This has become an annual event for me. It has taken a lot of time to put it together so please forgive any typos! Please share it with anyone who you think would enjoy this list. Thanks!

Summer 2010 Fun Free (or cheap) stuff to do with your kids in and around Lake County, IL

There is PLENTY more that I just did not have the time to type up. If you find something great, please email and share at bargainsrock@yahoo.com. All efforts have been made to make a great list; I am not responsible for typos or cancelled programs. Check with venue/host to make sure it is still valid before you go. This is meant merely to serve as a guide to point you in the right direction!

If you want a copy of this list emailed to you in Word format, send a request to bargainsrock@yahoo.com.

Let the fun begin….

Central Park Spray Park in Grayslake opens May 29, designed for children 10 and under. Open daily Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend 10am-7pm (weather dependent). Daily maintenance 3:15-3:30; park also has a great playground, a picnic shelter and a restroom building.

Lowe’s Build & Grow Clinics: http://bargainsrock.com/blog/?p=325 or https://www.lowesbuildandgrow.com/ Saturday mornings (usually 2^nd and 4^th)

Home Depot first Saturday of each month http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ContentView?catalogId=&langId=-1&pn=Kids_Workshops&storeId=10051

Summer Music Series “Under the Stars” concerts will begin at 7 p.m. unless otherwise noted at the Central Park Pavilion in Grayslake. In the event of inclement weather call 847-233-7246 or check the website: www.glpd.com: June 17 - Steve Beno, children’s concert; June 24 - The Last Dance Bank, music from the swing area; July 15 - 11 a.m. Jeanie Children’s Concert; July 29 - Together Again (jazz, rock); Aug. 12 - Drew Chapin Memorial Open Jam Session.

Lindenhurst’s Concerts in the Park will be Wednesdays 6:30-8 p.m. at the following locations: Mallard Ridge Shelter -110 Robincrest Lane: June 16 - Libido Funk Circus, 70s. 80s, and 90s, June 23 - R Gang, Mowtown, June 30 - Soda Pop, Rock; Engle Memorial Bandshell -2200 E. Grass Lake Road: July 7 - Bopology, Wing, Jazz, July 14 - Lakes Area Swing Band, July 21 - Travis Morris, Elvis, July 28 - Tentative, Navy Band

Events on the Plaza at Independence Grove in Libertyville; concerts on Tuesdays, June 15-Aug. 10 http://www.lcfpd.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.details&intObjectId=29395 June 15 Events in the Plaza - Peter Oprisko, Chicago’s singing Sensation Tue 22   Events in the Plaza - Spoken Four Tue 29   Events in the Plaza - World Class Noise JULY 2010 Tue 6   Events in the Plaza - Illinois Brass Band Tue 13   Events in the Plaza - White Saddle Band Tue 20   Events in the Plaza - The Rhythm Rockets Tue 27   Events in the Plaza - Rick Lindy & The Wild Ones AUGUST 2010 Tue 3   Events in the Plaza - Incendio Tue 10   Events in the Plaza - Libido Funk Circus

Zion Park District concerts Thursday, June 17-August 5- Park District Bandshell, 2400 Dowie Memorial Dr. Bring out the family and a lawnchair or a blanket and enjoy the music in the park. Concert schedule will include June 17th - Bill O’Connells’ Skyliners Big Band, June 24th - James Creek Road, July 1st - The White Saddle Band, July 8th - The Special Consensus, July 15th - The Associates, July 22nd - Banjo Buddies Dixieland Jazz Band, July 29th - Soda, and August 5th Country Tradition. For more information please call the park district.

The second Wednesday of each month through September-Park on Park car cruise night in Mundelein; Located downtown Mundelein, Illinois around the intersection of Park Street and Seymour Avenue.
Hours are 6:30-9pm rain or shine. http://www.mundeleinmainstreet.org/

Tuesdays kids are admitted to Lake County Discovery Museum in Wauconda free year-round and adults are just $3. http://www.lcfpd.org/discovery_museum/index.cfm?fuseaction=home.view

Schedule of Events:

June 2- Crafter’s Club at Round Lake Area Public Library meeting room 6-8pm, light refreshments served; bring your supplies to library and work on your craft project with like-minded folks who enjoy making things; teens and adults are welcome!

June 5- So Close to Summer Craft Show at Round Lake Area Public Library, 9am-3pm

June 6- Kids Funfest at Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, 2-5pm; Fun for the whole family, but this is especially for the kids!  Kids ages 4-12 can call this day their very own.  Come and Enjoy Wagon Rides, clowns, face painting, games, prizes, moonwalks, refreshments and much, much more. Family Friendly and Free Event. Leave No Child Inside “Explorer Days” at Kidsfest: Explore Exciting Insects! Collect colorful, clever, creative critters from water and land. Study them up close. Earn your own Exploration Kit to use at home. Fun Nature Exploration Activities for All. Learn simple outdoor activities to share with kids.

