Events in Chicago Northwest

Just a short drive from downtown Chicago, you’ll find the laid-back, leafy suburbs of Chicago Northwest. With a packed calendar of events for all interests, tastes, and ages, the Northwest suburbs are an unexpected escape with plenty of hidden gems.

Discover all the hidden gems and must-see attractions in Chicago Northwest — request your free Inspiration Guide today!

Upcoming Events

Sporting Action

Schaumburg is home to the Boomers baseball team of the Frontier League. The season runs from May through September. Head to Wintrust Field, root for the home team, and enjoy America’s pastime! If you’re more into participating than watching, visit one of our local park districts in Schaumburg or Elk Grove and check out their weekly events to join in on the action! Our local parks host numerous tournaments, classes, and special events for sports fans, ensuring there’s always something on.

Family Fun

Chicago Northwest is a famously family-oriented destination with events for all ages. Capture your kids’ imagination at the LEGOLAND Discovery Center, or make a special trip to the Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament. 

For a day packed with activities and entertainment, especially for kids, look out for the annual Chicago Northwest Family Day. This event brings together some of the area’s best attractions in one place.

Historic Charm

Chicago Northwest is brimming with historic charm. To take in some classic Midwestern architecture, stroll through downtown Arlington Heights, where tree-lined streets are filled with inviting restaurants of all varieties. During the summer, you can soak up the lively atmosphere at Arlington Alfresco, showcasing the best of Arlington Heights' outdoor dining scene. 

Culinary Delights

For Chicago’s foodies, the Northwest suburbs are a destination for the region’s best fresh produce. Throughout the summer and fall, Arlington Heights, Elk Grove Village, and Schaumburg all host farmers’ markets with top-quality organic fruit and vegetables. 

For those who prefer to savor rather than simmer, Restaurant Week every year during March is prime time to sample Chicago Northwest’s cuisine.

Music, Dancing, & Performing Arts

The Prairie Center for the Arts in Schaumburg is a vibrant hub for music lovers, offering diverse concerts throughout the year. Their free Summer Breeze series brings the community together on select Saturdays in July and August, featuring local bands and a range of genres under the summer sky. 

For more culture, head to Metropolis Performing Arts Center, a historic theater in Arlington Heights. This landmark theater showcases musicals, plays, and concerts year-round.

Getting Down to Business

Chicago Northwest is a dynamic hub for business events, offering diverse venues for various needs. Elk Grove Village, a major industrial center, provides a strategic location for companies to connect and collaborate. The Schaumburg Convention Center, with its extensive facilities, is a premier destination for large-scale conferences and trade shows.

Your next escape is closer than you think—in fact, it’s right up I-90 from downtown Chicago. From thrilling sports fixtures to culinary delights, the Northwest suburbs offer something for everyone.