What's Happening in Lake County?

Looking for an all-in-one resource on life in Lake County? You've come to the right place! We're always updating our guide to Lake County with the latest events, real estate news, and so much more—just keep reading to find out what's happening in our area this month.

Lake County Real Estate Updates

Lake County continues to attract buyers who want a strong mix of suburban convenience, established communities, scenic outdoor spaces, and access to the greater Chicago area. From lakefront homes and luxury properties to townhomes, condos, and family-friendly neighborhoods, the local market offers a wide range of options for buyers at different stages of life.

town houses

Looking for more Lake County real estate updates? Contact Leslie McDonnell Agents for additional information on the area!

What's Going On in Lake County?

There’s always something fun to do in Lake County! Here are a few local events happening throughout the month of August.

Gurnee Days

Celebrate summer at Gurnee Days, a three-day community festival featuring live music, food trucks, family activities, a parade, a car show, the Battle of the Badges softball game, and one of Lake County’s largest fireworks displays.

Where: Gurnee Park District, 4374 Old Grand Avenue, Gurnee, IL
When: Friday, August 7–Sunday, August 9, 2026

Zinnia and Monarch Festival

Enjoy a free, family-friendly weekend celebrating flowers, monarch butterflies, bees, and the outdoors. Festival activities include food, entertainment, arts and crafts, local vendors, contests, educational exhibits, a 5K run, kids’ activities, and a butterfly release.

Where: Zion Park District Band Shell, 2400 Dowie Memorial Drive, Zion, IL
When: Saturday, August 15–Sunday, August 16, 2026

Fox Lake’s Venetian Night

Say goodbye to summer with a waterfront celebration at Fox Lake. Venetian Night features a boat show, live music, food trucks, vendors, a kids’ area, beer and wine tasting, and an evening drone light show over Nippersink Lake.

Where: Lakefront Park and Beach, 71 Nippersink Boulevard, Fox Lake, IL
When: Saturday, August 29, 2026, beginning at 2:00 PM

More Fun Things to Do

Scenic Trails for Outdoor Recreation

Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy miles of hiking and biking trails throughout the county. The Des Plaines River Trail stretches over 30 miles, providing scenic paths through forests, wetlands, and along the river.

Explore Trails »

Abundant Natural Spaces

With forest preserves, beaches, prairies, wetlands, and lakefront parks, Lake County makes it easy to spend time outside. Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve offers scenic views, nature trails, and historic features along Lake Michigan.

Get Outdoors »

Rich Historical Heritage

Lake County is home to meaningful historic sites, including the Fort Sheridan Historic District. Visitors can explore the area’s military history, unique architecture, lakefront setting, and preserved open spaces.

Explore History »

Annual Events

Lake County, IL, is known for its active calendar of events. From summer festivals and concerts to family-friendly celebrations, food events, fairs, and seasonal activities, there’s always something happening nearby.

See the Calendar »

Wondering What's Around?

Contact the Lake County Experts

Here at Leslie McDonnell Agents, we're passionate about the community we serve, and we'd love to answer any questions you have about Lake County. Get in touch with us today for more information on local real estate or life in Lake County. We look forward to chatting!