June 9- Seniors Day at Independence Grove in Libertyville, 9am-noon; Seniors, pack a picnic lunch & enjoy free pontoon boat rides, sponsor exhibits, health screenings, music, bingo and more. Please note: Independence Grove is closed to general public access until 3 p.m. on the day of this event. Admission granted for Lake County residents age 55 and better to this special day just for seniors. The preserve will resume regular operations after 12 p.m. More information: http://www.lcfpd.org/seniorsday

Thurs., June 10-Sun., June 13-Lake Villa’s Celebration of Summer at Lehman Park; events daily; carnival, play performance, music and more; http://www.lake-villa.org/special_events.html

June 11- Community Campfire Friday Nights-at Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago 7-9pm, Celebrate with family and friends as people who live close to the land have done for ages. Experience singing, dancing, drumming and storytelling, featuring Rubee BlackRiver. Witness the magic of the fire. Build a new family tradition one Friday night each month. Meet at Shelter D. Use entrance on west side of Green Bay Rd. View full summer schedule of this once a month event

June 12- Hooked on Fishing 9am-noon The Hollows - Lake Atwood, Cary Bring the whole family for demonstrations, prizes and more! Free to the public. No license needed, as the event is held on Illinois Free Fishing Days. Bring your own gear or borrow ours! Children get first preference on poles. First come, first served. Adult supervision of children is required. Co-sponsored by the Crystal Lake Anglers. Pre-registration is preferred, (815) 479-5779 or online. http://www.mccdistrict.org/web/special-events.htm

June 13- Hooked on Fishing Rush Creek, Harvard (same details as previous listing)

June 13- Ice Cream Social of 1858 noon-4pm Powers-Walker House in Glacial Park; Take a break from your hectic modern life and enjoy the simple pleasures of an old-fashioned ice cream social. Sip lemonade, eat ice cream, play frontier games, and chat with your neighbors while visiting the historic Powers-Walker house in the summertime. Various historical characters will stop by to tell you of their lives, including a cavalryman and his horse heading off to defend the frontier. Drop in anytime between or stay for the whole afternoon of fun. http://www.mccdistrict.org/web/special-events.htm

Sun., June 13, Safety Day 11am-3pm-Lake Villa’s Lehman Park; demonstrations, emergency vehicles and more! http://www.lake-villa.org/safetyday.html

June 15- Gurnee 10-10:30am- “Stories in the Park” @ Viking Park. Stories & songs for preschoolers to enjoy. Then check out the new Bookmobile! Bring a blanket or lawn chairs. Animal crackers will be served.

June 16- Free Evening Waterfowl Viewing at Almond Marsh in Grayslake 6-8pm, hosted by Lake County Audubon society. Cheese and Crackers with the birds at Almond Marsh Forest Preserve. Accessible evening views from the parking lot of nesting herons, snowy egrets, black crowned night heron, and other water birds. Binoculars, bird identification books and folders available for use. Meet at PC&D parking area for adults and families with children ages 8 and up. Free, no registration required.

June 17- It’s Thursday in Antioch concert located at the Band Shell on Skidmore Dr

June 18-20 Round Lake Beach Beach Fest at Civic Center; Enjoy Summer in Round Lake Beach with free events & activities for all ages! Food, Carnival, Miss Round Lake Area Contest, Live Bands, Crafters Market, Baggo Tournament & More! Events on the inside and outside ground of the Round Lake Beach Cultural & Civic Center located off of Hook Drive between the Village Hall & Metra Station.; there is a pancake breakfast on the Sunday and a “We’ve Got Talent” contest on Saturday.

Antioch’s Summer Arts and Crafts Faire on June 19 & 20- 150 booths in Downtown Antioch, Saturday 10-5 and Sunday 10-4. The Faire will be held on Toft Street and in the adjoining parking lot.

June 19- Juneteenth Festival in Waukegan 11:30am-8pm Juneteenth represents the joy of freedom and is the oldest known celebration that commemorates the ending of slavery. This cultural festival will salute African American contributions to art, education, music and dance, a celebration of family, community and culture. It will salute Lake County’s contribution to the spirit of the abolition movement with a freedom walk parade, food, information and merchandise vendors, main stage performances, children’s activities, the CLC history tent, and much more! http://www.lakecounty.org/event_details.cfm?EventID=5159&b=1&EventTypeAnswerID=&CityID=&StartDate=05%2F27%2F10&EndDate={ts%20%272010-06-27%2000%3A00%3A00%27}

Saturday, June 19-15^th Annual Arts Festival in downtown Grayslake, 10am-5pm, featuring the work of over 70 juried artists; Food vendors; Entertainment throughout the day; Children’s activities; High school art exhibit http://www.antiochchamber.org/index.php?m=2&s=0&id=116

Sunday, June 20- Gospel Fest 3-7pm in North Chicago at Greenbelt Cultural Center; free A popular annual tradition at Greenbelt, this program features numerous local gospel choirs and soloists. Gospel Fest set for Greenbelt series Music lovers can bring picnics, blankets and lawn chairs and join the Greenbelt Cultural Center for the this annual Concert.

June 22- Gurnee 10-10:30am- “Stories in the Park” @ Wadsworth Park. Stories & songs for preschoolers to enjoy. Then check out the new Bookmobile! Bring a blanket or lawn chairs. Animal crackers will be served.

