Entertainment Calendar
What's happening in the county, the region and Chicago.
ART
McHenry County
ALGONQUIN COMMONS JURIED ART FAIR, seeking artists for the Sept. 19-20 art fair to take place at Algonquin Commons, 1900 S. Randall Road, Algonquin. An outdoor event featuring more than 80 stores and restaurants. Children’s activities. Music. Free admission. Entry deadline is July 3. Information: 312-310-9156 or eventconnection@comcast.net.
GALLERY IN THE GARDEN, fourth annual, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 25-26, 600 Lawndale Ave., Woodstock. Live music. Experience the work of local artists in a natural setting. Live musical entertainment. Food available. Portion of proceeds go to Turning Point, a domestic violence program. Free admission. Information: 815-337-0697 or www.galleryinthegarden.org.
MARENGO MAIN STREET SIDEWALK ART SHOW & GARAGE SALE, first, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 18, on the city parking lot at the corner of Highway 23 & East Prairie, Marengo. Featuring the work of more than 12 area artists, garage sale merchandise, new items, crafts, collectibles and designer purses. Presented by Marengo Main Street. Free admission. Information: 815-568-8440 or www.marengomainstreet.org.
MIDWEST FIBER & FOLK ART FAIR, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. July 17-18 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 19, McHenry County College. Celebration of the fiber arts featuring demonstrations, vendors, fashion show, music and food. Admission: $10 a day, $25 three-day pass available July 17 only, free for children 10 and younger. Workshop schedule and event information: 815-276-2537 or www.fiberandfolk.com.
OLD COURT HOUSE ARTS CENTER, 101 N. Johnson St., Woodstock, 815-338-4525 or www.oldcourthouseartscenter.com. Gallery hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. Schedule: through July 31, A Garden Party, Celebrating Art of the Garden galleries’ annual summer show.
WOODSTOCK OPERA HOUSE, 121 Van Buren St., 815-338-4212 or 815-338-5300. Hours: noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and during theater performances. Come and view a new exhibit each month presented by local artists in the Community Room of the Woodstock Opera House.
Regional
BARRINGTON AREA LIBRARY, 505 N. Northwest Highway, Barrington, 847-382-1300 or www.barringtonarealibrary.org. Gallery hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. Schedule: through July 18, Solo Fine Art Exhibit by Algonquin artist Jeanine Hill-Soldner.
GLENVIEW OUTDOOR ART FAIR, 56th annual, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 25-26, Lyon School grounds, Lake Avenue and Waukegan Road, Glenview. Juried art fair featuring original fine art for sale by more than 100 artists. Musical entertainment, children’s art activities, silent auction and food. Free admission. Sponsors: Glenview Art League and Glenview Chamber of Commerce. Information: 847-724-4007.
ILLINOIS INSTITUTE OF ART SCHAUMBURG, Ruth Ray Memorial Gallery, 1000 Plaza Drive, Schaumburg, 847-619-3450 or www.artinstitutes.edu/schaumburg. Gallery hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Schedule: through July 30, Wallflowers exhibit by Joe Turner.
NIEMI SCULPTURE GALLERY & GARDEN, 13300 116th St., Kenosha, Wis., 262-857-3456 or www.bruceniemi.com. Schedule: 2 to 6 p.m. July 25 and 1 to 5 p.m. July 26, Sizzlin’ Hot Sculpture Show.
PRANCING CAROUSELS, through September, downtown Lake Geneva, Wis. Summer-long public art exhibition featuring 26 life-size horses complete with carousel pole and 41 tabletop sculptures. The equine artwork will be displayed throughout the down area and area retailers and lodging establishments. Following the exhibition, the sculptures will be auctioned with proceeds benefiting Special Methods in Learning Equine Skills (SMILES). Information: 800-345-1020; www.lakegenevawi.com or www.prancingcarousels.com.
Chicago
2ND FRIDAYS GALLERY NIGHT, 6 to 10 p.m. second Fridays, featuring a myriad of works shown in 35 galleries in the Chicago Arts District surrounding South Halsted and 18th streets, Chicago. Free. Gallery listing, location map and information: 312-377-4444 or www.chicagoartsdistrict.org.
AN ARTS ADVENTURE, eighth annual, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 26, on the sidewalks of Superior, State, Wabash and Chicago beginning at Rush and Superior, Chicago. A juried art event. Free admission. Information: 312-751-2500 or 847-991-4748.
ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO, 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, 312-443-3600 or visit www.artic.edu. Hours: Memorial Day-Labor Day: 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday (with free admission after 5 p.m.), 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Target Free Thursdays 5 to 8 p.m. Admission: $12 adults; $7 for students and seniors, free for children younger than 12. Special exhibitions may require extra admission fee.
CHICAGO CULTURAL CENTER, 78 E. Washington St., Chicago, 312-742-1148, www.egov.cityofchicago.org. Viewing hours: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays. Free admission. Schedule: through Aug. 23, Photographs of the Aftermath of the Great Chicago Fire 1871; through Aug. 30, The Big World: Recent Art from China; through Sept. 27, The Cartoons of John T. McCutcheon: Chronicles of a Changing World in the Chicago Rooms; through Sept. 27, Tom Torluemke: After-Glow; through Oct. 4, Stateless: New Work by Nicole Gordon; through Oct. 4, Twisted Ambience: An Installation by Nnene Okore; through October 2010, Contemporary Sculptures from China exhibit in Millennium Park.
CITY GALLERY AT THE HISTORIC WATER TOWER, 806 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago. Hours: 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, closed all holidays. Free admission. Schedule: through Aug. 23, Photographs of the Aftermath of the Great Chicago Fire 1871. Information: 312-744-6630 or www.chicagoculturalcenter.org.
COLUMBIA COLLEGE CHICAGO, A&D Gallery, 619 S. Wabash Ave., Chicago, 312-369-8687 or www.colum.edu/adgallery. Hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday. Schedule: through July 22, Midwestern Blab!
AUDITIONS
Kane County
NOBLE FOOL THEATRICALS PERFORMING ARTS ACADEMY, July 20 to Aug. 21, Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles. Offering a variety of summer camps including “Hairspray,” “The Little Mermaid,” and more technique camps, “Peter Pan,” “Oliver” and a variety of other camps for children ages 3 to 18. Cost: $95-$195. For camp information, call: 630-443-0438 or visit www.noblefool.org.
RIVERFRONT PLAYHOUSE, July 27 through Aug. 2, 11-13 South Water Street Mall, Aurora. Registration now open for the July 27 through Aug. 2 summer theatre camp for children ages 8-12. Featuring an 11 a.m. Aug. 1-2 performance by the children. Cost: $120 includes two free tickets for the Aug. 1-2 shows. Registration and information: 630-879-3147 or e-mail: jenconnon@comcast.net.
RIVERSIDE CHORUS OF SWEET ADELINES, 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 401 W. Main St., West Dundee. Local barbershop singing chorus seeking women who like to sing. Rehearsals are like having voice lessons every week. Information: Lisa, 847-437-3310 or www.riversidechorus.com.
Regional
IMPROV PLAYHOUSE PERFORMING ARTS CAMPS, July 27 through Aug. 7, Improv Playhouse, 116 W. Lake St., 735 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville. Featuring Improv and Theater Games Camps. Registration and information: 847-968-4529 or www.improvplayhouse.com.
AUTO EVENTS
McHenry County
CARY CRUISE NIGHT, 6 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Aug. 19, West Main Street and Jandus Road, Cary. Schedule: July 22, Land Yachts, Minis and Macros Night; July 29, Cobra/Mustang Night; Aug. 5, GM Night; Aug. 12, Emergency and Military Vehicle/Truck Night; Aug. 19, People’s Choice - All Vehicles. No registration fee. Themed cars are judged. Information: 847-639-2800 or www.carygrovechamber.com.
