment of connection, TAC invites you to gather, unwind, and celebrate creativity in the open air.
Location: The Art Center Highland Park, 1957 Sheridan Rd, Highland Park, IL

Local Event: Music on the Lawn

Lake County

Highland Park

Illinois

Music on the Lawn

The Art Center Highland Park (TAC) is kicking off National Picnic Month with an evening designed for pure summer joy: Music on...

The <a href="https://www.cityhpil.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">City of Highland Park</a> is thrilled to announce an eclectic line-up of coordinated entertainment and cuisine as part of the <a href="https://www.enjoyhighlandpark.com/portclintonconcerts" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">2026 Downtown Concerts at Port Clinton</a> series. Select Fridays, July 10 through September 25 at Port Clinton Square in<a href="https://www.enjoyhighlandpark.com/downtownhp" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Downtown Highland Park</a>, the public is invited to take a trip around the world - without ever leaving Highland Park. Attendees will partake in global cuisine from a different onsite local Highland Park restaurant each week while enjoying accompanying world music and entertainment. No passport necessary.
Over the course of ten Friday evenings, attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs to Port Clinton Square and start their summer weekends with free live music for the entire family. Concerts will generally run from 6 PM - 8 PM. Please note there will be no concerts July 24 or August 28, and the July 10 concert will take place from 5 PM - 7 PM. The season finale on September 25 will be held from 4 PM – 8 PM and feature the return of the ever-popular Scarecrow Trail through Downtown Highland Park. Over one dozen Downtown businesses will decorate seasonal scarecrows in front of their shops, creating a fun and festive Scarecrow Trail. Attendees will be able to vote “best in show, with the winner being announced during Stews &amp; Brews on October 10.As plans continue to evolve, the eclectic line-up of Downtown Concerts at Port Clinton will allow attendees to take a trip around the world include:
●Kosher-Style &amp; Klezmer - Friday, July 10 | 5 PM - 7 PM
Kicking off the series, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/maxwellstreetklezmer" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">The Maxwell Street Klezmer Band</a> will unite community with lively entertainment and Mizrahi Grill will be on-site preparing kosher-style food and drinks with Steep Ravine Brewing Company offering a selection of craft beers.
●Slavic Savor - Friday, July 17 | 6 PM - 8 PM
Eastern Europe is the theme this week, with Slavic Sounds from the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100069085074158&amp;sk=about" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Paul</a> Strolia and <a href="https://linktr.ee/alviya.bandura" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Volodymyr</a> Okilko complimented by delightful European cuisine from Cafe Dacha to savor, alongside Steep Ravine offering a selection of craft beer.
●Treasures of Thailand - Friday, July 31 | 6 PM - 8 PM
Get ready for a Taste of Thailand with cuisine from Ruby of Siam, wine from Lynfred Winery, and entertainment provided by Thai dancers and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bringingmusictothetop" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">The Muzik Engine</a>. 
●American Melting Pot - Friday, August 7 | 6 PM - 8 PM
Celebrate our great American melting pot with a variety of menu options from BWB Shakes and beverage selection from Steep Ravine Brewing Company, while enjoying some classic music and 
covers spanning every genre from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/UptownShakedown" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Uptown Shakedown</a>.
●Bon AppetEAT - Friday, August 14 | 6 PM
<ul><li>8 PM

