My daughters are dancing machines. Clearly, the apples don’t fall far from the tree. So, when my kiddos ask to go cut a rug, I’m happy to oblige. It’s nice to venture away from our living room dance parties and actually go listen to some live music.
And since it’s so nice out, our neighboring towns have music programs all summer long. At the drop of a hat we’re able to go get our boogie on and eat alfresco any night of the week. Here are some of our favorites.
Monday and Tuesday
The Glen (Town Center) has a free calendar of events fit for the whole family. Kick off your Monday with Monday Music for Family Fun at The Book Market at Hangar One. You must register online for the upcoming acts such as Justin Roberts (July 24) and Super Stolie Guacamole (Aug. 7).
They also host their Summer Sounds Series every Tuesday night. The full line-up includes bands like Peach’s Beach Party, Rico!, and Vic Lombardi and The Chicago 7. The music and fun start at 6:30 p.m.
2030 Tower Drive, Glenview
Wednesday
Dancin’ Sprouts gets the people goin’ at the Chicago Botanic Garden. Bring the whole family and find a spot in one of the most beautiful gardens in the area. Pack a picnic dinner or pick up something from the Garden View Café and Grille—either way, arrive early to claim your real estate.
Upcoming acts include Moona Luna, Farmer Jason, and Jeanie B! and the Jelly Beans. Check the schedule here. The fun begins at 5:30 p.m. The Dancin’ Sprouts summer concert series goes until Aug. 30.
1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe
Thursday
Rockin’ in the Park in Rosemont’s MB Financial Park offers a free summer series that is best suited for older kids. All concerts run from 7-10 p.m. and a musical fireworks display concludes the evening. Rockin’ bands such as The Rush Tribute Project (July 20), American English (a Beatles Tribute Band – Aug. 10) and many more will perform until the end of August. For the full lineup check out the schedule. Do note that outside food and drinks are prohibited.
5501 Park Place, Rosemont
Need something for a younger crowd? Head to Throwback Thursday at Veteran’s Memorial Bandshell in Mount Prospect for an ever changing lineup of live music, dance troupes and cover bands like CTA. They are even offering an Art Craft on select nights for $4; otherwise admission is free.
411 S. Maple, Mount Prospect
Friday
Friday Night Live! takes place in Metropolitan Square in downtown Des Plaines from 6-9:30 p.m. Enjoy the sounds of groups like Chez Butter singing R&B and the blues (July 21), Cowboy Jukebox bringing you America’s Top 40 Country tunes (July 28), or Vocal Chaos, an acapella group featured in the movie “The Break Up” (August 4).
647 Metropolitan Way, Des Plaines
Looking for something a little more refined? Park Ridge Fine Arts Symphony is hosting two more concerts in the park adjacent to City Hall. Music will fill the air at 8 p.m. Songs from “Hamilton” and many other musicals will be performed in the Stage and Screen revue on July 21. Also enjoy big band favorites from the Brain Patti Big Band as they pay tribute to the late Mayor Dave Schmidt on July 28.
505 Butler Pl, Park Ridge
Did I miss any summer concert series that are worth trying out? Please share your favorites with me @stephnthestrollersquad on Instagram.