CRUISE NIGHTS, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Fridays through Sept. 4, Heuer’s Restaurant and Dog n Suds Drive In, Route 12 one-half mile north of Route 173, Richmond. Period music by disc jockey Jeff James. Schedule: July 17, Kit Car; July 24, Pro street; July 31, Sports & Muscle Car; Aug. 7, Chevy; Aug. 14, Model A & T; Aug. 21, Imports, Aug. 28, Antique & Custom Truck; Sept. 4, Buick & Oldsmobile. Free. Information: 815-678-4040 or www.richmond-il.com.
KROOZERS CARS FOR KIDS, 13th annual, 5 to 9 p.m. Aug. 15, on the Square, Woodstock. Fundraiser for Youth Service Bureau featuring more than 300 classic cars and hotrods on display, raffles, 50/50 cash raffle, silent auction, disc jockey spinning 50/60s music, and food. Free admission. Sponsors: Sage Products and Other World Computing. Hosts: Kroozers of Northern Illinois and Youth Service Bureau. Information: 815-338-7360 or www.ysb4kids.org.
COMEDY
Kane County
COMEDYCOMEDY AT WALTER PAYTON’S ROUNDHOUSE COMPLEX, 205 N. Broadway Ave., Aurora, 630-906-2277 or www.walterpaytonsroundhouse.com. Live stand-up comedy. Showtimes: 8:30 p.m. Thursday & Friday, 8 p.m. Saturday. Doors open at 7 p.m. Admission: $15 for ages 21 and older. Reservations recommended. No drink minimum.
MIDWEST COMEDY SHOWCASE, Clearwater Theater, 96 W. Main St., West Dundee. Show designed to bring local stand-up comics to West Dundee. Hosted by Matt Drufke. Schedule: 8 p.m. every Thursday night (no holidays or on dates of major shows). Doors open 7 p.m.
ZANIES-PHEASANT RUN RESORT, on North Avenue, St. Charles, 630-513-1761 or www.zanies.com. Showtimes: 8 p.m. Wednesday & Thursday; 8 and 9:45 p.m. Friday; 7:30 and 9:45 p.m. Saturday. All shows require a two-item food/beverage minimum. Schedule: July 17-18, Butch Bradley; July 22-23 & 25, Ralphie Roberts and Mike Palascak; July 24, Rob Riggle; July 29-31, John Roy.
Regional
ARROWHEAD COMEDY NIGHTS, Arrowhead Restaurant and Bar, 26W151 Butterfield Road, Wheaton. Show time 7:30 p.m. Doors open 6:30 p.m. Schedule: July 30, Pat McGann and Tim Walkoe; Aug. 6, Brian Hick and Mike Toomey; Aug. 20, Tiffany Ellen and Bob Jay. Tickets: $18 a person. Other admission options available. Tickets and information: 630-510-7070 or www.arrowheadgolfclub.org.
BILL COSBY, tickets on sale for the 4 and 8 p.m. Nov. 14 performances, Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. Tickets: $39.50 to $75 at 800-982-2787, all Ticketmaster outlets or www.ticketmaster.com.
CHICAGO IMPROV, 5 Woodfield Road, Woodfield Mall Store K120B, Schaumburg, 847-240-2001 or www.symfonee.com/improv/chicago. Showtimes: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, 8 & 10:15 p.m. Friday, 7 & 9:15 p.m. Saturday, 7 p.m. Sunday. Schedule: July 17-19, Gary Owen (tickets $19, $22); July 23-26, Tony Rock (tickets $17, $19); July 30 through Aug. 2, Lynne Koplitz (tickets $17).
IMPROV PLAYHOUSE, Black Box Theater, 735 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville, 847-968-4529 or www.improvplayhouse.com. Schedule: 8 to 9 p.m. every Friday and Saturday, Therapeutic Funtillectuals and Lost Not Stolen comedy teams perform family-friendly improv comedy shows. Friday tickets: $5 adults, $3 seniors, military, students. Saturday tickets: $7 adults, $5 seniors, military, students.
LAKE COUNTY’S COMMUNITY COMEDY JAM, 8 p.m. July 18, Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. Featuring Sonya D, Tony Schulfield, Pierre and Honest John, Ray Lipowski and B-Cole, Arvin Mitchell and Corey Fernandez. Tickets: $38, $53 at 800-982-2787, all Ticketmaster outlets or www.ticketmaster.com.
MIDWEST COMEDY SHOWCASE ROADSHOW, Grillworks, 350 McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove. Produced, booked and hosted by Matt Drufke. Featuring a free show 10 p.m. first Saturdays of the month. Information: 815-762-9749; www.myspace.com/midwestcomedyshowcase or mattdrufke@hotmail.com.
ZANIES-VERNON HILLS, 230 Hawthorn Village Commons, 847-549-6030 or www.zanies.com. Showtimes: 8 p.m. Thursday; 8 and 9:45 p.m. Friday, 7 & 9:30 p.m. Saturday. Schedule: July 17-18, Jim Norton with special guest Amy Schumer; July 23-24, Larry Reeb; July 25, Rob Riggle; July 26, General Hospital Fan Event; July 30-31, John Caponera.
Chicago
BLUE MAN GROUP, Briar Street Theatre, 3133 N. Halsted St., Chicago, 773-348-4000. Daily performances. Performance times vary and subject to change. Tickets: $49-$64. Tickets and information: 312-902-1500 or www.ticketmaster.com.
COMEDYSPORTZ, Studio Playhouse at The Chicago Center for the Performing Arts, 777 N. Green St., Chicago, 312-733-6000 or www.comedysportzchicago.com. Improv comedy for all ages. 8 p.m. Friday; 6, 8 & 10 p.m. Saturday; 8 p.m. Sunday. Tickets: $21.
THE SECOND CITY, 1616 N. Wells St., 312-337-3992 or www.secondcity.com. Schedule: 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 8 & 11 p.m. Friday & Saturday, 7 p.m. Sunday, America: All Better! (Mainstage). Tickets: $20 Tuesday through Thursday & Sunday, $25 Friday & Saturday.
SKLAR BROTHERS, 7:30 & 10:30 p.m. July 24-25, Lakeshore Theater, 3175 N. Broadway St., Chicago. Tickets: $20 at 773-472-3492 or www.lakeshoretheater.com.
ZANIES-CHICAGO, 1548 N. Wells in Old Town, 312-337-4027 or www.zanies.com. Showtimes: 8:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday & Sunday; 8:30 & 10:30 p.m. Friday; 7, 9, & 11:15 p.m. Saturday. All shows require a two-item food/beverage minimum. Schedule: July 17-19, Mike Palascak; July 20, Rising Star Showcase; July 21-26, Butch Bradley; July 27, Rising Star Showcase; July 23, Rob Riggle; July 28-30, Donnell Rawlings; July 28, Greg Schwem; July 29-31, Mrs. Hughes.
DANCE
Kane County
DANCE CONNECTION, ballroom dance club meets 2 to 3:30 p.m. Sundays at St. Charles School of Dance, 1429 W. Main St., St. Charles. Newcomers always welcome ages 18 and older. Cost: $8 a person. Information: 630-202-3222 or e-mail: dupageflute@aol.com or www.chrisburdick.com.
McHenry County
B AND B SQUARE DANCE CLUB, Johnsburg Community Club, 2315 W. Church St., Johnsburg. Dances first and third Friday of every month. Rounds begin at 8 p.m., squares at 8:30 p.m. Cost: $4.50 members, $5 visitors. Information: 815-728-1026 or 847-395-1108.
