Family events in Oak Park, IL

Break up the week with a visit to SUE and explore general admission exhibitions with family or science-loving friends. The Field offers free admission on Wednesdays for Illinois residents. Free Day tickets are limited to Illinois residents, with advance online reservations available for convenience. Present proof of Illinois residency with mobile tickets for express entry to the museum. A limited number of onsite tickets may be offered, depending on availability.

Designed for babies and toddlers younger than two, this play centered group is led by occupational, physical, and speech therapy professionals. Each themed session invites little ones to explore through play while nurturing motor skills, communication, and sensory processing. Caregivers can connect with one another, children can move at a comfortable pace, and the inclusive setting welcomes every participant. All families are welcome, including siblings, and the format is well suited for children with a broad range of developmental needs who benefit from a supportive, therapist guided environment.

Share a creative experience designed for caregivers and children ages 3 to 5. This art group invites little artists and their grownups to create side by side with a variety of engaging materials and thoughtful prompts that spark exploration and connection. Caregivers gain practical strategies to support children’s creativity, independence, and confidence while spending meaningful time together through art and play. Hosted at Create Balance Counseling in Hinsdale.

Enjoy a flexible creative session at Painting with a Twist where you can pop in and pick your project. Options are designed for every age and skill level. Select what you want to make, then follow step by step instructions and browse inspiration guides to bring it to life. Drop in during Pop-In hours or reserve a time in advance. Reservations are needed to hold your preferred Pop-In timeslot, and hours may be adjusted if there are no pre-registrations.

Celebrate American artistic achievement with a free outdoor, walkable exhibition honoring the nation’s 250th anniversary. Presented by the McAninch Art Center and the Cleve Carney Museum of Art in association with the College of DuPage Foundation, Walking With Giants showcases ten painted silhouette sculptures, each about 10 feet tall, placed along a route that circles the MAC on the College of DuPage campus in Glen Ellyn. Designed by contemporary artists with input from the community, these works pay tribute to influential figures in visual art, music, theater, and dance, including Jean-Michel Basquiat, Dolly Parton, and Lin-Manuel Miranda.

Designed exclusively for homeschool families, this 50 minute Junior Ninjas class at Ultimate Ninjas Academy welcomes ages 6 to 9 for a warm up followed by coached obstacle challenges and courses. Participants tackle kid sized versions of familiar obstacles such as monkey bars, trapeze bars, a rock wall, a warped wall, rings, and laches, with support from a coach or an adult. No prior obstacle experience is required. The curriculum builds on concepts introduced in the Lil Ninjas program, adding bigger and more complex elements while emphasizing safe movement, technique, and confidence. Instructors set new goals and design fresh challenges and course layouts each week to help students steadily develop strong foundational skills while having fun.

Discover a casual, creative Pop In and DIY experience at Painting with a Twist. Choose a project you like and make it your own with easy to follow instructions and inspiration guides, welcoming all ages and skill levels. You can drop in during Pop In hours or reserve a timeslot to fit your schedule. A reservation is required to secure a preferred Pop In time, and hours may change if there are no pre-registrations.

The Simple Remedy Duo marks the start of the fall season with a Concerts by the Campfire performance presented by the Bloomingdale Park District. Enjoy live music at Springfield Park beside a cozy campfire, with s’mores available while supplies last. Pack chairs, blankets, and snacks for comfort. Restrooms are available at the concession stand. Admission is free, and the event will be canceled if there is inclement weather.

This event centers on Dr. Reed Timmer, an extreme meteorologist and veteran storm chaser with a PhD in meteorology from the University of Oklahoma. Known for driving into the heart of severe weather to gather scientific data, he has chased more than 1,000 tornadoes and 50 hurricanes and is among the few to have pursued both an EF5 tornado and a Category 5 hurricane. The program highlights his armored Dominator vehicles and his innovations in sensor deployment using probes, drones, balloons, and rockets. It also covers his real time storm reporting and safety updates on media platforms, along with ongoing work with National Geographic and RadarOmega.

At Honey Bee Gardens Farm, Buzz Around the Barnyard offers a relaxed, family-friendly outing filled with fresh air, open space, and the simple rhythms of farm life. Designed for families to slow down, explore at their own pace, and connect with nature, it invites unhurried moments together. Each visit feels a little different, with seasonal blooms, playful animals, hands-on activities, and quiet pockets of calm. The Farm Market features local honey, seasonal produce, flowers, handmade goods, and farm-inspired treats to bring a bit of the farm home. Visitors can meet goats, chickens, bunnies, horses, cats, pigs, a llama, and other friendly animals. Stroll through flower gardens and pollinator areas to see how plants, insects, and animals work together across the farm. Creative minds can stop by the Exploration Station for farm-themed crafts and projects. There is plenty of room for outdoor play across open fields and along nature paths, with time to relax by the pond or take a peaceful paddle boat ride. Catch-and-release fishing is available with guidance from experienced anglers, a welcoming introduction for first-timers and young explorers. The Farm Shop and concessions offer local honey, farm-fresh snacks, and seasonal goodies. Every weekend brings new discoveries and seasonal highlights, along with the space to simply be on the farm.

