Fall in Lake County is a time of vibrant colors, cool breezes, and community celebrations that bring people together. As the leaves turn to shades of red and gold, local festivals pop up across the county, offering everything from pumpkin patches to craft fairs. These events are perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking to embrace the season's spirit. Whether you're a longtime resident or a visitor, Lake County's fall festivals are sure to provide unforgettable memories.
SeptOberFest at the Beer Garden at Independence Grove is an opportunity to bring family and friends together. The Beer Garden features delicious beverages from partners of the Lake County Libation Trail including Black Lung Brewing Co. of Round Lake Beach, Tighthead Brewing Co. of Mundelein, Mickey Finn's Brewery of Libertyville, Harbor Brewing Co. and 9th Hour Brewing Co. of Lake Villa, Roaring Table Brewing Co. and Phase Three Brewing Co. of Lake Zurich, Half Day Brewing in Lincolnshire, Ravinia Brewing Co. of Highland Park, Glunz Family WInery in Grayslake and Buffalo Creek Brewing of Long Grove. The fest features live music, trivia, meet the brewer, a lakeside firepit. a guided walk through the renowned Independence Grove and more.
Ravinia Festival in the fall is a magical experience, where music meets the crisp autumn air. As the leaves change, the outdoor pavilion and lawn come alive with performances that blend world-class talent and the cozy charm of the season. Whether you're enjoying classical symphonies or contemporary artists, the atmosphere is perfect for an evening of relaxation and entertainment under the stars. Don't miss the chance to experience Ravinia's unique fall concerts, where every note feels like a celebration of the season.
RISE Dispensaries in Village of Mundelein presents Miracle in Mundelein 2024. Taking place on Sept. 7-8, the festival features artists like Wiz Khalifa, Slightly Stoopid and more! For more information about the greenest fest in Lake County, click below.
Experience a “Boo”tiful weekend in Lake County during the annual Spooks and Spirits Autumn Celebration. There’s something for everyone: fall festivals, costume parades, haunted houses, corn mazes and pumpkin patches, “supernatural” attractions and more. Don’t miss the land of lakes’ scary-good, locally-made brews, wines, and spirits for the adults.
“Then you’re left in the dust unless I stuck by ya. You’re the sunflower. I think your love would be too much.” Find the Post Malone and Swae Lee hit song while you visit Richardson Adventure Farm’s brand-spanking-new Sunflower Festival running alongside its corn maze. The Spring Grove farm flower power party has been installed with detailed trails through the 13-acre field. The sunflower trail is highlighted by 24 varieties, including yellow-headed, red multi-branched, orange, peach and gold blossoms. The festivities also include a beer and wine tent, carousel rides, yard games, live tunes and a gift shop. The sunflower fields open September 7. Admission includes a free single sunflower to take home.
Fright Fest at Six Flags Great America transforms the park into a spine-chilling experience where thrills take a terrifying twist. As night falls, haunted houses, scare zones, and costumed ghouls emerge, turning the park into a playground for the brave. With hair-raising rides and eerie entertainment, it's the perfect way to get into the Halloween spirit. Whether you're a thrill-seeker or just love a good scare, Fright Fest offers unforgettable frights around every corner.
Kids Boo Fest at Six Flags Great America offers a delightful mix of Halloween fun and family-friendly thrills. During the day, little ones can enjoy their favorite rides and attractions without any scares, making it perfect for all ages. The Trick-or-Treat Character Trail lets kids collect candy while meeting beloved characters in a safe and festive environment. With pumpkins, hay bales, and seasonal decorations, Kids Boo Fest brings the magic of fall to life with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained.
Oktoberfests in Lake County offer a festive atmosphere with German food, beer, music, and traditional activities.
Brothers' Field in Long Grove is a historic park with a gazebo, picnic tables and more. You'll find a variety of your favorite fall festivals hosted here:
Craving a refreshing brew? Downtown Grayslake celebrates the craft of beer with an impressive selection from over a dozen breweries at their annual Bourbon and Beer Festival. Your ticket includes a commemorative glass and a festival guide. The event also features live music to enhance the experience. Participating breweries from the Lake County Libation Trail
Taking place on the shores of Phil's Beach, this wine and beer tasting event includes tastings, food, live music by Mike Novello and raffles. Enjoy the final days of summer by the water!
Experience a fun-filled day celebrating Barbie's birthday in Downtown Antioch! Enjoy a variety of Barbie-themed activities at participating shops throughout the town. Be one of the first 100 registrants and receive a special Keepsake Barbie Bag*. Don't miss the Barbie Launch Party for an extra dose of fun and excitement! It's a day of Barbie-inspired fashion, shopping and celebration for all ages.
Get ready to relive the best music of the 70s, 80s, and 90s at Decades at The Lot! This exciting event, taking place on September 14th from 10 AM to 10 PM in Highland Park, features fantastic headlining acts that will have you dancing and singing along. Immerse yourself in the sounds, flavors, and fashion of these iconic decades through live performances and a variety of food and beverage vendors. Explore the "Decades of Music" interactive trail through downtown Highland Park businesses to complete your journey. Don't miss this unforgettable opportunity to experience the best music of three decades in one incredible event.
