Top 10 Things To Do in July 2026

By: Sam Ornig 06/26/2026

July is made for making memories, and there's no better place to spend it than Lake County. From patriotic celebrations and community festivals to days on the water and nights filled with live entertainment, the season is packed with ways to celebrate summer.

As America begins its 250th anniversary celebration, it's the perfect time to explore Lake County's destinations, history and hometown experiences that bring people together. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping rides at Six Flags Great America and Hurricane Harbor Chicago, relaxing afternoons by the lake or scenic drives filled with hidden gems, your next summer adventure starts here.

Ready to hit the road? Explore the Lake County Road Trips guide for inspiration and discover our top 10 can't-miss experiences to enjoy throughout July.

1. LAKE COUNTY ROAD TRIPS (ALL MONTH)

This summer, hit the open road and discover Lake County at your own pace with Lake County Road Trips! Journey through Waukegan's scenic beauty and uncover the rich stories that make our area so special. With five distinct routes designed for cars, bikes or even on foot, you can choose your adventure. Follow the picturesque paths of Illinois Route 21 and U.S. Route 45, Illinois Route 83, Illinois Route 41 and U.S. Route 12, each offering breathtaking scenery and unforgettable moments. Lake County is the perfect spot for your next summer escape. Pick your route and let the beauty, history, nature and discovery of Lake County lead you on an incredible journey!

2. SUMMER IN WAUKEGAN (ALL SUMMER)

Take a trip to Waukegan for summer experiences that are sure to make your season memorable. Located conveniently between Chicago, Milwaukee and Rockford, and along the shores of Lake Michigan, the City of Progress offers so many opportunities for adventure and relaxation in the summer. Taste incredible dishes created by local dining spots, shop for special treasures at unique mom-and-pop shops and soak up the sun, surf and sand on the beach. With a lively downtown, energetic art scene and charming community vibes, let Waukegan be your starting point for a season of discovery, flavor and fun.

3. JULY FESTIVALS IN LAKE COUNTY (ALL MONTH)

From rollercoasters and funnel cakes to fireworks and parades, everyone is sure to have a blast at a Lake County festival this summer. Let's explore the July festival schedule:

• 50th Anniversary Celebration at Six Flags Great America (throughout July) INFO»
• Pride in the Park at Everts Park in Highwood (7/1) INFO»
• Mundelein Community Days (7/2-7/5) INFO»
• Independence Fest in Highland Park (7/3) INFO»
• 63rd Annual Deerfield Family Days (7/3-7/4) INFO»
• Red, White & Boom! in Lincolnshire (7/3-7/4) INFO»
• Star Spangled Nights at Six Flags Great America (7/3-7/4) INFO»
• America 250 BeachFest in Round Lake Beach (7/3-7/4) INFO»
• America the Beautiful: USA Weekend at Brothers' Field (7/3-7/5) INFO»
• Independence Day Parade in Highland Park (7/4) INFO»
• Independence Day Celebration in Zion (7/4) INFO»
• Lincolnshire Arts Festival (7/4-7/5) INFO»
• Scoop Waukegan (7/10-7/11) INFO»
• 17th Annual Dog Days of Summer in Libertyville (7/10-7/12) INFO»
• Bristol Renaissance Faire (7/11-9/7) INFO»
• University Fair at the University Center of Lake County (7/16) INFO»
• Wauconda America 250 Celebration (7/18) INFO»
• Cardboard Boat Regatta in Grayslake (7/18) INFO»
• Vernon Hills Days (7/16-7/19) INFO»
• AlpineFest in Lake Zurich (7/17-7/19) INFO»
• Grayslake Summer Nights Battle of the Bands and Drone Show (7/25-7/26) INFO»
• Gospelfest at Greenbelt Cultural Center (7/26) INFO»
• 97th Annual Lake County Fair (7/29-8/2) INFO»

4. FOURTH OF JULY HAPPENINGS

Lake County's array of Independence Day celebrations are extra special this year as the country celebrates America 250. Residents and visitors are invited to join in the festivities, including elaborate fireworks displays, traditional parades and lively, multi-day festivals. These events promise family-friendly entertainment, including live music, diverse food vendors and various recreational activities. The extensive lineup of celebrations underscores a strong sense of local pride and community unity in observing the national holiday. From Gurnee's America 250th Celebration to Mundelein's Community Days and the Red, White & BOOM! event in Lincolnshire, there's something for everyone to experience the spirit of the Fourth.

5. 97TH ANNUAL LAKE COUNTY FAIR (JULY 29-August 2)

Get ready for the 97th annual Lake County Fair in Grayslake, featuring exciting grandstand and arena events such as motocross, monster trucks, a demolition derby and bull riding, all free with admission. Beyond the action, attendees can enjoy carnival rides, live music and livestock events. Don't miss five days filled with everyone's favorite fair foods, thrilling rides, carnival games and fun for the whole family.