June 22 - ScribbleMonster Gurnee 2010 Children’s Concert Series will take place on the following Tuesdays from 10:30-11:15am at Viking Park bandshell (in case of inclement weather, these concerts will be held in the Viking Park Dance Hall):, July 6 - Super Stolie, July 20 - Jim Gill, August 10 - David Chicken

June 23- Playdate with Nature at Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago 1-3pm; Explore Exciting Insects! Collect colorful, clever, creative critters from water and land. Study them up close. Play outside in nature with whatever the weather and habitat provide this day! A Leave No Child Inside “Explorer Days” event. Meeting place: Shelter D, west side of Greenbay Rd. Dress for playing outside! All scheduled Playdates with Nature Parents, grandparents and caregivers are welcome with or without children

June 23- Car Fun on 21 Cruise Nights in Downtown Libertyville 6-9pm; entertainment in Cook Park by Inline 6; Food provided by Chip’s Sub Depot, Culver’s Frozen Custard, and Popcorn Headz Kettle Corn. All cars 25 years and older are welcome each night.

June 24- It’s Thursday in Antioch concert located at the Band Shell on Skidmore Dr

June 24- Out to Supper with the Village Band in Cook Park, Libertyville, 7:30pm

June 24 - American English, Beatle Tribute Band –Gurnee Sounds of Summer 2010 Concert Series will take place on the following Thursdays from 7-8:30p. (In case of inclement weather, call the recorded message at 847-599-3774. Concert cancellations are made by 2pm on Thursdays.); July 8 - The Rhythm Rockets, Jump, Rhythm & Blues; July 22 - World Class Noise, Classic soul & contemporary favorites; August 12 - 7th Heaven, Rock

June 25- Out to Lunch 11 am - 2 pm. Enjoy live bands and enjoy a picnic of your own or choose a delicious lunch from among 14 food vendors in Cook Park in Libertyville

June 25- Round Lake Beach Cultural & Civic Center Foundation’s free children’s summer concert series 11am at the Civic Center outdoor stage– Leanardo-award-winning family concerts

June 26- Tony & the Affects 50’s and 60’s band performing at Dog N Suds in Ingleside, 6:30-9:30pm; also classic car cruise-in; http://www.dognsudsdrivein.com/services.aspx

June 25-27- Strawberry Festival in Long Grove

June 24-27 Wauconda Fest http://www.waucondaparks.com/images/Fest.pdf

June 27- Mundelein Free Concerts at the Kracklauer Park 5:30-7pm– Hudson McCoy (Rock & Roll) http://www.mundelein.org/pdfs/2010/Concert_Flyer_2010.pdf

June 27- Viking Park Singers salute to Broadway 3pm at Viking Park Dance Hall; refreshments will be served after performance

June 29- Gurnee 10-10:30am- “Stories in the Park” @ Warren-Township Park. Stories & songs for preschoolers to enjoy. Then check out the new Bookmobile! Bring a blanket or lawn chairs. Animal crackers will be served.

July 1- It’s Thursday in Antioch concert located at the Band Shell on Skidmore Dr

July 1-Fourth of July Tie-Dye! at Fremont Library in Mundelin from 2-4pm–We’ll move our Crafts Corral outside and invite everyone for some red, white, and blue fun just in time for the Fourth. Bring an already-washed-and-dried white t-shirt or pillowcase and dress for mess! One item per person, please! No registration required.

July 2- Round Lake Beach Cultural & Civic Center Foundation’s free children’s summer concert series 11am at Lakefront Park off Lakeshore Drive-Brad Weston-world famous juggling show

July 2- Out to Lunch 11 am - 2 pm. Enjoy live bands and enjoy a picnic of your own or choose a delicious lunch from among 14 food vendors in Cook Park in Libertyville

July 2-5 Mundelein Community Days see http://www.mundelein.org/mcd2010/ for schedule of events

Fourth of July Events:
Family Picnic and Fireworks featuring the Taste of Grayslake from 3-11 p.m. July 3. Kids rides, activities and live music.

July 4- Out to Supper with the Village Band in Cook Park, Libertyville, 7:30pm

July 6- Gurnee 10-10:30am- “Stories in the Park” @ Park City Center. Stories & songs for preschoolers to enjoy. Then check out the new Bookmobile! Bring a blanket or lawn chairs. Animal crackers will be served.

July 6 - Super Stolie, Gurnee 2010 Children’s Concert Series will take place on the following Tuesdays from 10:30-11:15am at Viking Park bandshell (in case of inclement weather, these concerts will be held in the Viking Park Dance Hall): July 20 - Jim Gill, August 10 - David Chicken

July 7- Crafter’s Club at Round Lake Area Public Library meeting room 6-8pm, light refreshments served; bring your supplies to library and work on your craft project with like-minded folks who enjoy making things; teens and adults are welcome!