DANCE! with Frank & Jackie Penze, ballroom, Latin and swing dance instructors, 847-639-8699. Cary Park District: 12:45-2:15 p.m. to Aug. 16, Beginning Swing, Rumba, Fox Trot, Tango; 2:30-4 p.m. Intermediate Swing, Fox Trot, Rumba, Tango; 4-5:30 p.m. Advanced Lindy Hop, American Tango, Rumba, Fox Trot, at Algonquin Township Hall (next to the Hollows), 3702 Route 14, Crystal Lake. Cost: $87 resident couple, $96 non-resident, 847-639-6100. Crystal Lake Park District: 7-8:15 p.m. or 8:15 to 9:30 p.m. to Aug. 19, Beginning Cha Cha, Waltz, Rumba, more Swing ; or 8:15 to 9:30 p.m. July 16 to Aug. 20, Intermediate with Cha Cha, American Tango, Rumba, more East Coast Swing, at Grand Oaks Recreation Center, 9001 Route 176 (next to Lippold Park). Cost: $99 couple resident, $149 couple non-resident. Call 815-459-0680 or www.crystallakeparks.org. Lake in the Hills Parks & Recreation Department: 6:30-7:30 p.m. July 24 to Aug. 28, Beginning Salsa, Waltz, Swing, Tango; 7:30-8:30 p.m. Intermediate Rumba, more Double Time Swing, Waltz, Samba ($70 resident, $80 non-resident); 8:30-10 p.m. Advanced Waltz, Salsa Samba, Rumba ($97 resident, $107 non-resident), at LaBahn-Hain House, 149 Hilltop Drive. Call 847-960-7460. McHenry Parks: 7 to 9 p.m. starting Sept. 26, workshop for Swing, Fox Trot, at Duker School, 73711 W. Kane Ave. Cost: $35 resident, $45 non-resident. Call 815-363-2160.
DANCING WITH THE MARENGO STARS, 7 p.m. Aug. 1, Marengo Community High School Auditorium, 110 Franks Road. Dance team competition sponsored by LTW Studio of Dance to benefit a newly established Dance Scholarship Fund for children. Audience participation is requested to determine the winners. General admission tickets: $7 adults, $5 ages 3-12 in advance; $9 adults, $7 ages 3-12 at the door. Tickets available at Levin’s Department Store, Covenant Baptist Church and LTW Studio of Dance. Tickets and information: 815-529-1520.
GREATER FOX VALLEY CHAPTER OF USA DANCE, A non-profit organization, designed to promote and sponsor amateur ballroom dancing for the general public. Information: Walt, 815-337-6860 or ok3wire@joltmail.com; Jackie, 847-639-8699, jackiepenze@aol.com or www.dancefoxvalley.org. Admission: $8 members, $10 seniors, $12 non-members. Dances take place 7:30 to 11 p.m. Saturdays at McHenry VFW Hall (Normandy Room), 3002 W. Route 120, McHenry. Dances include a free dance lesson at 7:30 p.m., cake and snacks. Dance schedule: July 18, Move It Merengue (Merengue lesson).
Regional
LET’S DANCE BIG BAND WEEKEND, fourth annual, July 17-19, Duke Ellington Ballroom at Northern Illinois University, DeKalb. Three styles of big band ballroom music: Midwest, Classic National, Chicago Roots. Refresh your waltz, fox trot, Latin or swing moves. Schedule: 8:15 to 11:15 p.m. Friday, 8 to 11 p.m. Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday. Also featuring 9 a.m. to noon Saturday dance lessons and family-time dance 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday. Per person activity rates: $10 balcony, $25 main floor, $6 lessons, $25 family for family time dance. Tickets and information: 815-758-1093 or www.justmakeithappen-dekalb.com.
FAMILY EVENTS
Kane County
CHARITY HOCKEY GAME, 6:30 p.m. July 18, Leafs Ice Centre, 801 Wesemann Drive, West Dundee. Backdrafts firefighters versus Enforcers law enforcement officers fundraiser game to benefit Anderson Animal Shelter in Elgin and Pioneer Center in McHenry. Silent auction and 50/50 raffle. Tickets: $10 ages 18 and older, $5 ages 13-17, free for children 12 and younger at 847-844-8700.
“HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL 2”: July 18 through Aug. 8, Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles. Disney’s favorite characters are back on stage in this Noble Fool Theatricals Youth Ensemble presentation about a summer adventure working at the Lava Springs Country Club. Schedule: 10:30 a.m. July 18 and Aug. 8; 1 p.m. July 25; 7 p.m. July 19 & 26. Tickets: $15 at 630-584-6342 or www.noblefool.org.
“KRAZY KAMP”: through July 19, Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W. Main St., St. Charles. Steel Beam Children’s Theatre musical presentation. A comical story about trouble at a boys camp that forces them to spend the week at the girls Camp Pocohontas, where gangsters and pranksters run rampant. Schedule: 7:30 p.m. July 17-18 and 3 p.m. July 19. Tickets: $12 adults, $10 children younger than 16 at 630-587-8521 or www.steelbeamtheatre.com.
McHenry County
ALGONQUIN FOUNDERS’ DAYS SPECIAL NEEDS EVENT, 4 to 6 p.m. July 23, Algonquin. During the Founders’ Days festival, American Legion, Lake in the Hills Post 1231 and Algonquin Founders’ Days Board has set aside the first two hours for special needs children and their families to attend the carnival free of charge. The carnival will not be open to the public during this time period. Refreshments will also be provided for the children. Information: 847-875-7104 or 815-451-7784.
“BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, JR.”: July 24-26, Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock. Woodstock Disney’s junior musical presented by Children’s Summer Theatre. Based on an old French fairy tale featuring students from grades four through eight. Schedule: 2 p.m. July 24 (all seats $6); 5:30 p.m. July 24, gala, dinner and show ($20 adults, $15 students); 2 p.m. July 25 (all seats $7); 3 p.m. July 26 (all seats $7). Tickets and information: 815-338-5300 or www.woodstockoperahouse.com.
CHAIN O LAKES EAGLES AIR SHOW, third annual, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 25, 5603 Pioneer Road, Ringwood. Radio-controlled airplane event featuring demonstrations, display of various models, flight training, raffle and more. Free admission. For information, visit: www.coleagles.com.
“GUYS AND DOLLS”: 7 p.m. July 17-18, Prairie Ridge High School Theater, 6000 Dvorak Drive, Crystal Lake. Northwest Community Music Academy musical comedy presentation. Tale of Nathan Detroit, the organizer of the oldest established permanent floating crap game in New York, who bets fellow gambler Sky Masterson that he can’t make the next girl he sees fall in love with him. Tickets: $15 adults, $10 seniors and students 12 and younger at 815-356-7464 or www.ncmusica.org.
KIDS’ DOG SHOW, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. July 25, Community Center Park across from the Community Center at 255 Briargate Road, Cary. Open to children ages 5-13 and their dogs. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Entry fee: $5 resident, $8 non-resident per child/dog. Host: Cary Park District. Registration and information: 847-639-6100 or www.carypark.com.
“MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING”: 7:30 p.m. July 18, Veteran’s Memorial Park, McHenry; 7:30 p.m. July 21-24; 1 & 6 p.m. July 26, Petersen Park, McHenry. Romantic comedy by William Shakespeare. Presented by Riverview Theatre Company. The festival kicks off with a two-hour Elizabethan faire 4 to 6 p.m. July 18. Free admission to the July 18 performance. July 21-26 tickets: $10 adults, $8 seniors and students at 815-354-7796 or www.riverviewtheatre.org.
“WEST SIDE STORY”: July 24 through Aug. 2, Huntley High School Performing Arts Center, 13719 Harmony Road, Huntley. By Arthur Laurent. Christian Youth Theater Chicago musical presentation. Story takes place on the streets of New York and the volatile turf between the Jets and the Sharks gangs. Schedule: 7 p.m. July 24-25; 3 p.m. July 26; 7 p.m. July 31 and Aug. 1; 3 p.m. Aug. 2. Tickets: $8-$12 in advance, $2 extra at the door. Tickets and information: 847-516-2298 or www.cytchicago.org.
Regional
BRISTOL RENAISSANCE FAIRE, through Sept. 7, 12550 120th Ave., Kenosha, Wis. Elizabethan faire with jousting matches, costumes musicians, carnival rides, shopping and more. Schedule: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays and Labor Day. Tickets: $16.95 adults in advance, $18.95 at the gate; $8 children ages 5-12 in advance, $9.50 at the gate, free for children younger than 5. Tickets: 877-772-5425. Information: 847-395-7773 or www.renfair.com/bristol.
