Chicago Parent July 2017

JULY 2017

| FREE

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

KIDS EAT

Chicago

137 summer fun fixes

Hot eats, cool treats

Calling all mini foodies

Kids who rule the kitchen

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Save time. Buy online. msichicago.org

DEAR HUMANS, WHY DO YOU BLINK? COME TELL US.

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“ CHICAGO SHAKES P EA RE I S A BEST BET FOR FAMILIES”

-CHICAGO PARENT

MOVE IT, MOVE IT to Navy Pier this summer for a 70-minute live stage musical!

$

22 Children (12 & under)

$

based on the DREAMWORKS ANIMATION MOTION PICTURE book by KEVIN DEL AGUILA original music & lyrics by GEORGE NORIEGA and JOEL SOMEILLAN directed & choreographed by RACHEL ROCKWELL

34 Adults

JULY 13-AUGUST 27 WED

THU

FRI

SAT

SUN

11:00 am 11:00 am 11:00 am 11:00 am 11:00 am 2:00 pm* 2:00 pm* 2:00 pm* 2:00 pm* *

No 2:00 pm performance on July 13, 14, 15 and 16

GUARANTEED DISCOUNTED PARKING IN NAVY PIER GARAGES 2017/18 MAJOR SEASON SUPPORTERS

The Harold and Mimi Steinberg Charitable Trust

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At Kids & Company, we believe in creating an innovative, nurturing and stimulating environment where children develop independence, confidence and a positive sense of self and the world around them.

• Passionate, engaging, and professional teachers • Chef-prepared meals from scratch using organic ingredients • Password-protected web cameras for parents • Flexible scheduling to meet your family’s needs • Parenting programs including complimentary Date Nights

It’s our mission to innovate the lives of working families. We provide high quality, flexible child care, progressive early learning programs and a sense of community and support for our families. We are now one of the fastest growing women-owned businesses with nearly 100 locations.

Victoria Sopik, CEO & Mother of 8 Jennifer Nashimi, CFO & Mother of 3

Openings Available: Chicago Chicago Chicago West Loop Lincoln Park South Loop 1313 W. Randolph St 1750 N. Clark St 1255 S. State St. 312.226.4540 312.600.9497 312.360.1640 Geneva Schaumburg 2323 Fargo Blvd 150 W Higgins Rd 630.232.2323 224.353.6813 For information on enrollment visit at us.kidsandcompany.com or Chicago@kidsandcompany.com 2 July 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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YOUR

Summer Adventure STA RTS N OW

It’s time to discover, make, and play with summer learning activities at the Art Institute.

Take a museum adventure with JourneyMaker, an award-winning digital interactive that empowers you to create a family-friendly museum tour.

Begin your journey at the museum or online at artic.edu/journeymaker.

Now available in English, Spanish, and Mandarin Free museum admission for kids under 14

Generous support for JourneyMaker is provided by the Woman’s Board of the Art Institute of Chicago. Support for Summer Learning at the Art Institute of Chicago is generously provided by The Jane and David M. Stone Charitable Trust.

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Best Preschools in Chicago

2016

Rated top 17 out of 583 schools

Ask about our wonderful infant program! *Call us today for immediate Enrollment opportunities!* Lakeview 3111 N. Ashland, Chicago IL 60657 West Loop 118 S. Ashland, Chicago IL 60607 Lincoln Park 1929 N. Halsted, Chicago IL 60614 Evanston Under Construction

4 July 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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contents IN THIS ISSUE

24

13

BEST IN CHI

14

INSIDE VOICE

21

YOU

23

CRAFT

41

CALENDAR

Three great date nights, plus the scoop on summer movies July’s creative forecast? Brilliant Sizzling summer looks you’ll love Help the kids make patriotic pinwheels Our calendar has dozens and dozens of ideas to keep the kids busy this month

JULY 2017 | VOLUME 33 | NO. 7

FEATURES EAT CHICAGO 24KIDS Taste of Chicago meets family

ON THE COVER

fun at Chicago’s newest foodie event July 8-9, created just for you by us!

