Things to do Sept. 19-25: Oktoberfests, Naperville Irish Fest, Elgin Fringe Festival, Cary Main Street Fest and more

Starts before Friday

“Hokusai & Ukiyo-e, The Floating World”: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, Sept. 16-17; 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Sept. 18-19; 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20; and 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, at the Cleve Carney Museum of Art, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. $12 Tuesday through Friday; $22 Saturday and Sunday. atthemac.org/events/hokusai.

Patterned by Nature: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily through Sunday, Sept. 21, at the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. Celebrates the universal attraction to patterns through playfully planted gardens and nature-inspired artistic installations. Admission: $19.95-$21.95 for adults, $13.95-$15.95 for kids 3-12, and free for kids younger than 3. chicagobotanic.org/patterns.

City of Lights Film Festival: Thursday through Saturday, Sept. 18-20, at locations in downtown Aurora. Third annual festival with a lineup of shorts, features, student films and music videos. aurora.il.us.

Friday, Sept. 19

32nd Annual Chicagoland Orchid Fest: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Sept. 19-20, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, at Natt’s Orchids, 24645 103rd St., Naperville, and Orchids by Hausermann, 2N134 N. Addison Road, Villa Park. Orchids and supplies, guest vendors and special bargains. Hosted by the Chicagoland Orchid Growers Association. illinoisorchidsociety.org/events-all/32nd-orchid-fest.

St. Charles Farmers Market: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19, in the parking lot next to the old police station on Riverview and Cedar Avenue, St. Charles. Meat, eggs, cheese, breads, sweets, honey, microgreens, mushrooms and more. facebook.com/STCFarmersMarket.

Lake County RV Outlet Show: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20; and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, at the Lake County Fairgrounds, 1060 E. Peterson Road, Grayslake. Explore new gas and diesel motorhomes, fifth wheels, toy haulers, travel trailers, pop-up campers and more. Free. rvoutletshow.com.

Riot Fest: 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Sept. 19-21, at Douglass Park, West Ogden Avenue and South Sacramento Drive, Chicago. Three days of punk, rock and alternative music. Friday: Alkaline Trio at 6:20 p.m., “Weird Al” Yankovic at 7 p.m., and Blink-182 and The Pogues at 8:30 p.m.; Saturday: Gwar at 2:45 p.m., The Beach Boys at 6:20 p.m., Jack White at 7:25 p.m., and Weezer and Sex Pistols at 8:30 p.m.; Sunday: Idles at 6:05 p.m., Jawbreaker at 7:10 p.m. and Green Day at 8:15 p.m. General admission: $130 for one day and $230 for two days. riotfest.org.

Downtown Elgin Market: 3-7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19, on South Riverside Drive, Elgin. Farmers, makers, live music, Sip N’ Shop and kids’ activities. Dog-friendly. LINK Matching program. downtownelgin.com/market.

Naperville Irish Fest: 3-10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19, and noon to 10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at Central Park, 104 E. Benton Ave., Naperville. Celebration of Irish culture featuring music, dance, food, demos by the Naperville Hurling & Camogie Club, kids’ activities and Irish Village vendors. Performances from Firefighters Highland Guard of Naperville Bagpipers at 3:30 p.m. Friday and 12:55 p.m. Saturday; McNulty School of Irish Dance at 4 p.m. Friday and 1:25 p.m. Saturday; and Bentley Academy of Irish Dance at 3:30 p.m. Saturday. Music lineup: Friday: Celtic Roots at 5:15 p.m., The Larkin and Moran Brothers at 6:45 p.m., and Brigid’s Cross at 8:15 p.m.; Saturday: Bailey Murray Academy at noon, Small Batch at 2:40 p.m., On The Lash at 5:10 p.m., Whiskey Mick at 6:40 p.m., and Classical Blast at 8:10 p.m. Tickets: $15 or $25 for two; free for kids 12 and younger. wsirish.org.

