Annual Events

Annual Events
 
 Winter
 
 January

 Indoor Sidewalk Sale, Glen Ellyn
 Brave the cold and find savings up to 75 percent in many Glen Ellyn stores! Visit downtownglenellyn.com.

Ice A Palooza  | January/February, Wheaton
Ice-A-Palooza is a free outdoor event featuring skating, entertainment, a food truck, character visits and more! This event hosted by the Wheaton Park District takes place at the Central Athletic Complex. For more information, visit wheatonparkdistrict.com.

Winter Wine Walk, Wheaton
Sip, stroll and shop your way through Downtown Wheaton while tasting fine wines.  You will enjoy 12 1-oz. tastings in your souvenir wine glass at various downtown merchants. The Wheaton Winter Wine Walk happens rain, snow or shine. For more information, visit downtownwheaton.com.

Queen of Hearts Parent/Child Dance
Spend an unforgettable evening with your child at the Queen of Hearts themed dance. Enjoy sweet treats, music and fun activities.  During the event, strike a pose in the photo booth for a keepsake to remember.  Visit dpparks.org for more information.

Snowball Slam 3V3 Basketball Tournament
 Get ready to heat up the winter chill with a Snowball Slam 3V3 Basketball tournament. Join us for a high-energy basketball event where teams of three battle it out on the court for ultimate bragging rights and awesome prizes.  Whether you are a weekend warrior or a seasoned player, this tournament promises fierce competition, thrilling games and plenty of fun. Visit dpparks.org for more information.
 
February
Chocolate, Cheese and Wine, Glen Ellyn
 Enjoy an evening of wine, chocolate and cheese tastings from around the world. The admission ticket includes a souvenir wine glass, tastings of over 35 wines, as well as chocolate and cheese. In addition, local Glen Ellyn restaurants will be showcasing a sample off their menu. This event will be held at Reserve 22 at Village Links. Call 630-469-0907.
 
Lombard Park District Winter Carnival
 Don’t let cabin fever give your family the winter blues! Enjoy some cheer with a FREE carnival! Be sure to bundle up because this is an indoor/outdoor event full of hot cocoa, games, crafts, sledding, and much more! Enjoy a ride on the Gold Medal Express train (weather permitting), and an afternoon with friends and family. Located at Sunset Knoll Recreational Center. Visit lombardparks.com.
 
Ice Art Festival, Wheaton
Enjoy a family winter tradition in Downtown Wheaton! Stroll through Downtown Wheaton to view the many custom-carved ice sculptures and enjoy a live ice carving demonstration. For more information, see the Downtown Wheaton Association's website at www.downtownwheaton.com.
 
 March
 Lombard Park District Take Time For Tots Day
Lombard Park District’s Take Time for Tots Day is jam-packed with activities for tots, preschoolers to age 8 and their family on Saturday, March 21, from 10:00 am-12:00 pm at Sunset Knoll Recreation Center, 820 S. Finley Rd., Lombard. Tots will make arts and crafts, jump in the bounce house, ride a pony, sing songs, play music, and more. Visit lombardparks.com.

Casino Night, Wheaton
Casino Night brings glitz, glam, and gambling to the DuPage County Historical Museum. Enjoy a night of Vegas-style craps, money wheel, and Texas Hold’em. For more information, visit wheatonparkdistrict.com.

 Spring
 
 April

 Glen Ellyn Park District’s Annual Eggs-trordinary Egg Hunt
 Featuring more than 4,000 treat-filled eggs hidden within a designated area at the park, the kids will have a blast filling their baskets. Participants that find the special eggs will be awarded an exciting prize! As always, the Easter Bunny himself will make a special appearance for photos, so don’t forget to bring your camera! The Park District will also have photos available for download following the event. Visit geparks.org.