Bringing in a bit of France, attendees will enjoy flavors from That Little French Guy, wines from Lynfred Winery, and music by <a href="https://www.lushlifejazzmusic.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Lush Life</a> providing the jazz to complete the evening.
</li><li>Bollywood Beats &amp; Eats - Friday, August 21 | 6 PM - 8 PM
Downtown darlings Indus Progressive Indian are bringing their authentic Indian fare to compliment Bollywood dancers and music from Manmeet Kaur. </li><li>Nashville Nosh - Friday, September 4 | 6 PM - 8 PM
New to Highland Park, The Barn Steakhouse will provide southern American fare while <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CountyLineStringBand1" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">County Line String Band</a>, along with line dancing and a Dolly Parton tribute artist to entertain the crowd.
</li><li>Notte Italiana - Friday, September 11 | 6 PM - 8 PM
Highland Park’s newest restaurant, Nico Trattoria &amp; Pizzeria, will share family friendly Italian favorites and classic cocktails, alongside Steep Ravine Brewing Company serving craft beer to compliment the Rat Pack entertainment by the <a href="https://www.divamontell.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Diva Montel</a>l &amp; <a href="https://jeorgeholmes.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Jeorge Holmes</a> Duo this evening!</li><li>Sabor de Libertad - Friday, September 18 | 6 PM - 8 PM
Tamales will turn up the heat in Downtown Highland Park with their beloved Mexican cuisine. Salsa dancers will groove to the tunes of the <a href="https://cecysantana.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Cecy Santana Trio</a> and Orquesta Alta Vida in celebration of Mexican Independence Day.</li><li>Downtown Concerts Finale &amp; Scarecrow Trail - September 25 | 4 PM - 8 PM
Commemorate fall with scarecrows, pumpkins, great food, live music, and family fun! The Downtown Concerts Season Finale features a line-up of family-friendly music and activities, seasonal decor, and a Scarecrow Trail through town to see over two dozen festive scarecrows, each uniquely decorated by local businesses, to cast a vote for “Best in Show.”





</li></ul>

Local Event: 2026 Downtown Concerts at Port Clinton

2026 Downtown Concerts at Port Clinton

The City of Highland Park is thrilled to announce an eclectic line-up of coordinated entertainment and cuisine as part of the...

Gorton Center

Join us for a heartwarming night of film and fun. &nbsp;All in support of PAWS Chicago Animal Rescue. Eventbrite Tickets:
<a href="https://tinyurl.com/y2eydkxr" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://tinyurl.com/y2eydkxr</a>

We're screening BOB'S BEST&nbsp;FRIENDS and celebrating the incredible dogs - and people - who make rescue work possible.
5:30 pm: Get a picture with Keera (our lead actor dog) and meet some of PAWS alumni.
6:30 pm: &nbsp;Emcee Welcome and Film Screening
8:30 pm: &nbsp;Q&amp;A Panel - Director, Dog Trainer, Lead Human &amp; Lead Dog Actor take the stage.
9:00 pm: &nbsp;Event Concludes

Local Event: Bob's Best Friends film benefit for PAWS Chicago Animal Rescue

Cook County

Northbrook

Bob's Best Friends film benefit for PAWS...

Join us for a heartwarming night of film and fun.  All in support of PAWS Chicago Animal Rescue. Eventbrite...

Bob's Best Friends film benefit for PAWS Chicago Animal Rescue

Gardens in various locations in Highland Park, IL

2026 Highland Park Native Plant Garden Tour&nbsp;
Discover the beauty and benefits of native plant gardening during the&nbsp;2026 Highland Park Native Plant Garden Tour&nbsp;on&nbsp;Saturday, July 11, from noon to 4:00 p.m.&nbsp;(Rain date:&nbsp;Sunday, July 12).
Visit a variety of local gardens and see how homeowners have incorporated native plants into landscapes of different sizes and styles. Garden descriptions and photos are available&nbsp;<a href="https://gogreenhp.org/native-garden-tour-2026/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">here</a>. &nbsp;Garden hosts will be available to share their experiences, gardening tips, and lessons learned while creating habitats that support pollinators, birds, and other wildlife.
The tour is&nbsp;free, but&nbsp;advance registration is required&nbsp;to obtain a map with garden locations.&nbsp;&nbsp;Registration link:&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://shorturl.at/bs65R" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://shorturl.at/bs65R</a>
Whether you are an experienced gardener or simply curious about getting started with native plants, this tour offers ideas, inspiration, and practical information for every level of interest.

Local Event: 2026 Highland Park Native Plant Garden Tour

2026 Highland Park Native Plant Garden Tour

2026 Highland Park Native Plant Garden Tour 
Discover the beauty and benefits of native plant gardening during the 2026...

