Things to do Sept. 18-24: Naperville Irish Fest, West Dundee Heritage Fest, Mundelein Arts Festival and more

Friday, Sept. 18

Riot Fest: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Sept. 18-20, at Douglass Park, West Ogden Avenue and South Sacramento Drive, Chicago. Punk, rock and alternative. Friday: Twenty One Pilots, Iggy Pop, Rise Against and Pixies. Saturday: Tool, Morrisey, Social Distortion and NAS. Sunday: Pierce The Veil, Alanis Morissette, Elvis Costello & The Imposters and The Format. General admission starts at $115 for one day, $230 for two days, $340 for three days. riotfest.org.

Naperville Irish Fest: 3-10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, and noon to 10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at Central Park, 104 W. Benton Ave., Naperville. West Suburban Irish’s sixth annual event features live music, Irish dancing, cultural exhibits, food, family activities and more. Entertainment lineup: Friday: McNulty Irish Dancers at 4 p.m., Mulligan Stew at 5:15 p.m., On the Lash at 6:45 p.m. and Classical Blast at 8:15 p.m.; and Saturday: Firefighters Highland Guard of Naperville at noon, Bailey Murray Academy at 12:25 p.m., McNulty Irish Dancers at 1:15 p.m., Joyce Boys at 2:30 p.m., Bentley Academy of Irish Dance at 3:40 p.m., Celtic Roots at 4:55 p.m., The Chancers at 6:25 p.m. and Reilly at 7:55 p.m. $10 individual or $15 for two; free for kids 12 and younger. wsirish.org.

21st annual Roselle Cruise Nights: 5-9 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, at American Legion Hall, 344 E. Maple, Roselle. Horizon will perform. Free. cruiseroselle.com.

Huck Finn Fishing Derby: 5-7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, at Reiner Park, 1101 N. Green Knolls Drive, Buffalo Grove. Fishing derby for kids 2-14. Awards and raffle prizes. Registration: $8-$10. bgparks.org.

Oktoberfest 2026: 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, and 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, in the outdoor tent at Benedictine University, 5700 College Road, Lisle. Dancing and music from Wurst Käse Scenario at 5 p.m. Friday and Keith Stras’ All American Oktoberfest Band at 4 p.m. Saturday. Adult admission: $15, which includes a beer or pretzel and parking. ben.edu/oktoberfest.

Old Town Oktoberfest: 5-10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19; and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at 1360 N. Wells St., Chicago. Classic German beer, bratwursts, stein-holding contests, traditional German bands and more. $10. chicagoevents.com.

Retro on Roscoe: 5-10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, and noon to 10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 19-20, on Roscoe at Damen, 2000 W. Roscoe St., Chicago. Live music, classic car shows, vintage shopping and more. Music: Friday: South of 80 at 5:30 p.m. and 16 Candles at 8 p.m.; Saturday: Trippin Billies at 8 p.m. and Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute at 8:30 p.m.; and Sunday: Hello Weekend at 6 p.m. $15 suggested donation benefits Roscoe Village Neighbors. chicagoevents.com.

Rotary Club of Palatine Oktoberfest: 5 p.m. to midnight Friday, Sept. 18; noon to midnight Saturday, Sept. 19; and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, on Smith and Slade streets, Palatine. German music, food, beverages, family activities and more. Free. palatinerotary.org/oktoberfest.

“Aged to Perfection” winetasting benefit: 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, at Elgin Community College Spartan Terrace Restaurant, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. A curated selection of wines paired with bites crafted by students and faculty from the ECC Culinary Arts Program. Seating is limited. Sponsored by the ECC Foundation and the Homecoming Alumni Committee. $75. tickets.eccartscenter.org.

Des Plaines Fall Fest: 6-11 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18; noon to 11 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19; and noon to 7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at Lake Park, 2200 Lee St., Des Plaines. Live music, carnival, car show and more. Free. desplainesfallfest.org.

Downtown Concerts at Port Clinton: 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, at Port Clinton Square, 601 Central Ave., Highland Park. Cecy Santana Trio and Orquesta Alta Vida will perform. Free. enjoyhighlandpark.com/portclintonconcerts.