Cary Main Street Fest: 5-10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19; 1-9:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20; and 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, on Main Street in downtown Cary. Live music, food trucks, family stage, beverage tents and family activities. Saturday: family area from 1-7:30 p.m., Chicago Trivia Guys from 1:30-3:30 p.m. and Baggo Tournament from 3:30-7:30 p.m. ($50 per team). Sunday: Main Street Fest 5K at 8:30 a.m., community breakfast ($10) from 9 a.m. to noon, farmers market from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Cary Cruise Night Trophy Winners Car Show from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Music lineup: Friday: The Allstars at 5:30 p.m., Singo from 5:30-7:30 p.m., and Modern Day Romeos at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday: GEN8R at 1:30 p.m., Totally Taylor at 3:30 p.m., Hillbilly Rockstarz at 5:30 p.m. and 7th heaven at 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday: Stars Resilient at 9:30 a.m. and New Vintage Strings at 11:30 a.m. Family stage on Saturday with DJ Chris Tone at 1:30 p.m., School of Rock at 2:45 p.m., Cary-Grove Performing Arts Centre at 4 p.m., Victory Voice at 4:45 p.m. and DJ Draw at 6 p.m. CaryMainStreetFest.com.

Huck Finn Fishing Derby: 5-7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19, at Reiner Park, 1101 N. Green Knolls Drive, Buffalo Grove. Fishing derby for kids 2-14. Awards and raffle prizes. Registration fee: $8-$10. bgparks.org/huck-finn-fishing-derby-2.

Oktoberfest in Libertyville: 5-10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19, and 1-10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at Mickey Finn’s Brewery, 345 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville. Live music, seasonal brews, food and traditional Bavarian bier sports such as Hammerschlagen or Masskrugstemmen. Family activities from 1-4 p.m. Saturday. $25 in advance, $30 at the door; VIP tickets $50/$55. mainstreetlibertyville.org.

Palatine Rotary Oktoberfest: 5 p.m. to midnight Friday, Sept. 19; noon to midnight Saturday, Sept. 20; and noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, on Smith and Slade streets, Palatine. Live music, beer, food, activities and more. Music: Phenix at 9 p.m. Friday and 2 p.m. Sunday and Polkaholics at 9 p.m. Saturday. Free. palatinerotary.org/oktoberfest.

Barely a K, Goats All the Way 0.5K Beer & Donut Run: 6-7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19, at Springbrook Nature Center, 130 Forest Ave., Itasca. Grab a doughnut and a beer or seltzer from Church Street Brewery and race the half-mile path around the nature center. New Milk Mustache Donut Dash for kids to race parents to the finish line. $40/$45. Register: itascaparkdistrict.com.

The Big Balloon Show: 6-6:45 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19, at Lincoln Center, 935 Maple Ave., Downers Grove. Smarty Pants performs using the world’s largest balloon props. $10-$15; free for kids younger than 3 (must be able to sit on an adult’s lap during the show). Tickets: dgparks.org.

Elk Grove Oktoberfest: 6-10:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19, and 3-11 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at Rotary Green, 164 Lions Drive, Elk Grove Village. Traditional German food, games and activities, live music and more. Familyfest from 3-7 p.m. Saturday. Free; tickets for food and drinks. elkgrove.com/Oktoberfest.

Blackberry Farm Movie Night: 7-10:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19, at Blackberry Farm, 100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora. Rides, crafts and photo ops until dusk, then watch “Sonic the Hedgehog 3” on the outdoor movie screen. $13. Register at blackberryfarm.info/special-events/.

“Juana and the Missing Mayan Book”: 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19, at the Hemmens Cultural Center Main Stage Theatre, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. Explore the world of puppetry through the eyes of 9-year-old Juana as she sets out on a journey to save the few lasting remnants of the ancient Mayan society. Written and directed by Chicago artist Rocio “Chio” Cabrera-Coz. $15. hemmens.org.

Eighth Blackbird: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19, at Armerding Concert Hall, 520 E. Kenilworth Ave., Wheaton. Four-time Grammy-winning sextet. tickets.wheaton.edu.

