Family events in Crystal Lake, IL

Children five and under receive a $2 studio fee. No reservation is required, and walk-ins are welcome. The studio may close up to an hour early if there are no painters.

Under the indoor tree at Read Between The Lynes, story time features a cheerful selection of super-fantastic tales in a welcoming setting.

Enjoy an evening of live music at Miller Point Park with Donna Brooks and Nick Horcher performing as Ironwood. Expect a blend of soulful sounds alongside contemporary and classic songs that cross genres and resonate across generations.

All ages are invited to a friendly game night focused on simple fun and community. Bring a favorite game to share and enjoy playing with others.

This pet expo at the outdoor pavilion at Del Webb features area vendors and makers, raffle drawings, and food. AHS volunteers will be on site, and visitors can meet adoptable shelter dogs.

Story time is held near the gazebo on the Historic Woodstock Square from May through October. During those months, poor weather moves the gathering under the tree inside the shop. From November through April, the meeting spot is under the tree in the shop.

Downtown Cary comes alive as Cary Main Street Fest 2026 turns the heart of the community into a hometown homecoming full of local pride. Presented by the Cary-Grove Area Chamber of Commerce, the Village of Cary, and local business sponsors, this annual celebration fills the streets with live music, tasty food, refreshing drinks, games, crafts, and activities for families. The weekend offers opportunities to reconnect with neighbors, support local businesses, and explore interactive experiences alongside a range of local vendors. Whether returning year after year or visiting for the first time, attendees can celebrate the spirit of Cary and make lasting memories in the center of town.

ONSET performs at Cary Main Street Fest for the first time in its hometown, featuring classic rock hits to dance and sway to.

The annual late night flea market festival turns McHenry County Fairgrounds in Woodstock into a nighttime treasure hunt. Vendors set up indoors, under tents, and in the open air, and the market carries on regardless of the weather. Browse antiques, crafts, furniture, old comics, toys, memorabilia, and a wide range of collectibles, with plenty of food and snacks available. Tickets are sold at the gate. General admission is $6, children 12 and under are admitted free with an adult, and parking is free. Flashlights are recommended for exploring after dark. Special guest Jeff Balke will appear. An entrepreneur, writer, voice actor, and animation creator, he founded Jeff Balke Studios, which focuses on 2D animation, and is known for Stanley and Friends. His studio produced the all-ages comic Stanley’s Ghost, an Eisner-nominated title, launched weekly comic strips and kids books, and has begun work on a stop-motion project featuring Stanley Squirrel.

Back again after last year’s success, this community breakfast during Cary Main Street Fest brings friends, families, and neighbors together. Hosted by the Cary Firefighters Association, with proceeds benefiting the organization, the gathering features breakfast and coffee with support from Brunch Café and Conscious Cup Coffee Roasters. The meal takes place in the South Parking Lot on Main Street in downtown Cary. Admission is by wristband, available at the festival information booth or at the breakfast check-in.

Explore small-batch pet food along with healthy treats and chews plus spaw products at Farmers Market+ At The Dole. Everything offered excludes corn, soy, wheat, and sugar, so every selection is a healthy option for your pet.