 Lombard Park District Annual Egg Hunt and Lunch With the Bunny
 Hop into spring with a FREE egg hunt! Bring a basket to Lombard Commons, and get ready to seek eggs, prizes, and candy. Mr. Bunny may even make a guest appearance. Parents are allowed to accompany children but not to assist in the collection of eggs. Then, Mr. Bunny will be very hungry after the Egg Hunt, so he is throwing a luncheon! Mr. Bunny will be posing for photos with each child for a complimentary keepsake. Families can enjoy pizza, sandwiches, “carrot juice,” s’mores, and much more. The egg hunt is open to all. Visit lombardparks.com.

Celebrate Easter, Celebrate Spring, Wheaton
It's the Wheaton annual Celebrate Easter, Celebrate Spring event. Festivities will begin with the annual Easter Egg Hunt, immediately followed by the Easter Bonnet Contest for children in the bandshell. Next, enjoy Easter Bunny Train Rides around Memorial Park, and stay for entertainment by Miss Jamie’s Farm at the bandshell. For more information, visit downtownwheaton.com.
 
Glen Ellyn ark District 2K Glow Run/Walk
On your mark, get set, glow!   This 1.25 mile nighttime fun run/walk for all ages features light-up color stations, and pre- and post glow parties with a DJ.  Visit gepark.org.

Wheaton Superhero Fun Run 5K
Join us for this exciting 5K where all of your favorite Superheroes will descend on Wheaton to show their support for the Play for All Playground and Garden Foundation and Rotary Charities. Every superhero and age is welcome to participate, so throw on your Superman cape, Wonder Woman tiara, or Captain America shield and join us for this fantastic 5K!  After the run, stick around for music, character meet and greets and more fun!  wheatonparkdistrict.com.
 
Wheaton Farmers' Market
Flowers, locally grown produce, jewelry, crafts and more are sold from 8 am to 2 pm each Saturday through October at Wheaton's French Market. The outdoor market is at Main Street and Liberty Drive in downtown Wheaton.
 
May
 
 Glen Ellyn Park District Touch-A-Truck
 Want to explore the big trucks you see driving around town?  Touch-A-Truck offers you the chance to climb aboard these large vehicles commonly spotted on the road and at construction sites.  You can also interact with the drivers and snap photos.  Maryknoll Park, Glen Ellyn. Visit gepark.org.

Downtown Lisle Car Shows
 These fun and family-friendly events are the perfect way to enjoy warm, summer nights. During events, Main Street, Burlington Avenue and a portion of the Commuter Parking Lots are transformed into a block party where unique cars are displayed. Enjoy music, food, beverages, prizes, raffles and more. May through September.  Visit villageoflisle.org.

Lilac Time Festival
 The Lombard Park District’s Lilacia Park is an 8.5-acre horticultural showcase featuring 700 lilacs and 25,000 tulips! All ages will enjoy a stroll through the park or one of our many special events. From tastings to tours and concerts to coronation, there is something for everyone during Lilac Time. Visit lombardlilactime.com.

Cream of Wheaton
Join us for four days of fun in Memorial Park!  Event includes live music, a beer garden, a business expo, arts and crafts, food vendors and a carnival!  This event takes place in partnership with the Wheaton Chamber of Commerce.   Visit wheatonparkdistrict.com to learn more.
 
Go Fly A Kite, Wheaton
Go Fly A Kite is a free event held in Wheaton’s Graf Park that encourages the community to come out and enjoy spring and fly kites! Whether you’re an avid kite flyer or taking the family out for the first time, this is a great event for young and old. Watch kite demonstrations, and participate in our Grand Launch. Concessions will be available along with activities, kite sales, and a small business expo. Bring your own kite or purchase one at the event. For more information, visit wheatonparkdistric.com.
 
Memorial Day Parades
Lisle, 10am
Wheaton, 10am
 
Summer
 
 June
Carol Stream Summer Concert Series
 This series of outdoor, evening concerts, help primarily on Thursday nights, provide free, fun entertainment that the whole family can enjoy. Held at the Ross Ferraro Town Center (960 N. Gary Ave. Carol Stream, IL 60188), the concerts typically from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m.  Visit carolstream.org.

Wheaton Summer Music Series
 Enjoy musical concerts and performances spanning a variety of musical genres featuring both local and national talet at Wheaton’s Memorial Park.  Performances are hosted on various weekends June-September from 6pm-9:30pm.  Learn more at memorialparkwheaton.com.