ETC’s “The Tempest”: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Sept. 19-20, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, at the Elgin Art Showcase, 164 Division St., 8th floor, Elgin. Elgin Theatre Company’s production of Shakespeare’s final work, an enchanting blend of comedy, romance, revenge, fantasy, magic and mortality. General admission (no reserved seats): $23-$25. elgin-theatre.org/next-production.

Kristin Key: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19, at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 W. Van Buren St., Woodstock. Musical comedian Kristin Key performs. $35-$40. woodstockil.gov/257/Opera-House.

Recycled Percussion, The Ultimate Junk Rock Experience: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19, at Batavia Fine Arts Centre, 1250 W. Wilson St., Batavia. $49-$63. bataviafineartscentre.org.

“These Days, What Makes a Good Life”: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19, and 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at the Bit Theatre, 4034 Fox Valley Center Drive, Aurora. Henry David Theatre Troupe will be performing the original musical. Tickets are $25 at bitimprov.org.

Elgin Fringe Festival: Friday, Sept. 19, through Sept. 28 at various locations in downtown Elgin. 12th annual celebration of bold artistic experimentation showcasing artists’ work across a spectrum of forms and genres. Festival entry button ($4) required for each performance, including free shows. Festival pass for $95. elginfringefestival.com.

Saturday, Sept. 20

Naperville Farmers Market: 7 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 20, in the Fifth Avenue Station parking lot, 200 E. Fifth Ave., Naperville. Locally grown food, breads, sweets and an array of products. facebook.com/NapervilleFarmersMarket.

Artisan Collective: 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 20, on North River Street, Batavia. Local artisans will be selling handmade goods and vintage items. Free. downtownbatavia.com.

Batavia Farmers Market: 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 20, on North River Street, between Wilson and Spring streets, Batavia. Produce, baked goods, plants, honey and related farm products. Vendors must grow, harvest and/or produce at least 75% of market products. The Artisan Collective features handmade items from artists, makers and designers. downtownbatavia.com/farmers-market.

Huntley Farmers Market: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, along Coral Street, Huntley. Fresh produce, artisanal crafts and treats from regional vendors. huntley.il.us.

Step It Up for Clearbrook: 8 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at Cronin Park, 400 S. Highland Ave., Arlington Heights. Music, games, food and activities. $25 for adults; $10 for Kids Dash. events.clearbrook.org.

Wheaton French Market: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at Main and Liberty streets, Wheaton. Outdoor market offering fresh produce, flowers, handcrafted goods, specialty foods, jewelry, crafts, baked goods and more. bensidounusa.com/wheaton.

Badges and Bobbers Fishin’ Derby: 9-10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at Lake Ellyn Park, 645 Lenox Road, Glen Ellyn. Annual catch-and-release fishing derby. Prizes for the largest, smallest and most fish caught in three age groups and for the overall “Best Dressed Angler.” Kids 3-12 must be accompanied by an adult. $12-$18 per child. Register at gepark.org.

Chicago Civil War Show and Sale: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at the DuPage County Fairgrounds, 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton. Civil War dealers from throughout 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.

Community Garage Sale: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 20, at Lions Park, Silver Lake Road, north of Three Oaks Road, Cary. carypark.com.

Hampshire Farmers and Outdoor Market: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at Hampshire Commons, 113 W. Oak Knoll Drive, Hampshire. Farm-to-table goods, handmade items, packaged food, sweets, artisanal gifts and more. facebook.com/HampshireFarmersMarket.

Oktoberfest: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 20, at the Arlington Heights Historical Museum, 110 W. Fremont St., Arlington Heights. German food from Olde Salem Café for purchase, traditional Bavarian performances from Donau Jugend Dance, live music from Die Kellerknaben and more. Free. ahpd.org.

40th annual Riverwalk Fine Art Fair: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 20-21, along the Riverwalk and Jackson Avenue, between Main and Eagle streets, Naperville. Featuring 110 national and international artists selling paintings, sculpture, jewelry, photography, ceramics, 2-D and 3-D mixed media and fiber art. Plus, art demos, a kids’ tent, live music and a food vendor at the east end of the show. Free. napervilleartleague.com/riverwalk-fine-art-fair.html.