28

JULY 2017

| FREE

CONNECTING WITH FAMILIES

ICE, ICE BABY Nine must-try places to fill up on summer’s coolest treat

KIDS EAT

Chicago

137 summer fun fixes

Hot eats, cool treats

Calling all mini foodies

Kids who rule the kitchen

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Cover kid: Na’Imah Johnson, 11, of Chicago Photography: Thomas Kubik of TK Photography Design: Jacquinete Baldwin

BEST BBQ 31THE EVER Easy ideas to kick back and enjoy hosting this summer

HALL OF 34THE FOODIE FAME Tear out this list and keep it in your purse when cravings hit

Available now

GOING PLACES Your best guide to summer fun

ChicagoParent.com July 2017 5

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EDITOR’S NOTE SPONSORED

Food, kids and fun

The busy city in the woods How is a forest like a city?

A city is more than a lot of buildings: It’s a rich mixture of different kinds of people. A forest is more than a lot of trees: It’s a busy world of different plants, animals, and other living things.

In a city, a tall apartment building may be home to many people. In a forest, a tall tree may be home to birds, squirrels, frogs, bees, fungi, and even other plants.

In a city, every person chooses a place to live.

Some people like apartments, and others prefer to live in houses. In a forest, some animals live in the treetops, and others live in holes in tree trunks. Some animals burrow down in the ground; others swim in creeks and ponds.

In a city, you can find many kinds of food. In the forest, caterpillars eat leaves, and birds eat caterpillars.

Frogs eat insects, and some insects eat smaller insects.

When a plant dies and falls to the ground, animals, fungi, and bacteria consume it. When one animal is finished eating, something else will come in and finish the leftovers.

The busy forest city is an example of an ecosystem: a community of many living things that depend on each other, even if they don’t know it. Just as it takes many people to make a city hum, it takes many kinds of living things to make up an ecosystem. Every one is important.

TAMARA L. O’SHAUGHNESSY

Summer in Chicagoland means lots of festivals. It’s one of the things I love most about living here. I also love that Chicago Parent is at many of them because we want to meet you and the kids. We are always looking to do more, though, so a group of us started brainstorming ways to offer something unique focused on healthy eating and fun. n.

When Taste of Chicago liked our idea, it was all-hands-on-deck to create something both you and the kids would enjoy.

The result is Kids Eat Chicago, two days of great (and FREE) entertainment and activities that focus on getting the kids moving while giving everyone some cooking inspiration to make family meals more fun and healthy.

And since Kids Eat Chicago is part of Taste of Chicago, you can fill (or overfill if I’m being honest) your bellies. We even have family seating to make it all the more enjoyable.

I think the kids will especially enjoy meeting our cover girl, Na’Imah,

a MasterChef Junior contestant who owns NaNiNu Batter Cakes bakery with her sisters on the South Side, as well as fellow MasterChef Junior contestants Evan and Avani.

Find details on page 24. I can’t wait to see you there.

Plus, to keep with our food theme, you’ll also find plenty of other foodie ideas inside this issue to set your tummies to growling.

Happy July.

4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle, Ilinois 60532 mortonarb.org • 630-968-0074 6 July 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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at Barnes & Noble this Summer MUST-READS for YOUNG READERS

Favorite Paperbacks

BUY 2, GET THE 3RD FREE* Selection may vary. Ask a bookseller for details. Offer ends 9/4/17.

IN STORES Offer ends 9/4/17.

Keep Skills Sharp this Summer with

TRIM 10.486”

Award-Winning Summer Bridge Activities®

ONLY $10 EACH Originally priced $14.99. Offer ends 7/31/17.

Barnes & Noble Classics

YOUR CHOICE $5 EACH**

POPULAR PICKS for SUMMER READING

Barnes & Noble Classics paperback editions only.

Offer ends 9/4/17.

Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program KIDS EARN A

IN STORES

Offer ends 9/4/17.

FREE BOOK Ask a bookseller for details. Offer ends 9/5/17.

All offers subject to availability, while supplies last. *Lowest-priced qualifying paperback in the transaction shall be free. **Excludes titles priced $4.95 or less. Excludes digital editions.

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Visit your local store or shop BN.com for these savings and much more.

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CONTRIBUTORS

Our absolute favorite summer food EDITOR

Tamara L. O’Shaughnessy SENIOR EDITOR

Elizabeth Diffin DIGITAL EDITOR

Jackie McGoey ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Emily Adams ART DIRECTOR

Claire Innes EDITORIAL DESIGNERS

I’ll forever be loyal to the corndog. Also, is “chilled Riesling under the stars” a summer food group?

