Rockford is full of things to do! From nature escapes to adventure centers and museums, the city is a perfect place for a day trip.

The DeKalb Municipal Band will open its 172nd concert season on Tuesady with a concert featuring vocalist Gregor King.

The popular rodeo will feature a mixture of traditional rodeo competitions and world-class entertainment performances.

Billy Elton kicks off the Sycamore Park District's summer concert series on Thursday, June 4.

The Kishwaukee Valley Art League’s annual Northern Illinois Art Show returns this weekend, June 6-7, to Sycamore.

Immerse yourself in nature this spring at these picutreaque northern Illinois parks.

Catch free and low-cost live music and plenty of community spirit at these summer concert events throughout northern Illinois.

It's summer beer and wine festival season! Check out these events happening throughout the suburbs.

Summer is almost here, and that means it's festival season across northern Illinois.

Guests will explore the theatre by flashlight while hearing eerie stories, haunted legends and fascinating history from one of DeKalb’s most iconic landmarks.

The inaugural Juneteenth Community Festival will transform downtown DeKalb for one day only, from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. June 19 at Van Buer Plaza, near North Second and Locust streets. Admission is free.

June is National Candy Month.

Provecho, a new spot in downtown DeKalb, is serving up homemade Venezuelan food that fuses ingredients and flavors for a unique experience its chef hopes patrons will enjoy.

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

The 90th Annual Genoa Days runs May 27-30 in downtown Genoa.

From neighborhood street fairs to beloved small-town traditions and Route 66 Centennial celebrations, these events reflect the state’s culture, food and music.

Roaring Nights concert series, new Dinos! Experience and anniversary celebrations headline can’t-miss summer lineup.

Genoa Days returns for its 90th year this week, running Wednesday through Saturday. The Genoa Area Chamber of Commerce's annual scholarship contest for graduating seniors will take place Wednesday night at the Main Stage.

Running from May 29 through June 7, the production is inspired by the iconic music of Alanis Morissette.

The Belfry House creates an intimate experience for couples and adult travelers, bringing together seasonal fine dining, live entertainment and personalized hospitality.

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.

The new Crystal Lake location opened Friday, May 22. Owner Erdene Sainnyambu is also in talks to open a DeKalb location.

Each week will feature a rotating lineup of talented local artists representing a variety of musical styles and genres at the DeKalb Farmers Market.

Stage Coach Players presents "A Streetcar Named Desire" May 22-24.

Plan a trip to Starved Rock Country in the Illinois Valley for a day of fun-filled adventure.

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

May is National Burger Month.

Warehouse on Park in Genoa will welcome a variety of tribute bands, including tributes to The Doors, Grateful Dead, Rolling Stones and more, during the 2026 outdoor music series.

Explore the variety of wines from California's Cadre Wines.

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.

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.

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.