Lombard's Cruise Nights and Summer Concerts
 Cruise Nights in Downtown Lombard is a fun time for friends, family, and neighbors to enjoy unique and classic cars, and outdoor live music. Cruise Nights 2109 will take place from 6-10 pm on Saturday nights, from June through August, with music scheduled from 6:30-9:30 pm. The event takes place throughout downtown Lombard, and the live concerts are at the intersection of Park Avenue and Michael McGuire Drive. Visit villageoflombard.org.

Downers Grove Park District Summer Concert Series
Free Concerts Tuesday evenings featuring a variety of music genres and talent.  Shows run from 7pm-8:30pm June through August.  Visit dgparks.org for more information.

Glen Ellyn Wines and Finds
 Couples, friends and wine enthusiasts are invited to spend the evening enjoying the downtown and all that it offers. Each participating store will offer two wine selections to taste paired with specific foods. Wine professionals will be available to offer their expertise. Visit downtownglenellyn.com.  

Glen Ellyn Park District Teen Splash Bash
Celebrate the start of summer break with friends and other middle schoolers!  Tweens and teens are invited to a pool party complete with games, activities, and swimming at Sunset Pool.  Register at gepark.org.
 
Glen Ellyn Park District Movies in the Parks
The Glen Ellyn Park District offers its “Free Movies in the Parks” series every summer.  Enjoy family-friendly films under the stars at one of the Park District’s beautiful parks in June, July and August.  Bring your own lawn chairs and blankets and sit back and enjoy the show!  Bug spray, movie snacks and non-alcoholic beverages are also recommended.  Movies begin at dusk.  Visit gepark.org.

Glen Ellyn Park District Jazz in the Park
Enjoy free live concerts in the park by the Glen Ellyn Jazz Ensemble, a 16-member group in June, July and August.  Bring a blanket, lawn chair, and picnic dinner with non-alcoholic drinks to enhance the experience.  Visit gepark.org.

Garden Gait
Join the Lisle Woman's Club for a wonderful afternoon visiting beautiful, private gardens in Lisle. This delightful event includes a Craft fair and Self-guided tours of amazing gardens.  Visit https://www.lislewomansclub.org/garden-gait for more information.

Geek Fest
The Geek Fest is a unique family-friendly event centered on all things geeky, nerdy, and eccentric! Free entertainment includes inflatable bounce houses, arcade-style games, board and card games, and more!  Visit carolstream.org.

 
 Lombard Ale Fest
 The Lombard Ale Fest is Lombard's premier craft beer festival, featuring over 80 unique beers from craft beers from around the country and some of Chicagoland's favorite food trucks. The fest will be a celebration of summer seasonal beers, food and live music. Kick off your summer right with the Lombard Ale Fest. Visit 
lombardalefest.com.
  
Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals 5K/10K and Kids ½ Mile
The Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals is hosted by the Cosley Foundation to raise funds for the animals at Cosley Zoo as well as exhibit development projects, public programs and conservation projects.  The race takes place on day three of Cream of Wheaton.  Learn more at cosleyzoo.com
 
Vintage Rids Classic Car Show, Wheaton
The Downtown Wheaton Association hosts a popular free classic car show each Friday night through August, with a DJ, family fun and more. Each week has a different theme or car featured. Find out more at www.downtownwheaton.com.

Party In the Park
Celebrate the beauty of the Downers Grove local parks with free crafts, activities and giveaways at Party in the Park. It’s a fantastic opportunity to explore new places, connect with nature, and create memories with friends and family.  Visit dgparks.org for more information.

Fairy Festival
This enchanting celebration invites families and children to step into a world of whimsy and wonder, where fairies and other mystical creatures come to life. Whether you’re soaring through the park with your new wings or creating your own magical accessories, the Fairy Festival promises to be a day filled with joy, laughter, and enchanting memories for the whole family. Visit dgparks.org for more information.