Art on the Prairie Art & Music Festival: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, at the Warrenville Park District Recreation Center, lower level parking lot, 3S260 Warren Ave., Warrenville. Juried fine art show with artist demo, performing arts in music and dance, kids’ activities, and food and beverages for purchase. Entertainment lineup: Saturday: Real Steel Band from 10:30-11:30 a.m., Banjo Buddies Dixieland Band from 12:30-2 p.m., Warrenville Park District Dance from 2:30-3:30 p.m., and Tin Fiddle featuring Pawnshop Horns from 4-6 p.m.; Sunday: District 33 Ballet Folklorico Mexican Dancers from noon to 1:30 p.m. and Rick Lindy & The Wild Ones from 2:30-4 p.m. Free. warrenvilleparks.org.

Fall Fest: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at Carpenter Park, 275 Maple Ave., Carpentersville. Live music, local vendors, seasonal treats, kids’ activities and more. cville.org.

Highland Park Oktoberfest: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, in the Ravinia District of Highland Park in Jens Jensen Park, 486 Roger Williams Ave., and along Dean Avenue, Highland Park. Live music in Jens Jensen Park, plus over 20 vendors, Oktoberfest-themed activities including a Stein Holding Contest, Hamerslagen, kids’ activities and games, local food and beverage vendors, sausage races, an amateur barbecue competition and more. Free. enjoyhighlandpark.com.

Harvest Hustle 5K & Kids Mile: 10:45 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at Peck Farm Park, 4038 Kaneville Road, Geneva. Check-in begins at 9 a.m. with the kids’ mile for ages 3-12 at 10:15 a.m. Proceeds benefit the park district’s scholarship fund. Free food and refreshments after the race. $39.44-$404.79. Register at genevaparks.org.

Autumn Fair: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at Peck Farm Park, 4038 Kaneville Road, Geneva. Family event with petting zoo, pony rides, crafts, hayrides, pumpkin painting, tree-climbing demo, kids’ games, music and wildlife presentation from the Flying Fox Conservation Fund. Free; small fee for some activities. genevaparks.org.

Pepper Road Fest: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, on North Pepper Road, Lake Barrington. Live music, kids’ activities, food and drinks for purchase, vendors, activities and more. Free. barringtonchamber.com.

American Dahlia Society National Show: Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, and 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, at the Chicago Botanic Garden, Burnstein Hall, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. The judged exhibit features dahlia blooms ranging from 2-12 inches. Society members will be on hand to answer questions about dahlias. $13.95-$22.95. chicagobotanic.org.

Chicago Live!: Noon to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 20-21, at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Performing arts festival. Free. navypier.org.

Wauke-Con: Noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at Three Brothers Theatre, 221 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. Comic book convention, including a visit by writer E.S. Fein and a chance to win a book signed by Ray Bradbury. $9.31. waukecon.wordpress.com.

The Great Outdoors Beer Trail: 1-5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at Fel-Pro RRR, Cary. Walk the one-mile paved trail while visiting up to 20 regional brewers, plus live music and food trucks. Must be 21 or older. Dog-friendly, leash required. Site closes at sunset. $70; $15 for designated driver. Tickets: mccdistrict.org.

Central Street Alive Busker Fest: 2-6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, on Central Street in Evanston. A celebration of street performance with musicians, dancers, hula-hoopers, jugglers, poets, comedy and more. Scheduled performers include Justin Roberts, La Tosca, Lisa the Poet, Tim the Mime, a Puppet gal, Jeff Libman, UniKyle and more. Free; performers will accept donations. centralstreetevanston.com.

Pints By the Pond: 2-5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at the Peg Bond Center, 151 N. Island Ave., Batavia. Third annual craft beer fest with food trucks. Includes 20 3-ounce samples and a commemorative beer glass. VIP entry at 1 p.m. Tickets: $65 VIP, $50 general admission, $10 designated driver. bataviaparks.org/pints-by-the-pond.

