Things To Do This Weekend July 12-14, 2024

By: Stephanie Wylie 07/11/2024

It’s blazing hot out there! In this weekend's edition for July 12-14, remember that Lake County is known for its lakes, offering plenty of spots to cool off and dive into the details of lake life here. If you're in the mood to celebrate, explore all the festivals listed in our latest summer fest season guide. Don’t forget to enter our summer sweepstakes for a chance to win tickets to Six Flags Great America or an overnight stay at Great Wolf Lodge Illinois - Enter Now! This weekend promises exciting activities like sing-a-long musicals, classic cars, family fun and all of Lake County's sights.

Lakefront Park in Fox Lake

Here are your top things to do in Lake County from July 12-14, 2024!

1. Waukegan Scoop 2024

Get ready for one of the summer's most anticipated events: Scoop Waukegan! Set in the heart of the City of Progress’s downtown area, Scoop Waukegan features cool cars, great food and live entertainment. Check out Cruise In and Park featuring cars from the 1920s-2000s, with special awards and trophy categories including Original Scooper, Mayor’s Choice, Best Lowrider and more. Don’t forget about the musical lineup featuring Eddie Domino and the Domino Effect, DJ Spontaneous, Caliente and more! Explore a variety of food vendors and downtown restaurants. For more information on registration and entertainment lineup visit ScoopWaukegan.com. Whether you're a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, this event is the perfect opportunity to experience the warmth and energy of Waukegan. To explore what else is going on in the City of Progress this summer, head to VisitLakeCounty.org/Summer-in-Waukegan.

Friday-Saturday, July 12-13; Fri.: 5-9 p.m. and Sat.: noon-9 p.m. Free admission. Downtown Waukegan, Genesee St. and Water St., Waukegan.
 

2. Lake County Road Trips

This summer, embark on a journey filled with freedom, adventure, and unforgettable memories with Lake County Road Trips. Explore Lake County’s stunning landscapes and diverse attractions at your own pace along five unique routes, each highlighting the natural beauty and vibrant culture of the region. Whether by car, bike, or on foot, create your own adventure. Register for a chance to win tickets to Six Flags Great America or a two-day stay at Great Wolf Lodge Illinois, both in Gurnee. Visit Lake County also introduces Road Trip Bingo, a fun and interactive way to explore. As you travel, look for iconic landmarks, quirky sights and delicious treats to mark off on your virtual bingo card. Play vertically, horizontally, diagonally or aim for the four corners to win. Document your discoveries with photos or videos to claim your prize, which includes an overnight stay in a Lake County hotel, a road trip-themed shirt and more. Explore Lake County’s road trip itineraries – Illinois Route 21, U.S. Route 45, Illinois Route 83, Illinois Route 41 and U.S. Route 12 – and turn your road trip into a memorable game. Start planning your adventure at VisitLakeCounty.org and  “Let the Ride Take You!”

Friday-Sunday, July 12-14; Various locations in Lake County, Illinois.
 

3. “Cinderella…Really?” at Citadel Theatre in Lake Forest

Immerse yourself in a unique and enchanting twist on a classic fairy tale with Citadel Theatre's production of "Cinderella... Really?" This outdoor theatre experience promises to be a memorable evening filled with laughter, magic and family-friendly fun. “Cinderella... Really?” offers a fresh take on the beloved story of “Cinderella,” with original music and play written by Mark Adamczyk and directed by Gregg Dennhardt. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own chairs, blankets, and picnic baskets to fully enjoy the scenic and relaxed atmosphere of at Openlands Lakeshore Preserve at Fort Sheridan. For ticket information and to reserve your spot, visit CitadelTheatre.org or call the box office directly at 847-735-8554. Don’t miss out on this enchanting event that promises to entertain and captivate the whole family. “Cinderella… Really?” runs on select days through Sunday, July 21.

Saturday-Sunday, July 13-14; Sat. and Sun.: 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Tickets starting at $15. Openland Lakeshore, 350 N. Waukegan Rd., Lake Forest.
 

4. Summer Camp-In at Great Wolf Lodge Illinois

Gear up for a season of fun and adventure at Great Wolf Lodge Illinois’s annual Summer Camp-In celebration! The Gurnee resort and water park offers a variety of exciting summer-themed activities included in your stay like the splash and dance pool party, character appearances, jamboree and more. Guests at Great Wolf Lodge Illinois have unlimited access to the 84-degree indoor water park, filled with slides, pools and more. In addition to the daily events and activities, guests can also enjoy the Adventure Park, which offers additional attractions at an extra cost. For the most up-to-date information, visit GreatWolfLodge.com. Don't miss out on this chance to let your imagination run wild and create lasting summer memories with your family. Great Wolf Lodge Illinois’s Summer Camp-in experience runs daily through August 25

Friday-Sunday, July 12-14. Room Rates: Starting at $149. Great Wolf Lodge Illinois, 1700 Nations Dr., Gurnee.

5. “Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!” at Marriott Theatre

Experience "Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!" based on Mo Willems’ beloved children’s book, which follows the antics of the Pigeon, who never gets to do anything exciting. However, when the bus driver faces a crisis that could make her passengers late, the clever and determined pigeon might just get his chance to shine. With a creative mix of songs, humor and feathers, this musical is sure to have everyone’s wings flapping. "Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical!" is a must-see for families looking for a fun and entertaining outing at Marriott Theatre.  For more information and to buy tickets, visit MarriottTheatre.com or call the box office directly at 847-634-0200. The Lincolnshire theatre’s production runs on select days through August 11.

Friday-Sunday, July 12-14; 10 a.m. Tickets starting at $15.75. Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Dr., Lincolnshire. 

For more things to do this weekend July 12-14, 2024, continue here.