6. Watch the FIFA WORLD Cup in Lake County

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is in full swing, bringing the world's biggest soccer tournament closer to home than it has been in decades. With 48 nations competing in 104 matches across the United States, Mexico and Canada, fans can experience more than five weeks of unforgettable action. While not everyone can attend a match in person, the excitement is just as electric when shared with fellow fans. Whether you're supporting your favorite team or simply enjoying the global atmosphere, Lake County offers plenty of local restaurants and taprooms where you can catch every match with great food, drinks and a crowd ready to celebrate every goal through the final whistle.

6. RAVINIAL FESTIVAL IN HIGHLAND PARK (ALL MONTH)

This year marks an unforgettable Ravinia Festival season as the newly renovated Hunter Pavilion opens in July, promising state-of-the-art acoustics and production capabilities. Join the grand opening on July 11, with youngest-ever Van Cliburn Competition winner Yunchan Lim, joined by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Chief Conductor Marin Alsop and special guest Lizzo, global superstar and flautist. This season features an eclectic mix of performances, encompassing everything from classical symphonies to high-energy rock concerts, soulful jazz and beyond. There truly is an act to captivate every musical palate.

• Master Class with Pianist Jean-Efflam Bavouzet (7/1) INFO»
• Chamber Music Afternoon (7/3) INFO»
• Chamber Music Afternoon (7/5) INFO»
• Chamber Music Afternoon (7/9) INFO»
• Hunter Pavilion & 90th Residency Grand Opening (7/11) INFO»
• Billy Idol (7/12) INFO»
• Squirrel Nut Zippers (7/14) INFO»
• Harry Connick Jr. (7/15) INFO»
• Music for Love and Loss (7/15) INFO»
• Chamber Music Afternoon (7/16) INFO»
• Mozarts The Abduction from the Seraglio (7/16 and 7/18) INFO»
• Chamber Music Afternoon (7/17) INFO»
• Paul Simon (7/17-7/18) INFO»
• Beethovens Pastoral Symphony and Violin Concerto (7/18) INFO»
• Chamber Music Afternoon (7/19) INFO»
• Master Class with Violinist Augustin Hadelich (7/21) INFO»
• Mahlers Sixth Symphony (7/23) INFO»
• Parisian Voices (7/23) INFO»
• Afternoon of Chamber Music (7/24) INFO»
• On the Movie (7/24) INFO»
• Violinist Augustin Hadelich (7/25) INFO»
• An Evening with St. Vincent (7/25) INFO»
• Chanticleer (7/26) INFO»
• Emmylou Harris and Graham Nash (7/26) INFO»
• Jimmy Buffetts Coral Reefer Band with special guest The Docksiders (7/28) INFO»
• The Kody Norris Show with special guests Duke Tumatoe and Railheart (7/29) INFO»
• Dvoks New World Symphony (7/31) INFO»
• Dr. Seuss Goes to the Opera (7/31) INFO»

7. BRISTOL RENAISsANCE FAIRE OPENS FOR THE SEASON (JULY 11-SEPT. 7)

The Bristol Renaissance Faire opens its gates for the season on Saturday, July , transporting visitors back to Elizabethan England. Guests can immerse themselves in a 1574 village festival, complete with knights, jesters and period entertainment. The 30-acre site offers diverse acts, including swordfighters and minstrels, all included with admission. Nearly 200 artisans will also display their handcrafted wares, from pottery to leather goods. The Faire runs Saturdays, Sundays and Labor Day Monday through September 7.

9. Mundelein Grand Prix: CHICAGO GRIT Bike Race (JULY 20)

The Chicago Grit cycling event returns to downtown Mundelein on Monday, July 20, for a full day of bicycle racing. Races are held in a "criterium" format, meaning that racers will compete together on a short circuit racecourse and complete as many laps as possible within the allotted time. Once one race finishes, another begins shortly thereafter. With tight turns and fast straightaways, races are always a thrilling spectacle! This day is not just about bike races — it is an event that the whole community can enjoy and includes children's games, a community ride, live music, art activities, a beer garden and more. This free, family-friendly event promises excitement for avid cyclists and summer activity seekers.

10. LIFE'S A BEACH IN LAKE COUNTY (ALL SUMMER)

Lake County lives up to its "land of lakes" moniker with over 200 lakes and extensive Lake Michigan shoreline, offering diverse beach experiences for summer. This comprehensive guide details everything from adventurous stretches at Illinois Beach State Park in Zion to family-friendly havens like Paulus Park in Lake Zurich, complete with lifeguards and water playgrounds. Visitors can also explore new amenities at Fox Lake's Lakefront Park and Beach, or enjoy the tranquil shores of Foss Park Beach in North Chicago. For daily updates on beach conditions and to find your ideal lakeside escape, consult the Lake County Beach Advisory page before grabbing your towels and sunscreen.

Find more things to do in July in Lake County!