“THE KING & I”: through July 26, Starlight Theatre at Rock Valley College, 3301 N. Mulford Road, Rockford. Based on “Anna and the King of Siam” by Margaret Landon. An English widow arrives at the Royal Palace in Bangkok, having been summoned by the King to serve as tutor to his many children and wives. He is largely considered to be a barbarian by those in the West and he seeks Anna’s assistance in changing his image, if not his ways. Schedule: 8 p.m. July 22-26. Tickets: $17 adults, $16 seniors and students at 815-921-2160 or www.rvcstarlight.com.
Chicago
“ALADDIN”: through Aug. 30, Courtyard Theater at Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier, 800 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Adaptation of Disney’s film presented by Chicago Shakespeare Theater. Aladdin and his friends must use their wits and three wishes to outsmart the villains and save the kingdom. Family musical recommended for ages 5 and older. Schedule: 11 a.m. Wednesdays; 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays. Tickets: $23 adults, $18 children ages 12 and younger. Group discounts available. Tickets and information: 312-595-5600 or www.chicagoshakes.com.
FESTIVALS & FAIRS
Kane County
WORLD OF FAERIES, fifth annual, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Aug. 1 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 2, Vasa Park, 35W217 Route 31, South Elgin. Music, fun, art and craft vendors, food and more for fairy and fantasy lovers. Rain or shine. Admission: $10 adults, $8 seniors, free for children 12 and younger. Information: 815-788-1630 or www.theworldoffaeries.com.
McHenry County
A WOODSTOCK TRIBUTE, Aug. 14-15, Galt Airport, Greenwood. Celebration of the 40th anniversary of the historic music and peace festival near Woodstock, New York in 1969. Information: www.tribute2woodstock.com.
ALGONQUIN FOUNDERS’ DAYS, July 23-26, Towne Park, 100 Jefferson St., Algonquin. “Founders’ Goes Mardi Gras” theme featuring Taste of Founders’, carnival, live music and entertainment, family activities and more. Schedule: 4 to 10 p.m. Thursday, 9 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Saturday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday (9 p.m. fireworks at Riverfront Park). Admission: $4 adults, $2 children ages 4-12, Sunday is free. Information: 847-658-5340 or www.algonquinfoundersdays.com.
AMERICAN LEGION’S BLUES & BBQ, noon to 10 p.m. July 18, American Legion, 315 Park Drive, Marengo. Barbecue and live music 1 to 10 p.m. featuring original Chicago blues bands. Rain or shine. Tickets: $20 in advance, $25 at the door, $15 Legion members and military with ID, $10 children ages 5-13, free for children younger than 5. Tickets and information: 815-568-0192 or www.post192.com.
BLAST ON THE BEACH & LIGHTS ON THE LAKE, Aug. 29, Main Beach, Crystal Lake. Antique and craft fair, Bingo on the Beach, music, food and boat parade. Information: 815-459-0680 or www.crystallakeparks.org/General-Info/foundation.htm.
FIESTA DAYS, through July 25, Petersen Park, 4300 Petersen Park Road and Veteran’s Memorial Park, 3400 Pearl St., McHenry. Includes performance by Gin Blossoms, Family Faith Nite, other events. Information: 815-385-4300 or www.mchenrychamber.com.
LAKE IN THE HILLS SUMMER SUNSET FESTIVAL, Sept. 4-6, Sunset Park, Lake in the Hills. Parade, carnival rides, craft show and fireworks. Information: www.summersunsetfest.com.
McHENRY COUNTY FAIR, Aug. 5-9, Woodstock. Annual fair celebrates 60 years with agricultural exhibits, food, entertainment and more. Information: 815-338-5310 or www.mchenrycountyfair.com.
MIDWEST FIBER & FOLK ART FAIR, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. July 17-18 and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 19, McHenry County College. Celebration of the fiber arts featuring demonstrations, vendors, fashion show, music and food. Admission: $10 a day, $25 three-day pass available July 17 only, free for children 10 and younger. Workshop schedule and event information: 815-276-2537 or www.fiberandfolk.com.
WOODSTOCK FOLK FESTIVAL, 24th annual, 12:30 to 6 p.m. July 19, on the Square, Woodstock. Musical performances by John Flynn, Magpie, The Jamie O’Reilly Trio, Still on the Hill, Trillium, Natalia Zukerman. Children’s activities and more. Suggested donation: $15 adults, $10 seniors and students, $25 families. Information: 815-479-9933 or www.woodstockfolkfestival.org.
WOODSTOCK JAZZ FESTIVAL, Aug. 21-22, Woodstock Square. Promotion of jazz music in all its diverse forms and colorful history at various businesses in the Square. Information: 847-340-8319 or www.jazzonthesquare.net.
WOODSTOCK MOZART FESTIVAL, Aug. 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, Woodstock Opera House. Guest conduct format enabling patrons to enjoy music of Mozart in different performance styles. Information: www.mozartfest.org.
Regional
BRISTOL RENAISSANCE FAIRE, through Sept. 7, 12550 120th Ave., Kenosha, Wis. Elizabethan faire with jousting matches, costumes musicians, carnival rides, shopping and more. Schedule: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays, Sundays and Labor Day. Tickets: $16.95 adults in advance, $18.95 at the gate; $8 children ages 5-12 in advance, $9.50 at the gate, free for children younger than 5. Tickets: 877-772-5425. Information: 847-395-7773 or www.renfair.com/bristol.
EDENS ART FAIR, 16th annual, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 18 and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 19, Edens Plaza, 3232 Lake Ave., Wilmette. Paintings, jewelry, glassworks and more. Free. Information: 312-751-2500 or www.americansocietyofartists.org.
FAMILY FUN FESTIVAL, fifth annual, 9 a.m. July 18, American Legion Post 489, 9054 Highway 34, Yorkville. Poker run, car show, children’s games, pig roast dinner, raffle, auctions, dancing, entertainment, tethered hot air balloon rides and more. Proceeds benefit Special Olympics. For information, visit: www.kcsofamilyandfriends.com.
FESTA ITALIANA, 32nd annual, 2 p.m. to midnight July 16 and 11:30 a.m. to midnight July 17-19, Henry W. Maier Festival Park on Milwaukee’s lakefront. Food, live music, entertainment and more. Tickets: $10 in advance, $12 at the gate. Information: 414-223-2808 or www.festaitaliana.com.
GLENVIEW OUTDOOR ART FAIR, 56th annual, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 25-26, Lyon School grounds, Lake Avenue and Waukegan Road, Glenview. Juried art fair featuring original fine art for sale by more than 100 artists. Musical entertainment, children’s art activities, silent auction and food. Free admission. Sponsors: Glenview Art League and Glenview Chamber of Commerce. Information: 847-724-4007.
ON THE WATERFRONT, Sept. 3-6, downtown Rockford. Charlie Daniels Band kicks off the festival. Information: 815-964-4388 or www.onthewaterfront.com.
WISCONSIN STATE FAIR, Aug. 6-16, Wisconsin State Fair Park, 640 S. 84th St., West Allis, Wis. Featuring livestock, agriculture, horticulture, carnival, music, food and more. Hours: 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to midnight Friday through Sunday. Admission: $9 adults, $6 seniors, $4 children ages 7-11, free for children 6 and younger. Information: 800-884-3247 or www.wistatefair.com.
Chicago
CHICAGO AIR & WATER SHOW, 51st annual, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 15-16, North Avenue Beach along Lake Michigan lakefront, 1600 N. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. Featuring a variety of air and water performers. Air show starts 11 a.m. Free. Information: 312-744-3315 or www.cityofchicago.org/specialevents.
CHICAGO OUTDOOR FILM FESTIVAL, sunset Tuesdays through Aug. 25, Butler Field at Grant Park, 100 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. Bring a blanket. Free. Information: 312-744-3315.
FIESTA DEL SOL, 37th annual, July 30 through Aug. 2, Pilsen neighborhood, 1400 W. Cermak Road, Chicago. Latin street fest of live music, dance classes, disc jockeys, carnival, arts and crafts, food and more. Free. Information: 312-666-2663.
GLENWOOD AVENUE ARTS FEST, eighth annual, noon to 8 p.m. Aug. 22-23, 6900-7000 N. Glenwood Ave. & 1400 block of Morse Ave., at Rogers Park in Chicago. Featuring 80 artist-vendors, 36 bands for all ages on three festival stages, food and more. Free. Information: 773-761-4477, Ext. 701 or www.glenwoodave.org.