The Big Dill Pickleball Tournament
Join us for an exhilarating day of fast-paced action at our annual Pickleball Tournament, The Big Dill! Whether you’re a seasoned pro or new to the game, this special event promises to have thrilling matches, friendly competition, and an unforgettable experience for all.  Visit dgparks.org for more information.

July
Glen Ellyn Freedom 4-Mile Run/Walk
 Join the biggest event of the running season, and help the Park District raise money for scholarships! This star-spangled run starts off on Lenox Road next to Lake Ellyn at 7:30 am “sharp” on Thursday, July 4. Visit freedomfourrun.com.
 
 4th of July Parade
Lisle, 7/4, 10am
Glen Ellyn, 7/4, 12pm
Wheaton, 7/3, 10am
 
4th of   July Fireworks Display
Glen Ellyn, 7/4, Lake Ellyn Park.  Visit glenellyn.org
Lisle, 7/3, Community Park.   Visit villageoflisle.org
Lombard, 7/4, Madison Meadow Park.  Visit villageoflombard.org.
Wheaton, 7/3, Graf Park, Visit  wheatonparkdistrict.com.
 
 
Jazz Up Glen Ellyn
 Over 10 jazz bands performing from two stages fill the downtown with music. Bring your friends, lawn chair, picnic basket, and wine, and enjoy the ambiance of Downtown Glen Ellyn. Visit jazzupglenellyn.org.

 Downtown Glen Ellyn Sidewalk Sale
 Find the best bargains in Glen Ellyn. This four-day event features music and discounts on merchandise from a number of participating stores. Call 630-469-0907.
 
 Tour of Lake Ellyn Bike Race
 Returning for the fifth year, the Tour of Lake Ellyn promises fast, international bicycle racing on the challenging course around picturesque Lake Ellyn. Be sure to bring your family, friends and bikes to enjoy Lake Ellyn for a day of food, thrilling racing and the annual Family Fun Ride. Visit intelligentsiacup.com/schedule/glen-ellyn/.
 
 Summer in the Park
Experience the excitement of Summer in the Park, a lively event for the whole family! Indulge in a variety of delicious offerings from food trucks, let your creativity flow at our chalk art station or visit the kids’ craft zone for hands-on fun. And, take part in an adventurous scavenger hunt throughout the park, uncovering hidden treasures and clues along the way.   Visit dgparks.org for more information.

Uncorked at Cosley Zoo, Wheaton
It’s wine with a little bit of wild! Enjoy an evening at Cosley Zoo while sampling a selection of more than 50 wines. Spend an evening wine tasting at Cosley Zoo listening to live entertainment, enjoying appetizers, mingling with the animals and entering to win fantastic raffle prizes. Learn more at Cosleyzoo.org.
August

 Sounds on the Street Glen Ellyn
 Close out the summer with Sounds on the Street. Indulge in some of the great tastes of Glen Ellyn while enjoying live music on Main Street. For more information, visit glenellyn.com/events/sounds-on-the-street/.
 
Shakespeare in the Park, Wheaton
Shakespeare in the Park is a high-quality 3-day annual theater event presented free of
charge to the public by the Wheaton Park District and Wheaton College’s Arena Theater.
Each year a different play is performed at the Memorial Park Bandshell. Visit
wheatonparkdistrict.com to learn more.

Taste of Glen Ellyn
A family event featuring Chicago’s best live bands, Youth Community Stage, great food and drink, Y Run 5K, The Village Carnival, business and arts and craft fair, SHOP-A-THON and more.   Call 630-469-0907.

Glen Ellyn Park District 2K Kids Color Bash Run
Kids will be doused head to toe in an assortment of colors at four different locations throughout the 1.25 mile course at Ackerman Park!  Prizes will be awarded to the top 3 runners in each age group.    Registration includes a timing bib, t-shirt, and post-race colorful events.  This event is for children ages 4-10.  Registration at gepark.org.