Tacos and Tequila Festival: 2-11 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at Northwestern Medicine Field, 34W002 Cherry Lane, Geneva. Featuring Ludacris, Timbaland, Trina, Trick Daddy, David Banner, Paul Wall, Bubba Sparxxx, Murphy Lee and DJ Ashton Martin. Plus, taco chefs, Lucha Libre Wrestlers, Chihuahua beauty pageant, exotic car showcase, Margs & Tequila Shot Bars, and a salsa and queso competition. VIP at 1:30 p.m. General admission: $102, VIP: $231, parking: $59. TacosandTequilaCHICAGO.com.

Bluesmobile Cruise Nights: 3-8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at the East Metra parking lot, near the intersection of Maple and Northwest Highway, Mount Prospect. Classic cars, entertainment and more. mplions.org/cruise-nights.

Brew at the Zoo: 3-7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at Randall Oaks Zoo, 1180 N. Randall Road, West Dundee. Fundraiser supporting the care of Randall Oaks Zoo animals. Adult beverages, food trucks, live music, lawn games, silent auctions, zookeeper-led tours and more. For 21 and older. $40-$45, $10 designated driver. Drinks for purchase. For tickets, visit dtpd.org.

Party in the Park: 4-9:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at Community Park, 5 Parkview Lane, Hawthorn Woods. Music, food, beer, wine, seltzer and bourbon tent, axe throwing, cigar tent and a drone show at 9 p.m. Music from Deja Vu Band from 4-6 p.m. and Oh Yes after 6:30 p.m. Family fun zone includes a petting zoo, inflatable obstacle courses, train rides, touch-a-truck, games and activities. Free. vhw.org.

ArtWauk: 5-9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, 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. artwauk.com.

Celebrate National Dance Day: 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at Panton Mill Park, 10 N. Water St., South Elgin. Latin rhythm dance instruction from 5:30-6:30 p.m., then watch the double feature of “Footloose” and “Dirty Dancing” at dusk. Fernando’s Street Kitchen food truck on-site. Free. southelgin.com/pantonmillpark.

American Aid Society Oktoberfest: 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at the American Aid Society, 259 W. Grand Ave., Lake Villa. German food, music from Phenix and beer. $9 donation requested. americanaidsocietyofgd.org.

17th annual Elgin Short Film Festival: 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at the Hemmens, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. Red carpet arrival and preshow entertainment starts at 6 p.m. Then watch prescreened films up to 20 minutes in length. Winners will be selected by a panel of judges and audience members casting votes at intermission. After intermission, master of ceremonies Daryl Nitz will present the awards and prizes. $10 general admission. elginil.gov/1828/Elgin-Short-Film-Festival.

Family Campfire: 7:15-8:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, at Red Oak Nature Center, 930 N. River Road, North Aurora. Guests can gather around the campfire to roast a special treat. Kids must be accompanied by a registered adult. $10-$14. Register: redoaknaturecenter.info.

Sunday, Sept. 21

Fox Valley Marathon: 7 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, at Mount St. Mary Park, off Route 31, St. Charles. Four race distances: 26.2, 20, 13.1 and 5K. Boston qualifier starting and ending in downtown St. Charles, winding through Geneva, Batavia and North Aurora. $55-$155. Register at fv26.com.

Buffalo Grove Farmers Market: 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, in Mike Rylko Park, 951 McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove. Meat, cheese, bakery, coffee, knife sharpening and more from 42 vendors, with weekly entertainment, a kids’ craft tent, and Business of the Week vendors and nonprofits. vbg.org/165/Farmers-Market.

Green Fair: 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, at Mike Rylko Community Park, 951 McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove. Learn about the steps you can take at home, work and in the community to improve the environment and make Buffalo Grove a greener and healthier place to live. Free. bgparks.org/green-fair.

Elmhurst French Market: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, in a city parking lot at Park and Prospect avenues, Elmhurst. European-style market. bensidounusa.com/elmhurst.