MILWAUKEE AVENUE ARTS FESTIVAL, noon to 11 p.m. July 31 through Aug. 2, 2300 N. Milwaukee Avenue from California Avenue to Ridgeway Avenue, Chicago. Visual and performing arts, arts and crafts, farmers market, live music, food and more. Free. Information: 773-365-3535.
TASTE OF LINCOLN AVENUE, 26th annual, noon to 10 p.m. July 25-26, Lincoln Avenue from Fullerton to Wrightwood Avenues, Chicago. Street fest of more than 350 food vendors, carnival, children’s activities, live music and more. Admission: $7 before 4 p.m., $10 after 4 p.m. Information: 773-868-3010 or www.chicagoevents.com.
VENETIAN NIGHT, 52nd annual, 8:30 p.m. July 25, Monroe Harbor, 100 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. Lake Michigan procession of about 35 illuminated and decorated boats. Free. Information: 312-744-3315.
WICKER PARK FEST, sixth annual, noon to 10 p.m. July 25-26, Milwaukee Avenue between North Avenue and Wood Street, Chicago. Live music, local cuisine and arts and crafts vendors. Admission: $5. Information: 773-384-2672.
FILM
McHenry County
MOVIES IN THE PARK, Indian Oaks Park, 825 Indian Oaks Trail, Marengo. Movies begin 8:30 p.m. Free family movies sponsored by Marengo Park District. Bring lawn chairs and a blanket. Schedule: July 24, “Old Yeller;” July 31, “Swiss Family Robinson;” Aug. 7, “Field of Dreams;” Aug. 14, “Godzilla.” Information: 815-568-5126.
MOVIES IN THE PARK, Main Beach Band Shell, 300 Lakeshore Drive, Crystal Lake. Movies begin at dark. Free. Refreshments available. Sponsored by Crystal Lake Park District. Schedule: July 17, “Hotel for Dogs;” Aug. 21, “Bolt.” Information: 815-459-0680.
Chicago
GENE SISKEL FILM CENTER, 164 N. State St., Chicago. Information, movie times and tickets: 312-846-2600, www.siskelfilmcenter.org. Tickets: $9 adults, $7 students with ID, $5 film center members. Schedule: July 17, “In Search of Beethoven,” “Burma VJ,” “An Unlikely Weapon;” July 18, “In Search of Beethoven,” “King of the Hill,” “Out of Sight,” “Burma VJ;” July 19, “In Search of Beethoven,” “Burma VJ,” “An Unlikely Weapon;” July 20, “In Search of Beethoven,” “King of the Hill,” “Burma VJ;” July 21, “In Search of Beethoven,” “Burma VJ,” “An Unlikely Weapon;” July 22, “In Search of Beethoven,” “Out of Sight,” “Burma VJ;” July 23, “In Search of Beethoven,” “An Unlikely Weapon,” “Burma VJ.”
HENRY CROWN SPACE CENTER OMNIMAX, Museum of Science and Industry, 57th Street at Lake Shore Drive, 773-684-1414, 800-468-6674 or www.msichicago.org for show times and information. Admission: $20 adults, $19 seniors, $14 children ages 3 to 11 (includes museum admission). Tickets for museum and film must be purchased together. Schedule: through Sept. 27, “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince;” through Oct. 8, “Mysteries of the Great Lakes;” through Oct. 22, “Wild Ocean.”
INTERNATIONAL LATINO CULTURAL CENTER OF CHICAGO, 676 N. LaSalle St., Chicago, 312-431-1330 or www.latinoculturalcenter.org. Schedule: dusk through Aug. 19, Cine de El Parque (Film in the Park Summer Series). Free screenings at various venues. Visit web site for film listings and locations.
NAVY PIER IMAX THEATRE, 700 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Information: 312-595-5629 or www.imax.com/chicago. Call for showtimes. Tickets: $15 adults, $14 seniors, $13 children age 3-12; children age 2 and younger free. Schedule: through Sept. 7, “Under the Sea 3D;” “Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen: The IMAX Experience.”
MUSEUMS
Kane County
ELGIN AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM, 360 Park St., Elgin, 847-742-4248 or www.elginhistory.org. Hours: noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays March through December. Admission: $3 adults, $1 students, free for Society members.
ELGIN PUBLIC MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY AND ANTHROPOLOGY, Lords Park, 225 Grand Blvd., Elgin, 847-741-6655 or visit www.elginpublicmuseum.org. Winter hours: noon to 4 p.m. Saturday & Sunday, September through May. Summer hours: noon to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, closed Mondays to Sept. 1. Special interactive exhibits are featured, as well as a children’s discovery room. Educational programs and birthday parties available. Admission: $2 adults, $1.50 seniors, $1 children ages 3-11, free for children younger than 3.
FABYAN VILLA MUSEUM & JAPANESE GARDEN, Fabyan West Forest Preserve, Route 31 just north of Fabyan Parkway, Geneva, 630-377-6424 or www.ppfv.org. Hours: 1 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays, 1 to 4:30 p.m. Saturdays & Sundays through Oct. 15, 2009 (1 to 4 p.m. Thursdays, Kid’s Days June through August only). Japanese Garden open 1 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays, 1 to 4:30 p.m. Sundays through Oct. 15. Museum admission: $2 adults, $1 children. Garden museum: $1 a person.
FOX RIVER TROLLEY MUSEUM, Route 31, just south of State Street, South Elgin, 847-697-4676, or www.foxtrolley.org. Ride historic “L” and trolley cars on 103-year-old railroad along Fox River. Hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays (June through Labor Day), Sundays and holidays. One-ride fares: $3.50 adults, $2 seniors and children ages 3-11, free for children younger than age 3 or $7 all-day ticket.
GARFIELD FARM MUSEUM, 3N016 Garfield Road, 5 miles west of Geneva off Route 38, LaFox, 630-584-8485 or www.garfieldfarm.org. Hours: 1 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays and Sundays from June through September for drop-in tours. All other times by appointment year round. Guided tours: $3 adults, $2 children younger than 13. Schedule: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 18, Prairie Festival ($6 adults, $3 children); 6 p.m. July 18, Pastoral Summer Picnic Dinner & Sunset Contra Dance to restore the hay and grain barn ($75 a person); 9 a.m. to noon July 21-23, Garfield Farm Museum Camps for children ($75 per session).
GENEVA HISTORY CENTER, 113 S. Third St., Geneva, 630-232-4951 or www.genevahistorycenter.org. Hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday (April through December). Admission: $4 adults, $2 seniors, $1 children ages 3-16. Featuring changing exhibits, museum store and a public meeting room.
McHenry County
AUTO GALLERY MUSEUM, 2807 Route 12, Spring Grove, 815-675-3222 or www.autogallerymuseum.com. Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, closed Sunday. Featuring 35 to 50 antique and specialty vehicles on display for sale. Gift shop offers automotive art, signs, models, posters and other items. Old town yesterday Main Street with a display of a wide array of items from the past and selected craft items. Vendors welcome. Free admission. Donations accepted.
DONLEY’S WILD WEST TOWN, Route 20 & South Union Road, Union, 815-923-9000 or www.wildwesttown.com. Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends April, May, September and October; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily Memorial Day through Labor Day. Featuring a museum, Wild West Town with live action Wild West Show three times daily, pan for gold pyrite, pony rides, train ride, petting zoo, roping lessons, blacksmith, old time movies, shops, restaurant and more. Admission: $15 a person, free for children age 2 and younger when accompanied by a paying adult.
GREATER HARVARD AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY, 308 N. Hart, Harvard, 815-943-6141. Open 1:30 to 4 p.m. every Sunday from May to Oct. 30. Silent movies shown each Sunday. Special tours may be arranged. Call 815-943-6141 or 815-943-3561. Free admission. Donations accepted.