(Please say yes.)

Keely Flynn

You can’t beat fresh summer corn.

Love it on the cob, roasted, in a salad or dip. Just don’t forget the floss.

Megan Murray Elsener

I love fresh berries from the farmers market. They’re sweet, healthy, yummy at every meal and when frozen make fun ice cubes for water.

Shannan Younger

If it wasn’t for my husband’s smoked, dry-rub ribs, I may have left him for Emeril years ago.

Marianne Walsh

Jacquinete Baldwin, Javier Govea IT AND DIGITAL DEVELOPER

Mike Risher CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Danielle Braff, Matt Boresi, Megan Murray Elsener, Keely Flynn, Cheryl Leahy, Jenny Muslin, Shannan Younger, Marianne Walsh DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES

Annette Coffee, Christine Griffith, Lourdes Nicholls, Karen Skinner MEDIA COORDINATOR

Kristen Benford ADVERTISING PRODUCTION MANAGER

Philip Soell

ADVERTISING DESIGN MANAGER

Andrew Mead

ADVERTISING DESIGN

Debbie Becker, Mark Moroney CIRCULATION MANAGER

Jill Wagner DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR

Caleb Thusat BUSINESS MANAGER

Joyce Minich CREDIT MANAGER

Laurie Myers PUBLISHER Dan Haley COMPTROLLER Ed Panschar FOUNDERS

Natalie Goodman, Carolyn Jacobs

HOW TO REACH US 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 (708) 386-5555 ChicagoParent.com EDITORS

chiparent@chicagoparent.com TO FIND A COPY

circulation@chicagoparent.com ADVERTISING

dhaley@wjinc.com

7/31/17.

(847) 619-1900

Chicago Parent is published monthly by Wednesday Journal, Inc. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Chicago Parent, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL, 60302. © 2017 Wednesday Journal, Inc. All rights reserved.

8 July 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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Explore our new exhibit May 10 through Aug 27 THE PLACE WHERE AWESOME LIVES

BRING THE WORLD DOWN TO SIZE. May 10 - Aug 27, enter a child-sized laboratory to explore how scientists impact your health and wellness. Explore machines, processes, and technology that demonstrates the role science plays to keep your body healthy. See for yourself why we’re The Place Where Awesome Lives!

Kohl Children’s Museum of Greater Chicago • 2100 Patriot Blvd, Glenview • (847) 832-6600 • kcmgc.org

ChicagoParent.com July 2017 9

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Helping your child reach their full potential!

At Autism Home Support Services, we can help your child overcome the behavioral challenges that may be holding them back.

Our therapists provide customized therapy for individuals with autism and related disorders. We can create a positive difference in your child’s overall development and long-term success by using the evidence-based practices of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy.

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10 July 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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ON THE WEB

Brand, spanking new ChicagoParent.com Pardon our dust

JACKIE MCGOEY

ChicagoParent.com is getting a new look! Over the past few months, we have been hard at work creating a new website. Itt is easier to navigate, showcases ases our award-winning content better and looks oh so much prettier, if we do say so ourselves. We’ll still be working on a few finishing tweaks—a final polish, if you will—over the next few weeks, so bear with us. It will be so worth it!

®®

RegisRegistered teredsign sign Unicode: Unicode:

Playground tour P

Winner winner, chicken dinner

Our bloggers know a thing or two about the best playgrounds in the city and ‘burbs. th Follow along this month as they share the F best playgrounds in their neighborhoods— b ffrom Roscoe Village and Naperville to Northbrook and River Forest.

Want to get away? Visit our Contests page this month to enter to win a stay at Marriott Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles. We’re also giving away tickets to see The Emoji Movie, tickets to PJ Masks Live at The Chicago Theatre and the latest American Girl doll, Z Yang!

Tiptoe into our enchanting world of Dance!

Our exclusive Fairytale Ballet class combines literature with costumes & props. Summer forming now!

Baby Ballerinas 1½-2 yrs Fairytale Ballet 2-5 yrs ®

Exclusive Fairytale Ballets each week

Academy Ballet 6-17 yrs

15

Advanced Ballet training & pointe

AFairytaleBallet.com Chicago/Lakeview (773) 477-4488

Celebrating!