July 8- Playdate with Nature at Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago 1-3pm; Explore Exciting Insects! Collect colorful, clever, creative critters from water and land. Study them up close. Play outside in nature with whatever the weather and habitat provide this day! A Leave No Child Inside “Explorer Days” event. Meeting place: Dugdale entrance. Dress for playing outside! All scheduled Playdates with Nature Parents, grandparents and caregivers are welcome with or without children

July 8- Out to Supper with the Village Band in Cook Park, Libertyville, 7:30pm

July 8 - The Rhythm Rockets, Jump, Rhythm & Blues –Gurnee Sounds of Summer 2010 Concert Series will take place on the following Thursdays from 7-8:30p. (In case of inclement weather, call the recorded message at 847-599-3774. Concert cancellations are made by 2pm on Thursdays.); July 22 - World Class Noise, Classic soul & contemporary favorites; August 12 - 7th Heaven, Rock

July 8- It’s Thursday in Antioch concert located at the Band Shell on Skidmore Dr

July 9- Round Lake Beach Cultural & Civic Center Foundation’s free children’s summer concert series 11am at the Civic Center outdoor stage-Round Lake Area Park District Players Toddler Tales “3 Billy Goats Gruff!”

July 9- Out to Lunch 11 am - 2 pm. Enjoy live bands and enjoy a picnic of your own or choose a delicious lunch from among 14 food vendors in Cook Park in Libertyville

July 10- “Elvis” live at Dog N Suds in Ingleside 6:30-9:30pm; also classic car cruise-in

July 10- Cops ‘N’ Bobbers Fishing Derby, Noll Park Pond at corner of Hampton and Huntington Dr. Mundelein, 8am-12:30pm, bring a picnic lunch Kids come out, bring your pole and compete for raffle prizes. Organized by Mundelein Police Department. July 25- Mundelein Free Concerts at the Kracklauer Park 5:30-7pm-1969 (Woodstock Revival) http://www.mundelein.org/pdfs/2010/Concert_Flyer_2010.pdf

July 11- Mundelein Free Concerts at the Kracklauer Park 5:30-7pm– OD TAPO IMI (Jimmy Buffet meets Blue Man Group) http://www.mundelein.org/pdfs/2010/Concert_Flyer_2010.pdf

July 13- Park ‘n’ Play at Betty Russell Community Park 5-7pm, Enjoy FREE games and activities

July 13- Gurnee 10-10:30am- “Stories in the Park” @ Viking Park. Stories & songs for preschoolers to enjoy. Then check out the new Bookmobile! Bring a blanket or lawn chairs. Animal crackers will be served.

July 14- Playdate with Nature at Nippersink Forest Preserve in Round Lake 1-3pm; Explore Exciting Insects! Collect colorful, clever, creative critters from water and land. Study them up close. Play outside in nature with whatever the weather and habitat provide this day! A Leave No Child Inside “Explorer Days” event. Meeting place: Shelter D. Dress for playing outside! All scheduled Playdates with Nature Parents, grandparents and caregivers are welcome with or without children

July 15- Out to Supper with the Village Band in Cook Park, Libertyville, 7:30pm

July 16- Round Lake Beach Cultural & Civic Center Foundation’s free children’s summer concert series 11am at Lakefront Park off Lakeshore Drive-Stolie-high energy & interactive music

July 16- Out to Lunch 11 am - 2 pm. Enjoy live bands and enjoy a picnic of your own or choose a delicious lunch from among 14 food vendors in Cook Park in Libertyville

July 15-18 Taste of Summer in Antioch; concerts, carnivals, etc in downtown Antioch see http://www.antiochchamber.org/index.php?m=5 for info

July 17-Beauty School Drop-Outs at Dog N Suds in Ingleside; also classic car cruise-in

July 17-8^th annual fishing derby, Hunt Club Park, 8:30-11am, ages 5-11, Grab your fishing poles and come to the lake at Hunt Club Park for this FREE event. Win prizes for the most fish caught, biggest and smallest fish, and most unusual catch. If you don’t have your own pole, a limited number will be available. Bait provided. http://www.gurneeparkdistrict.com/page.php?pid=11

July 18- Mundelein Free Concerts at the Kracklauer Park 5:30-7pm– Neverly Brothers (American Rockabilly & Rock n’ Roll) http://www.mundelein.org/pdfs/2010/Concert_Flyer_2010.pdf

July 20- Gurnee 10-10:30am- “Stories in the Park” @ Warren-Township Park. Stories & songs for preschoolers to enjoy. Then check out the new Bookmobile! Bring a blanket or lawn chairs. Animal crackers will be served.

July 20 - Jim Gill - Gurnee 2010 Children’s Concert Series will take place on the following Tuesdays from 10:30-11:15am at Viking Park bandshell (in case of inclement weather, these concerts will be held in the Viking Park Dance Hall): August 10 - David Chicken

July 21- Car Fun on 21 Cruise Nights in Downtown Libertyville 6-9pm; entertainment in Cook Park by QuinnRowe; Food provided by Chip’s Sub Depot, Culver’s Frozen Custard, and Popcorn Headz Kettle Corn. All cars 25 years and older are welcome each night.