ILLINOIS RAILWAY MUSEUM, 7000 Olson Road, east of Union. Information: 815-923-4000; 800-BIG-RAIL or www.irm.org. For a brochure, call 815-923-4391. Operating schedule Sundays: 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. April through October 25; Saturdays: 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 2 through October 24; Weekdays: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Memorial Day to Labor Day. A museum in motion. The nation’s largest rail museum operating steam, diesel and electric trains. Featuring nearly 400 historic locomotives and railcars. Fares: $8 adults, $4 children, $25 families weekdays; $10 adults, $7 children, $38 families weekends April and October; $12 adults, $8 children, $45 families weekends May through September. Schedule: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 14-16 and Aug. 22-23, Day Out With Thomas 2009: The Hero of the Rails Tour. Tickets: $18 each for ages 2 and older.
McHENRY COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM, 6422 Main St., Union, 815-923-2267 or www.mchsonline.org. Hours: 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays and Sundays, May through October. Closed Saturdays. Through October: special programs and museum tours 7 to 9 p.m. on third Wednesday of month. Local history research library open year-round on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. by appointment. Heritage Quilters meet 9:30 a.m. each Wednesday year-round at the museum. Admission: $5 adults, $3 seniors and students, $12 per family (includes two family member adults and two or more children), free for society members. Featuring a new two-year exhibit titled “Arrival: the 1890s.”
Regional
BURPEE MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY, 737 N. Main St., Rockford, 815-965-3433 or www.burpee.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Housed in two historic mansions. Main exhibits include mammals, birds, insects, reptiles and amphibians, rocks and minerals, fossils and dinosaurs. Featuring the permanent exhibit Jane: Diary of a Dinosaur. Admission: $6 for resident adults ($7 non-resident), $5 for children ages 3-17 ($6 non-resident), free for members and children younger than 3, Wednesdays free to all.
CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN, 385-acre living museum, 1000 Lake Cook Road (a half mile east of the Edens Expressway), Glencoe. Open daily from 8 a.m. until sunset, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. through Sept. 7. Free admission. Parking $20, $7 for seniors on Tuesdays. Information: 847-835-6980 or www.chicagobotanic.org.
CIRCUS WORLD MUSEUM, 426 Water St., Baraboo, Wis., 608-356-0800 or www.circusworldmuseum.com. Museum conserves and exhibits the world’s largest collection of antique circus wagons. Admission: $7 adults, $6 seniors, $3.50 children ages 5-11, free for children 4 and younger in the off-season; $14.95, $12.95 and $7.95 during performance season.
CZECHOSLOVAK HERITAGE MUSEUM, 122 W. 22nd St., Oak Brook, 630-472-0500 or www.csafraternallife.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Highlighting the history and culture of the Czech Republic and Slovakia featuring a wide variety of displays and exhibits including authentic Czech, Moravian, and Slovak costumes, crystals and ceramics, historical exhibits, dolls and puppets, and needlework dating from 1850. Admission: $5 adults, $3 seniors and students, $10 per family, $3 a person in groups (five or more).
DISCOVERY CENTER MUSEUM, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, 815-963-6769 or www.discoverycentermuseum.org. A hands-on, family-oriented museum in Riverfront Museum Park. First outdoor museum park in the U.S., with exhibits about sound, weather, water, cave exploration, and a two-story maze. Also featuring a variety of home and after school classes. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $6 adults, $5 children ages 2 to 17, free for children younger than 2 and museum members. Schedule: 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. July 17, Creepy Crawlie Critters Family Day; through Sept. 13, Crime Lab Detective traveling exhibit. Also featuring a variety of Tot Spot classes and mini-camps for the summer months. Check the web site for details.
ERLANDER HOME MUSEUM, 404 South 3rd St., Rockford, 815-963-5559 or www.swedishhistorical.org. The cultural centerpiece of Rockford's Swedish-ancestry community. Hours: 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $5 adults, $4 seniors, $3 children ages 3-17, $15 family (two adults with children).
FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT HOME AND STUDIO TOURS, 951 Chicago Ave., Oak Park, 708-848-1976, www.gowright.org. This historic house museum, operated by the Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust, served as Wright’s residence, studio and architectural laboratory during the first twenty years of his career from 1889 to 1909. Oak Park contains the world’s largest concentration of Wright-designed structures, 26 in all. Daily guided tours 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. weekdays, 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. weekends (Thursday tours 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Aug. 27, with museum shop open to 7 p.m.) Interior house tour admission: $15 adults, $12 seniors and youth ages 4-17, free for children ages 3 and younger. Other tour packages available.
FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT’S ROBIE HOUSE, 5757 S. Woodlawn, Hyde Park, 708-848-1976, www.gowright.org. Tours by the Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust offer both a first-hand experience of its amazingly contemporary spaces and the current restoration work that is returning the house to its original magnificence in preparation of the home’s 100th annivesary in 2010. To accommodate the magnitude of interior restoration construction and maintain a safe guest environment, tour offerings at the Robie House will be limited through Oct. 31, 2009. Public tours will be conducted 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Other tour packages available. New programming for Robie House will offer public access from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Thursday through Monday from July through December. Interior house tour admission: $15 adults, $12 seniors and youth ages 4-17, free for children ages 3 and younger.
HISTORIC AUTO ATTRACTIONS, 13825 Metric Drive, Roscoe, 815-389-7917 or www.historicautoattractions.com. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Memorial Day to Labor Day, weekends after Labor Day. Admission: $10 adults, $8 seniors, $6 students ages 6-15, free for children younger than 6. Tour rates available. Come take a journey through time and enjoy more than 70 historic vehicles and hundreds of pieces of history that takes you beyond the concept of most auto museums. Visit the John F. Kennedy Display. See the secret service limo from the Kennedy assassination, Richard Petty’s oldest existing car, Batmobiles, Ghostbusters, Elvis’ car & memorabilia, cars of gangsters like Al Capone and Bonnie and Clyde, Grateful Dead tour bus and more.
KOHL CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview, 847-832-6600 or www.kohlchildrensmuseum.org. Hours: 9:30 a.m. to noon Monday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $7.50 adults and children, $6.50 seniors, free for children younger than 1 and members.
LAKE COUNTY DISCOVERY MUSEUM, Lakewood Forest Preserve, 27277 Forest Preserve Drive (Route 176 and Fairfield Road), Wauconda, 847-968-3400 or www.lakecountydiscoverymuseum.org. Hours: 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $6 adults, $2.50 children ages 4-17, free for children 3 and younger and members.
MIDWAY VILLAGE & MUSEUM CENTER, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford, 815-397-9112 or www.midwayvillage.com. Hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday (May), 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday (June through August), closed Mondays. General admission: $6 adults, $4 children ages 3 to 17, free for members. Event admission: $6 adults, $4 children ages 3 to 17. A turn-of-the-century reconstructed village on 134 acres, including a church, school, town hall, blacksmith shop, bank, jail, hospital, farmhouse, hardware store, plumber’s shop and water-powered machine shop. Schedule: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 18-19, Love in Bloom: Courtship, Weddings and More.
MIDWEST MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY, 425 W. State St., Sycamore, 815-895-9777 or www.mmnh.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday and holidays. Admission: $5 adults, $4 seniors and children ages 12 and younger and groups of 20 or more, free for children ages 2 and younger.
MILWAUKEE ART MUSEUM, 700 N. Art Museum Drive, 414-224-3220 or www.mam.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursdays. General Admission: $12 adults, $10 seniors and students, free for children 12 and younger accompanied by an adult, free for members. Feature exhibit tickets: $12 adults, $10 seniors and active duty military, free for children 12 and younger and members. Schedule: through October, Sensory Overload: Light, Motion, Sound and the Optical in Art since 1945.
MILWAUKEE PUBLIC MUSEUM, 800 W. Wells St., Milwaukee, 414-278-2700 or www.mpm.edu. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Closed July 4, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Admission: $11 adults, $10 seniors age 60 and older, $10 children ages 3-17, $8 children ages 3-12, free for children age 2 and younger and museum members.