Festival of the Arts Glen Ellyn
 A two-day free festival of juried fine artists and great music. The annual Glen Ellyn Lions Festival of the Arts is held at Lake Ellyn Park. facebook.com/pg/GlenEllynFestivalOfTheArts

Glen Ellyn Park District Back to School Splash Bash
Make a splash with friends before heading back to school. Tweens and teens take over Sunset Pool and enjoy a night of swimming, games, and fun to soak up the last days of summer break. Register at gepark.org

Mike Williams Cosley Classic Golf Outing, Wheaton
In 2023, the Cosley Foundation celebrated its 40th annual Mike Williams Cosley Classic Golf Outing!  Tee off to support the important work of Cosley Zoo, and enjoy a fun-filled afternoon at the beautiful Arrowhead Golf Club.  All proceeds support Cosley Zoo and its mission to create connections between people and animals that will inspire lifelong conservation of the natural world.  For more information, visit cosleyzoo.org.

Annual Bike Wheaton Festival
Join the Wheaton Bicycle Advisory Commission for the Bike Wheaton Festival. This event will take place in the parking lot behind City Hall, 303 W. Wesley St.

Fishing Derby
Reel in three hours of family fun at the annual Fishing Derby. This is a free event, but registration is required at dgparks.org. Longest and shortest fish in each age group will have a winner!  Visit dgparks.org for more information.
 
 NFL Flag Football Combine Day
Kick off the Fall Flag Football season and test your skills at the Downers Grove Park District’s Flag Football Combine Day! Players will run through different drills and test their skills, just like the pros!  Visit dgparks.org for more information.

Tiny Tots Track Meet
Calling all future Olympians! Come test your speed and athleticism in this fun track meet. Organized by age, tots will participate in a variety of running events and field events.   Open to any athlete ages 3 to 6.   Visit dgparks.org for more information.
 
 
Labor Day Picnic
Celebrate the close of summer with friends, food, and fun at our Labor Day Picnic designed just for seniors! This relaxing and festive event offers a chance to enjoy the season’s last warm days in a welcoming, laid-back setting. Bring your favorite lawn chair if you’d like! Visit dgparks.org for more information.

September
Depot Days
Discover what life was like more than 100 years ago at Depot Days, where you'll be transported back in time as you tour the Depot Museum, Beau Bien Tavern, Netzley / Yender House, and a working blacksmith shop.  Or visit the historic Lisle Cemetery and search for some of Lisle's earliest settlers.   Visit villageoflisle.org.

 HOPtober Fest | September
 All the fun of Wheaton Brew & Seltzer Fest has moved to the Wheaton Park District’s new event in the fall, HOPtober Fest. Join us at Memorial Park for fall beer, seltzer and cider sampling, live entertainment, food and fun. This is a 21+ event and supports the DuPage County Historical Museum. For more information, visit wheatonparkdistrict.com.

Glen Ellyn Park District Glow In The Park
 At Glow in the Park, enjoy activities, food, face painting, and live music followed by the lantern parade around Lake Ellyn supporting Lurie Children’s. Participants will have an opportunity to create a paper lantern for $10 for the walk or bring one from home! Visit gepark.org.

 
 Lombard Park District Touch-A-Truck
 This event is perfect for families to play outside, meet with local businesses, and Touch-A-Truck! A variety of vendors will be present along with activities focused on play. Kids will have the opportunity to explore police cars, fire trucks, dump trucks and more. Don’t forget to check the Kids' Corner for games and activities. Located at Lombard Common. Visit lombardparkdistrict.org.
 

 Fall
 
 October
Glen Ellyn Park District Pumpkins on Main
Call for jack-o-lanterns!   Submit a pumpkin to be a part of the Glen Ellyn Park District’s community jack-o-lantern display during Halloween.  Pumpkins will be exhibited outside of Main Street Rec Center for everyone to enjoy, and prizes go to the most creative jack-o-lanterns.  Free to participate.  Visit gepark.org

 Halloween Happening, Wheaton
This Halloween family event presented by the Wheaton Park District includes activities for all ages. Costumes encouraged. Features include: Strolling Magic, carnival games*, bounce house*, Touch-A-Truck, Trick-or-Treat Trail*, crafts, sensory tables, concession stand* and airbrush tattoos*. All ages are welcome. *Some activities require a small fee. For more information, visit wheatoparkdistrict.com.