Elk Grove Oktoberfest: 6-10:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, and 3-11 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at Rotary Green, 164 Lions Drive, Elk Grove Village. Traditional German food and drinks for purchase, games and activities, live music with Die Musikmeisters and more. Familyfest from 3-7 p.m. Saturday. Free. elkgrove.com/Oktoberfest.

Heritage Fest: 6-11 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, in downtown West Dundee. Live music, business expo, arts and crafts fair from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, and a car show from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Dundee Lions host a 5K and 1.75-mile walk at 8 a.m. Saturday. Community breakfast from 8-10:30 a.m. Sunday. Entertainment lineup: Friday: Bad Motor Scooterr (Sammy Hagar tribute band) at 6 p.m. and All American Throwbacks at 9 p.m.; Saturday: School of Irish Dance at 11 a.m., Crossover at noon, Bishop Super Band (hits from Dundee Middle School staff, students and friends of the late Matt Bishop) at 1:30 p.m., Eric Case Band at 4:30 p.m., Sixes & Sevens (rock and country) at 6:30 p.m. and 7th heaven at 9 p.m.; and Sunday: Starlites at 8 a.m. in the tent, Guy Meets Girl at 10:30 a.m., The Gaffes at noon, Controlled Burn (folk rock band from West Dundee) at 1:30 p.m. and The Lenny’s at 3 p.m. Free. wdundeeheritagefest.org.

Movie with a Cop: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, at Safety Town, 301 Civic Center Plaza, Glendale Heights. Family-friendly movie night with popcorn and glow sticks featuring a screening of “E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial.” Meet local police officers. Bring blankets. Weather permitting. Free. ghrec.org.

Bill Bellamy: 7 and 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Sept. 18-19, and 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at the Chicago Improv, 5 Woodfield Road, Schaumburg. Stand-up comedy. $46.19-$65.73. improv.com/chicago.

Jiaoying Summers Lucky Pony 26 Tour: 7 and 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Sept. 18-19, at the Comedy Vault, 18 E. Wilson St., Batavia. Comedy. 21 and older. $36.99-$67.49. comedyvaultbatavia.com.

Monster Jam: 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18; 1 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19; and 1 and 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at Allstate Arena, 6920 N. Mannheim Road, Rosemont. World champion athletes and their 12,000-pound monster trucks compete in competitions of speed and skill. Pit Party from 10:30 a.m. to noon Saturday and Sunday; passes required. Tickets start at $29.65. monsterjam.com.

A Night at the Movies: 7:15 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, at Rotary Hill, 443 Aurora Ave., Naperville. See “Zootopia 2.” Arrive early for an hour of bingo. Free. napervilleparks.org/anightatthemovies.

DuPage Community Jazz Ensemble: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, in the Belushi Performance Hall, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. Free. atthemac.org.

An Evening With Kevin Smith: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, at the Hemmens, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. Filmmaker, actor, author and podcaster Kevin Smith hosts a live question-and-answer show. $26-$57.50. (847) 931-5900 or hemmens.org/tickets.

An Evening With Soprano Karen Slack: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, at the Armerding Center for Music and the Arts Concert Hall, 520 E. Kenilworth Ave., Wheaton. Part of the Wheaton College Artist Series. $11.80-$59. tickets.wheaton.edu.

“The Lightning Thief”: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Sept. 18-19, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at Elgin Community College’s Blizzard Theater, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Adapted from Rick Riordan’s first book in the “Percy Jackson & the Olympians” series and featuring an original rock score. Presented by Children’s Theatre of Elgin and Fox Valley Theatre Company. $16-$18. eccartscenter.org.

Friday Night Concert Series: 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, at Two Way Street Coffee House, 1047 Curtiss St., Downers Grove. Dave Rudolf will perform. Doors open at 7:30 p.m. Virtual option available. Suggested donation $10 (cash or PayPal). twowaystreet.org.

“A Moon for the Misbegotten”: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Sept. 18-19, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at the Riverfront Playhouse, 11-13 S. Water Street Mall, Aurora. Eugene O’Neill’s sequel “Long Day’s Journey into Night.” Online tickets: $20 or $18 for seniors or students, $2 more at the box office. riverfrontplayhouse.com.