This special tribute event honors <a href="https://oldheartmovie.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">award winning Old Heart </a>author Peter Ferry who taught English at Lake Forest High School for 28 years. Following the 90 minute film,&nbsp; producer/screenwriter Roger Rapoport will join one of the film's costars for an audience discussion. Some of Ferry’s students and faculty colleagues will join this special event.&nbsp;&nbsp;Among his best known students are novelist Dave Eggers and actor Vince Vaughn.
<a href="https://gortoncenter.org/event/old-heart-film-and-panel-discussion/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Tickets are available at this link.</a>‍ ‍
Old Heart focuses on how people cross cultural boundaries to find common ground. In addition to honoring black soldiers who have fought for our country back to the American liberation, the film, is also a tribute to elder independence. Set in Detroit and the Netherlands, Old Heart was filmed in the midwest and the Dutch community of Veldhoven. Twenty-three midwestern actors are featured along with Amsterdam actress Eva Doueiri in her screen debut. 
<a href="https://theforestscout.com/60662/in-lfhs/film-adaptation-of-former-teacher-peter-ferry-book-is-set-to-screen-at-gorton-this-summer/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Read the Forest Scout article on Peter Ferry's Lake Forest career here.&nbsp; Ferry died in September 2024 the week filming began.</a>
<a href="https://wgnradio.com/after-hours-with-rick-kogan/peter-ferrys-old-heart-takes-on-the-film-industry/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Hear the Rick Kogan WGN&nbsp;Interview on Old Heart with Producer Roger Rapoport and Ferry's longtime colleague, actor/editor Gary Houston.</a>

This 90 minute feature has won 8 best feature awards and two dozen other honors for directing, acting, cinematography, editing, costuming and screenwriting. For more information contact producer Roger Rapoport at (231) 720-0930 (voice only) or email him at <a href="mailto:rogerdrapoport@me.com">rogerdrapoport@me.com</a>
Old Heart is being shown exclusively in theaters.&nbsp; Support the first class Gorton Center to see this film on the big screen."Old Heart is fabulous ... powerful performances from Jamelle Sargent as young Tom and Eva Doueiri as young Sarah.&nbsp; A fine job, ... brought tears to my eyes." - Tony Moore, Indy Film Library&nbsp;
Source: <a href="https://www.rogerrapoport.com/calendar/oldheartmovie.com" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">oldheartmovie.com</a>

Local Event: Old Heart Feature Film Honoring Lake Forest High Teacher Peter Ferry.

Lake Forest-Lake Bluff

Old Heart Feature Film Honoring Lake Forest...


This special tribute event honors award winning Old Heart author Peter Ferry who taught English at Lake Forest High School for...

Old Heart Feature Film Honoring Lake Forest High Teacher Peter Ferry.

Wayfarer Theaters

American Music Festivals is proud to return to the beautiful Wayfarer Theaters to present American Music Festivals at the Movies, a program of short films and music videos that creates a unique and immersive cultural experience for the community.
This special event highlights the New Frontiers in Hawaiian Music initiative, bringing together works that explore music, nature, and cultural connection through video. AMF at the Movies also includes an award-winning short film, virtual videos created during the COVID years, films highlighting cultural exchange, and new works inspired by American themes and artistic voices.
The program will be narrated by American Music Festivals Artistic Director Philip Simmons, who will guide audiences through the shorts and provide context for the featured artists and creative collaborations.

Local Event: American Music Festivals "At the Movies" - New Frontiers

Wilmette-Kenilworth

American Music Festivals "At the Movies" - New...

American Music Festivals is proud to return to the beautiful Wayfarer Theaters to present American Music Festivals at the...