The city's famed ArtWauk "paints" the town with sculptures, film, theatre, comedy, music, performance art, food, and more. The free admission Saturday art event opens the doors to all art galleries throughout Waukegan. Fill your artistic void with the ever-extravagant monthly ArtWauk in Downtown Waukegan. In addition to the portraits, sculptures and other creative vibes, munch on some delicious dining options downtown or feel the flow of the tunes from the live entertainment.
It’ll be like a scene out of “The Walking Dead” with downtown Waukegan as the backdrop. The 11th annual ZombieWAUK returns with its salute to the undead art-horror scene and myriad Halloween-inspired happenings. The spooky season event is highlighted by pumpkin painting, costume contests for kids, adults and pets, plus artwork displayed by many of the talented. ZombieWAUK also features performances from live bands to be named at a later date.
Celebrate the beauty of fall and support the Lambs Farm mission at their annual Fall on the Farm event! Enjoy exciting activities like barrel train rides, rope making, and a touch-a-tractor experience provided by the Lake County Farm Heritage Association. Listen to a live with Hannah B from 102.3 Free Country, participate in festive crafts and games and savor delicious autumn sweets. Don't miss this wonderful opportunity to experience the fall season and support a great cause.
This annual event attracts thousands of residents and visitors, offering a fun-filled evening for all ages. Enjoy live music by West End 40, participate in the bags tournament (registration required), savor delicious food from local restaurants and sip on beer and wine. Don't miss this exciting fall celebration!
The 7th Annual Legions of Craft Beer Festival returns at the Gurnee American Legion Post 771. This popular event features over 50 craft beers, meads and ciders from 20+ Illinois breweries. Enjoy a wide selection of locally brewed beverages and support a great cause. Proceeds from the festival benefit veterans, their families and the community. Join in the celebration and make a meaningful difference.
The streets of Deer Park Town Center will come alive with thousands of original works of art from 75 talented artists. Enjoy a variety of activities, including live painting classes, the Kids Art Zone with art projects and face painting, live music, delicious food and drinks and fun selfie stations. Discover unique pieces of art and support local artists. The event offers free admission and easy parking, making it accessible for everyone. Treat yourself to refreshing lemonade, live music and delicious empanadas and BBQ. Bring the kids and explore the Kids Art Zone, where they can participate in art fest bingo, spin art, sand sculpture, coloring, drawing and more. Learn from the experts by attending live painting classes and observing live art demonstrations. Get your steps in while exploring the accessible and walkable festival grounds. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the Deer Park Art Show and discover the incredible talent of local artists.
The leaves are changing, the air is crisp and the pumpkins are ripe. It can only mean one thing: it's time for the Fox Lake Fall Festival! With all your favorite falll activities, this year's festival promises to be bigger and better than ever. The autumn event features live music, food, crafts, games and a petting zoo. You can also carve a pumpkin, enter a pie-eating contest or take a hayride.
¡Feliz dia de la Independencia Mexicana! This festival celebrates Mexican Independence Day.
Craving a delicious apple experience? Look no further than the Long Grove Apple Fest! This three-day event offers a delightful array of apple-themed treats, live music and local artisans.Indulge in mouthwatering apple pies, donuts, caramel-dipped apples, apple wine and more. Whether you prefer your apples fresh, baked or candied, there's something to satisfy every taste. Explore the local restaurants for even more apple-inspired dishes. Enjoy live music performances on stage, showcasing a variety of genres to keep you entertained throughout the festival. Discover unique handcrafted items from local artisans, adding a touch of creativity to your experience. Bring the whole family, including your furry friend, for three days of fun, delicious food and great entertainment. The Long Grove Apple Fest is a must-attend event for apple lovers and those seeking a memorable experience.
Get ready for a fall-filled adventure at the Pumpkin Jubilee in Fox Lake! Join the Village of Fox Lake on Saturday, October 19th from 3-7 PM at the Community Garden Green for a day of fun and festivities. Explore a variety of artisan crafts and delicious food options from local vendors. Get into the spirit of the season by carving your own pumpkin and adding it to the community pumpkin wall, which will be on display all night. Don't forget to pick up your pumpkin by noon the following day, as any unclaimed pumpkins will be discarded.
Get ready for a scarecrow-making adventure at the DIY Scarecrow Day in Historic Downtown Long Grove! This beloved event returns on Saturday, October 5th from 12-4 PM, offering a fun-filled afternoon for the whole family. Scarecrow engineers of all ages are invited to reserve a time to build their own custom scarecrow. Let your creativity run wild and design a scarecrow inspired by your favorite character or idea.Plan ahead, gather your favorite clothing and accessories, and register in advance to secure your spot. The winner(s) will be announced on Halloween and receive bragging rights for a year!
