Things To Do This Weekend September 11-13, 2026

By: Sam Ornig 09/10/2026

Soak up the last of the summer weather at exciting events happening all around Lake County! Enjoy live music, refreshing beverages, delicious food and a whole lot of fun out in the community this weekend.

Here are the top things to do this weekend September 11-13 in the Land of Lakes!

1. Rock the block in Lake Zurich

Downtown Lake Zurich will come alive with music, food and community spirit during the village's 13th annual Rock the Block. The outdoor festival offers guests a chance to dine, dance and enjoy all that downtown has to offer. The evening will feature live performances on a covered stage at Old Rand Road and Main Street, beginning with Ron Burgundy's, followed by Libido Funk Circus and closing with fan-favorite 7th Heaven. Local vendors will provide food and drinks. Learn more at LakeZurich.org.

Saturday, September 12; 5-11 p.m. Free admission. Downtown Lake Zurich, 70 E. Main St., Lake Zurich. 

2. Bourbon and Beer Fest in Grayslake

Grayslake is hosting its 17th annual Bourbon and Beer Festival! What began nearly two decades ago as a small bourbon tasting hosted by The Vine Martini and Wine Bar in the downtown area, has grown into a bustling fall festival featuring live music, expanded food vendors, cigar offerings and tastings from more than 20 breweries and 80 varieties of whiskey. Guests can sample over 40 beers while enjoying the lively atmosphere in the heart of the village. This year's bands include Chained Up Alice (Alice In Chains Tribute Band) and Whiplash (Metallica Tribute Band). Visit and libations, food trucks and music — rain or shine! Get tickets at BNBFest.com. VIP admissions are sold out.

Saturday, September 12; 6-10 p.m. General admission: $55, Designated driver: $25. The Vine Martini & Wine Bar, 101 Center St., Grayslake.  

3. We Are One Music Festival in NOrth Chicago

North Chicago will come together for the Foss Park District’s “We Are One” Music Festival on Saturday, September 12. The free, family-friendly afternoon will spotlight community and cultural unity through live music, with performances from Clarissa, Urban Soul, Shon Mo and Indika Band, capped by headliner Sounds of Slave. Guests can enjoy delicious eats from local food vendors and are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and blankets and to dress in all white for the occasion. VIP options are available for those looking for covered reserved seating, a swag bag and photo opportunities with performers. For more information, visit FossPark-District.org.

Saturday, September 12; 1-7 p.m. Free admission. Foss Park Beach, 35 Lakeview, North Chicago. 

4. Viva La Independencia in Waukegan

Join Waukegan for a beautiful outdoor celebration of Mexico’s independence, culture, history, music, dance and community pride at Viva La Independencia on Saturday, September 12. The free celebration will feature antique cars, delicious food and live entertainment, along with a civic ceremony and El Grito de Independencia presented by the Consulate General of Mexico in Chicago and a special performance by the Banda de Guerra. Featured performers include La Nueva Sonora Santanera, Mariachi Nuevo México, Grupo DesControl, Ballet Folklórico Tayahua, Danza Quetzalcóatl and more. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own folding chairs and enjoy an afternoon and evening celebrating Mexican heritage, traditions and community. Learn more at OnTheRocksWaukegan.com. 

Saturday, September 12; noon-10 p.m. Free admission. Downtown Waukegan, Butrick and Washington Streets. Waukegan.

5. Mayor's Fish Fry in Fox Lake

Join the Village of Fox Lake for Mayor Donny Schmit’s Mayor’s Fish Fry on Friday, September 11. Enjoy a delicious meal and an evening of community fun from 4 to 7 p.m. in Lakefront Park’s Main Gym, followed by a free outdoor concert featuring Hurricane Gumbo from 7 to 9 p.m. on the lake. The band’s performance is a special encore for Fox Lake after its original Friday Night Live appearance was impacted by summer weather. Grab your family and friends for a delicious meal and one more night of live music at Lakefront Park. To register, visit FoxLake.org.

Friday, September 11; 4-9 p.m. Adults: $12, seniors 65+: $10, children 6-12: $5 and children 5 and under are free. Takeout option for $10. Registration encouraged. Lakefront Park Building 10, Riverview Ave., Fox Lake. 

Find more things to do this weekend and see all of the top happenings in September.