July 22 - World Class Noise, Classic soul & contemporary favorites –Gurnee Sounds of Summer 2010 Concert Series will take place on the following Thursdays from 7-8:30p. (In case of inclement weather, call the recorded message at 847-599-3774. Concert cancellations are made by 2pm on Thursdays.) August 12 - 7th Heaven, Rock

July 22- It’s Thursday in Antioch concert located at the Band Shell on Skidmore Dr

July 22- Out to Supper with the Village Band in Cook Park, Libertyville, 7:30pm

July 23- Round Lake Beach Cultural & Civic Center Foundation’s free children’s summer concert series 11am at the Civic Center outdoor stage-Barefoot Hawaiian Dancers-professional dancers to captivate your child

July 23- Out to Lunch 11 am - 2 pm. Enjoy live bands and enjoy a picnic of your own or choose a delicious lunch from among 14 food vendors in Cook Park in Libertyville

July 25- Back to School Kermes free pubic event at Round Lake High School noon-6pm; families will have opportunity to register for school, learn about community resources and get free health screenings.

July 25- Ribfest Ribfest at Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, 3-7pm; Taste the best ribs Lake County has to offer, plus enjoy live concert, moonwalks, and face painting for kids. Use entrance on the west side of Green Bay Rd. Program place: Between shelters A and B; Bring lawn chairs and blankets. Food available for purchase. Indoors in case of rain.

July 25- Mundelein Free Concerts at the Kracklauer Park 5:30-7pm-1969 (Woodstock Revival) http://www.mundelein.org/pdfs/2010/Concert_Flyer_2010.pdf

July 29- It’s Thursday in Antioch concert located at the Band Shell on Skidmore Dr

July 29- Out to Supper with the Village Band in Cook Park, Libertyville, 7:30pm

July 30- Round Lake Beach Cultural & Civic Center Foundation’s free children’s summer concert series 11am at the Civic Center outdoor stage-Holly Nagel-interactive & fun storyteller

July 30- Community Campfire Friday Nights-at Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago 7-9pm, Celebrate with family and friends as people who live close to the land have done for ages. Experience singing, dancing, drumming and storytelling, featuring Rubee BlackRiver. Witness the magic of the fire. Build a new family tradition one Friday night each month. Meet at Shelter D. Use entrance on west side of Green Bay Rd. View full summer schedule of this once a month event

July 30- Out to Lunch 11 am - 2 pm. Enjoy live bands and enjoy a picnic of your own or choose a delicious lunch from among 14 food vendors in Cook Park in Libertyville

August 1-Jamaicafest Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago, 3-7pm; Jam to a live Jamaican music concert with steel drums, a limbo contest, dancing and Jamaican food. Use entrance on west side of Green Bay Rd. Program place: Between shelters A and B; Bring lawn chairs and blankets. Food available for purchase. Indoors in case of rain.

August 1- Mundelein Free Concerts at the Kracklauer Park 5:30-7pm-Lake Shore Symphony http://www.mundelein.org/pdfs/2010/Concert_Flyer_2010.pdf

Aug. 4- Crafter’s Club at Round Lake Area Public Library meeting room 6-8pm, light refreshments served; bring your supplies to library and work on your craft project with like-minded folks who enjoy making things; teens and adults are welcome!

August 5-  It’s Thursday in Antioch concert located at the Band Shell on Skidmore Dr

Aug. 6- Round Lake Beach Cultural & Civic Center Foundation’s free children’s summer concert series 11am at the Civic Center outdoor stage-Diamana Diya-West African Hand Drum ensemble (they are FANTASTIC!!)

August 6- Out to Lunch 11 am - 2 pm. Enjoy live bands and enjoy a picnic of your own or choose a delicious lunch from among 14 food vendors in Cook Park in Libertyville

Aug. 6-8- David Adler Cultural Center’s Festival of the Arts; This judged show in Cool Park brims over with beautiful art produced by over 90 artists.

August 8– Mundelein Free Concerts at the Kracklauer Park 5:30-7pm-One Foot in the Groove (Classic Rock) http://www.mundelein.org/pdfs/2010/Concert_Flyer_2010.pdf

August 10 - David Chicken - Gurnee 2010 Children’s Concert Series will take place on the following Tuesdays from 10:30-11:15am at Viking Park bandshell (in case of inclement weather, these concerts will be held in the Viking Park Dance Hall)

August 12 - 7th Heaven, Rock –Gurnee Sounds of Summer 2010 Concert Series will take place on the following Thursdays from 7-8:30p. (In case of inclement weather, call the recorded message at 847-599-3774. Concert cancellations are made by 2pm on Thursdays.)

August 12-  It’s Thursday in Antioch concert located at the Band Shell on Skidmore Dr

Aug 12-15- Gurnee Days http://www.gurnee.il.us/gurnee_days/

Aug. 13- Out to Lunch 11 am - 2 pm. Enjoy live bands and enjoy a picnic of your own or choose a delicious lunch from among 14 food vendors in Cook Park in Libertyville

Aug. 13 Community Campfire Friday Nights-at Greenbelt Cultural Center in North Chicago 7-9pm, Celebrate with family and friends as people who live close to the land have done for ages. Experience singing, dancing, drumming and storytelling, featuring Rubee BlackRiver. Witness the magic of the fire. Build a new family tradition one Friday night each month. Meet at Shelter D. Use entrance on west side of Green Bay Rd. View full summer schedule of this once a month event

Aug. 14- Lakes Area Swing Band at Dog N Suds in Ingleside; also classic car cruise-in

August 18- Car Fun on 21 Cruise Nights in Downtown Libertyville 6-9pm; entertainment in Cook Park by John McHugh; Food provided by Chip’s Sub Depot, Culver’s Frozen Custard, and Popcorn Headz Kettle Corn. All cars 25 years and older are welcome each night.