Invest your fest feels in a festival-infested Libertyville. First Fridays on MainStreet Libertyville, highlighted by various delectable drinks, mouth-watering eats, live entertainment, and more as visitors peruse through local mom-and-pop shops offering promotional sales. Improv Playhouse features its First Friday Funnies as renowned comedians grace the stage for a knee-slapping BYOB event. The Joyful Gourmet provides countless deals, a wine bar and a live performance by Jazz Soup.
Oooowoooo, werewolves of Fox Lake. The Fox Lake Police Department hosts this wonderful family-ghoulish event just once a year. The howl is highlighted by a meet and greet with Fox Lake's finest, delectable treats and hot dogs, kiddie activities and hayrides.
The 14th annual Great Highwood Pumpkin Fest returns this weekend, offering a spooktacular experience for all ages. This beloved Lake County tradition features thrilling carnival rides, creative pumpkin-carving stations, delectable food, live music, and a variety of festive activities, including costume contests, a pie-eating contest, a 5K race, and a pet costume contest.The highlight of the festival is the Great Pumpkin Walls, where thousands of illuminated jack-o'-lanterns aim to set a new Guinness World Record. Enjoy live music at the Everts Park band shell and explore the charming Pumpkin Town USA, a unique display of pumpkins and skeletons themed around rock and roll throughout history. Admission to the festival is free, though some activities may require a fee.
Treat or trunk, smell my truck, give me something good to munch. Dress up in your spookiest threads as the Mundelein Park District hosts its annual Boo Bash Trunk or Treat event. The festivities are highlighted by a giant pumpkin bounce house, carnival games, a pumpkin patch, a storybook walk and more.
Families will flock to Lincolnshire’s North Park for the village’s beloved Boo Bash. The Halloween-themed event will feature a haunted trail/house, pumpkin decorating, games, a live DJ, a bounce house, a gigantic slide, food trucks, laser tag, a photo booth and more. The community festival is suitable for all ages and is free to attend.
Stop! It's pumpkin time! This Grayslake Park District orange fruit holiday features games, a costume contest, a giant slide, hay rides, moonwalks and more.
Enjoy a spooktacular day at the Scarecrow Fest and Walk at The Lot in Highland Park and celebrate fall with exciting scarecrow-themed family fun, engaging kids' activities and festive seasonal decor. Embark on a delightful stroll through downtown Highland Park's "Scarecrow Walk" to admire the creative scarecrows decorated by local businesses. Cast your vote for the best in show and experience the festive atmosphere of the season.
Enjoy WaukeCon 2024 t the Three Brothers Theatre / Genesee Street Cabaret in Waukegan. This exciting comic book convention offers something for fans of all ages. Every attendee will have the chance to win a comic book signed by the legendary Ray Bradbury. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the world of comics and support the Three Brothers Theatre.
Travel back in time at the Illinois Vintage Fest, happening at the Lake County Fairgrounds & Event Center. With over 200 vendors offering vintage clothing, artisan crafts, antiques and more, there's something for every vintage enthusiast. Doors open promptly at 11 a.m., so don't miss your chance to discover unique treasures. Admission is free, making this event accessible to all who appreciate the charm of bygone eras. Explore a weekend of nostalgia and vintage finds in Grayslake!
Put on some gloves, break out old clothing and prepare to stuff straw individuals at the Sullivan Center. Participants are encouraged to bring the clothing and decorations for the hay gentleperson. When the scarecrow is complete, visitors vote for the funniest, scariest and most creative scarecrow. Vernon Hills Park District will display bird-frightening beingsat the Sullivan Center's driveway throughout the spooky season. Complimentary apple cider and donuts will be available for scarecrow makers.
Warm up this fall with a delicious evening of comfort food, beverages, and live music at Stews and Brews and Booze and Blues at The Lot in Highland Park. On Saturday, November 2nd from 5-9 PM, enjoy hearty stews, craft brews, and other delicious drinks while staying cozy by the fire pits and heaters.The evening culminates with a fun-filled People's Choice competition for the best Stew and Brew. Don't miss this heartwarming event that is sure to leave you feeling satisfied and content.
Take a spectacular cinematic journey as the 13th annual Lake County Film Festival unveils its tapestry of creativity and storytelling. Featuring a curated selection of films representing compelling narratives, insightful documentaries, captivating short films and music documentaries, visitors can also delve into the creative process during engaging Q&A sessions following select screenings. The final weekend of this event is hosted at the College of Lake County in Grayslake and Gorton Center in Lake Forest showcasing over 100 diverse films. Some of the features include some of Lake County’s up and coming local talent.. Secure your tickets and check the calendar at LakeCountyFilmFestival.com you’re whisked away into the enchanting realm of cinema.
Indulge in a delightful afternoon of champagne tasting and brunch at the Champagne Walk & Brunch in Antioch. Stroll through the charming downtown area, visiting participating shops and restaurants for delicious champagne samples. Enjoy a delectable brunch at the Rivalry Alehouse and receive a keepsake champagne glass, tote bag and a map of all locations. Register now and secure your spot for this unforgettable event!
For more things to do during Lake County's autumn season, continue here.
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