- May 25, 2021
Community Events Returning to Calendar
Updates on July 4th, Northbrook Days, and More
Summer 2021 may not look exactly like years past, but recent relaxation in state rules have enabled organizations to jumpstart plans for fun, active, and safe events. Below is a status report on several traditional activities.
Fourth of July
The Village and Park District have announced a number of adapted Fourth of July events to create a full weekend of celebration. Although the community-wide pancake breakfast and afternoon parade will not take place, the traditional fireworks display will be held at Meadowhill Park’s Velodrome at dusk on July 4. In addition, on July 3 the Park District will hold its Liberty Loop 5K Race and Liberty Lap Fun Run for kids in the morning at Techny Prairie Parks and Fields; live music at Village Green Park in the afternoon; and a DJ and movie at dusk at the Velodrome at Meadowhill Park. On July 4, residents are encouraged to participate in neighborhood bike parades during the day, with festive “party packs” and traffic-control barricades available from the Village. Last year’s Decorating Contest will also be brought back to encourage a festive spirit throughout the community. Complete details about scheduled events can be found at northbrook4thofjuly.com.
Live Music Performances
The North Shore Chamber Music Festival will celebrate its 10th anniversary season with in-person and livestreamed performances June 9, 11 and 12. This unique series brings acclaimed musicians and talented newcomers to the Village Presbyterian Church in downtown Northbrook. Admission to this year’s festival series is complimentary thanks to donor support. Space for the in-person events will be limited. For information, visit nscmf.org.
The Park District’s popular Tuesday Night Concerts return to the Village Green Park beginning June 29. Pick up dinner from your favorite downtown restaurant and enjoy live family-friendly shows from local cover bands. In addition, a “Party on the Green” event on July 24 will include performances by two different groups plus a DJ, games, and giveaways. Updated details about Park District programs will be available at nbparks.org.
Summer Reading Program at Northbrook Public Library
The Library kicks off its all-ages Summer Reading Program with a drive-through event. Program materials and fun giveaways for kids, teens and adults will be handed out on Saturday, June 5 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. and Sunday, June 6 from 9:00 to noon. Prizes for program participants will include gift cards purchased from local restaurants and businesses. Starting June 1, you can sign up and log your reading online at northbrook.info/summer-reading.
Shopping in the Sun
The Northbrook Farmers Market launches its season on June 16 with a celebratory event as the shopping center at Cherry and Meadow becomes a hub for fresh local produce, artisan foods, delicious baked goods, and much more. The Farmers Market is open from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Wednesdays through October 13. Visit northbrookfarmersmarket.org for special event updates.
The traditional Downtown Sidewalk Sale is “on pause” for 2021 according to organizers. However, individual stores will take advantage of the weather to host special outdoor events during the season. For example, Jill Carlisle of la de da! plans to repeat her store’s sidewalk sale on July 23-24, and neighboring stores may follow suit. For updates about special shopping events, be sure to follow the Northbrook Shopping Elf on Facebook and Instagram.
Northbrook Days
Northbrook Civic is actively negotiating with the Village and private property owners to bring its beloved festival back to the downtown area August 4-8. Although final details are still under discussion, organizers hope to stage the event in commercial parking lots, complete with its traditional carnival rides, games, and musical entertainment. Proceeds from Northbrook Days, including a grand prize raffle, support scholarships for local students and grants to community non-profits. Watch for updates at northbrookdays.com/.