August 19-  It’s Thursday in Antioch concert located at the Band Shell on Skidmore Dr

Aug. 20-22- Grayslake Summer Days (includes parade on Saturday) http://business.grayslakechamber.com/events/details/summer-days

Aug. 26- Out to Lunch 11 am - 2 pm. Enjoy live bands and enjoy a picnic of your own or choose a delicious lunch from among 14 food vendors in Cook Park in Libertyville

Aug. 29 Creekfest noon-4pm Glacial Park, Keystone Road Landing; Join us along the banks of the Nippersink Creek to celebrate the recreational and ecological importance of this local waterway. This free event will feature ongoing activities for all ages: an Aquatic Macroinvertebrate Netting Station ~ Use nets and other tools to see what kind of critters are living in the Nippersink creek! Be prepared to get wet! A Fishing Station ~ receive a quick fishing lesson and then test your skills. Fishing poles will be provided. Note: A state fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older. Other fun activities includes river raffle prizes, children’s crafts & games, scavenger hunt with prizes, storytelling, a nature hike and information booths. http://www.mccdistrict.org/web/special-events.htm

Aug. 29 Sounds of Motown at Greenbelt Cultural Center 3-7pm; Live concert band plays your favorites from artists such as Gladys Knight, Smokey Robinson and Stevie Wonder. Use entrance on west side of Green Bay Rd. Program place: Between shelters A and B; Bring lawn chairs and blankets. Food available for purchase. Indoors in case of rain.

Sept. 4-The Rockin’ Fenderskirts at Dog N Suds in Ingleside; also classic car cruise-in

Sept. 15- Car Fun on 21 Cruise Nights in Downtown Libertyville 6-9pm; entertainment in Cook Park by Kevin Spica; Food provided by Chip’s Sub Depot, Culver’s Frozen Custard, and Popcorn Headz Kettle Corn. All cars 25 years and older are welcome each night.

Free children’s concert “Dancin’ Sprouts” Wednesdays 5:30-6:30pm at Chicago Botanic Gardens; It is part of Summer Evenings at the Garden and is offered on the first and third Wednesdays of June, July, and August. Bring the family and enjoy live music in this idyllic summer setting. For these evenings, picnicking will be allowed on the Esplanade only. Regular parking rates apply to non-members. (get the free pass via the library & Macy’s program and park free!)

Farmer’s Markets

• Gurnee-Fridays 8am-1pm, June 11 through October 1 at Esper Petersen Park in Gurnee http://www.gurneeparkdistrict.com/page.php?pid=230
• Libertyville-Thursdays June 24-Oct. 21, 7am-1pm on Church St. between Brainerd and 21 http://www.libertyvillefarmersmarket.org/Libertyville_Farmers_Market/Welcome_to_Libertyville_Farmers_Market.html Check out the website for possible special events (the 2009 events were still listed when I checked)
• Grayslake(http://www.grayslakefarmersmarket.com/)-Wednesdays 3-7pm beginning June 9 at 3pm. (Special kids events sponsored by Grayslake Park District: June 9- visit with Big Bird 3:30-4pm and Make Bird Feeder with Ms. Sam 4-6pm; June 16- visit with Clifford the Dog 3:30-4pm and Busy Brain’s Children Museum 4-6pm; June 23- visit with Elmo 3:30-4pm and Free Tattoo 4-6pm; June 30- visit with Abby Cadabby 3:30-4pm and Krafty Kidz Art Project 4-6pm; July 7- visit with Eeyore 3:30-4pm and Make Sidewalk Chalk w/Ms. Diane 4-6pm; July 14- visit with Blues Clues from 3:30-4pm and Mad Science with Ms. Lisa 4-6pm; July 21- visit with Pooh Bear from 3:30-4pm and Krafty Kidz Art Project 4-6pm; July 28- visit with Tigger from 3:30-4pm and Make Craft Shakers with Ms. Lisa 4-6pm; August 4- visit with Big Bird from 3:30-4pm and Mad Science with Miss Sam 4-6pm; August 11- visit with Clifford the Red Dog 3:30-4pm and Design a picture frame w/ Ms. Laurie 4-6pm; August 18- visit with Elmo 3:30-4pm and Busy Brain’s Children Museum 4-6pm; August 25- visit with Abby Cadabby 3:30-4pm and Krafty Kidz Art Project 4-6pm; September 1- visit with Eeyore 3:30-4pm and Carnival Games 4-6pm; September 8- visit with Blues Clues from 3:30-4pm and Activity TBD 4-6pm
• Green Youth Farm at Greenbelt Forest Preserve, Use entrance on the west side of Green Bay Road –Teen’s lives are changing with each passing summer. Since 2003, the Green Youth Farm, a project of the Chicago Botanic Garden partnered with the Lake County Forest Preserve District, has been home to fresh produce, herbs, flowers, and an innovative youth development program. For approximately sixteen high school students from North Chicago and Waukegan, the Green Youth Farm is a summer opportunity that combines organic gardening skills with leadership, team building, and real-world job training; Pick your own fresh organic vegetables, herbs and flowers for purchase. Proceeds benefit teen leadership summer program; Wed., July 14 9am-1pm, Saturdays, July 17, 24, 31 9am-1pm and Wed., Aug. 4, 11, 18, 25 9am-1pm and Saturdays, Aug. 7, 14, 21, 28 9am-1pm

