Five Things To Do in the Northern 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. 

Catch the opening weekend of the Wilmette French Market.
The Wilmette 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. 18
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: 722 Green Boy Rd, Wilmette
More Info: bensidounusa.com 

Indulge at Central Street Restaurant Week.
Don't miss deals and special menus this weekend from 18 participating businesses along Central Street in Evanston. You can even follow Central Street on social media for a chance to win giveaways for a tea tasting for two at No Longer Human Tea House and $100 gift card to The Spot.

Date: Apr. 13–19
Time: Various times
Cost: Various prices
Location: Various locations
More Info: centralstreetevanston.com 

Celebrate Earth Day at White Oaks Park.
This free family-friendly celebration is packed with interactive games and crafts, giveaways, and educational opportunities to learn more about the planet we call home. There will also be on-site electronic waste recycling, so you can responsibly dispose of any unwanted items in an eco-friendly fashion.  

Date: Apr. 18
Time: 11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: White Oaks Park, Wood Dale
More Info: wdparks.org

Upgrade your life at the Schaumburg Home Show.
Are you a homeowner looking for home improvement solutions from real professionals? Come to the Schaumburg Home Show, a huge, one-stop shop for all of your home improvement, remodeling, and repair needs. Attendees can even register to win a free vacation to St. Croix and the U.S. Virgin Islands!

Date: Apr. 18-19
Time: Various times
Cost: Free
Location: Schaumburg Convention Center
More Info: schaumburghomeshow.com 

Learn about edible wild plants at Eat the Neighborhood Mushroom Walk.
Professional forager Dave Odd of Odd Produce is hosting this season's first suburban foraging tour in Olympic Park in Schaumburg. Attendees are guaranteed to learn about at least 50 edible plants growing right in their own backyards, with a venture into the nearby woods to look for mushrooms and ramps. 

Date: Apr. 19
Time: 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Cost: $40+
Location: Olympic Park, Schaumburg
More Info: oddproduce.com