Accredited La Leche League Leaders offer free guidance on infant feeding, with time for questions and conversation among local parents. Anyone who is nursing or pumping is welcome, and babies, young children, partners, and other support people may attend. The meeting takes place in the Storytime Room on the first floor children’s section of the main library in Downtown Oak Park. There is no cost and no RSVP is needed. Free parking is available in the deck beneath the library.

World Ballet Company brings Swan Lake to the stage, weaving a story of destiny and enchantment in a timeless struggle between good and evil. Fifty dancers from around the world perform in more than 150 meticulously sewn costumes against handcrafted sets. Highlights include the Dance of the Little Swans and the Black Swan’s sequence of 32 fouettés, set to Tchaikovsky’s score. The performance runs approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes with a 20 minute intermission and is for ages 5 and over. Based in Los Angeles and led by Sasha Gorskaya and Gulya Hartwick, World Ballet Company tours beloved classics across the nation, appealing to both first time attendees and longtime ballet fans. The ensemble features professional artists from over ten countries and has appeared in more than 300 cities for audiences totaling more than 500,000.

The 23rd Annual Run for the Kids: Superhero Hustle features a 5K and a 1-mile fun run open to participants of all ages and abilities. After the run, participants can enjoy live music, lunch, raffle prizes, and appearances by superheroes.

At the Park Ridge Farmers Market, the Pennies' KIDS CLUB will be in the kids tent with hands-on craft activities. Families can learn about the club’s children’s service meetups and find out how kids can get involved in volunteering for the community.

The 61st Street Farmers Market heads outdoors with more than 30 vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, prepared foods, and locally made goods. Each week features interactive and educational activities for everyone, including a chef demonstration, Market School, the Sprout Station, and Blackstone Bicycle Works’ Open Shop. SNAP is accepted, and purchases are matched through Link Match. Look for the red tent at the center of the market to use benefits and receive matching dollars for fruits and vegetables.

Buzz Around the Barnyard at Honey Bee Gardens Farm offers a relaxed weekend outing where families can slow their pace, breathe in fresh air, and explore together. Every visit brings something a little different, from seasonal blooms and playful animals to hands-on activities and quiet moments around the farm. The Farm Market features local honey, seasonal produce, flowers, handmade items, and farm-inspired treats to take home. Guests can meet goats, chickens, bunnies, horses, cats, pigs, a llama, and other friendly barnyard animals. Stroll through flower gardens and pollinator spaces to see how plants, insects, and animals work together across the farm. Creative minds can stop by the Exploration Station for farm-themed crafts and projects, while outdoor discovery includes open fields, nature paths, time by the pond, and peaceful paddle boating. Catch and release fishing is available with guidance from experienced anglers, making it a welcoming option for first-timers and young explorers. The Farm Shop and concessions offer local honey, farm-fresh snacks, and seasonal goodies to enjoy or bring home. Each weekend highlights new discoveries, seasonal shifts, and plenty of space to simply be.

Kids ages 7 to 17 can dive into pinball at The Pinball Capital with the Fliptastic Youth Pinball Club, learning how to play and spending time with others who enjoy the hobby. The arcade features 130 machines set to free play, offering plenty of opportunities to practice and explore. Children accompanied by a parent may arrive before opening, with special pricing available during that early period of $5 per child and $10 per adult. A four round match play tournament is held in the back room for any interested kids. The Pinball Capital awards prizes to the winner, and every participant receives a prize.

Chat with CILRA Lab Rescue volunteers and meet dogs from the organization. Learn about adopting and how to volunteer with this Midwest focused Lab rescue.

Now in its 36th year, the Greatest Ferret Show On Earth, also known as GFSOE, is the nation’s longest running ferret show. Exhibitors travel from many places to present their ferrets in judged classes that focus on color, pattern, and structure. This event is the Greater Chicago Ferret Association’s largest annual fundraiser, with all proceeds supporting homeless ferrets cared for by the GCFA Shelter, established in 1987. The organization has helped more than 10,000 ferrets, and each year approximately 250 to 350 arrive through rescue or relinquishment. All ferrets are welcome to participate. Any ferret entering the show hall must have proof of a distemper vaccination or titer completed within the past year. A rabies vaccination is encouraged but not required, and ADV testing is not required. The show is not sanctioned by the American Ferret Association, so placements and points from this event do not apply to the AFA system or Ferret of the Year.

