Subscribe and receive email notifications of new blog posts.
RSS Feed
8
Eight Things To Do in the City and Western Suburbs: Apr. 10 to 12, 2026
Spring is here, and so are plenty of fun happenings to enjoy close to home. Discover what's blooming near you at one of these weekend events.
Discover something new at the Kane County Flea Market.
Find hidden treasures and one-of-a-kind finds at this expansive monthly flea market just an hour west of Chicago. Featuring up to 400 dealers each month, it's the perfect destination for anyone searching for refurbished furniture, holiday décor, sports collectibles, antiques, and other unique collectibles you won't find anywhere else.
Date: Apr. 11-12
Time: Various times
Cost: $7
Location: Kane County Fairgrounds
More Info: kanecountyfleamarket.com
Welcome the return of the Wheaton French Market.
After its winter hibernation, the Wheaton French Market is back for another great season of French finds. Run by Bensidoun USA, the French Market is reminiscent of the outdoor markets found all across France, selling flowers, specialty foods, fresh produce, crafts, and more. Vendors are always changing, so you can discover something new each time you stop by throughout the season.
Date: Apr. 11
Time: 8:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Liberty Dr. & Main St., Wheaton
More Info: bensidounusa.com
Put your skates on to Rock the Rink!
Experience an evening of live music and skating at School of Rock Rocks the Rink. Held at the RCRC Ice Rink in Oak Park, this event offers a unique combination of entertainment and recreation in a vibrant, family-friendly setting. Admission is $15, or complimentary for individuals with a valid rink pass. Skate rental is included.
Date: Apr. 10
Time: 6:30 p.m.–8:30 p.m.
Cost: $15
Location: RCRC Ice Rink
More Info: schoolofrock.com
Expand your palate at the Chicago Tea Festival.
The Chicago Tea Festival is more than just a celebration of tea — it's a unique gathering of tea lovers, organized and staffed entirely by volunteers, focused on diversity, education, and cultural exchange in the tea space. Over two days, attendees have the opportunity to sample dozens of teas from vendors and participate in tea tastings, workshops, and presentations.
Date: Apr. 11-12
Time: Various times
Cost: $24+
Location: Copernicus Center
More Info: chicagoteafestival.com
Enjoy delicious food and unique finds at the Chicago Spring Outdoor Market & Food Festival.
Fun is in the air at Humboldt Park this weekend at the Chicago Spring Outdoor Market and Food Festival. This three-day event features local vendors, handmade goods, food trucks, and live entertainment. Admission is free, but getting a ticket in advance will secure your spot in what's sure to be a popular fest.
Date: Apr. 10-12
Time: Various times
Cost: Free
Location: Humboldt Park
More Info: eventbrite.com
Discover your new favorite artist at EXPO Chicago.
Since 2012, EXPO CHICAGO Contemporary Art Fair has been bringing contemporary and modern artwork from leading galleries across the world right here to Chicago. The event includes four days of exciting programming, on-site installations, and other public art initiatives that draw on the city's history as a vibrant international cultural destination.
Date: Apr. 9-12
Time: Various times
Cost: $35+
Location: Navy Pier
More Info: expochicago.com
Begin your art adventure at The Other Art Fair.
Reframe your relationship to art at The Other Art Fair — a radical, inclusive approach to experiencing artwork. Each fair is different, and attendees get the opportunity to connect with 100+ artists in person and lean into the completely unpredictable experience of this unique, interactive art fair.
Date: Apr. 9-12
Time: Various times
Cost: $18+
Location: Artifact Events
More Info: theotherartfair.com
Step into the strange at World Oddities Expo.
This traveling festival of the macabre makes for a perfect weekend outing, especially for anyone who loves the weird and collectible. Browse the Lost Curio Marketplace, where you'll find everything from taxidermy to handcrafted art and jewelry. With live entertainment, burlesque performances, on-site tattooing, and more, there's something around every corner.
Date: Apr. 10-11
Time: 11:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.
Cost: $20+
Location: Donald E. Stephens Convention Center
More Info: worldodditiesexpo.com