Cosley Zoo Pumpkin Fest, Wheaton
Taking in the beautiful fall colors at Cosley Zoo is a must do! Come see the animals and see the thousands of pumpkins scattered on the zoo’s lawn. Children’s rides are available for an additional fee. Apples, gourds, pumpkins, cider, cornstalks, and various sizes of straw bales are also available to purchase. Check out the fall merchandise in the Wild Side Gift Shop, too! Proceeds from your purchases benefit Cosley Zoo. Regular admission rates apply. For more information visit wheatonparkdistrict.com.

Boo-Palooza, Wheaton
Ghosts and goblins are coming to Downtown Wheaton for Boo-Palooza! Activities include trunk-or-treating, trick-or-treating, face painting, pumpkin decorating, costume contest, pet costume contest, hayrides, and a live pumpkin-carving demonstration. For more information, visit downtownwheaton.com.

 November

 Ladies' Night Out Glen Ellyn
 Grab your friends! Hundreds of women have joined us each year to get a head start on their holiday shopping in Downtown Glen Ellyn. Over 20 stores are throwing a party just for you! The night is full of music, cocktails, appetizers and special deals! For more information, visit downtownglenellyn.com.
 
 Glen Ellyn Winter Fashion Show
 Shop for the season’s must-have holiday gifts at our silent auction, and enjoy fashions presented by the Glen Ellyn boutiques. Visit glenellynchamber.com.
 
 Glen Ellyn Park District Turkey Trot 4-Mile Run
 How often do you get the chance to participate in an event that combines fun, fitness, charity, and the opportunity to don a quirky Thanksgiving-themed costume? Well, it happens just once a year at the Glen Ellyn Park District’s Annual Turkey Trot, a 5-mile prediction race that starts and finishes at Lake Ellyn Park. Winners will take home a delicious Thanksgiving treat to share with their family! This event is open to all ages and requires no registration. Visit gepark.org.

 Glen Ellyn Holiday Walk
 Celebrate the holiday season as downtown Glen Ellyn Comes alive with twinkling lights, decorated storefront windows, the sounds of Christmas, and Santa lighting the Christmas tree. During the Holiday Walk, enjoy free hot cocoa on Main Street. For more information, call 630-460-0907.

Living Wheaton Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting
A time-honored tradition, Wheaton comes together to celebrate the coming of Christmas with a hometown parade. Stick around till the end because some special and jolly pays his first visit to Wheaton! The parade concludes with the lighting of the tree.   For more information, visit downtownwheaton.com.
 
December
 
 Holiday Treats Glen Ellyn
 Downtown Glen Ellyn is the place to shop, dine, and donate this holiday season. Holiday Treats is an event that will fill tummies with sweet treats, assist you in your holiday shopping, and support a local treasure. All of the proceeds from this Cookie Adventure will be donated to a charity. Visit downtownglenellyn.com.
 
 Holiday Lights at Lilacia Park
 Join Lombard Park District’s annual lighting celebration in Lilacia Park! Charming holiday displays light up Lilacia Park with a magical array of animated light shows, decorated trees, a gingerbread house, and much more. Youngsters can visit with Santa Claus, enjoy a spectacular show with complimentary hot cocoa and cookies, and visit with holiday characters. Visit lombardparks.com.
 
 Lombard Jinglebell Jubilee
 JingleBell Jubilee is a community-wide holiday event held in Lombard, Illinois. Come and see beautiful holiday lights, meet Santa, hear stories, listen to carolers, drink hot cocoa, and much more! Hosted by Lombard Park District, Village of Lombard, Helen Plum Library, Lombard Historical Society, Lombard Town Centre, Maple Street Chapel, and Lombard Bible Church. Visit villageoflombard.org.

Lights of Lisle
Create some lasting memories with family and friends by bringing in the holiday season! Visit Downtown Lisle from 2:30-6:30 p.m. to join in on this annual tradition and holiday celebration. Lights of Lisle features a tree lighting ceremony, Santa Parade, food and beverage vendors, live ice carving, and more.   Visit villageoflisle.org.