Presented by the E. Urner Goodman Owasippe Museum Committee, the Owasippe Trade-O-Ree Scout Collection and Memorabilia Show brings together enthusiasts, exhibitors, and dealers at the Berwyn Moose Lodge to celebrate Scouting heritage. Admission is based on a goodwill donation, with free entry for Scouts in uniform, and proceeds support the Owasippe Museum. Exhibitors and dealers can reserve 8-foot tables, with the first three priced at $20 each and additional tables at $15 each, and two chairs provided per exhibitor. A concession stand operated by Berwyn Troop 301 will offer food, snacks, soft drinks, and coffee for purchase. The venue is wheelchair accessible and provides ample free parking. Programming may include silent and live auctions, with updates shared through the Owasippe Museum Facebook page. Exhibitors and dealers are also invited to enjoy a complimentary pizza gathering. Nearby lodging options include the Carleton of Oak Park and the Rodeway Inn Lyons/La Grange.

Bright Star Circus transforms the Stars & Garters Theater into a lively celebration of imagination for all ages. Each performance features a changing lineup of standout talent, from illusionists conjuring surprises and musicians driving the rhythm to quick-witted comedians, playful clowns, energetic dancers, and other specialty acts. With ever-evolving combinations of performers, every show brings new delights, blending laughter, wonder, and theatrical fun for the whole family.

A judged car show rolls into Orland Park Crossing with live music from Dog Caller. The event is open to the public and features food, wine, and beer vendors. Guests are welcome to bring their own lawn chairs or blankets to relax and take in the atmosphere. Vehicle registrants are asked to make a $25 donation that benefits event vendors, and the first 100 participating cars receive a complimentary T-shirt and dash plaque. Proceeds will support Chicago Soldiers and the Orland Township Food Bank. For exhibitor, vendor, or general information, contact Michele Cruse at (708) 473-0556 or michele@edwardsrealtyco.com.

Presented by The Sons of the American Legion, Squadron 974, the fifth annual Reith Radnitzer Memorial Car Show highlights standout vehicles while honoring its namesake. Car owners can participate for a $10 entry fee, with awards recognizing top selections. Food and drinks will be available on site, a cash bar will be open, and a 50/50 raffle will take place. Proceeds support veterans and Legion programs that assist their families. For more information, contact Ted Rabey at 847-507-1086.

Open play at Ultimate Ninjas Academy welcomes children ages 3 to 9 to take on bigger ninja-style challenges with support from an adult or a coach. Participants can try monkey bars, trapeze bars, a rock wall, a warped wall, and other obstacles similar to those seen on TV, sized for younger athletes. Online sign-up is available. For questions, call 312-500-2040 or email melissa@ultimateninjas.com.

Little villains, budding potion makers and mischievous magic lovers can step into a lightly spooky world at Dash of Dust Studio. This interactive mystery adventure features a character meet and greet with photo time, hands-on potion crafting with glow glitter, sensory story time and other immersive moments of make-believe. Treats include a candy apple bar, spooky themed sweet snacks and pretzel rods decorated like magic wands. Every child leaves with a cauldron to take home, a spooky dumpling squishy and a personal drink elixir. Costumes are encouraged, whether a full outfit or a favorite Halloween look. Admission is $100 for one adult and child pair, plus $25 for each additional sibling. Advance registration is required and space is limited.

Kona Ice is featured at Loyola Academy in Wilmette for a Friday Night Lights FUNdraiser benefiting LA Student Activities. A quarter of every sale supports LA Student Activities. Offerings include the Klassic at 12 oz for $5 and the King at 16 oz for $6. The Kolor-Change 16 oz souvenir cup is $7, and refills are $4.

Set at the Lombard Community Building, this PurpleLight event offers an evening dedicated to honoring and remembering.

At Centennial Park in Orland Park, Illinois, this noncompetitive, family-friendly walk brings the South Suburban Chicago community together to honor survivors, remember those who have died, and rally support for a future without breast cancer. Funds raised benefit the American Cancer Society by advancing groundbreaking research, providing free information and support to people impacted by the disease, and promoting steps that reduce risk or aid in finding breast cancer early when treatment is most effective. The fundraising goal for this event is 215,000 dollars.