American Music Festivals "At the Movies" - New Frontiers

Sheridan Road & Clay Avenue

The public is invited to put on their sneakers, grab their family, friends, strollers, and pets and join the fun on Saturday, July 18 at 9 AM in Downtown Highwood. The course starts and finishes at the corner of Sheridan Rd &amp; Clay Ave. and will guide participants along the beautiful lake front trail and through historic Fort Sheridan and then back again. This year’s run embraces a special "Superhero" theme, encouraging participants to come dressed as their favorite superhero. “Celebrate Highwood is thrilled to partner with Oak Terrace and align with their ‘Be a Superhero in Your Community’ theme,” says Celebrate Highwood president, Jess Ortega. “Oak Terrace’s platform on community mindedness goes hand in hand with our mission with Celebrate Highwood!”
Proceeds from the 2026 Celebrate Highwood 5K will directly benefit the Oak Terrace PTO, a non-profit organization committed to developing closer connections between home and school.
Runners and walkers can sign up <a href="https://www.CelebrateHighwood.org" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;or at www.CelebrateHighwood.org now through midnight on Saturday, July 18. The 5K Run, Walk &amp; Stroll registration fee is $45 per participant, and includes a run t-shirt (must be registered by Monday, July 6 to guarantee a shirt and size). The one-mile walk fee is $25 and does not include a t-shirt. Participants aged 21 and older, will receive a coupon for an alcoholic beverage to enjoy at the Celebrate Highwood bar located at the Taste of Highwood in Everts Park, or the Celebrate Highwood bar at Highwood Days, held at the Highwood Metra Station parking lot, through Sunday, July 19.
Race Day Schedule &amp; Logistics: 8:00 AM: Race Day Registration and Packet Pick Up opens (Intersection of Sheridan Rd &amp; Clay Ave) 9:00 AM: 5K Race Start 10:00 AM: Age Group Awards Ceremony (or when the last participant crosses the finish line)
Age Group Awards: Celebrate Highwood will recognize the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place Male and Female finishers in two age groups: 16 &amp; under, and 17 &amp; over.

Local Event: Highwood 5K Family Run, Walk & Stroll

Highwood 5K Family Run, Walk & Stroll

The public is invited to put on their sneakers, grab their family, friends, strollers, and pets and join the fun on Saturday,...

Buffo's

Enjoy an afternoon of Bingo, prizes from local businesses, and community fun.

Local Event: Bingo at Buffo's 

Bingo at Buffo's 

Enjoy an afternoon of Bingo, prizes from local businesses, and community fun.

Disotto

Spill Sessions: Meat, Mead, Medicine: Food &amp; Feasting in the Middle AgesStep into the warm, old-world atmosphere of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.disottoitalian.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">Disotto</a> for an evening that blends history, storytelling, and conviviality. 
Surrounded by rustic charm and inspired by centuries-old traditions of gathering around the table, guests will experience the sights, sounds, and flavors that made food and drink such an important part of medieval life. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a lover of culinary traditions, or simply looking for a unique night out, this July Spill Session promises an engaging and memorable experience.

Local Event: Spill Sessions: Meat, Mead, Medicine: Food & Feasting in the Middle Ages

Spill Sessions: Meat, Mead, Medicine: Food &...

Spill Sessions: Meat, Mead, Medicine: Food & Feasting in the Middle AgesStep into the warm, old-world atmosphere of Disotto for...

Spill Sessions: Meat, Mead, Medicine: Food & Feasting in the Middle Ages

600 Central Ave, Highland Park, IL 60035

The Port Clinton Art Festival is happening August 29-30 from 10am-5pm daily.&nbsp; See paintings, sculpture, mixed media work and more. Get your steps in while browsing thousands of art pieces from over 200 of the best artists in the country. Have kids? Get creative at the Kids Art Zone with art projects, face painting and more. Take a break with a cold beer, specialty coffee, tasty treats and live music. Look for Kid Friendly Art Tent &amp; Live Art Demo stations and interact with our artists!&nbsp; Celebrate 43 years of art at Port Clinton Art Festival in Highland Park.

Local Event: Port Clinton Art Festival

Port Clinton Art Festival

The Port Clinton Art Festival is happening August 29-30 from 10am-5pm daily.  See paintings, sculpture, mixed media work and...

Eric DeGrechie

Chicago Metropolitan Area

Deerfield

Rachel Barnes

Winnetka-Glencoe

Glenview

Buffalo Grove

Vernon Hills

Niles-Morton Grove

Amie Schaenzer

Libertyville

Northbrook's New Home for Pretzels & Cinnamon Rolls

Auntie Anne’s & Cinnabon Northbrook

Auntie Anne's &amp; Cinnabon brings two beloved brands together under one roof in Northbrook. Conveniently located at 1036 Willow Road in the Willow Festival shopping center, this unique location is the only combined Auntie Anne's &amp; Cinnabon in Chicago's Northwest Suburbs and features a standalone storefront for easy access. Guests can enjoy Auntie Anne's famous hand-rolled pretzels, pretzel nuggets, and refreshing beverages alongside Cinnabon's world-famous cinnamon rolls, BonBites, and other sweet treats. Whether you're looking for a quick snack, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a dessert to share, there's something for every craving. The location also offers catering options, including pretzel buckets, cinnamon roll trays, and other crowd-pleasing favorites perfect for office meetings, school events, parties, and family gatherings. Everything is baked fresh throughout the day, delivering the warm, delicious flavors that have made both brands favorites for generations. Join us for our Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Monday, June 15 at 12:00 p.m. and experience why some things are better together.

