7 SPECTACULAR | Local Summertime Bucket List Things to Do
- Glancer Magazine
- May 28, 2025
- 3 min read
Extra Memorable Things to Do this Summer
Summer is here, and it’s time to make the most of the season with unforgettable local experiences! From lively concerts under the stars to vibrant art fairs and family-friendly festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a music lover, nature enthusiast, or foodie, this list of 7 Spectacular Local Summer Bucket List activities will inspire you to soak up the sunshine and create lasting memories. Here’s your ultimate guide to summer fun in your community....
1. PrairieFest
OSWEGO–Summer Starts at PrairieFest, Kendall County’s largest summer festival, held June 12-15! Presented by the Oswegoland Park District, PrairieFest combines small-town charm with a stirring summer celebration over Father’s Day weekend. Free concerts from a mix of national and local bands and entertaining performances have always been a highlight of the weekend, and this year’s lineup will not disappoint. Entertainment highlights include: Plain White T’s, Runaway June, The Prince Experience, Conjunto Atardecer, and American English. Admission and parking are always free at PrairieFest!
2. Naper Nights Summer Concert Series
NAPERVILLE–Naper Nights returns this summer with themed tribute concerts celebrating iconic musical milestones from the 1960s to today. Enjoy live music, great food, drinks, and dancing under the stars at Naper Settlement. A special highlight this year is WAR, performing July 19 to celebrate 50 years of their legendary 1975 album Why Can’t We Be Friends. Don’t miss the original street band's classic hits like “Low Rider,” “Spill the Wine,” and “The Cisco Kid.” Mark your calendar for unforgettable evenings on June 20–21, July 18–19, and August 15–16. Rock out with friends and relive music history!
3. Summer Break at the Lake
Celebrate summer with two nights of live music, tasty food, and refreshing drinks at Summer Break at the Lake! Enjoy beverages from The Beer Cellar, Two Hound Red, Ko-ze Wine Room, and Common Good Cocktail House, plus eats from local food trucks. Bring a chair or blanket and unwind on the lawn. June 26-27.
4. Swedish Days Festival
GENEVA–Swedish Days returns to Geneva June 18–22, 2025, celebrating its 75th year of honoring the area’s Swedish heritage. Enjoy a lively mix of events, including a craft beer tent, carnival, Kids’ Day, nightly entertainment, and a festive parade. Local merchants offer special sales, in-store events, and support through sponsorships and services. Downtown food stands serve up delicious Swedish and American favorites, making this beloved tradition a can’t-miss celebration for the whole family. www.genevachamber.com/events/swedish-days
5. Montgomery Fest
MONTGOMERY–Montgomery Fest, held August 15–17, brings the community together for a weekend of classic summer fun. Enjoy live entertainment, a carnival, food vendors, a beer tent, and Family Fest activities. Highlights include a lively parade, a car show, and a carp fishing derby. The weekend wraps up with a dazzling fireworks display over the river. It’s the perfect way for neighbors, friends, and families to celebrate the season in true hometown style.
7. Block Party-Taste of Batavia
BATAVIA–Celebrate Labor Day weekend at the Downtown Batavia Block Party & Taste of Batavia down at Peg Bond Center! The party comes complete with awesome live music, a Car Show, Pie Bake-off, and free kids area! Tickets are purchased onsite the day of the event. Kids are free and $5 admission for everyone 21 and older. Thank you to our presenting sponsors First State Bank, Prairie Gymnastics Club, and the Congregational Church of Batavia.