Teachers’ Lounge Comedy: 8-10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18, at the Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. Professional stand-up comics turned teachers share their unique experiences, anecdotes and frustrations about school life. $44-$54. rauecenter.org.

City of Lights Film Festival: Friday and Saturday, Sept. 18-19, at The Venue, 21 S. Broadway Ave., Aurora. Fourth annual festival with a lineup of shorts, features, student films and music videos. aurorafilmfest.com.

Saturday, Sept. 19

Artisan Collective: 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 19, on North River Street, Batavia. Local artisans offer handmade goods and vintage items. Free. downtownbatavia.com.

Bloomingdale Fishing Derby: 8-10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at Lakeview Park, 240 Broker Road, Bloomingdale. Bring fishing gear; bait will be provided or bring your own. Catch-and-release event. Kids 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Free. bloomingdaleparks.org.

Lions Heritage Fest 10K/5K Run & 1.75 Mile Walk: 8 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 19. Races start and finish at Oregon Avenue and South First Street at the VFW Post 2298 in downtown West Dundee. Proceeds benefit the Dundee Township Lions Club and the Northern Kane County Chamber of Commerce and their charities. $30-$50. Register: wdundeeheritagefest.org or runsignup.com/Race/IL/WestDundee/HeritageFest10k.

Chicago Civil War Show and Sale: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at the DuPage County Fairgrounds, 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton. Civil War dealers from across the U.S. and memorabilia from the Revolutionary War and the Spanish-American War. $10; $25 early-bird admission at 8 a.m., at the door only. Free for kids 12 and younger. chicagocivilwarshow.com.

Dundee Depot Market: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at The Depot, 319 N. River St., East Dundee. Vintage finds, handmade goods, bakery goods and locally crafted products. eastdundee.net.

Heritage Fest: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Arlington Heights Historical Museum, 110 W. Freemont St., Arlington Heights. See a variety of exhibits, demonstrations and live performances. Free. ahpd.org.

Run for Mental Health — Still Standing 5K: 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, starting north of Gail Borden Public Library, 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin. The faith-based mental health awareness 5K also features a 1-mile fun walk. Register: runsignup.com/Race/IL/Elgin/StillStanding.

Lombard Touch-a-Truck: 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at Lombard Common, 433 E. St. Charles Road, Lombard. Explore police cars, fire trucks, dump trucks and more. Kid’s Corner features games and activities. Sensory hour with no horns or sirens from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Free. lombardparks.com.

21st Annual Antique Car, Truck & Tractor Show: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 19-20, at McHenry Stade’s Farm, 3709 Miller Road, McHenry. Vintage vehicles, oldies music, family attractions and games, pumpkin cannon demonstrations, exhibitors and food. Regular admission for the attraction area. stadesfarmandmarket.com.

41st annual Riverwalk Fine Art Fair: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 19-20, along the Riverwalk and Jackson Avenue, between Main and Eagle streets, Naperville. Paintings, sculpture, jewelry, photography, ceramics, 2-D and 3-D mixed media and fiber art. Art demos, a kids’ tent and live music. Free. napervilleartleague.com/riverwalk-fine-art-fair.html.

Central States Dahlia Society’s 59th annual Dahlia Show and Sale: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 19-20, at Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. Included in general admission. centralstatesdahliasociety.com/dahlia-show-2026.

Hoffman Estates Community Garage Sale: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Seascape Family Aquatic Center parking lot, 1300 Moon Lake Blvd., Hoffman Estates. Free entry for shoppers; $30-$35 for vendors. heparks.org.

Mundelein Arts Festival: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 19-20, in Courtland Commons in downtown Mundelein. Juried art festival featuring local artists who work in a variety of media, plus music and food. Free. mundeleincommunityconnection.org.

Museum Showcase Weekend: 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at Illinois Railway Museum, 7000 Olson Road, Union. Features the operation of many less commonly seen items of diesel and electric equipment. $20, $18 for seniors, $16 for kids. irm.org.

Fall Fest: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at Carpenter Park, 275 Maple Ave., Carpentersville. Pumpkin decorating, bounce houses, train rides, magic show, live DJ, large vendor market, food and treats. cville.org.