Chicago/Bucktown (773) 606-0318

Evanston

Summer Camps

(773) 477-4488 ChicagoParent.com July 2017 11

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2017

One of the Largest

VEGETARIAN

Food & Lifestyle

Festivals in North America!

AUGUST 12 & 13, 2017 11AM–8PM FREE ADMISSION!

DON’T MISS OUT Talks by health experts Children’s activities Meditation classes Family fun Over 100 vendor booths Yoga classes Free parking

International Food Court, Live Music, Vegetarian Food Demos, and more!

Take the Vegetarian Challenge.

VEGGIE FEST CHICAGO Benedictine University 5700 College Road Lisle, IL 60532 Phone: 630-955-1200

12th Annual Veggie Fest

Sponsored by Science of Spirituality

www.veggiefestchicago.org

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Best in Chi

Chicago Magic Lounge

Date night revival

I

n a city this marvelous, “Date Night” should never be stale. So give your streaming queue (and the couch) a break and surprise yourselves with our picks for summertime sizzle.

1

Chicago Magic Lounge

When’s the last time you truly ruly believed d in magic? The minds behind the Chicago Ma Magic agic Lounge aim to bring back the “Chicago-style” hicago-style”” magic scene, once renowned for its abundance of magic clubs and bars, intimate, ntimate, table-side performances and larger er scale spectacles onstage (and by the bar). ar).

4707 N. Broadway, Chicago; chicago hicago magiclounge.com

2

Chicago Trolley Night ht Tour

Lest you think that playing g tourist wass just for, well, tourists, Chicago Trolley olley wants to help you reinvent date night (and, you’re and, if you’r re dreaming big, date afternoon)! With the abil ability lity to hop on and off at a number of locales, thiss is a

beautiful—and completely stress-free—way to see the sights. A GPS trolley locator gives you ample ability to time your next “hop on” so, if you happen to linger over a drink atop the Hancock Tower or dinner at the Hilton, who could really blame you? chicagotrolley.com

3Windy City Playhouse

The merging of the theatrical performances with cozier-than-cozy seating and themed cozier-t cocktails we can all cock ktails is something s behind. Windy City Playhouse gett behind knows exactly what they’re doing kn nows exa in of setting the stage for n terms o aan utterly great date night; it that their current staging helps tha h of “King Liz” is a lightning-fast o tale of an a NBA sports agent. The space is intimate and cool entire sp aas heck, and we really, really their signature “summer in hope the h a glass” ro rosé sangria sticks around for a long ttime.

3014 301 14 W. Irv Irving Park Road, Chicago; windycityplayhouse.com windycityp playhous Keely Flynn

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INSIDE VOICE

July’s creative forecast? Brilliant.

KEELY FLYNN

The arts, as a rule, are known for their tendency to bring the wow factor. That said, some exhibits and events go above and beyond in the dazzle department, like these eye-poppingly cool picks.

The 22nd Annual Kaleidoscope Family Day The family that plays together—and creates fabulous artistic projects—is the family that stays together. They’re also the family that takes advantage of this terrific program, now in its 22nd year, at the Art Institute of Chicago.

Collaboration is the name of the game on Kaleidoscope Day, and artists of all ages will be inspired by the works of Chicago artist Cauleen Smith and cartoonist Saul Steinberg.

Museum educators will be on hand to guide all that creativity and, to add an extra layer of kaleidoscopic sparkle to your experience, participating Illinois families also get free admission all day. Now that’s a thing of beauty!

Saturday, July 22, The Art Institute of Chicago’s Ryan Learning Center (enter via the museum’s Modern Wing Entrance), 159 E. Monroe St., Chicago; artic.edu

Cirque du Soleil’s “Luzia” What happens when acclaimed beauty-purveyor Cirque du Soleil blends the Spanish words for light and rain? Luz and lluvia create a magical narrative in the form of “Luzia,” a dreamlike homage to an imagined Mexico under a white and gold big top. With a cast of 44 performers, this exquisite production combines fantasy, reality and acrobatics with some surprising elements.

(And to file away for the “dreams do come true” conversation with your kids: Marta Henderson & Dominic Cruz, who studied at the National Circus School of Montreal, performed for the Chicago Midnight Circus as their first professional circus gigs. See? You can join the circus! Thank me later.)