Kane County Doll Show: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, at 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 program by Bradley Justice on “Barbie: The Legend Behind the Doll” 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 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, at Cantigny Park south parking lot, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. Vintage cars, entertainment, and food and beverage options. First 200 people through the gate receive a free limited-edition T-shirt. Register your vehicle for $28; parking included. Parking is $21. cantigny.org/event/cantigny-car-show-2.

Crystal Lake Farmers Market+ At The Dole: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, on the front lawn of the Dole Mansion, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake. Live music, kids’ activities, beverages, food trucks and more. farmersmarketatthedole.org.

Fall Caboose Days: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, at the Fox River Trolley Museum, off Route 31, South Elgin. Ride with the conductor in the Big Red Caboose or with the engineer in the locomotive. $5-$8. foxtrolley.org/special-events.

Fall Wine Walk: Noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, starting at Sullivan’s Steakhouse, 244 S. Main St., Naperville. 13 curated wine tastings around downtown Naperville, plus shopping, local food, live music and more. For 21 and older. $63.99. Buy tickets at eventbrite.com.

Shermerfest: Noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, at Village Green Park, Shermer and Meadow roads, and inside the Northbrook History Museum, 1776 Walters Ave., Northbrook. Classic CARavan and car show, hot dogs, soup, live entertainment and more. Free. northbrookhistory.org.

BrightSide Theatre Summer in the Parks: 12:30-1:30 p.m. and 2-3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, in the Naperville Riverwalk amphitheater, on the southeast corner of West Jackson Avenue and South Eagle Street, Naperville. “Fun in the Sun: A Broadway Musical Revue” features popular and comedic songs from Broadway musicals. Held in partnership with the Naperville Riverwalk Fine Art Fair. Bring chairs or blankets. Free. brightsidetheatre.com/parks.

Fallapalooza: 1-5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, at the Community Recreation Center, Wheeling. Live music by Eric Case Band, petting zoo, pony rides, inflatables, airbrush tattoos and more. Food and refreshments for purchase. Free. wheelingparkdistrict.com.

Heirloom Apple Fest: 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, at the 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 kids. ppfv.org.

Palatine Historical Society Cemetery Walk: 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, 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. palatine.il.us.

Railroad Street Block Party: 2-5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 21, at Duke’s Alehouse parking lot, 110 N. Main St., Crystal Lake. Bands, food from local restaurants, family activities and games for kids. Free. facebook.com/dukesalehouse.

Monday, Sept. 22

Hinsdale Farmers Market: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday, Sept. 22, along Chicago Avenue, between Garfield and Washington, Hinsdale. Fresh produce and unique finds from farms and stores. hinsdalechamber.com/farmers-market.

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

Cruise Nights at Willow Creek: 4:30-7:30 p.m. Monday, Sept. 22, at Willow Creek Church, parking lot F, 67 E. Algonquin Road, South Barrington. Hosted by the CARS Ministry of Willow Creek Church, this event is open to vintage, classic, custom, muscle, and antique cars and trucks. Food and music. Free. willowcreek.org.

Tuesday, Sept. 23

Naper Settlement Farmers Market: 3-7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 23, on the museum grounds, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville. An assortment of goods from mission-based, fair-trade or local vendors, from coffee to candles, plus fresh produce, pottery, honey and more. Reisdorf & Shiel will perform from 4-7 p.m. Free class from 5-6 p.m.: Bulbs by Cristin Adam of the Growing Place. napersettlement.org.

Wednesday, Sept. 24

Elmhurst Farmers Market: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 24, in Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church’s parking lot, 149 W. Brush Hill Road, Elmhurst. Fresh produce, local vendors, artisan goods and food trucks. elmhurstfarmersmarket.com or facebook.com/ElmhurstFarmersMarket.

Bites and Bits Event Series: 5-9 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 24, at Community Church of Rolling Meadows, 2720 Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows. Food truck fare and live music. Free. cityrm.org.