Lakeview East Festival of the Arts: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, along Broadway, from Belmont to Hawthorne, Chicago. More than 150 artists, live music on two stages, local cuisine, kids’ activities and more. lakevieweastfestivalofthearts.com.

Pepper Road Fall Fest: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, on North Pepper Road, Lake Barrington. Pop-up artisan market, live music, kids’ activities, food and drinks for purchase, vendors, activities, shopping, Barnfest at All-American Reclaim, and Barrington Countryside Fire District open house. Free. barringtonchamber.com.

World Dumpling Festival: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, in Wrightwood Park, 2555 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago. Food, music and local businesses sharing their cultural identities through recipes, with diverse cultural “dumplings” from over 10 neighborhood-based restaurants. $10. chicagoevents.com.

Howl-O-Ween Pooch Parade: 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, in the Buzz Puccio Pavilion at Old Town Park, 111 Third St., Bloomingdale. Prizes awarded to the top three in the best-dressed contest. After-party in Wolfden Brewery’s pet-friendly beer garden; all ages welcome but 21-or-older supervision is required. Proceeds benefit the Bloomingdale Parks Foundation. $5 per dog. Register: bloomingdaleparks.org.

42nd annual Lisle Depot Days: Noon to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 19-20, at The Museums at Lisle Station Park, 921 School St., Lisle. Tour the Depot Museum, Beaubien Tavern, Netzley/Yender House and a working blacksmith shop. Plus, pioneer games, blacksmithing, petting farm, hayrides, pony rides and wares created by Lisle Heritage Society blacksmiths. Hosted by Lisle Heritage Society and Lisle Park District. Free. museumsatlislestation.org.

American Dahlia Society National Show: Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. Hundreds of blooms will be on display by dahlia growers from across the Midwest competing for top honors. Included with general admission. centralstatesdahliasociety.com.

“Chicago Live!”: Noon to 9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Performing arts festival featuring live music, dance, theater, and multidisciplinary performances from local and national artists. Performances include Anthony Rapp, Melody Angel, Kokandy Productions, Liquid Soul, Dancing Queen, Trinity Irish Dancers, RuPaul’s Drag Race stars Utica and Denali, Q Brothers, Nico Segal, Fat Theatre Project and more. Free. navypier.org.

Wauke-Con: Noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at Three Brothers Theatre, 221 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. Comic book convention. All attendees get a free comic book and a chance to win a comic book signed by Ray Bradbury. $8.63 online, $10 at the door. Buy tickets at eventbrite.com.

The Great Outdoor Beer Trail: 1-5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at Fel-Pro RRR Conservation Area, Cary. Walk the one-mile paved trail while trying 3-ounce tastes from regional brewers. Includes a souvenir tasting glass, live music and food vendors. 21 and older. $70 or $15 for designated driver. Tickets: mccdistrict.org.

Sears and Historic Homes Walking Tour: 1:30-2:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, starting at Prince Pond pavilion, Downers Grove. Learn the history of architectural styles from Sears kit homes to Greek Revival-style homes. $17-$26. Register: dgparks.org.

Train Saturdays: 1:30-3:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at the DuPage County Historical Museum auditorium, 102 E. Wesley St., Wheaton. See an HO-scale model train operated by the DuPage Society of Model Engineers. Detailed layout covers more than 2,000 feet of track and highlights some of DuPage County’s railroads and landmarks. Suggested donation: $5 or $2 for kids and seniors. dupagemuseum.org.

Buckets N’ Boards: 2-3:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Gorton Center, 400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest. A family-friendly evening of percussion and comedy. Adults $29, kids $20. gortoncenter.org.

Elmhurst Craft Beer Fest: 2-6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, on the grounds of Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E. Park Ave., Elmhurst. Craft brews, meads, ciders, seltzers and food at the 11th annual fundraiser for the museum and Churchville one-room schoolhouse. Early entry at 1 p.m. $57.50, regular entry $47.25, and designated driver $21.50. Tickets: elmhurstcraftbeerfest.com.

