Free events in West Chicago, IL

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 exhibition that can be explored on foot. Ten painted silhouette sculptures, each about 10 feet tall, are arranged along a route surrounding the MAC on the College of DuPage campus in Glen Ellyn. Created by contemporary artists with input from the community, these larger than life works honor influential American figures in visual art, music, theater, and dance, including Jean-Michel Basquiat, Dolly Parton, and Lin-Manuel Miranda. The exhibition is open now and continues throughout the summer.

The Naper Settlement Farmers Market unfolds across the museum’s outdoor park with opportunities to shop locally, live music, children’s activities, and classes focused on food and nature, all with no admission charge. A new highlight, Down on the Farm Hour, brings families together for no-cost performances and story time. Adults can take part in complimentary classes presented with community organizations and local experts on topics like backyard chickens and beekeeping. Visitors can also explore the We the People: Naperville and the American Story exhibit and step into historic spaces such as the blacksmith shop and the one-room schoolhouse, all included with free admission.

Enjoy an evening of no-cost, casual Commander games with a mix of friendly competition and relaxed tables. Sign in with the companion app to help keep promo rewards coming. Players of every experience level are welcome, from newcomers to seasoned veterans, and pods will be available so everyone can get into a game. Stop by when it works for you and bring a deck you are excited to play.

Survey Showdown brings a lively, interactive game night to McBride's North Pub & Grille. Hosted by Hope, teams of two or more face off in a rotating mix of popular game show formats, from Team Feud style survey questions to Wheel of Letters style word puzzles, aiming for prizes and bragging rights. The action is fast and the gameplay is easy to learn, so both participants and onlookers can stay engaged and cheer along. Admission is free and no RSVP is required. Prizes are awarded to the top three teams, and food and drinks are available for purchase.

Draper Honey brings a sweet selection to the Aurora Farmers Market. Shoppers can find 1, 2, and 3 pound honey jars, classic honey bears, and honey stix each week. Creamed honey is offered in limited quantities and may sell out quickly. Other items may be available depending on supply, including paw wax that is useful beyond pet care, flavored honey such as lemon and jalapeño, pollen, honeycomb, and soap. Payments are accepted in cash, and credit cards are also accepted with a fee.

Lisle French Market returns with a larger footprint, expanding to twice its previous size to offer even more vendors to explore. This open-air farmers market invites the community to shop locally and support small businesses while enjoying the fresh air. Held in the Metra Parking Lot, it mixes the French market flair celebrated across Chicagoland with the distinctive charm of Lisle. Browse to uncover new favorites and reconnect with vendors you already know and love.

A French-inspired outdoor market showcases fresh produce, baked specialties, and offerings from local retailers alongside community groups. It centers on quality and a lively, fun atmosphere.

A community farmers market brings together local growers and makers with seasonal produce, baked treats, plants, honey, and other farm-crafted goods. Vendors are required to cultivate, harvest, or create at least 75 percent of what they offer, keeping the focus on true producers. Stroll the stands, meet the people behind the food and flowers, and take home fresh finds straight from the source.

Break through creative block at a relaxed meet-up at Arts in Bartlett. Bring your own project and work alongside other artists in a welcoming setting that sparks inspiration and motivation. Admission is free and the gathering is open to participants 16 and older.

Walking With Giants is a free outdoor, walkable exhibition presented by the McAninch Art Center and the Cleve Carney Museum of Art in association with the College of DuPage Foundation. Ten painted silhouette sculptures, each about 10 feet tall, are installed along a route surrounding the MAC on the College of DuPage campus in Glen Ellyn. Created by contemporary artists with input from the community, the works celebrate American artistic achievement and honor influential figures in visual art, music, theater, and dance, including Jean-Michel Basquiat, Dolly Parton, and Lin-Manuel Miranda.