MORTON ARBORETUM, 4100 Route 53, Lisle, 630-719-2400, 630-968-0074 or www.mortonarb.org. An outdoor 1,700-acre museum with collections of several thousand varieties of trees, shrubs and other plants from around the world. Open daily. Hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. or sunset, whichever is earlier. Admission: $11 adults ($7 on Wednesday), $10 seniors ($6 on Wednesday), $8 ($5 on Wednesday) children ages 2-17, free for children younger than 2 and members. Schedule: 3 to 5:30 p.m. weekends July and August, “Charlotte’s Web” Theatre-Hike debuts (tickets $10-$25); through Nov. 15, Animal Houses exhibition.
NAPER SETTLEMENT, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville, 630-420-6010 or www.napersettlement.org. A 19th century living history museum. The 13-acre village has 30 historic structures, including a Victorian mansion, homes, businesses, a log house, fort, chapel and one-room schoolhouse. Summer hours April through October: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $8 adults, $7 seniors, $5.50 children ages 4-17, free for members.
VOLO AUTO MUSEUM, 27582 W. Volo Village Road, near intersection of Route 120 & Route 12, Volo, 815-385-3644 or www.volocars.com. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas). Admission: $9 adults, $7 seniors, veterans and active military personnel, $5 children ages 5-12, free for children younger than 5. Group rates. American Classic Shop offers unique auto-related books, clothing, toys and gifts, popcorn and candy. Free parking. Car museum includes more than 300 vintage collector and Hollywood cars.
Chicago
ADLER PLANETARIUM, 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, 312-922-7827 or www.adlerplanetarium.org. Museum of astronomy and space exploration featuring astronomer gallery talks, exhibits, astronomy artifacts, sky shows and more. Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Memorial Day through Labor Day, 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. first Fridays. General admission (exhibits only): $10 adults, $8 seniors, $6 children 4-17; Galaxy Package: $19 adults, $17 seniors, $15 children 4-17, includes admission and one Sky Show; Universe Package: $23 adults, $21 seniors, $19 children 4-17, includes admission and two sky shows. Schedule: through Dec. 31, Telescopes: Through the Looking Glass.
ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO, 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, 312-443-3600. (See Art section for exhibits.)
CHICAGO CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, 700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, 312-527-1000 or www.ChiChildrensMuseum.org. Interactive exhibits for children. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday evenings. Admission: $10 adults and children, $9 seniors, free for children younger than age 1. Permanent exhibitions: Dinosaur Expedition; The Inventing Lab; WaterWays; Allstate Foundation presents Play it Safe; Kovler Family Schooner; Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows for PlayMaze; Treehouse Trails, Artabounds Studio and Gallery; Kids on the Fly (located at O’Hare International Airport). Target Free First Mondays when children ages 15 and younger receive free museum admission first Mondays of every month. Kraft Free Family Night 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday evenings (free admission for everyone).
CHICAGO HISTORY MUSEUM, Clark Street and North Avenue, 312-642-4600 or www.chicagohistory.org. Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, Friday & Saturday; 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday; noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $14 adults, $12 seniors and students ages 13-22, free for children 12 and younger. Free general admission Mondays. Permanent exhibitions: A House Divided: America in the Age of Lincoln; We the People: Creating a New Nation; Richard H. Needham Chicago History Galleries; Illinois Pioneer Life and Fort Dearborn; On the Paper Trail; Hands-On History Gallery; Voices from History. Featuring courtroom drawings from the 1968 Chicago Seven Conspiracy Trial by Franklin McMahon. Schedule: 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. July 22, screening of “Cheaper By the Dozen;” through July 26, Chic Chicago: Couture Treasures from the Chicago History Museum; through Aug. 16, Lincoln Treasures; through Jan. 4, Bertha Honoré Palmer.
THE FIELD MUSEUM, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, 312-922-9410 or www.fieldmuseum.org. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. General admission: $15 for adults; $12 seniors and students with ID; $10 children ages 3-11 (Gold Pass and Platinum Pass ticket options available). Permanent exhibits: What is an Animal? Africa; Sue the Tyrannosaurus rex; Inside Ancient Egypt; Nature Walk; Underground Adventure; Pawnee Earth Lodge; Pacific Spirits; Evolving Planet; The Ancient Americas; Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice DNA Discovery Center and many other exhibits. Schedule: through July 19, Sacred Waters: India’s Great Kumbha Mela Pilgrimage; through Sept. 7, Road to Freedom: Photographs of the Civil Rights Movement 1956-1968; through Sept. 20, Water; through Oct. 25, Real Pirates: The Untold Story of the Whydah from Slave Ship to Pirate Ship; through July 12, 2010, Travels of the Crow: Journey of an Indian Nation.
GARFIELD PARK CONSERVATORY, 300 N. Central Park Ave., Chicago, 312-746-5100 or www.garfield-conservatory.org. Featuring the Sugar from the Sun new permanent exhibit. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, Wednesdays until 8 p.m. Free admission.
HANCOCK OBSERVATORY, 875 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, 888-875-8439 or www.hancock-observatory.com. Hours: 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. General admission tickets: $15 adults, $14 seniors 62 years and older, $10 children ages 4-11, free for children age younger than 4.
MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART, 220 E. Chicago Ave., 312-280-2660 or www.mcachicago.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday. Closed Mondays, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Admission: $12 adults, $7 students and seniors, free for children 12 and younger, members of the military and museum members. Target Free Tuesdays 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY PHOTOGRAPHY, Columbia College Chicago, 600 S. Michigan Ave., 312-663-5554 or www.mocp.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays & Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Free admission. Schedule: July 17 through Sept. 13, MP3II: Curtis Mann, John Opera, Stacia Yeapanis exhibition.
MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY, 57th Street and Lake Shore Drive, 773-684-1414; 800-GO-TO-MSI or www.msichicago.org. Summer hours: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sunday (through Sept. 7). General admission: $13 adults, $12 seniors, $9 children ages 3-11, free for children younger than 3. Other packages available. Permanent exhibits: Petroleum Planet; The Great Train Story; Toymaker 3000; U-505 Submarine; Earth Revealed; Fast Forward. Special exhibits: Networld; Ships through the Ages; Reusable City; and more. Schedule: through Sept. 27, Harry Potter: The Exhibition; through Jan. 3, 2010, Smart Home: Green and Wired, Powered by ComEd (tickets $23, adults, $22 seniors, $14 children 3-11 includes museum general admission).
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF MEXICAN ART, 1852 W. 19th St., Chicago, 312-738-1503 or www.nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, closed Monday. Free admission. Performance festivals are ticketed. Permanent exhibition: Mexicanland: Our Past is Present. Schedule: through Aug. 30, Miradas: Mexican Art from the Bank of America Collection.
NOTEBAERT NATURE MUSEUM, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago, 773-755-5100 or www.naturemuseum.org. Hours: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Admission: $9 adults, $7 seniors and college students with ID, $6 children ages 3-12, free on Thursdays. Featuring permanent exhibits such as The Extreme Green House and Hands-on Habitat.
RICHARD H. DRIEHAUS MUSEUM, 40 E. Erie St., Chicago, 312-932-8665 or www.driehausmuseum.org. Housed in the historic Samuel Mayo Nickerson Mansion, built from 1879 to 1883, the museum is a showcase for late 19th and early 20th century art and design. The Marble Palace, as the house became known, was one of the grandest residential buildings of the 19th century Chicago. Museum is open Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays for tours at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Admission: $25 adults, $17.50 seniors, $12.50 students with valid ID and children ages 12 to 16. Due to the fragile nature of the historic interiors, children younger than age 12 are not admitted and those younger than 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
SHEDD AQUARIUM, 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, 312-939-2438 or www.sheddaquarium.org. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends. Featuring Caribbean Reef Dives and Wild Reef Dives, Fantasea, Animal Encounters, Camp Shedd and more. The 4-D theater features “Planet Earth: Shallow Seas,” and “SpongeBob SquarePants” shows. Shedd pass admission: $17.95-$24.95. Visit the web site for other admission options. Schedule: 7 p.m. to midnight July 25, 3rd Annual BLU 2009 Oceanarium Reimagined gala party by the lake on Venetian Night. Tickets: $125 a person.