Fall Family Day Harmony in the Park: 2-5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at Oak Brook Park District Oaks Amphitheater, 1315 Kensington Road, Oak Brook. Petting zoo, Touch-a-Truck, face painting, bubble show, photo booth, arts and crafts, sidewalk chalk and more. Bounce Houses from 2-4 p.m., balloon artist from 2:30-4:30 p.m., and Foam Party from 4-5 p.m. DJ Wade and interactive games from 2-3:30 p.m. and School of Rock from 3:30-5 p.m. Free. obparks.org.

Northbrook Brewfest: 3-7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at Village Green Park, 1810 Walters Ave., Northbrook. Live music, beer tasting, photo booth, games and more. 21 and older. Tickets start at $49, $30 for a nontasting ticket. nbparks.org.

United Fall Fest: 3-10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at Congregational United Church of Christ, 40W451 Fox Mill Blvd., St. Charles. Charitable block party and community event featuring live music, classic car show, kids’ corner, barbecue and a beer tent. In partnership with the Fox Mill Community and the village of Campton Hills. Free. cuccstc.org/unitedfallfest.

Fall Fest: 4-11 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at Hutchins Athletic Field, 36753 N. Hutchins Road, Gurnee. Food trucks, beer and wine, D3J Entertainment at 5 p.m. and the Judson Brown Band at 7 p.m., fireworks and more. Free. grandwoodpark.net.

Morton Arboretum walking play: 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 19-20, starting at Thornhill Shelter at Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. A retelling of Emily Brontë’s “Wuthering Heights.” It runs approximately 90 minutes and includes a 1.5-mile walk, with no intermission. Suitable for 12 and older, with some dark themes and mild violence. $27 for 18 and older, $17 for kids 2-17. mortonarb.org/explore/activities/events/walking-plays.

Party in the Park: 4-9:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at Community Park, 5 Parkview Lane, Hawthorn Woods. Petting zoo, train rides, food vendors, ax throwing, two live bands and the rescheduled July 3 fireworks show. Free. vhw.org.

ArtWauk: 5-9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, in the Arts & Entertainment District, 2001 Belvedere Road, Waukegan. The monthly celebration of arts in downtown Waukegan and the Belvidere Mall includes art exhibits, musicians and performances. Free. artwauk.com.

’80s vs ’90s Night at the Zoo: 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at Lincoln Park Zoo, Cannon Drive at Fullerton Parkway, Chicago. A 21-and-older after-hours event with live music, a DJ, karaoke, adult beverages and no kids. $15-$47.83. lpzoo.org. Buy tickets at eventbrite.com.

American Aid Society Oktoberfest: 6:30-11:50 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at the American Aid Society Fest Grounds, 259 W. Grand Ave., Lake Villa. German music, food and beer. $9. americanaidsocietyofgd.org.

South Elgin Movie Night in the Park: 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at Panton Mill Park, 10 N. Water St., South Elgin. Latin rhythm dance instruction from 5:30-6:30 p.m. and Fernandos Street Kitchen food truck before the double feature of “Footloose” and “Dirty Dancing” at dusk. Free. southelgin.com/pantonmillpark.

ALOK: 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Vic Theatre, 3145 N. Sheffield Ave., Chicago. “Eat Pray Leave Tour.” $39-$98. jamusa.com.

Elgin Short Film Festival: 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at the Hemmens Main Stage Theatre, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. The top prescreened films up to 20 minutes in length will be presented at the fest; winners will be selected by a panel of judges and the audience. Red carpet arrival and pre-show entertainment at 6 p.m. outside, with the festival screening at 7 p.m. $10-$11.50. hemmens.org/tickets.

Ana Belaval: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, in the Belushi Performance Hall, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. The WGN Morning News “Around Town” reporter performs stand-up comedy. $32-$49. atthemac.org.

“As You Like It”: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at Elgin Community College SecondSpace, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Shakespeare comedy, performed by the Goodly Creatures Theatre, led by ECC alum Katrina Syrris. Proceeds will support ECC Fine Arts. Sponsored by the ECC Foundation and the Homecoming Alumni Committee. $50. tickets.eccartscenter.org.

Comedy Dance Chicago: 7:30-9:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, at Woodstock Opera House, 121 W. Van Buren St., Woodstock. A mashup of sketch comedy, physical humor, music and dance. Doors open at 7 p.m. $35. woodstockoperahouse.com.