Opens Friday, July 21, the United Center parking lot, Chicago; cirquedusoleil. com/luzia

Backstage tours at the Lyric Opera Whether you’re a middle school theater nerd at heart or simply raising one, this behind-the-scenes tour is a must-do for performance lovers. After all, one-hour tours exploring the incredible art deco Civic Opera House (the second largest in the nation!) aren’t everyday experiences; not only do Lyric docents guide you through the mezzanine boxes, orchestra pit and stage of the beautiful Ardis Krainik Theatre, but you’ll also have a chance to poke through the props room, wardrobe and costumes, wigs and makeup, scenery handling facility, and a host of artist-only spaces. Ever wondered if you were brave enough to walk the catwalk? Well, here’s that chance to live out those tech-crew dreams of glory. lyricopera.org

14 July 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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Shriners Hospitals for Children — Chicago, offers a premier pediatric orthopaedic service for a range of neuromusculoskeletal conditions, including those related to complications of the upper and lower limbs, hand, foot, joints and spine. Every day, our care provides healing to meet the hopes of children and their parents, and offer life-changing results.

Those hopes are met in our other areas of expertise as well. For over 90 years, families with children in need of plastic surgery, cleft lip and palate repair, spinal cord injury care, and physical rehabilitation have seen their hopes realized right under our roof — by physicians, nurses, and specialists using the latest technology, innovative research, and a collaborative, family-centered approach. It’s how the 22 Shriners Hospital locations provided care to over 121,000 children last year alone.

Do You Know a Child For a consultation, or to refer a patient, call: Who Needs Expert Shriners Hospitals for Children — Chicago Specialty Care? 773-385-KIDS (5437)

facebook.com/shrinerschicago twitter.com/shrinerschicago shrinerschicago.org

2211 N. Oak Park Ave., Chicago, IL 60707

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BEST IN CHI

C

all us cliché, but we don’t think there’s any better time of year than summer to catch up on all the box office champs you missed the other nine months.

After all, schedules are relaxed, bedtimes are delayed and air conditioning is usually in high demand. No matter your summer movie style—flashy action flicks, popular family fare or the nostalgic movies of your childhood—there’s sure to be a spot to indulge in some chilled-out family time. Check out these fun film options.

Elizabeth Diffin

Drive-ins and dive-ins Chicagoland only has two remaining drive-ins, those charming relics of the past. Cascade Drive-In can be found in West Chicago, where it screens double features of current releases each weekend. Grill your dinner at the on-site BBQs or stop by the concession stand for some movie-time snacks. Your kids will get a kick out of the vintage ads that run before the main event. At the nostalgic (and dogfriendly) McHenry Outdoor Theater, you can listen to the latest summer blockbusters via ’50s-style speakers, your car radio, or radios you check out for $5. Looking to make a splash this summer? Local park districts, like Orland Park and Highland Park, offer movies while you float or paddle in the pool. cascadedrivein.com; goldenagecinemas.com; orland-park. il.us; pdhp.org

S

M U

M

R E

O M

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BEST IN CHI

V O M

E I

M

Cheap seats Soak up that AC without spending a fortune at some of your favorite theaters. Regal Cinemas offers its Summer Movie Express with family films for $1 throughout the summer, and Classic Cinemas gets in on the act with its Wednesday Morning Movie Series, which includes games and activities and visits from popular characters (and costs just a buck).

Want to make it lunch-and-a-movie? Studio Movie Grill in Wheaton also has dollar options at its luxurious eat-in space (food costs extra). regalcinemas.com; classic cinemas.com; studiomoviegrill.com

N A

A I

Go big or go home

Bigger is [usually] better, so you can’t beat seeing a summer blockbuster on a supersized screen. Navy Pier’s IMAX theater is just one of the landmark’s many draws, and it will make you feel like you’ve been transported to another realm far from the shores of Lake Michigan. If you’re looking to combat that pesky summer brain drain in your kiddos (without them catching on), the Museum of Science & Industry’s Omnimax theater presents “Dream Big,” a glimpse into engineering marvels around the world. navypier.com; msichicago.org

