Highwood Days, North Shore Taco Fest combine for four days of fun, July 19-22

This year is the 50th anniversary of Highwood Days, which will run Thursday through Sunday, July 19-22, as well as the third annual North Shore Taco Fest, which runs July 21-22, both at the Highwood Metra Station, 317 Green Bay Road, Highwood.

Admission is free.

Highwood Days includes carnival rides, live music, and food from many local vendors, as well as a beer and margarita garden. Unlimited ride specials will be available Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.

Taco Fest brings together more than 20 local taco restaurants, caterers and food trucks to share their unique takes on the popular dish and compete to be named the best taco in town. Guests can cast their vote for the People's Choice award in three categories after sampling a wide variety of tacos, from traditional meats and vegetables to unusual variations like braised short rib and Brussels sprouts, mahi mahi, or sweet potato tacos.

The North Shore Taco Run 5K will be held at 9 a.m. Saturday. The run starts at 335 Waukegan Ave, Highwood. On-site registration and packet pickup starts at 7:30 a.m. Registration is $35.

For information, including a full list of food vendors, and a coupon for $5 off an unlimited ride wristband on Thursday, visit www.celebratehighwood.org.