Thursday, Sept. 25

Daley Plaza Farmers Markets: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 25, at Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St., Chicago. Dozens of local merchants offering fresh produce, prepared food, flowers, garden plants, handcrafted merchandise and other locally sourced goods. chicago.gov.

Great American Coin and Collectibles Show: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 25; 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26; and 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont. Dealers, grading services and well-known names from across the numismatic world. $10. gacc.show.

Thursday Nights Live: 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 25, at Wheeling Town Center, 351 W. Dundee Road, Wheeling. Lola Blu will perform in the plaza. Food and beverages from local restaurants. Free. thewheelingtowncenter.com/events.

Ongoing

Goebbert’s Fall Festival: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Oct. 30 at Goebbert’s Farm & Garden Center, 40 W. Higgins Road, South Barrington. Animals, corn stalk mazes, wagon rides, pig races, fall food, produce and more. Some attractions only available on weekends. $19 weekdays; $23 in advance online and $26 at the door on weekends; free for kids 2 and younger. Extra fees for animal rides ($8) and gem mining ($10-$25). goebbertspumpkinfarm.com/fall-festival.

McHenry Stade’s Farm Market: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Oct. 31 at 3709 Miller Road, McHenry. Free. stadesfarmandmarket.com.

Alex Ross — Heroes & Villains: 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Fridays through Sundays and Wednesdays and 2-8 p.m. Thursdays, through Feb. 16, 2026, at the Bess Bower Dunn Museum of Lake County, 1899 W. Winchester Road, Libertyville. A larger-than-life presentation of the work of legendary comic book artist Alex Ross featuring heroes and villains from the Marvel and DC universes. Museum admission $3-$10, exhibit tickets $5-$10, free for kids 3 and younger. LCFPD.org/planyourvisit.

Happy Times Pumpkinfest at Didier Farms: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, except Tuesdays, though Sunday, Oct. 26, at Didier Farms, 16678 Aptakisic Road, Lincolnshire. Amusement rides, shows, fall merchandise, pumpkin sales, fall treats and more. Free entry; fees for rides and attractions. happytimespumpkinfest.com.

Six Flags Great America Fright Fest: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturdays in September, 11 a.m. to midnight Saturdays in October, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sundays, through Nov. 1; plus 5-11 p.m. Fridays starting Sept. 26; 6-11 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30; and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Nov. 2, 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. sixflags.com/greatamerica/events.

Volo Paranormal Tours: Noon, 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays and 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Wednesdays through Nov. 2, at the Volo Museum, 27582 Volo Village Road, Volo. Tour brings to life stories of paranormal encounters at the Volo museum. $3 with museum admission. Reservations recommended. volofun.com.

Richardson Adventure Farm: 3-11 p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturdays and noon to 9 p.m. Sundays in September; open through Oct. 26 at Richardson Adventure Farm, 909 English Prairie Road, Spring Grove. Corn maze, pumpkin patch, observation tower, zip line, zorbing, pig races and more. $24, $20 for kids 3-12, and free for kids 2 and younger; $30/$24 Saturdays and Sundays in October. richardsonadventurefarm.com.

“Disney’s The Little Mermaid”: 7:30 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays through Oct. 5, at Playhouse 111, 111 N. Hale St., Wheaton. Wheaton Drama production. $25. wheatondrama.org.

Joffrey Ballet presents “Carmen”: 7:30 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays, through Sept. 28, at the Lyric Opera House, 20 N. Wacker Drive, Chicago. With choreography by Liam Scarlett. Tickets start at $46. joffrey.org.

Great Orb Hunt 2025: Through Sept. 30 at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve, 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles; the prairie path at Fine Line Creative Arts Center, 37W570 Bolcum Road, St. Charles; and Dick Young Forest Preserve, 39W115 Main St., Batavia. Search for a handcrafted glass or ceramic orb. If you find an orb, register it at fineline.org/pages/the-great-orb-hunt. If you find more than one, take one and leave the rest for others. The district has created maps that are available via social media. fineline.org or kaneforest.com.