Five Things To Do in the Northern Suburbs: Mar. 27 to Mar. 29, 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 Festival of Arts and Crafts.
The Festival of Arts and Crafts returns to the Lake County Fairgrounds from March 27–29, offering a vibrant showcase of creativity and craftsmanship. Visitors can explore a wide variety of handmade goods, including fine art, jewelry, home décor, and unique gifts created by talented artisans. 

Date: Mar. 27-29
Time: Various times
Cost: $5
Location: Lake County Fairgrounds
More Info: lcfairgrounds.com 

Shop quality goods at the Ravinia Farmers Market.
Held at the Wayfarer Theater, the Ravinia Farmers Market is the area's premier indoor farmers market, featuring a variety of fresh produce, artisanal foods, and locally made products. It's the perfect place to support small vendors and sample the best of the season. 

Date: Mar. 29
Time: 10:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Wayfarer Theater
More Info: eddiekugler.com    

Celebrate the season at the Howard Street Hopalong.
This free, family-friendly event is the first of its kind, showcasing participating businesses in Evanston's Howard Street Special Service Area that are giving away fun, seasonal prizes to collect along the way. Each "Hop Stop" will hand out eggs, and guests who visit every listed stop will receive a special prize and get to take a picture with the Easter Bunny. 

Date: Mar. 28
Time: 4:00–6:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Howard Street Special Service Area
More Info: palmhouse619.com 

Make your own glass eggs at Patterson Glassworks.
Get creative at Patterson Glassworks during this hands-on glass egg workshop. Participants can craft their own colorful glass eggs under the guidance of experienced artisans, making for a unique seasonal keepsake or gift. Calling the studio to schedule an appointment time is strongly encouraged. 

Date: Mar. 28-29
Time: 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Cost: $65+
Location: Patterson Glassworks
More Info: pattersonglass.com

Hop into spring at the Bunny Bash.
Have an egg-citing morning at the Viking Park Community Center at this year's Bunny Bash. Events include an Easter egg hunt, continental breakfast, and pictures with the Easter Bunny. Make sure to grab your spot now — preregistration is required for this event, with three timed sessions to choose from. 

Date: Mar. 28
Time: 8:30–11:00 a.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Viking Park Community Center
More Info: gurneeparkdistrict.com