City Festivals, Events & Concerts

Evanston hosts a lively calendar of *events, concerts, and festivals throughout the year that bring the community together and showcase the city’s spirit. From summer outdoor concerts and lakefront celebrations to seasonal festivals, arts events, and neighborhood gatherings, there’s always something happening for families, friends, and visitors to enjoy. For a full listing of community events, visit the City's Events Calendar. For business-specific events, visit enjoyevanston.com.

*Major events hosted by the City of Evanston and non-City organizations require approval from the Evanston City Council. 

Highlighted annual events, festivals, and concerts

• YEA Festival, May 16
• Umbrella Arts Festival, May 30
• Thursday Night Markets (Summer Series), May-September
• Starlight Movie & Concert Series, June-August
• Juneteenth, June 19
• Food Truck Fest, June 26
• Main Street Fair, June 27
• Evanston Fourth of July Celebration, July 4
• Evanston Plein Air Festival, July 11 - July 19
• Downtown Summer Sounds, July 9 - September 3
• National Night Out, August 4
• Evanston Art & Big Fork Festival, August 22-23
• St. James Taste of Armenia Street Fair, August 30
• 'Kits, 'Cats & Kids Block Party, September 1
• Evanston Folk Festival, September 12-13 
• Taste of Evanston, September 30
• Fiesta Hispana, September 24
• St. John XXII Parish OktoberFiesta, September 26
• Zombie Scramble, October 17
• Bug-A-Boo, October 24
• Trunk or Treat, October 30
• Mayor's Holiday Drive, December 9