Museums:

• Don’t forget the Museum Adventure Pass available for check-out at your local library!! http://www.museumadventure.org/
• Elmhurst Historical Museum is free admission and this summer’s special exhibit is The Magical History Tour http://www.elmhurst.org/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=230
• Dinosaur Discovery Museum, Kenosha, WI; free general admission; dinosaurdiscoverymuseum.org; closed Mondays and holidays; open Tues-Sunday 12-5pm http://www.kenosha.org/dinosaurdiscovery/visitors.html
• Jelly Belly Candy Co, Pleasant Prairie, WI; free samples and warehouse tours; 9am-4pm http://www.jellybelly.com/
• Kenosha Public Museum, Kenosha, WI; free general admission; see the wooly mammoth; kenoshapublicmuseum.org; Sun-Mon 12-5pm, Tues-Sat 9am-5pm http://www.kenosha.org/museum/visitors.html
• Farmer for a Day program at Historic Wagner Farm in Glenview; immerse yourself in daily chores including milking a cow, collecting eggs, feeding animals; free; June 7-Aug. 27; http://www.glenviewparkdistrict.org/Wagner-Farm/Wagner-Farm.htm;
• If you want to go to lots of museums year-round, I highly suggest getting the membership from the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery in Ohio. You don’t have to go there but you can get the adventurer membership for $100 online here http://www.boonshoftmuseum.org/ and it is good at participating zoos, science museums and children’s museums all over the country-Museum of Science and Industry, Field Museum, Milwaukee Zoo, Kohl Children’s Museum and more! (See the full list online)

Reading Programs:

• Half Price Books summer reading Program: http://www.halfpricebooks.com (Highland Park and Palatine locations)
• Barnes & Noble- http://www.barnesandnoble.com/summerreading/. Take it in to Barnes and Noble anytime between May 25 and Sept. 7 (once child has read 8 books). Then your child (grades 1-6) will get to choose a book from a selection on display (list can be found with the reading log), while supplies last. Last summer they told me last summer that you can bring in as many logs as your child completes during that time frame.
• Borders is offering a summer reading challenge. Once your child (12 or younger) reads 10 books, your child gets to choose one of the listed books for free (better than last year’s program which only offered a discount!) http://media.bordersstores.com/pdf/summerreading.pdf
• Don’t forget to go to your local library for the summer reading program, as well as any nearby libraries. (Yes you can go to as many as you want to keep track for!)

Free or cheap movies:

Free Movies at the libraries: Check your library’s website (or a library near you!); I saw listings on Fremont’s calendar and Round Lake has some planned too. Each library is different: Fremont has you pre-register while Round Lake’s are drop-in, as are Warren-Newport Library movies. Here’s Round Lake’s schedule (all start at 6pm and you are welcome to bring your own food though they do serve popcorn while supplies last): June 3 Zombieland (R), June 17 The Princess & The Frog (G), July 1 Sherlock Holmes (PG-13), July 15 Alvin & The Chipmunks 2 (PG), August 5 The Blind Side (PG-13), August 19 The Lightning Thief (PG)

