Free events in North Shore, IL

Settle in on the patio for a free evening of live entertainment with music by Mike Jansen. Reservations are not required, and seating is first come, first served. Food and drinks will be available for purchase, so invite a few friends and enjoy the show.

Enjoy live indie pop music for kids and the whole family at Shimmering Summer, featuring The Dreamtree Shakers. The program runs with two daytime sets, so you can catch the music during the garden’s Festival Field activities. Free admission is available, but parking fees still apply.

Head to Northbrook Days for a free live performance by School of Rock Glenbrook. It runs from early afternoon through the later part of the event, so come enjoy some energetic music and great show vibes.

Part of the Summer Park Pop Up Series, this play focused gathering at Lincoln Park explores how playful moments help people connect, move, and recharge. The series brings free neighborhood events to parks across the community, each one highlighting a different everyday force such as nature, the arts, trees and reuse, imagination, and community. Attendees of all ages can enjoy engaging performances, hands on activities, and interactive experiences that can transform a routine park visit into something memorable. This edition features lively games, approachable challenges, and active movement that celebrate the simple joy of playing together.

Settle in for casual Commander matches arranged in pods of three or four players. There is no entry fee. Check in by signing up through the WPN network. Promotional packs will be available once they arrive.

Enjoy an evening of live brass music at Music on the Esplanade. The group Brass From The Past will take you on a musical journey from late 60s sounds through the early 80s, with a few tunes from the 90s and 2000s to close out the show. Bring your own chairs since the venue has limited seating, and feel free to picnic before or during the concert, or stop by for dinner and drinks at the Garden’s dining locations. Free admission is available, and parking fees apply.

Enjoy an outdoor summer concert at Fountain Square in downtown Evanston featuring Funkadesi. The band blends Indian bhangra and Bollywood influences with reggae, funk, and Afro-Caribbean grooves. This Downtown Summer Sounds show is free to attend.

Enjoy a free live trivia night presented by Pub Trivia USA at Village Inn Pizzeria Sports Bar and Grill. Teams play for nightly prizes in the form of Village Inn gift certificates. Pub Trivia USA also hosts area tournaments that award big cash prizes to local teams. Bring friends, savor good food and drinks, meet new people, and dive into a fun, friendly competition.