Six Flags Great America Fright Fest: Saturday, Sept. 19, through Nov. 1 at Six Flags Great America, Six Flags Drive, Gurnee. Thrills by day and frights by night with haunted houses, scare zones, spine-chilling shows and rides. Tickets start at $45. For dates and hours, visit sixflags.com/greatamerica/events.

Sunday, Sept. 20

Fox Valley Marathon: 7 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at Mount St. Mary Park, off Route 31, St. Charles. Distances: 26.2, 20, 13.1 or 5K. Starting and ending in downtown St. Charles, the course winds through Geneva, Batavia and North Aurora. Boston Qualifier. Various prices. fv26.com.

Green Fair: 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at Mike Rylko Community Park, 951 McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove. Learn how to improve the environment and make the community a greener and healthier place to live. Free. bgparks.org/green-fair.

Kane County Doll Show: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at the Kane County Fairgrounds Prairie Events Center, 525 S. Randall Road, St. Charles. Doll show featuring antique, vintage and collectibles, Barbies, Steiff, doll appraisals and more. Special exhibit on Mod Francie & Friends with a presentation by Bradley Justice on “Francie Turns 60” at 1 p.m. Early bird entry at 8 a.m. for $15. Regular entry $8 or free for kids 12 and younger. kanecountydollshow.com.

Cantigny Car Show: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at Cantigny Park south parking lot, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. Vintage cars, entertainment and food and beverages. First 200 people through the gate receive a free limited-edition T-shirt. Register a vehicle for $21 until Aug. 30 or $26 after; parking included. Note: Cashless event. Parking: $21 per car. cantigny.org.

Show & Shine Car Show and Swap Meet: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at Camera Park, Glendale Heights. Car show, food, music, games and crafts. Free for spectators. glendaleheights.org.

BrightSide Theatre Summer in the Parks: 12:30 and 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at the Naperville Riverwalk Amphitheater at West Jackson Avenue and South Eagle Street, Naperville. This year’s series, “Classic Broadway,” features the songs that defined the American musical. Part of the Riverwalk Fine Art Fair. Bring chairs or blankets. Free. brightsidetheatre.com/parks.

Fallapalooza: 1-5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at the Heritage Park Performance Pavilion, 201 Community Blvd., Wheeling. Live music by the Eric Case Band, a petting zoo, pony rides, inflatables, airbrush tattoos and more. Food and beverages for purchase. Free. wheelingparkdistrict.com.

Heirloom Apple Fest: 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at Durant-Peterson House in the LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve, 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles. Learn about apples popular during the 19th century. Suggested donation: $3 or $1 for kids. ppfv.org.

Palatine Historical Society Cemetery Walk: 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at Hillside Cemetery, 375 N. Smith St., Palatine. Guided tours of the cemetery as actors play the roles of Palatine residents from the village’s past. Tickets required; admission fee. palatinehistoricalsociety.com.

Stories of Peace and Justice Prelude: 3-4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, at Woodstock Opera House Community Room, 121 W. Van Buren St., Woodstock. Storyteller Susan O’Halloran will perform personal narratives about race and social justice, sharing eye-opening stories from her youth in 1960s Chicago including “The Garbage Story” about systemic inequality in city services. It follows a 2 p.m. open mic. No cover; donations accepted. woodstockoperahouse.com.

Monday, Sept. 21

Paws in the Park Day: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 21, at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. Visiting dogs should be social butterflies. Bring proof of up-to-date vaccinations. Dogs must remain on leashes and accompanied at all times. Sanitation stations will be set up around the park. Parking: $6. cantigny.org.

Movie Monday: 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 21, at Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. See “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom” (1984). Doors open at 6 p.m. $1 (cash only at the door). Concessions via cash or card. paramountaurora.com/series/movie-mondays.

The Shotgun Start: 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 21, at SPACE, 1245 Chicago Ave., Evanston. Golf podcast. $47.17-$73.72. evanstonspace.com.

Tuesday, Sept. 22

Autumn Equinox Celebration: 10-11:30 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 22, at Lincoln Marsh Prairie Patch Play Area, Harrison and Pierce avenues, Wheaton. Activities, crafts and open play. Registration encouraged. lincolnmarsh.org.