The great outdoors Fresh air and silver screens go hand-in-hand—in Chicago, at least. The Chicago Park District’s “Movies in the Park” are highly anticipated each summer, as they take flicks around the city for some after-dark amusement. The newly opened Park at Wrigley has its own film series in partnership with Music Box Theatre, every-other Wednesday night. Millennium Park has a special daytime screening of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” to celebrate its 80th anniversary (Aug. 24), complete with a short program from the Family Fun Festival. Cantigny Park presents films both classic and new on Friday nights all summer long for just $5 a car (Oswego-based Mamie’s Toffee & Treats also sells goodies on-site). And if you like your summer movies with a heavy dose of tunes, Ravinia will screen all three Lord of the Rings films with live orchestral soundtrack. chicagoparkdistrict.com; musicboxtheatre.com; cityof chicago.org; cantigny.org; ravinia.org

ChicagoParent.com July 2017 17

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In Connection with

Sponsors include... MasterChef Junior, Foss Swim School, BodyArmor, Noodles & Company, buybuy BABY, Chicago Fire, Chiro One, Girl Scouts of America, State Farm-Independent Agent Anthony Mootry, Playground Games, West Loop Soccer, Lauren the Chalk artist, Chicago Sky, Brooklyn Boulders and more (MEET US AT THE INTERSECTION OF COLUMBUS & CONGRESS)

Visit

www.kidseatchicago.com

for more!

18 July 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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FAILING WITH GUSTO

After receiving an invitation for a baby shower last month, I immediately headed over to the online registry.

I was curious to see how far childrearing had evolved from when I last had a newborn. Surprisingly, the list was as timeless and practical as if it had been produced in 1950.

There was a strong focus on the MARIANNE necessities (diapers, pacifiers, bottles, WALSH bedding, etc.), but not a hint of the vegan/organic/gender-neutral lifestyle I assumed all millennials were now embracing.

Grumpy old Gen X’ers like myself are known to occasionally make sweeping and unfair generalizations while yelling at neighborhood kids to get off the lawn.

The stroller resembled something out of NASA, but I wrote that off to the ever-changing improvements in space-baby technology. The crib, which I dubbed Optimus Prime, had the ability not only to transform into a toddler bed, but also to become a twin bed frame and ultimately a tiny home.

Talk about sound planning.

My mind drifted back to the day I registered.

Overwhelmed by the endless choices before me, I waddled around Babies ‘R’ Us fighting back nausea and immense feelings of inadequacy. Was I going to need a breast pump?

I didn’t know for sure I wanted to go that route.

The bassinet was adorable, but our one-bedroom condo could barely fit a crib. And what the hell was a Pack ‘n Play?

And an ExerSaucer?

AND IS THAT A RECTAL THERMOMETER??

I handed the registry gun off to my mom, who proceeded to request 150 sets of baby sheets and mattress protectors.

“Trust me. You’re really gonna need those,” she smiled.

My shower came and went with a U-Haul full of items that were supposed to keep my baby alive, happy and on course for meeting every developmental milestone.

Prior to that day, I always thought of showers as happy occasions.

Instead, it was my ‘holy crap’ moment.

What had I gotten myself into where I now required an entire aisle of Costco?

And as all moms before me, I became wise to the marketing. The most important item? A purse big enough to accommodate a diaper, a sandwich bag of wipes, and some loose

Cheerios. My Nana’s gentle reminder also helped: half of our country’s presidents once slept in drawers.

There is one item I wish NASA could develop for mothering. It is a time machine.

The magic of expecting my first child was overshadowed by a lot of needless worry, angst and fear. I would go back and tell myself it would all be fine.

Danny would be fine. Joe didn’t need to re-screw every bolt on the crib six times. Taking three infant CPR classes may have been overkill.

I would instead have soaked up the miracle.

And realized my mom was right.

You can never have enough infant bedding. Especially when flu season hits.

Marianne Walsh is a Chicago mom of three boys. Want more? Go to ChicagoParent.com and webandofmothers.blogspot.com.

Life in Chi

The baby shower

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VIVA DADDY

Summer fashion tips for dad: Give up

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questacademy.org 500 North Benton, Palatine, IL 60067

The fashion world has a vision of how men are supposed to look whilst summering: Carefree but poised, we stroll a croquet court in a pastel seersucker and bowtie.

Panama hat cocked jauntily on our heads, our adoring children bounding before us, we are visions of gentlemanly leisure.

The reality for a Chicago dad? Sweaty messes, our paunches visible in our Millennium Falcon T-shirts, we galumph in ill-fitting khaki shorts that reveal chicken legs and sneakers.

