Top 10 Things To Do in May 2026

By: Stephanie Wylie 05/01/2026

May is one of the most exciting months in Lake County — warmer days are finally here, the lakes are calling, and there's no shortage of events to fill your calendar. Whether you're a longtime local or a first-time visitor, this is the perfect time to get out and explore everything the land of lakes has to offer. And while you're at it, don't forget to bring your camera!

The #LETSSNAPLAKECOUNTY Photo Contest is back and running through June 30 — submit your most stunning shots of Lake County for a chance to win exclusive prizes and have your photography featured in official tourism marketing materials. From golden sunsets over the water to hidden trail gems, we want to see Lake County through your lens. Learn more and upload your pics! 

May 3–9 marks the 43rd U.S. Travel Association's National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW). This year, Visit Lake County is proud to join destinations across the country in celebrating #NTTW26 and shining a spotlight on how travel and tourism continue to power local economies, strengthen communities, and bring people together. Follow us on social media and keep an eye on our website all week long as we highlight the incredible impact tourism has on Lake County.

Ready to make the most of May? Here are the top 10 things to do in Lake County this month!

1. MOTHER'S DAY IN LAKE COUNTY (MAY 10)

With Mother’s Day arriving Sunday, May 10, Lake County offers a diverse lineup of festivities tailored to every matriarch’s personality. From creative workshops and outdoor excursions to tranquil retreats, the "land of lakes" provides the perfect backdrop for honoring the mothers in your life. Whether she prefers a day of discovery or a quiet afternoon of pampering, these curated local experiences ensure a memorable celebration this holiday:

• Tea Party at Jane Addams Center in Waukegan (May 2) INFO»
• Mother's Day Candle Pouring & Mimosa Bar at Romney Brown Candle Company in Grayslake (May 3) INFO»
• "Ruthless!" at Citadel Theatre in Lake Forest (May 7-10) INFO»
• World Migratory Bird Day at Edward L. Ryerson Conservation Area in Riverwoods (May 9) INFO»
• For the Love of Pollinators Guided Tour at Dunn Museum in Libertyville (May 9) INFO»
• Fox Lake Community Garden Party in Fox Lake (May 9) INFO»
• Blossoms and Bugs Family Fest at Heller Nature Center in Highland Park (May 9) INFO»
• Mother's Day Pickleball & Padel Social at Club Pickle & Padel in Highland Park (May 9) INFO»
• Mother's Day Pampering Night at Phase Three Brewing in Lake Zurich (May 9) INFO»
• Happily Ever After: A Disney Celebration at Jack Benny Center for the Arts in Waukegan (May 9) INFO»
• Grayslake Antique Vintage Market at Lake County Fairgrounds (May 9-10) INFO»
• LeAnn Rimes at Genesee Theatre in Waukegan (May 8) INFO»
• Mother's Day 5K Run/Walk in Barrington (May 10) INFO»
• Lakeside Yoga & Mimosas at Rosewood Beach in Highland Park (May 10) INFO»
• Mother's Day at Volo Museum and Jurassic Gardens (May 10) INFO»
• Tulip Festival at Richardson Adventure Farm in Spring Grove INFO»
• And so many delicious brunches to choose from!

2. LAKE COUNTY BEER GARDENS

Embrace the fresh air and scenic vistas of Lake County by visiting one of the region’s premier outdoor beer gardens for a local craft brew. The Beer Garden at Independence Grove in Libertyville provides a tranquil backdrop of woodlands and water, serving as a versatile destination for everything from milestone celebrations to low-key weekend hangouts. For those seeking a lively evening atmosphere, Buffalo Creek Brewing's Biergarten features an expansive, illuminated biergarten complete with gazebo seating. Further north, the Harbor Brewing Co. Lakefront Craft Biergarten at North Point Marina pairs its signature beverages with sweeping views of Lake Michigan. This lakeside hub kicks off its seventh-anniversary festivities on May 1, featuring a day of live performances and regional refreshments.

3. FESTIVALS IN LAKE COUNTY (ALL MONTH)

Make the most of the mild May weather and bright sunshine by exploring the vibrant festival circuit across Lake County. These spring celebrations offer the perfect opportunity to gather for local flavors, cold refreshments, and live entertainment. From community block parties to seasonal grand openings, here are the top festivals to experience this month:

• First Fridays in MainStreet Libertyville (May 1) INFO»
• Big Brew 2026 at Perfect Brewing Supply in Libertyville (May 2) INFO»
• Bonfire and Brews: Food Truck Frenzy at Viking Park in Gurnee (May 2) INFO»
• 14th Annual GLMV Extreme Block Party Family Expo and Taste of the Towns at DoubleTree Mundelein (May 2) INFO»
• 2nd Annual Whistle Stop Trolley Tour in Downtown Highland Park (May 7) INFO»
• Fox Lake Garden Party (May 9) INFO»
• Car Shows in Lake County (May–Sept.) INFO»
• Long Grove's 26th Annual Chocolate Fest (May 15-17) INFO»
• Lake Zurich Water Lantern Festival at Paulus Park (May 16) INFO»
• 27th Annual First Responders Expo at Gurnee Mills (May 16) INFO»
• Rods for Remembrance Classic Car Show at Gurnee Mills (May 17) INFO»
• Celebrating 100 Years of Bonnie Brook Golf Course in Waukegan (May 21) INFO»
• Lake County Food Truck Festival at Lake County Fairgrounds (May 22) INFO»
• Gurnee Comic Book and Collectibles Show at The Ten Hotel (May 24) INFO»
• Murder Mystery: A Night of Interactive Fun in Deerfield (May 29) INFO»
• Pride Festivals in Lake County (May 30–June 20) INFO»
• Lakefront Beach Party and Bike Rodeo at Lakefront Park in Fox Lake (May 30) INFO»

4. ILLINOIS CRAFT BEER WEEK (MAY 8-15)

The premier celebration for the state's brewing scene returns May 9–16 for Illinois Craft Beer Week. Organized by the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild, this weeklong event honors the vital role independent breweries play in fostering local connections. As a cornerstone of this "Crafted Community," Lake County showcases its rich landscape of local producers throughout the region. Supporters are encouraged to visit Lake County's Libation Trail partners to participate in special programming and celebrate the unique culture of #IllinoisBeer.

5. HURRICANE HARBOR CHICAGO OPENS FOR THE SEASON

Prepare for a season of aquatic thrills as Hurricane Harbor Chicago officially launches for the summer. The Gurnee destination offers a high-energy escape featuring heart-pounding attractions like the 40-mph Paradise Plunge and the gravity-defying Tornado raft slide, along with the Surf Rider simulator for those looking to catch a wave. Visitors seeking a slower pace can drift along the tranquil Castaway Creek or explore the interactive Monsoon Lagoon. Whether paired with a trip to the neighboring rollercoasters or enjoyed as a dedicated day of water-based adventure, the park provides an essential summer experience for families and adrenaline seekers alike.

6. FOOD TRUCKS IN LAKE COUNTY

Lake County’s mobile dining scene delivers a rich tapestry of flavors, offering everything from artisanal tacos and smoked barbecue to indulgent desserts. These roaming kitchens transform local streets into culinary destinations, providing a global palate of options for residents and visitors alike. Whether stumbled upon during a weekend outing or sought out at a community gathering, the region's food trucks offer a convenient and high-quality dining experience. You can sample the best of these curbside creations at the following upcoming events:

• Bonfire and Brews: Food Truck Fenzy in Gurnee (May 2) INFO»
• Lake County Food Truck Festival (May 22) INFO»
• Lake Zurich Water Lantern Festival (May 16) INFO»
• Lincolnshire Corporate Center Food Truck Thursdays and Lakeside Concerts (begins May 7) INFO»

7. CAMPING SEASON BEGINS IN LAKE COUNTY

Lake County offers a diverse range of outdoor escapes. Whether you prefer a rustic tent site or a full-service RV resort, the "land of lakes" provides the perfect terrain for a scenic overnight adventure.

• Chain O'Lakes State Park in Antioch INFO»
• Illinois Beach State Park in Zion INFO»

8. Theatre Events in Lake County (all Month)

Lake County boasts a dynamic theater scene, offering a rich tapestry of performances throughout the year. From classic plays to innovative new productions, theater enthusiasts can immerse themselves in captivating stories brought to life by talented local and touring performers in venues that range from intimate black box theaters to grand historic stages.

• First Friday Funnies Stand-Up at Improv Playhouse in Libertyville (May 1) INFO»
• "Ruthless!" The Musical at Citadel Theatre (Running through May 17) INFO»
• "Heartbreak Hotel" at The Marriott Theatre in Lincolshire (Through May 31) INFO»

9. NATIONAL TRAVEL & TOURISM WEEK IN LAKE COUNTY (MAY 3-9)

U.S. Travel Association's NTTW celebrates its 40th anniversary with the theme #TravelForward. NTTW rallies all of the travel industry by the critical role in powering economies, communities and connections. Visit Lake County fuels every sector, in every communityu and our success is the county's success. From education to new business growth to advancing manufacturing and more, VLC continues to #TravelForward. Keep a close eye to VLC's social media as we rally behind our community and will be provide surprises. 

10. CAR SHOWS IN LAKE COUNTY 

Shift into high gear and embrace the roar of the engines as Lake County’s signature automotive exhibitions return for the season. Enthusiasts can admire an array of meticulously maintained vintage classics and high-performance machines that take over local thoroughfares as the spring temperatures rise. 

• Rods for Rememberance at Gurnee Mills (May 17) INFO»
• Chicago Monster Truck Wars at Lake County Fairgrounds and Event Center (May 2) INFO»
• Park on Park Cruise Night in Mundelein (May 13) INFO»
• CarFun on 21 in LIbertyville (May 20) INFO»

Check out more things to do this May in Lake County!