Eight Things To Do in the Western Suburbs: Apr. 17 to 19, 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.  

Celebrate Earth Day at the Trailside Museum.
This drop-in Earth Day program at the Trailside Museum is a great activity for kids and families who want to celebrate our beautiful planet. Activities include picking up litter, making bird feeders, taking a wildflower walk, creating recycled-material art, and more. 

Date: Apr. 18
Time: 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Trailside Museum of Natural History, River Forest
More Info: fpdcc.com 

Community Health and Wellness Fair.
The Oak Park-River Forest Chamber of Commerce is hosting its 10th annual Wellness Fair this weekend, featuring over 50 local health and wellness organizations. Staff members from the Oak Park Public Health Department and E.C.H.O. team will also be on-site to share information about public health services and programming in the area.

Date: Apr. 19
Time: 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: FFC Oak Park
More Info: oak-park.us 

Connect with culture at the Arab American Heritage Month Celebration
Join the celebration at Oak Park Village Hall for Arab American Month. Enjoy food, music, and stories in a fun, joyful setting. It's a wonderful opportunity to engage with the community, experience cultural activities, and learn more about Arab American heritage.

Date: Apr. 18
Time: 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Oak Park Village Hall
More Info: eventbrite.com 

Turn over a new leaf at Earth Fest.
Join a community celebration of sustainability at the Garfield Park Conservatory on Saturday, April 18. This free event includes environmental workshops and family-friendly activities for kids of all ages. 

Date: Apr. 18
Time: 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Garfield Park Conservatory
More Info: garfieldconservatory.org

Browse handmade goods at the Chicago Spring Artisan & Vendor Fair.
Get started on your Mother's Day shopping early at this two-day indoor event. The fair features handmade goods, fashions, home decor, and specialty foods, all from local artisans, crafters, and small businesses. 

Date: Apr. 17
Time: 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: The Mart
More Info: eventbrite.com

Celebrate independent artists at CIVL Fest 2026.
The Chicago Independent Venue League (CIVL) is a coalition of independent performance venues dedicated to supporting Chicago's cultural scene. CIVL Fest features over 40 shows at various venues throughout the city, celebrating Chicago's independent music and performing arts spaces. 

Date: Apr. 16-25
Time: Various times
Cost: Various prices
Location: Various venues
More Info: civlchicago.com 

Immerse yourself in flavor at the Chinatown Adventure Food Tour.
Enjoy seated dining at five authentic restaurants, sampling Hong Kong dim sum, spicy Szechuan dishes, and sweet milk egg tarts. As you indulge, you'll also learn about traditional Chinese etiquette and customs.

Date: Apr. 18
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Cost: $99
Location: Triple Crown
More Info: chicagofoodtours.com 

Celebrate Smart Money Week with the Bronzeville Children's Museum
It's never too early for kids to start learning about money. At this special Smart Money Week program, the Bronzeville Children's Museum is inviting kids of all ages to learn about money through storytelling, crafts, face painting, and music. 

Date: Apr. 18
Time: 1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
Cost: $10
Location: Bronzeville Children's Museum
More Info: bronzevillechildrensmuseum.com