Plan ahead: Jim Peterik plays Glen Ellyn; The Bacon Brothers return to Metropolis
Independence fun
The Northwest Fourth Fest returns with carnival games, rides, concerts, a parade and fireworks starting Thursday, July 4, on the grounds of the Sears Centre Arena, 5333 Prairie Stone Parkway, Hoffman Estates. Free admission, but fees for food and rides. northwestfourthfest.com. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Thursday, July 4; 5 to 11 p.m. Friday, July 5; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, July 6
'Eye of the Tiger'
Rock out when the Ides of March featuring Jim Peterik performs outdoors in concert on Friday, July 12, at College of DuPage's Lakeside Pavilion, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. Free admission. (630) 942-4000 or atthemac.org. 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 12
Fraternal rock
The Bacon Brothers, featuring real-life brothers Michael and Kevin Bacon, return to perform two intimate concerts on Monday and Tuesday, Aug. 19 and 20, at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. $75-$85. (847) 577-2121 or metropolisarts.com. 7:30 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, Aug. 19 and 20