From fireworks-filled nights and high-energy concerts to celebratory dining and thrilling speedboat rides, City Cruises delivers unforgettable summer moments on Lake Michigan and the Chicago River.

Elburn's Heritage Prairie Farm will host five farm dinners in 2026.

Enjoy waterfront dining at these restaurants along beautiful rivers and lakes in northern Illinois this season.

Christian singer Michael W. Smith will bring his "Kingdom Come Tour" to the Egyptian Theatre on Friday, May 15.

The Stage Coach Players will open its next production, the drama play “A Streetcar Named Desire,” May 14.

Festivals are blooming across northern Illinois this month.

May is National Burger Month.

Check out these farmers markets opening for the 2026 season in northern Illinois.

A number of farmers markets are expected to open for the season soon in DeKalb County. Here's what to expect:

The DeKalb Back Alley Market Mother's Day edition is Saturday, May 9 in downtown DeKalb.

Spring is here, and that means it's the perfect season to get out and explore new destinations.

Spring is here, and that means the return of some of the area's most popular beer and wine festivals of the year.

Find the perfect champagne or sparkling wine for Mother's Day.

Downtown DeKalb's free, family-friendly Cinco de Mayo event is from noon to 8 p.m. Sunday, May 3.

Mother's Day is Sunday, May 10.

The 2026 Kentucky Derby is Saturday, May 2. Celebrate at these events in Kane, Will, Cook and McHenry counties.

These flower-filled events in the Midwest go beyond the blooms, offering everything from artisan markets and live music to garden tours and family-friendly activities.

Check out various running events, local group bike rides on the Fox River Trail this season.

Starting June 20, a full slate of special events, features and throwbacks are planned to honor the park’s heritage and 50th anniversary.

Willrett Flower Company will host the Downtown DeKalb Flower Walk on Saturday, April 25.

Across the suburbs and throughout the region, you’ll find fascinating spots dedicated to art, history, science and unique local stories.

Sometimes a trip off the beaten path can give people more things to learn and talk about. Take a drive from Mount Carroll to Scales Mound, and there's something for everyone.

From animal encounters to Glow Wild nights and dino-sized adventures, Brookfield Zoo Chicago offers new experiences and seasonal favorites for guests of all ages.

Summerfield Zoo will open Saturday, April 18 for the season.

Third Eye Blind will perform Aug. 23, while Six One Five Collective takes the stage July 25.

One million blooms are expected this year at Kuipers Family Farm in Maple Park, which is celebrating 25 years this spring.

The NIU Steelband will perform a free concert at the DeKalb Public Library Friday, April 17.

The Stage Coach Players will open its next production, the comedy play “The Play That Goes Wrong,” on April 9 in DeKalb.

You don't need to travel to Vegas to enjoy the bright lights at a casino in northwest Illinois.

Northern Illinois is home to some notably beautiful botanical gardens and arboretums waiting to be explored.

Other performers this summer include The Beach Boys, Gov't Mule, Poi Dog Pondering, Lauren Alaina and tributes to Bee Gees, Led Zeppelin and many more.

Iniga Pizzeria is located in downtown DeKalb at 206 E. Lincoln Highway, in the former Eduardo's Restaurant location.

DeKalb High School is set to open its spring production the musical “Hairspray the Broadway Musical,” April 16.

Fans of Tamales Los Girasoles soon won’t have to head to Malta to get their fix of authentic Mexican food. A second location in DeKalb is anticipated to open this spring.

Spring and the return of baseball bring hot dogs back to the forefront. So here are 10 places to get a legit, Chicago-style hot dog in the suburbs.

Discover Sycamore's Taste of Spring is from 4-8 p.m. Thursday, April 9.

Louise Harrison, the late George Harrison’s older sister, hand-picked the musicians who portray Ringo Starr, John Lennon, Paul McCartney and her brother.

Sample 21 curated wines with small bites at participating businesses in downtown Sycamore.

The Spring Valley ‘Uriah’ Walla Walla Valley Red Wine 2022 is a dark, brooding red with blackberry, plum, cedar, tobacco leaf and cracked pepper flavors.

Led by ESO Music Director Chad Goodman, the concert features works by Quinn Mason, Robert Schumann and Ludwig van Beethoven.

The historic theater hosts tribute bands, comedians and more throughout the year.

Six Flags Great America in Gurnee has announced plans to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2026.

The festive fundraiser, “A Serenade to the Fox Valley,” will feature a special ensemble performing timeless tunes in a loving tribute from the ESO to the community that has been its home and inspiration for 76 years.

Several communities in DeKalb County are hosting Easter events this weekend.

The Voluntary Action Center will host Stand Up for Seniors, a special comedy fundraiser featuring the nationally touring Bad Momz of Comedy, with all proceeds benefiting Meals on Wheels of DeKalb County.

Pick up your Easter chocolate at these fine chocolatiers in northern Illinois. Easter is Sunday, April 5.

Easter is Sunday, April 5.

Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark is located on site at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.

That Arena Rock Show will perform the biggest hits of the '80s rock era at the Egyptian Theatre on March 28.

That Arena Rock Show will transform the Egyptian Theatre into an '80s arena rock concert, performing the biggest rock hits from the '70s and '80s.