The remains of our hair mashed beneath a ball cap, we drag a leaking cooler from a sweltering hatchback. Summer and fashion are unrelentingly cruel.

Don’t even bother looking to fashion experts for tips for dad in the summer—it’s all suits and scarves!

Lightweight suits, perhaps, but this is Chicago, not West Egg, 1922—if we’re in a suit in July we are either at work or at a wedding.

What else can we wear? We’ve already been admonished for ILLUSTRATION BY STEPHEN SCHUDLICH boxy cargo shorts, but skinny shorts make a dad look like … a dad in skinny shorts.

Plus, we accidentally skipped leg day at the gym 40 years in a row. (Oops.) Short-sleeve buttondowns are ugly, but long-sleeve buttondowns are an awful lot of fabric when the weather is so hot the windows are melting.

And shoes? Stop showing me leather boat shoes with no socks. If a grown man wears leather shoes and no socks for more than 30 seconds, birds fall from the sky from the odor.

Why not fall back on that pair of Converse that are an aging hipster’s faithful “vecchia zimarra”?

A (non-baseball) hat is a nice touch if you’re bald—a smart driver’s cap or porkpie can be the zazz that says, “Look, I made a choice.” Of course, if you’re not quite bald yet, you can’t wear a hat lest you become bald quicker. The timing is tricky.

So what to do? Avoid obvious atrocities like tank tops, then dress so you can play with your kids, whether they want to roll on the ground or play in a tree. The fashion world holds no secrets … and what’s so wrong with a Millennium Falcon T-shirt?

Viva Summer Fashion. Viva Viva. Viva Daddy.

Viva is 5 years old. Daddy is about 8x that age. They live happily with Mommy in Chicago.

20 July 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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YOU

Sizzling summer looks you’ll love

H

CHERYL LEAHY

ave you ever shown up to an event completely over- or under-dressed? Feel like you missed the memo on what to wear? Summer is usually fairly forgiving on dress codes, but here are my favorite looks for summer’s most common soirées.

From Ravinia to a backyard BBQ There is nothing more I love in summer than sitting outside, eating amazing food and listening to music, whether it is at home with friends in the backyard or at a festival. In Chicago, we have an amazing array of outdoor music venues and Ravinia happens to be my favorite.

I usually favor dresses, but pants make sprawling out on a picnic blanket 10 times more ladylike. I found these linen blend pants in the Junior section at my favorite off-price retailer for less than $20. Paired with a plain white tee or tank, cork wedges or block heels (no stilettos—you will sink in the grass, gals!) and your favorite classic, structural jewelry, this is a pulled-together look with the comfort of PJs.

From a Cubs/Sox game to a playdate at Maggie Daley Park This is your chance to balance a mix of casual comfy with a dash of sporty spice thrown in. Athleisure is in, and moms are rejoicing in the fact that they can stay stylish in sneakers.

Finding the perfect pair of sneakers that don’t scream I AM A MOM! but still keep your feet blister-free after a marathon game

From a rooftop brunch at Cindy’s to a baby shower at Mindy’s Hot Chocolate Do you like to iron? Me neither. I have resigned myself to the fact that I cannot buy clothing that requires an iron, or else it will sit in a crumpled heap in my closet for eternity.

I recently bought a gorgeous chiffon maxi dress from the brand Eliza J. and shoved it in my suitcase for an overnight trip. No wrinkles. It is incredibly flattering, many styles come in sizes up to 24, and it has held up through washes (I don’t do dry cleaning either).

This might seem a little formal for brunch, but I am always in favor of being more dressed up than the alternative. Eliza J. styles are classic, well constructed and ultimately flattering. Check Nordstrom Rack or department store clearance racks for a deal on this brand.

of tag are in order. You can’t go wrong with a classic brand and style, which is why I picked up a pair of Adidas Stan Smiths in white. Every time I crack open a fashion magazine, a new celebrity is sporting these shoes.

High fashion and comfort don’t often intersect, so when I see an example I dive in!

Pair them with anything from cuffed white denim to a T-shirt dress for a day of play. Add a crossbody bag to carry all the kid necessities.