“Flappers, Floozies and Feminists”: 7-8 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 22, at Hedges Station, 0N555 Winfield Road, Winfield. Laurie Russell examines how Chicago women were the epitome of the Roaring Twenties. winfieldhistory.org or facebook.com/HedgesStation/.

Ilana Glazer Live: 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 22, at the Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St., Chicago. Comedy. Tickets start at $52.25. msg.com.

Jacques ze Whipper: 8 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 22, at Thalia Hall, 1807 S. Allport St., Chicago. “Circus Kid” is his new show about growing up in the circus and becoming the performer he is today. Tickets start at $46.39. thaliahallchicago.com.

“World of Warcraft” 20 Years of Music: 8 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, Sept. 22-23, at The Auditorium, 50 E. Congress Parkway, Chicago. An immersive live concert featuring a full symphonic orchestra and choir, accompanied by visual projections from the game. Tickets start at $78. auditoriumtheatre.org.

Wednesday, Sept. 23

Cantigny’s Live Music in the Beer Garden: 5:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, Sept. 23-27, at Cantigny Park South Grove, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. Live music in the beer garden, near the Visitors Center. Music begins at 5:30 p.m. (unless otherwise noted). Beer garden hours: 4:30-9 p.m. Wednesday through Friday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday. Wednesday: Craig Allen; Thursday: Downtown Charlie Brown; Friday: Return 2 Soul; and Sunday: The Thomas Linsk Trio (3 p.m.). Included with admission. cantigny.org.

“Remembering Route 66”: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 23, at the DuPage County Historical Museum auditorium, 102 E. Wesley St., Wheaton. Historian Leslie Goddard explores the history of the iconic road that linked Chicago to L.A. from 1926 until its closing in the mid-1980s. Free. Register: wheatonparkdistrict.com.

Zach Rushing: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 23, at the Chicago Improv, 5 Woodfield Road, Schaumburg. Stand-up comedy. “The Redneck Logic Tour.” $46.19-$89.36. improv.com/chicago.

THESPIAN: An Actor Prepares … to Read Your Mind: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 23, at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. Actor and mentalist Fred Zimmerman presents a show of performance art and psychological illusion. $40. metropolisarts.com.

Thursday, Sept. 24

Beignet 5K Run/Walk: 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24, at Gunnar Anderson Forest Preserve, off South Batavia Avenue, Geneva. Post-race party with a fresh baked beignet and a beer at The Kate, 318 S. Third St. Fundraiser for Geneva Community Chest. $50.14. Register: raceroster.com/events/2026/130576/beignet-5k.

Elgin Fringe Festival: 6 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Sept. 24-25; 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26; and 1 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 27. Fringe Central at Side Street Studio gallery, 15 Ziegler Court, Elgin. Nearly 90 performances showcasing local and national talent in dance, theater, comedy, music, magic, circus, storytelling, experimental multimedia and more. Plus, a visual art exhibition, outdoor shows and themed parties. Tickets: Free to $12, with $4 entry buttons and an all-access pass for $95. For tickets and a schedule, see elginfringefestival.com.

Thursday Nights Live: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24, at Wheeling Town Center, 351 W. Dundee Road, Wheeling. Dry County Line will perform in the plaza. Food and beverage options from local restaurants. Free. thewheelingtowncenter.com/events.

Movies on Main: Dusk Thursday, Sept. 24, at Main Street Recreation Center, 501 Hill Ave., Glen Ellyn. See “How to Train Your Dragon.” Bring chairs, blankets, snacks and beverages. Free. gepark.org.

Sarah Colonna: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24, and 7 and 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26, at the Comedy Vault, 18 E. Wilson St., Batavia. Stand-up comedy. $31. comedyvaultbatavia.com.

Ongoing

“Defining US, The 250th Anniversary of the United States” exhibit: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and noon to 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, through April 10, 2027, at the DuPage County Historical Museum, 102 E. Wesley St., Wheaton. Exhibit examines how wars, elections, protests and cultural changes resonated in DuPage County. Free; donations of $5 or $2 for kids and seniors appreciated. dupagemuseum.org/visit.

