Things To Do This Weekend June 7-9, 2024

By: Stephanie Wylie 06/05/2024

Welcome to your ultimate guide for an action-packed weekend in Lake County! Whether you're a music aficionado, nature enthusiast or craft beer lover, we've got a lineup of fantastic events you won't want to miss. From the legendary James Taylor serenading the crowd to the vibrant Lake County Pride celebration this weekend promises something for everyone. Dive into the fun at CicadaFest, cheer on athletes at the Fox Lake Triathlon, savor local brews at the 11th Annual Mundelein Craft Beer Festival and discover new musical talents at the Bitter Jester Music Festival. 

Let's look at Lake County's top five things to do this weekend, June 7-9.

1. An Evening with James Taylor and his All-Star Band at Ravinia Festival in Highland Park

Music lovers are in for a treat as the legendary James Taylor, along with His All-Star Band, graces the stage at the Ravinia Festival this weekend. The 2000 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and six-time Grammy-winning artist’s warm baritone voice and distinctive guitar style have enchanted audiences worldwide for over five decades. The Ravinia Festival performance will undoubtedly feature a mix of Taylor’s classic hits and newer pieces, offering fans a rich tapestry of his musical journey. From iconic songs like “Fire and Rain” and “You’ve Got a Friend” to his latest Grammy-winning work, attendees will experience the breadth of Taylor’s artistry. Don’t miss this chance to witness one of the most cherished artists of our time. The Saturday date is nearly sold out (lawn seating for the aforementioned date are at capacity), while Sunday’s performance has more availability. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Ravinia.org.

Saturday-Sunday, June 8-9; 5 p.m. General admission starts at $77. Ravinia Festival, 200 Ravinia Park Rd., Highland Park.

2. CicadaFest at Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area in Riverwoods

In a unique convergence of nature enthusiasts and insect admirers, the Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area is set to host CicadaFest. This lively event, designed for participants of all ages, promises an afternoon filled with engaging activities centered around insects and, of course, cicadas. The event will feature learning stations, live presentations showcasing the behaviors and characteristics of various insects, a dress-up booth for kids, insect collecting, a cicada search and more. CicadaFest not only celebrates insects but also emphasizes the importance of conservation and environmental education. By engaging with these small yet significant creatures, participants gain a greater appreciation for biodiversity and the vital roles insects play in our ecosystems. For further information, please contact the event organizers at [email protected] or visit LCFPD.org.

Sunday, June 9; noon-4 p.m. Free admission. Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area, 21950 N. Riverwoods Rd., Riverwoods.

3. Lake County PrideFest at the Round Lake Beach Cultural and Civic Center

Lake County PrideFest returns for its fourth year, and promises a day filled with joy, inclusivity and vibrant community spirit. Lake County PrideFest is a free, family-friendly outdoor festival that draws thousands of attendees each year, offering a diverse array of activities and attractions designed to celebrate LGBTQIA+ life and culture. Guests can expect music and performances, food trucks, craft and artisan vendors, a resource fair, drag shows, dancing and more. Musicians that will grace the stage include Charlie Foxtrot, Mami Zaddy, Auntie Heroine and Friends and more. Whether you are part of the LGBTQIA+ community or an ally, your presence helps foster a sense of solidarity and celebration. For more information about the event and how you can get involved, visit the official PrideFest website at LGBTQLC.com.

Saturday, June 8; 2-10 p.m. Suggested $5 donation. Round Lake Beach Cultural and Civic Center, 2007 Civic Center Way, Round Lake Beach.

4. Fox Lake Triathlon on the Shores of Nippersink Lake in Fox Lake

The highly anticipated 7th annual Fox Lake Triathlon is set to return, with a scenic and challenging course designed to test the endurance and skills of athletes. The USAT-sanctioned triathlon kicks off with a half-mile swim in Nippersink Lake. Participants will navigate a triangular course marked by two inflatable duck buoys and finish at the swan buoy. The 12-mile bike route features a mix of rolling hills and straightaways. The event concludes with a 3.1-mile run on an out-and-back course, with over two miles on a paved bike path. The layout of the course makes it an excellent event for spectators, who can easily follow the action and support the athletes. Participants and spectators can look forward to a festive atmosphere at the finish line with music, food and entertainment. Whether you are an athlete testing your limits or a spectator cheering on friends and family, this event offers something for everyone. Racers are provided a pre-race swim on June 8 from 7:30-9 a.m. at Three Oaks Recreation Area in Crystal Lake. Competitors will also receive a RPT Bike Water Bottle and a FLTRI triathlon race belt upon registration. For more information and maps of the routes, visit the official event page at RaceRoster.com.

Sunday, June 11; 7 a.m. Individual registration starts at $85. Lakefront Park, 77 Nippersink Rd., Fox Lake.

5. 11th annual Mundelein Craft Beer Festival

The Mundelein Craft Beer Festival celebrates its 11th annual event promising to be an unforgettable experience for craft beer lovers. This year, attendees can look forward to an impressive lineup of over 40 breweries, including Lake County Libation Trail partners Tighthead Brewing Co., Tonality Brewing and Bosacki’s Brewery of Mundelein Buffalo Creek Brewing of Long Grove, Harbor Brewing Co. (Winthrop Harbor) and 9th Hour Brewing Co. of Lake Villa, Half Day Brewing Co. of Lincolnshire, Liquid Love Brewing of Buffalo Grove, Mickey Finn’s Brewery of Libertyville, Phase Three Brewing Co. and Roaring Table Brewery of Lake Zurich, Black Lung Brewing Co. of Fox Lake and Round Lake Beach and Ravinia Brewing Co of Highland Park. Enjoy beer samples, souvenir tasting glass, live music, food vendors and more. Some of the fare vendors include Bill’s Pizza and Pub and Tony Cannoli of Mundelein as well as Perfect Brewing Supply of Libertyville. The festival is not just about tasting great beer; it's a celebration of community and craftsmanship. The event will take place rain or shine with no rain date and no refunds. All ticket sales are final. With its robust lineup of breweries and food vendors, this year’s festival is not to be missed. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit TightheadBrewing.com.

Saturday, June 8; 1-5 p.m. Tickets start at $50. Courtland Commons, 444 E. Courtland St., Mundelein.

For more things to do this weekend, June 7-9, click here.