FREE FAMILY FILM FESTIVAL

Showplace 16 5000 W. Route 14 Crystal Lake ,IL 60014 815-455-3285
06/08/2010-06/09/2010	Charlotte’s Web (G)
	Kung Fu Panda (PG)
06/15/2010-06/16/2010	Rugrats The Movie (G)
	Flushed Away (PG)
06/22/2010-06/23/2010	Wallace and Gromit (G)
	Madagascar (PG)
06/29/2010-06/30/2010	ARCTIC TALE (G)
	Madagascar 2 (PG)
07/06/2010-07/07/2010	Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius (G)
	Over The Hedge (PG)
07/13/2010-07/14/2010	Pirates Who Don’t Do Anything (G)
	Alvin And The Chipmunks Squeakquel (PG)
07/20/2010-07/21/2010	Tale of Despereaux (G)
	Dr. Suess’ Cat In The Hat (PG)
07/27/2010-07/28/2010	Doogal (G)
	Hoodwinked (PG)
08/03/2010-08/04/2010	Polar Express (G)
	Where The Wild Things Are (PG)
Lake Zurich 12 755 S. Rand Road Lake Zurich ,IL 60047 847-550-9297
06/08/2010-06/09/2010	Polar Express (G)
	Paul Blart: Mall Cop (PG)
06/15/2010-06/16/2010	Doogal (G)
	Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs (PG)
06/22/2010-06/23/2010	Tale of Despereaux (G)
	Planet 51 (PG)
06/29/2010-06/30/2010	Pirates Who Don’t Do Anything (G)
	Surf’s Up (PG)
07/06/2010-07/07/2010	ARCTIC TALE (G)
	Madagascar (PG)
07/13/2010-07/14/2010	Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius (G)
	Madagascar 2 (PG)
07/20/2010-07/21/2010	Wallace and Gromit (G)
	Shrek The Third (PG)
07/27/2010-07/28/2010	Rugrats The Movie (G)
	Bee Movie (PG)
08/03/2010-08/04/2010	Charlotte’s Web (G)
	Hotel For Dogs (PG)
Round Lake Beach Stadium 18 550 East Rollins Road Round Lake Beach ,IL 60073 847-546-3760
06/08/2010-06/09/2010	Charlotte’s Web (G)
	Madagascar (PG)
06/15/2010-06/16/2010	Rugrats The Movie (G)
	Madagascar 2 (PG)
06/22/2010-06/23/2010	Wallace and Gromit (G)
	Shrek The Third (PG)
06/29/2010-06/30/2010	ARCTIC TALE (G)
	Bee Movie (PG)
07/06/2010-07/07/2010	Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius (G)
	Tooth Fairy (PG)
07/13/2010-07/14/2010	Pirates Who Don’t Do Anything (G)
	Ice Age: Dawn Of The Dinosaurs (PG)
07/20/2010-07/21/2010	Tale of Despereaux (G)
	Alvin And The Chipmunks Squeakquel (PG)
07/27/2010-07/28/2010	Doogal (G)
	Night At The Museum II (PG)
08/03/2010-08/04/2010	Polar Express (G)
	Shorts (PG)

Here is the schedule for the 2010 Wednesday Morning Movie Series:

http://www.classiccinemas.com/wmms.asp

The Wednesday Morning Movie Series will be returning for the summer on June 16^th! This year the Series will be 9 weeks, and will run every Wednesday starting June 16^th - August 11^th. The Series will only be showing PG rated films, which makes it perfect for all ages! Admission is only $1 per person!
The doors will open for the Wednesday Morning Movie Series at 9:00 a.m.  Make sure to come early to meet some of your favorite characters and join in on the fun games and activities. Every Wednesday the movie will begin at 10:00 a.m.
Fox Lake

June 16– The Spy Next Door (PG)

June 23–Alvin & the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel (PG)

June 30–Fantastic Mr. Fox (PG)

July 7–Where the Wild Things Are (PG)

July 14–Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief (PG)

July 21–Planet 51 (PG)

July 28–Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs (PG)

August 4–Tooth Fairy (PG)

August 11-Surprise Movie (To be determined) (PG)

2010 Free Children’s Matinee Series http://www.cyouatthemovies.com/freechildrensmatinees.html
Admission is FREE!!! All movies begin at 10:00am
“Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs”
McHenry                      Antioch                       Libertyville
Monday 6/7           Tuesday 6/9            Wednesday 6/10

“Hotel For Dogs”
McHenry                      Antioch                       Libertyville
Monday 6/14            Tuesday 6/15           Wednesday 6/16
“Kung-Fu Panda”
McHenry                      Antioch                       Libertyville
Monday 6/21            Tuesday 6/23           Wednesday 6/23
“Happy Feet”
McHenry                      Antioch                       Libertyville
Monday 6/28            Tuesday 6/29            Wednesday 6/30

“Monsters vs. Aliens”
McHenry                      Antioch                       Libertyville                      Zion

Monday 7/5              Tuesday 7/6            Wednesday 7/7           Thursday  7/8
“Madagascar”

McHenry                      Antioch                       Libertyville                        Zion

Monday 7/12           Tuesday 7/13          Wednesday 7/14         Thursday  7/15
“Shark Tale”
McHenry                      Antioch                       Libertyville                      Zion
Monday 7/19           Tuesday 7/20          Wednesday 7/21         Thursday  7/22

“SpongeBob SquarePants”
McHenry                         Antioch                       Libertyville                                    Zion
Monday 7/26           Tuesday 7/27            Wednesday 7/28         Thursday  7/29
“The Adventures of Elmo in Grouchland”
McHenry                      Antioch                       Libertyville

Monday 8/2            Tuesday 8/3          Wednesday 8/4
“Muppets from Space”
McHenry                      Antioch                       Libertyville
Monday 8/9            Tuesday 8/10          Wednesday 8/11
“Surf’s Up”
McHenry                      Antioch                       Libertyville
Monday 8/2               Tuesday 8/3            Wednesday 8/4

Need more ideas?

Go to the library and grab an Oaklee’s Guide! They’re free and there’s so much listed in it that I can’t put in here! www.oakleesguide.com (also can get event/attraction coupons there) You can actually read the Oaklee’s calendar online if you don’t get a chance to pick one up.

Check out Chicago Parent too! www.chicagoparent.com for event/attraction coupons as well!