Goebbert’s Fall Festival: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Nov. 1, at Goebbert’s Farm & Garden Center, 40 W. Higgins Road, South Barrington. Animals, corn stalk mazes, wagon rides, camel rides, pig races, fall food, produce and more. Some attractions are only available on weekends. $20 on weekdays; $24 in advance online and $27 at the door on weekends and Columbus Day. Extra fees for some activities. goebbertspumpkinfarm.com/fall-festival.

Dinos! at Brookfield Zoo Chicago: 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Oct. 25 at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. See 35 life-sized dinosaurs and more. $20.95-$29.95 and free for kids 2 and younger. brookfieldzoo.org/events.

Happy Times Pumpkinfest at Didier Farms: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesdays through Mondays, though Saturday, Oct. 31, at Didier Farms, 16678 Aptakisic Road, Lincolnshire. Amusement rides, pony and camel rides, Animal Land Zoo, corn maze, fall merchandise, pumpkin sales, fall treats and more. Free entry; fees for rides and attractions. happytimespumpkinfest.com.

“Mean Girls”: 1:30 and 7 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays; 2 and 7 p.m. Saturdays; and 1 and 5:30 p.m. Sundays through Oct. 11, at Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. The Chicago-area premiere of the Tony-nominated musical based on the Tina Fey film. Tickets start at $34. paramountaurora.com.

Minecraft Experience, Villager Rescue: 2-8 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays; 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Saturdays; 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Sundays; and 2-7 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, through Oct. 10, at EXP Rosemont, 9900 Berwyn Ave., Rosemont. The world of Minecraft comes to life in an immersive experience. Tickets start at $28. minecraftexperience.com.

Richardson Sunflower Fields: 3-11 p.m. Fridays in September; plus 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturdays and noon to 9 p.m. Sundays through Nov. 1, and 3-9 p.m. Thursdays and 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays in October, at Richardson Farm, 909 English Prairie Road, Spring Grove. Corn maze, pumpkin patch, observation tower, sunflower field, zip line, zorbing, pig races and more. $26, $22 for kids 3-12, and free for kids 2 and younger; $32/$26 Saturdays and Sundays in October. richardsonadventurefarm.com.

“Jekyll & Hyde”: 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays; and 1 p.m. Sundays, through Nov. 8; plus 6:30 p.m. Sundays, Sept. 20 and 27 and Oct. 11; and 1 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 30, and Wednesdays, Oct. 14 through Nov. 4, at Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place, 175 E. Chestnut St., Chicago. Murder and chaos are pitted against love and virtue in this sweeping Gothic musical. Tickets start at $60.75. broadwayinchicago.com.

“Big Fish”: 7:30 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays through Oct. 4, at Playhouse 111, 111 N. Hale St., Wheaton. Wheaton Drama’s production of this musical that follows the life of a traveling salesman whose larger-than-life stories captivate everyone around him, except his son, Will, who is determined to uncover the truth behind his father’s epic tales. ASL shows Sept. 20 and 25. $25. wheatondrama.org.

“An Iliad”: 7:30 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays, through Sept. 20, at the Elgin Art Showcase, 220 DuPage St., Elgin. Janus Theatre Company’s production of Lisa Peterson and Denis O’Hare’s modern retelling of Homer’s epic poem. $28. janusplays.com.

“Ride the Cyclone”: 7:30 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, and 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, through Oct. 25, at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. The Spirits of St. Cassian High School Chamber Choir return in this musical. $25-$49. metropolisarts.com.

“Come From Away”: Various times Wednesdays through Sundays, through Oct. 18, at the Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. Based on the true story of the time when 38 planes, carrying thousands of people from around the globe, were diverted to the isolated community of Gander, Newfoundland, on Sept. 11, 2001. Tickets start at $78.10. marriotttheatre.com.

“Walking With Giants” exhibit: Through Oct. 18 at the College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, the McAninch Arts Center and Cleve Carney Museum of Art, in association with the COD Foundation, host an outdoor, walkable exhibition celebrating American artistic achievement. The exhibition features 10 painted silhouette sculptures, each about 10 feet tall, installed along a walkable route surrounding the MAC. The works honor influential American figures in visual art, music, theater and dance, including Jean-Michel Basquiat, Dolly Parton and Lin-Manuel Miranda, among others. Free. theccma.org.