The Cheesy Pretzel returns in 2026 with a 5K and a 1 Mile Walk at The Promenade Bolingbrook. Every participant receives an order of STAR Cinema Grill pretzel bites with cheese, and the first 550 people to register receive a customized Cheesy Pretzel finisher medal and a dry-fit long sleeve shirt. The United States Track and Field certified 5K course, ID IL23028NM, winds through The Promenade Bolingbrook and nearby neighborhoods. Strollers and walkers are welcome. Stroller riders participate for free, however they do not receive a race shirt or medal. Registered runners must be at least 5 years old. The 1 Mile Walk follows a route within The Promenade Bolingbrook and is untimed. After the 5K there is an awards presentation with trophies for the fastest overall male and female. Medals for first, second, and third place are awarded to the top male and top female in each age group, including 10 and under, 11 to 14, 15 to 19, 20 to 24, 25 to 29, 30 to 34, 35 to 39, 40 to 44, 45 to 49, 50 to 54, 55 to 59, 60 to 64, 65 to 69, 70 to 74, and 75 plus. Proceeds support Heart Haven OutReach, helping provide free mentoring, support groups, leadership programs, and safe spaces for local teens. Through the Charity of Choice program, participants are also encouraged to raise funds for another local nonprofit that matters to them, which helps strengthen the community and empower teens.

Sensory Sunday at Chuck E. Cheese offers a calmer play experience tailored for children who have sensory sensitivities and their families. The environment features lowered noise and gentler stimulation, creating a welcoming space where children can explore at their own pace. This event takes place before the location opens to the general public, providing a dedicated time just for this community. It is hosted by Chuck E. Cheese, with IEP Clarity serving as the community event organizer to coordinate communication, share dates, and provide updates to families, and IEP Clarity is not financially responsible for attendance or event costs.

Kidical Mass hosts a relaxed, family-focused group ride through the greater Roscoe Village neighborhood. The route is easygoing, typically covering about 2.5 to 4 miles at a gentle 5 to 6 mph pace, with pauses along the way and a total ride time of roughly an hour. Riders meet at the Audubon School playground for a friendly roll-out. Children riding on their own should be past training wheels, and younger kids are welcome on cargo bikes, trail-a-bikes, child trailers, or child seats. Helmets and safe riding are encouraged, and every child should be accompanied by a parent or guardian on a bike. This Roscoe Village Kidical Mass ride is organized in partnership with Chicago Family Biking.

Bark BBQ’s second annual Barktober Fest returns with a full day celebrating fall, the local pet community, and time with family and friends. Explore a marketplace featuring dozens of local vendors, meet adorable pups, enjoy seasonal activities and photo spots, and take part in a pet costume contest. Local food vendors will be on site, and visitors can discover unique pet products and handmade goods along with giveaways and samples. Hosted by Bark BBQ. Admission is free, the event is family friendly, and dogs are welcome.

Marking the United States’ 250th anniversary, the McAninch Art Center and the Cleve Carney Museum of Art, in association with the College of DuPage Foundation, present Walking With Giants, a free outdoor, walkable exhibition that celebrates American creativity. Ten painted silhouette sculptures, each about 10 feet tall, are placed along a walking path around the McAninch Art Center on the College of DuPage campus in Glen Ellyn. Shaped by community input and brought to life by contemporary artists, the installation salutes influential Americans in visual art, music, theater, and dance, with figures such as Jean-Michel Basquiat, Dolly Parton, and Lin-Manuel Miranda represented.

At Auditorium Theatre in Chicago, a live concert brings the world of My Hero Academia to the stage. A 15 piece band performs composer Yuki Hayashi's music while vivid scenes from the anime illuminate Deku's early steps, deep friendships, and the high stakes battles that unfold across all eight seasons. The production blends dynamic live performance with on screen visuals to spotlight courage, heartbreak, and heroism from Class 1 A and beyond. Welcoming both longtime followers and first time viewers, it honors ten years of storytelling with a musical journey through the series' defining moments.

MomsPlus Playgroup meets at St Raymond's Catholic Church, with the get-together held in the church's community room.

Reserved for homeschool families, this Junior Ninjas session welcomes ages 6 to 9 for a 50 minute class that starts with a warmup and continues with coached obstacle challenges and course runs. Kids take on bigger elements with guidance from an adult or coach, encountering features like monkey bars, trapeze bars, a rock wall, a warped wall, rings, and lache skills, along with other scaled versions of obstacles seen on TV. No prior obstacle experience is needed, and the program builds on concepts introduced in Lil Ninjas. The emphasis is on learning safe movement, sharpening technique, and gaining confidence while having fun. Instructors introduce fresh goals, challenges, and course layouts each week to help students steadily develop strong foundational skills. Held at Ultimate Ninjas Academy in Naperville.

Several times each year, The Morton Arboretum hosts Dog Admission, dedicated opportunities for visitors to explore the Arboretum’s 16 miles of trails and a variety of natural areas with their dogs. Outside of these dates, only service dogs may be on the grounds. Service dogs are welcomed every day at no charge and should be identified at the gatehouse upon entry. During Dog Admission Days and Dog Admission Afternoons, dogs are permitted on the Arboretum’s trails. Members receive exclusive early access on Dog Admission Days, and this benefit is not offered for Dog Admission Afternoons.