Things To Do This Weekend May 24-27, 2024

By: Stephanie Wylie 05/22/2024

Memorial Day Weekend is almost here, and Lake County is buzzing with activities! While grilling and relaxing with loved ones is a classic way to celebrate, there's a ton to explore beyond the backyard. Get ready for some fun - here are some ideas for your Lake County Memorial Day Weekend, May 24-26!

This Memorial Day Weekend offers a variety of activities in Lake County, Illinois. From thrilling water rides at Hurricane Harbor to a celebration of culinary delights at the Lake County Food Truck Festival, there's something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to witness top-tier dance and drumline teams at Drill or Die 2K24 or relax and enjoy nature at the Beer Garden at Independence Grove.

1. Hurricane Harbor Chicago Opens For The Season In Gurnee (POSTPONED OPENING DATE TO JUNE 1)

Prepare for a splash as Hurricane Harbor Chicago opens on Saturday, May 25, offering a summer filled with exhilarating water adventures. The Gurnee water park promises an unforgettable experience with over 25 rides and attractions. Among the many highlights of Hurricane Harbor Chicago is the Tsunami Surge, a Guinness World Record-holding water coaster. Standing at a staggering 86 feet tall, Tsunami Surge is the tallest water coaster in the world and reaches speeds of up to 28 miles per hour. Whether you're a thrill-seeker looking for your next adrenaline rush or a family in search of a fun day out, Hurricane Harbor Chicago has something for everyone. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit SixFlags.com/HurricaneHarborChicago.

Saturday-Monday, May 25-27; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Admission starting at $25 per person. Six Flags Great America requires a different admission. Hurricane Harbor Chicago, 1 Great America Dr., Gurnee.  

1. Drill or Die 2k24: Drill, Dance and Drumline Competition at Zion-Benton Township High School

The much-anticipated Drill or Die 2K24: Drill, Dance and Drumline Competition is set to return for its fourth annual showcase at Zion-Benton High School. Drill or Die 2K24 will feature top-tier teams from across the Midwest and beyond, including participants from Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio and more. These teams will compete in various categories, demonstrating their skills in drill, dance and drumline. The excitement begins earlier in the day with a parade starting at 10 a.m. at Zion Central Middle School. This year also marks the 10th anniversary of the Zion-based Elite Striders. Don’t miss out on the chance to witness some of the best drill, dance and drumline teams in action. Get ready to be inspired and entertained at Drill or Die 2K24 – where rhythm, movement, and community come together in a spectacular showcase. For more information visit EliteStridersDrillTeam.com.

Saturday, May 25; Parade stepoff: 10 a.m., Program 2-7 p.m. Admission $25. Parade at Zion Central Middle School, 1716 27th St., Zion. Event: Zion-Benton Township High School, 3901 21st St., Zion. 

2. Camping at Fish Lake Beach in Volo

Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort offers a perfect retreat for families seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure. This family-friendly campground provides a wide array of activities and amenities, each campsite comes equipped with water and electric, a picnic table and a fire ring. The Volo grounds ensures plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained, with outdoor movies, themed dances, basketball, volleyball, a softball field, multiple playgrounds and more. The highlight of Fish Lake Beach is its crystal-clear lake, complete with a sandy beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing. For those seeking more adventure, rentals for stand-up paddleboards, canoes, kayaks and pedal boats are also offered. For a blend of relaxation and outdoor excitement, Fish Lake Beach Campground is the perfect choice. Reservations can be made online through their website or by calling 847-546-2228. Fish Lake Camping Resort is open daily through October 14.

Friday-Sunday, May 24-26. Campsites start at $45 a night. Fish Lake Beach Camping Resort, 32223 N. U.S.Highway 12, Volo. 

3. Lake County Food Truck Festival at Lake County Fairgrounds and Events Center in Grayslake

Get ready to indulge your taste buds at the highly anticipated Lake County Food Truck Festival in Grayslake. The Lake County Fairgrounds and Event Center festival boasts an impressive lineup of over 40 food trucks, offering a diverse array of culinary creations to tantalize every palate. From savory meals to sweet treats, attendees can explore a wide variety of cuisines. In addition to the culinary delights on offer, the Lake County Food Truck Festival will also feature live music from local rock and pop cover collective Chapel Hill Band. Bring your appetite, gather a few friends and bon appétit.   For further details about the culinary adventure, visit LCFairgrounds.com.

Friday, May 24; 4-9 p.m. Free admission. Lake County Fairgrounds and Event Center, 1060 E. Peterson Rd., Grayslake. 

4. Beer Garden at Independence Grove in Libertyville

The Beer Garden at Independence Grove is a hidden gem for beer enthusiasts and nature lovers. This scenic venue offers panoramic views of the lake and surrounding preserve, providing the perfect backdrop for a variety of special events and private celebrations. The highlight of the Beer Garden experience is undoubtedly its impressive selection of local craft brews on tap. From crisp lagers to hoppy IPAs and rich stouts, beer enthusiasts will find plenty to satisfy their palate. The Lake County Forest Preserve entity features selections from Lake County Libation Trail participants including Mickey Finn’s of Libertyville, Harbor Brewing Co. and 9th Hour Brewing Co. of Lake Villa, Tighthead Brewing Co. of Mundelein, Liquid Love Brewing of Buffalo Grove, Ravinia Brewing Co. of Highland Park, Buffalo Creek Brewing of Long Grove,  Phase Three Brewing Co. and Roaring Table Brewery of Lake Zurich, Half Day Brewing Co. of Lincolnshire and Wild Onion Brewing Co. of Barrington. The Independence Grove space will be open on Memorial Day.  For more information, inquiries and to view the current menu, interested parties are encouraged to visit LCFPD.org/beer.

Friday-Monday, May 24-27; 1-9 p.m. Free admission. Beer Garden at Independence Grove, 16400 W. Buckley Rd., Libertyville. 

To see more things to do this weekend May 24-27, click here.