Top 10 Things to Do in DuPage County This Summer
1. "Olmec Trails: Culture and Legacy"
July 1-October 31, 2024 at Mexican Cultural Center DuPage, College of DuPage Prairies, DuPage County Forest Preserves, and trails throughout DuPage.
This summer, view 33 large-scale Olmec heads decorated by Mexican artists. "Olmec Trails" offers a fresh and accessible approach to the rich culture of the Olmec civilization. The exhibition aims to connect spectators with unique artworks, promoting healthy engagement with the outdoors and providing benefits for both physical and mental health. This ambitious project serves as a platform for cultural education and artistic appreciation, enriching the community's connection to a pivotal aspect of Mesoamerican history.
2. Venture throughout The Morton Arboretum
You have two great things to see at The Morton Arboretum this summer! Five large-scale sculptures by Polish American artist Olga Ziemska currently reside at The Morton Arboretum as part of their ongoing exhibit, Of the Earth. Her work is created from reclaimed tree branches and other natural materials gathered from the Arboretum’s 1,700 acres — where she found inspiration among the tree-filled landscapes reminiscent of her native Poland. The sculptures are on display until Spring 2025, so you have all summer to see them!
Another fun thing to do this summer at The Morton Arboretum is Wonder Woods Mini Golf. You’ll enjoy an imaginative, tree-themed adventure with friends and family on this one-of-a-kind mini golf course specially designed for the Arboretum with the help of their research scientists.
3. Veggie Fest Chicago
August 10-11, 2024 in Lisle
Veggie Fest Chicago is one of the largest vegetarian food and wellness festivals in North America, and it's making its great return since 2019! This festival is a family fun festival celebrating the joy, science, food, and compassion behind the vegetarian lifestyle, bringing more than 50,000+ participants in the recent years. Come enjoy great food at the international food court; listen to world-renowned health professionals speaking on diet, lifestyle, and environmental issues; enjoy food demos from acclaimed restaurant owners, chefs, and authors; visit our amazing children's tent with face painting, clowns, and crafts; sit back and relax to music from some of Chicago's best bands; and explore over 100 vendor booths.
4. DuPage Triple Crown, as part of Chicago Grit
July 20, 21 & 23
Chicago Grit, a cycling competition with more than 900 amateur and professional cyclists, will feature three race days in DuPage forming the DuPage Triple Crown. The full series begins on Saturday, July 20 with the first DuPage race being the Ray Whalen Builders Tour of Lake Ellyn (Glen Ellyn), followed by the Winfield Criterium and Summerfest on July 21 and completing the DuPage Triple Crown with the Lombard Cycling Classic on July 23. Spectators are welcome and encouraged to cheer on cyclists and be part of this high energy cycling culture. Race days will feature exciting opportunities for community involvement.
5. Summer Concerts Throughout DuPage
Warm summer nights, music in the air, and the glory of gathering! So many of our DuPage communities celebrate summer with concerts in the park which offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy friends and family and an easy night out with little planning. Be sure to check our Calendar of Events for other summer fun, as new events are added weekly.
6. Voyage en France
July 20, 2024 at Cantigny
Join Cantigny for a day filled with French-inspired delights and cultural experiences at Voyage en France! Immerse yourself in the charm of France with partners including Alliance Français, the French Chamber of Commerce, and the French Consulate. Throughout the park, enjoy photo stations and iconic sights including an Eiffel Tower replica. Indulge in the vibrant atmosphere of Moulin Rouge at the South Grove Beer Garden, featuring Can-Can dancers and Cabaret performances. Explore the French Market at its new location in the McCormick Allée! Discover French fables throughout the gardens and enjoy the Cantigny French Cafe experience on the west porch of McCormick House. For families, the Little Louvre Museum offers a chance to learn about renowned artists like Monet and Van Gogh, while creating art of your own. Engage in community art projects and savor French cuisine throughout the day amid street performers including accordion players and mimes.
7. Umbrella Sky Elmhurst
Now through October 1, 2024
Elmhurst is the sixth U.S. city to welcome the Umbrella Sky Project, with 170+ international installations that started in Portugal and expanded to France, Japan, Spain, Norway, and more! Three Umbrella Sky exhibits are located throughout Elmhurst. Get your picture-perfect moment this summer!
Locations are:
Schiller Court at Schiller and York Streets
110 South Cottage Hill Avenue
254 North York Street
Looking for an adventure this summer? The Explore Elmhurst Express Trolley offers visitors and residents a FREE 30-minute ride around the lively city of Elmhurst. Making six stops across the city, this fun and easy trip runs every Friday and Saturday. It's a great activity for a warm evening that you can spend with friends and family.
8. Reach New Heights at The Forge: Lemont Quarries
As an innovative leader in outdoor recreation, The Forge: Lemont Quarries is a state-of-the-art adventure park designed to deliver unique year-round activities for adventurers of all ages and abilities. Featuring a versatile and wide-ranging mix of recreational activities set among a reclaimed natural landscape, the park offers an escape to tranquil and interactive green space where guests can test their personal boundaries while engaging with a passionate community of like-minded outdoor enthusiasts. In addition, The Forge also offers a variety of summer events, such as the Lemont Food Truck Festival and Forge Fest.
9. View the Cicadas on Parade
Embrace the summer of the cicadas and visit Downtown Glen Ellyn to see 25 hand painted cicada art sculptures. These 18-inch cicada sculptures are painted via local artist and storefront owners which will be placed in flowerpots, trees and windows throughout the downtown.
10. Shop at One of Several DuPage Farmers Markets
Embark on a journey through DuPage's local markets, where a vibrant tapestry of flavors meets community spirit. Discover the stories behind the products and the heart of DuPage's local community.
For a complete list of events and other fun summer activities, make sure you look at our Calendar of Events, as new events are added weekly.