Auntie Anne's & Cinnabon brings two beloved brands together under one roof in Northbrook. Conveniently located at 1036 Willow Road in the Willow...

Your New Favorite Yoga Studio,  Modern Yoga for Every Body

YogaSix Highland Park

At YogaSix Highland Park, we believe yoga should be accessible, empowering, and energizing for everybody. Our modern, welcoming studio offers a variety of heated and non-heated classes designed to meet you where you are—whether you’re brand new to yoga or looking to deepen your practice. From strength-building Power and Sculpt + Flow classes to restorative Slow Flow and Restore experiences, every class is designed to help you move, sweat, reset, and reconnect. More than just a workout, YogaSix Highland Park is a community-focused space where members can show up exactly as they are. Our experienced instructors create an inclusive environment that feels supportive, motivating, and approachable—without intimidation or pressure. We focus on movement that feels good, music that keeps the energy high, and experiences that leave you feeling stronger both physically and mentally. Located in the heart of Highland Park, our studio is proud to offer a consistent schedule of classes seven days a week, special workshops, wellness events, and opportunities to connect with others in the community. Whether you’re looking to build strength, reduce stress, improve flexibility, or simply carve out time for yourself, YogaSix Highland Park is here to support your goals. We’re more than a yoga studio—we’re a place to sweat, grow, breathe, and belong.

At YogaSix Highland Park, we believe yoga should be accessible, empowering, and energizing for everybody. Our modern, welcoming studio offers a...

Welcoming Spaces for your next meeting, celebration or event

Available rental spaces for your next event at Trinity Church

Looking for the perfect space for your next event, meeting, celebration, concert, class, or gathering? Trinity Episcopal Church offers beautiful, welcoming spaces in the heart of Highland Park for groups of all sizes. Historic charm with modern flexibility Perfect for celebrations, receptions, workshops &amp; community events Ideal spaces for concerts, performances &amp; gatherings Meeting rooms and office spaces available Whether you need a warm gathering space, performance venue, meeting room, office space, or a place to celebrate life's special moments, Trinity offers flexible spaces designed to bring people together. Go to our website to see our spaces. If you are interested in hosting an event or using office space on a consistent basis at Trinity, please email us at office@trinitychurchhp.org or call 847-432-6653 425 Laurel Avenue Highland Park, IL We would love to help bring your next event, meeting, or gathering to life.

Available rental spaces for your next event at...

Looking for the perfect space for your next event, meeting, celebration, concert, class, or gathering? Trinity Episcopal Church offers beautiful,...

North Shore School of Dance

For over 35 years, the North Shore School of Dance (NSSD) has been a leader in dance education and professional training. Our dedicated faculty provides high-quality instruction in a nurturing, disciplined, and inspiring environment. We strive to educate the mind, body, and soul—honoring the tradition of dance as an art form. At NSSD, we don’t just teach routines—we teach students how to dance. Our training builds confidence, discipline, and lifelong skills Classes are offered in ballet, pointe, modern, contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, lyrical, Pre-school dance, Mommy and me, and adult classes.

For over 35 years, the North Shore School of Dance (NSSD) has been a leader in dance education and professional training. Our dedicated faculty...

Nearby Communities

State Edition

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Events and Things to Do in Highland Park, IL

Saturday, July 11

Bob's Best Friends film benefit for PAWS Chicago Animal Rescue

JUL

11

6:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Also around town...

Please confirm event details with the organizers before attending

Wednesday, July 8

Friday, July 10

Saturday, July 11

Sunday, July 12

Saturday, July 18

Sunday, July 26

Thursday, July 30

Saturday, August 29

Sunday, August 30

Bob's Best Friends film benefit for PAWS Chicago Animal Rescue

Auntie Anne’s & Cinnabon Northbrook

YogaSix Highland Park

Available rental spaces for your next event at Trinity Church

North Shore School of Dance