SWEDISH AMERICAN MUSEUM CENTER, 5211 N. Clark, Chicago, 773-728-8111 or www.samac.org. E-mail: museum@samac.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission: $4 adults, $3 seniors, students and members, free for children younger than 1 year, $10 family rate. Free admission second Tuesday of every month.
UKRAINIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM, 2249 W. Superior St., Chicago, 312-421-8020 or www.ukrainiannationalmuseum.org. Hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, by appointment only Monday through Wednesday. Admission: $5 adults, free for children younger than 12.
SINGLES EVENTS
Kane County
INTRO2SINGLES, western suburbs’ premier event planning company for singles events such as dating parties, social mixers and wine tastings. No membership fee. Information: 630-845-8684. Calendar of events: www.intro2singles.com.
ST. CHARLES SINGLES CLUB, LTD., a social non-profit group welcomes ages 30 and older to dances at Riverside Receptions, 35 N. River Lane, Geneva. Dances are 7 to 11 p.m. on second, fourth and fifth Mondays. Lessons available at 6:30 p.m. Proper attire required. Admission: $6 members, $8 non-members on second and fourth Mondays; $8 members, $10 non-members on fifth Mondays with live band. Information: 630-340-6647 or www.stcharlessinglesclub.com.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Kane County
CHARITY HOCKEY GAME, 6:30 p.m. July 18, Leafs Ice Centre, 801 Wesemann Drive, West Dundee. Backdrafts firefighters versus Enforcers law enforcement officers fundraiser game to benefit Anderson Animal Shelter in Elgin and Pioneer Center in McHenry. Silent auction and 50/50 raffle. Tickets: $10 ages 18 and older, $5 ages 13-17, free for children 12 and younger at 847-844-8700.
SUPER SLEUTH “HUNNY” POT HUNT, 11 a.m. July 18, Disney Store at Spring Hill Mall, 1036 Spring Hill Mall, West Dundee. Children ages 3 and older invited to participate in a scavenger hunt through the store. Upon completion, participants will receive a free super sleuth mask and certificate. Information: 847-426-0177.
McHenry County
ALGONQUIN FOUNDERS’ DAYS SPECIAL NEEDS EVENT, 4 to 6 p.m. July 23, Algonquin. During the Founders’ Days festival, American Legion, Lake in the Hills Post 1231 and Algonquin Founders’ Days Board has set aside the first two hours for special needs children and their families to attend the carnival free of charge. The carnival will not be open to the public during this time period. Refreshments will also be provided for the children. Information: 847-875-7104 or 815-451-7784.
CHAIN O LAKES EAGLES AIR SHOW, third annual, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 25, 5603 Pioneer Road, Ringwood. Radio-controlled airplane event featuring demonstrations, display of various models, flight training, raffle and more. Free admission. For information, visit: www.coleagles.com.
CONCERT & BARNDANCE, July 17-18, Emricson Park, 1313 Kishwaukee Valley Road, Woodstock. Gavers Community Cancer Foundation 10th anniversary fundraiser featuring a 7 p.m. July concert by Pat Green; and 5 p.m. to midnight July 18 barbecue buffet dinner, live auction, dancing, raffles and music by Denny Diamond, Spazmatics and Hans and the Hormones. Must be age 21 or older to attend. Concert tickets $29 at: 800-754-3000, all Ticketmater outlets or www.ticketmaster.com. Dance tickets: $50 a person. Raffle tickets: $5 each or five for $20. Proceeds benefit cancer education, treatment and research. Barndance tickets available at American Community Bank & Trust at their Crystal Lake, Huntley, McHenry or Woodstock locations; call 815-338-2300 or visit www.gavers.org.
CURB THE HUNGER MOTORCYCLE RUN, 8:30 a.m. July 26, Faith Community Church, 10547 Faith’s Way, Huntley. A 126-mile round-trip ride through scenic north central Illinois. First bike out 10:30 a.m. Live entertainment, food, raffles and more follow the ride. All proceeds benefit the Faith Community Food Pantry. Donation: $25 per bike/rider, $15 per passenger plus a non-perishable food donation. Information: 224-569-6501 or 224-523-1608.
KIDS’ DOG SHOW, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. July 25, Community Center Park across from the Community Center at 255 Briargate Road, Cary. Open to children ages 5-13 and their dogs. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Entry fee: $5 resident, $8 non-resident per child/dog. Host: Cary Park District. Registration and information: 847-639-6100 or www.carypark.com.
McHenry County - Ongoing
MORAINE HILLS STATE PARK & McHENRY DAM, 1510 S. River Road, between Routes 120 & 176, McHenry, 815-385-1624 (park information); 815-344-1294 (registration); www.dnr.state.il.us/lands/landmgt/parks or e-mail: dnr.volobog@illinois.gov. An Illinois Department of Natural Resources site. Registration required. Schedule: 8 a.m. July 18, Bird Walk at McHenry Dam; 10 a.m. to noon July 25, Moraine Meanders at Moraine Hills State Park at Whitetail Prairie Parking.
Regional
ANNAPALOOZA, 3 to 9 p.m. July 18, Community Fellowship Church, 28W240 North Ave., West Chicago. Music festival fundraiser featuring Bruce Swift and Friends, Heavier Things, The Preamble and Reilly bands, games for all ages, food and raffles. Free admission. Activities and raffle items require ticket purchases. Host: Anna O’Connor of Wheaton. Proceeds benefit Neuroblastoma pediatric cancer research. For information, visit: or www.annahope.com.
Regional - Ongoing
KLEHM ARBORETUM & BOTANIC GARDEN, 2715 S. Main St., Rockford, 815-965-8146 or www.klehm.org. Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Labor Day through Memorial Day, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Memorial Day through Labor Day. Admission: $6 adults, $3 srniors and childen age 3-18, free for children 2 and younger. Master gardeners will be on site noon to 3 p.m. every Saturday to answer gardening and plant-related questions. Featuring 1, 3 & 3 p.m. Wednesday & Sunday docent-led 45-minute riding tours ($8 per rider).
SIX FLAGS GREAT AMERICA, 1 Great American Parkway (Interstate 94 at Route 132), Gurnee, 847-249-2133 or www.sixflags.com/greatamerica. Admission: $54.99, $34.99 children under 48 inches, free for children 2 and younger (online discount $15 off admission $39.99 through Aug. 9). Parking: $15. Following events are free with general admission: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. July 18, Deaf and Hard of Hearing Day; 7 p.m. July 22, Sean Kingston; 5 p.m. July 31, Summer Concert with Boys Like Girls, Gym Class Heroes, The Veronicas and The Academy Is.
VOLO BOG STATE NATURAL AREA, 28478 W. Brandenburg Road, west off Route 12 between Routes 120 & 134, Ingleside, 815-344-1294; www.dnr.state.il.us/lands/landmgt/parks or e-mail: dnr.volobog@illinois.gov. An Illinois Department of Natural Resources site. Site open daily 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. through Labor Day. Visitor Center open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Guided tours 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. most Saturdays and Sundays. Registration required. Schedule: 7:30 p.m. July 17, Astronomy Night meeting and presentation; July 18-19, Friends of Volo Bog member’s field trip; 8 a.m. July 25, Bird Walk; noon to 4 p.m. July 26, International Bog Day open house; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday through Aug. 7, Summer Bog Art Show, with a noon to 1 p.m. July 26 artists’ reception (as part of International Bog Day celebration).
ZOOS
Regional
BROOKFIELD ZOO, 31st Street and First Avenue, Brookfield, 708-485-0263 or www.brookfieldzoo.org. Featuring more than 2,000 exotic and familiar animals on 216 acres. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission: $12 adults, $8 seniors and children 3-11, free for zoo members and children 2 and younger. Parking: $8.
Chicago
LINCOLN PARK ZOO, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, 312-742-2000 or www.lpzoo.org. General hours: Grounds 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. buildings and farm 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Houses more than 2,000 birds, mammals and reptiles, including the world’s largest collection of gorillas in the great ape house. Also, orangutans, chimpanzees, a children’s petting zoo and Farm-in-the-Zoo. Free admission. There is a charge for parking.
