Free events in McHenry, IL

This informal meetup brings homeschool families together at Kaper Park. Warm weather is expected, and a splash pad is available.

Story and Craft Time brings a read-aloud and hands-on craft to Ethereal Confections on the Woodstock Square in collaboration with Marvin's Toy Store. The craft is free and tailored for children ages 1 to 5. Children can enjoy a complimentary hot chocolate with the purchase of a coffee or tea. No registration is required.

Plates for Patriots is an easy access food pantry supporting local veterans and their families, offered in partnership with Veterans Path to Hope. The process is simple, dignified, and accessible. Veterans remain in their vehicles while volunteers place groceries and other essentials directly in the trunk, creating a hassle free and judgment free experience. The aim is to ensure those who have served can obtain essential resources within the community and to strengthen connections among neighbors.

Green Drinks brings together people who care about the environment for a relaxed meetup at Duke’s Alehouse & Kitchen. Everyone is welcome, whether you are deeply involved in sustainability or just curious to learn more. The topic and speaker for this edition will be announced. Expect time to mingle, a featured presentation, and an opportunity for community announcements. Admission is free, and food and drinks are available for purchase. Guests may enjoy a meal during the talk, and those who bring a reusable take-out container from home can receive a discount on food orders. A virtual participation option will also be offered. The venue is located upstairs with one flight of stairs and no elevator. Free parking is available nearby. Newcomers can count on a friendly, no-judgment space to share and learn, and the organizers welcome proposals from prospective presenters on environmental subjects.

The Community Care Connection Coach from Rosalind Franklin University Health Clinics provides free heart health screenings. Services include checks for blood pressure, blood sugar and diabetes, cholesterol, and BMI. COVID vaccinations are offered when available. The last patient is accepted 15 minutes before closing if space is still available. El Community Care Connection (Coach) de las Clínicas de Salud de la Universidad Rosalind Franklin ofrece exámenes gratuitos de salud del corazón. Los exámenes incluyen presión arterial, azúcar en la sangre y diabetes, colesterol e IMC. También se ofrecerán vacunas COVID cuando estén disponibles. Se atenderá al último paciente 15 minutos antes del cierre si aún hay espacio disponible.

A community drum circle at Blue Lotus Temple welcomes all experience levels. It is free to attend, with a suggested $5 donation. Participants share rhythms and create songs entirely through improvisation, with nothing pre-rehearsed or pre-planned. There is no designated leader. A facilitator typically starts a simple, easy-to-follow beat, then the music grows naturally as everyone adds their voice. Drums commonly played include frame or hoop drums, djembes, congas, bongos, doumbeks, darbukas, and ashikos, often joined by percussion such as maracas, claves, tambourine, gongs, tongue drums, bells, singing bowls, and rainsticks. Drumming together can support stress reduction, boost memory and attention, lift mood, encourage self expression, strengthen social connection, enhance mindfulness, and provide space for emotional release within a positive, supportive circle.

Experience a lively open-air market in Downtown Wauconda with seasonal fruits and vegetables, fresh-cut flowers, meats, baked goods, and a wide variety of other finds. Food vendors and sidewalk specials from nearby shops add to the mix, and a weekly list of participating vendors is shared on the market’s Facebook page. The season features rotating themes including Food Truck Frenzy, Pirates and Princess, Back To Drool Pet Parade, Latin Heritage Day, and Pumpkin Painting. Free parking is available in a nearby municipal lot.

Labor Day weekend marks the closing celebration of the 2026 season at The Quarry, with free live music and a final chance to enjoy the Aqua Park, Cable Park, and the Bar & Grille. Performances include a lakeside set from Jimmy Marquis along with shows by Jack Byron and Dangerous Joes. The weekend concludes on Monday without live music. Aqua Park and wakeboarding operate until dusk on the days they are open, and the Grille and Bar are available throughout the weekend. All activities and entertainment are weather pending.

Tim Laskowski brings music to The Grove Pub & Grill. Food and drinks are available, and there is no admission fee.