ChicagoParent.com July 2017 21

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Photo by Heather Walters of JHFusionPhotography

RIDE LIKE A CHAMPION New Traditions Riding Academy, LLC located at the Palos Hills Riding Stables, 10100 S. Kean Avenue, Palos Hills, IL 60465

www.ntraditionsridingacademy.com Riding in the new traditions of world class instructors

GROUP AND PRIVATE LESSONS….SUMMER CAMPS…..SCOUT GROUPS….PARTIES

boarding/training/professional care (708)598-7718 NTRidingAcademy@aol.com

www.ntraditionsridingacademy.com 22 July 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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CRAFT

Materials: u Paper u Scissors u Pencils u Round pushpin or split pin u Ruler u Small hole punch u Spray glue (optional)

Patriotic pinwheels Spin this simple craft in the summer breeze

A

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER mp up your holiday celebration with festive paper pinwheels. Create these patriotic spinners for fun at your Fourth of July barbecue or use for a display on your picnic tables.

Directions:

1

Se Select two-sided colorful paper, in shades of red, white pa and blu blue. Or use spray glue to connect two sheets of paper together, patterns with pat tterns on the exterior.

2

Meassure to cut Measure c paper into an 8.5-inch 8.5-in nch by 8.5-inch square. help lightly draw an Use a rulerr to he top bottom corners. “X� from to op to b Then on eac each line measure 4.5 ch lin from the edge and mark. inches in fro om th corner to the 4.5-inch Cut from thee cor repeat mark and rep peat for the other three corner lines.

3

Starting in n th the top left corner, punch one hole in the under corner unde er the new cut. Rotate the sheet and repeat with three more holes, so there is one hole punched in corner. each cor rn Also cut one hole directly in the center where the X meets. (See example.) w

4

F Fold Fol in the hole-punched corner toward the center and do the same for the other three ccent corners, carefully carefu ully folding all of them toward the center.

5

Using eitherr a ro round pushpin or split pin, thread through the four holes to connect the four flaps. Then center hole in the back. Push into the push through thee cent pencil connect. If the pin is too long, gently eraser of a penci il to co bend pin at an aangle. ngle.

ChicagoParent.com July 2017 23 Chica

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Na’Imah Johnson will demo her skills with other MasterChef Junior contestants at Kids Eat Chicago.

Below, Na’Imah and her sisters, Na’ilah and Nuriyah Photo by Thomas Kubik

The deets X July 8-9, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

X North President’s Court, corner of East Congress Parkway and South Columbus Drive X More info: KidsEatChicago.com

The food Expect some of the best tips you’ll ever hear about cooking for kids from the experts themselves and watch exciting kid-focused cooking demonstrations that will make your life at home a little easier—and your time in the kitchen a lot more fun.

The music

The fun

Saturday 11:30 a.m. Superhero Training with Wonder Woman and Spider-Man 12:30 p.m. Mr. Dave 1:30 p.m. Istvan & His Imaginary Band 4:30 p.m. Little Miss Ann

There’s nothing like good old-fashioned fun and that’s why your family will love our favorite playtime guru, The Brooklyn Boulders Playground Games. They will be bringing the fun with three bounce houses (including one just for tiny foodies) and Giant Kick Darts, a 17-foot inflatable dart board new to the Chicago scene.

We also will have a Brooklyn Boulders Climbing Wall, face painting, balloon art and sidewalk chalk decorating.

Chicago Fire soccer play begins at 10 a.m.

Saturday; West Loop Soccer play begins at 10 a.m. Sunday.

Sunday 10:30 a.m. Miss Jamie’s Farm 12:15 pm. The Happiness Club 1:30 p.m. Princesses 4 p.m. School of Rock Saturday 10:30 a.m. Stephen Dunne of Volo 2:30 p.m. Pilot Light Chef 3:30 p.m. Eat Pak’d 5:30 p.m. MasterChef Jr. Sunday 11:30 a.m. Eat Pak’d 2:30 p.m. The Kids’ Table 3:30 p.m. MasterChef Jr. 5:30 p.m. Momma Cuisine

Istvan & His Imaginary Band

Kids Dash July 9 All kids racing receive a racing bib, medal, banana and juice box The divisions are: Ages 0-1 diaper dash (a 15-foot crawl) Ages 2-4 20-yard dash Ages 5-8 50-yard dash Ages 9-12 ¼-mile dash Details at KidsEatChicago.com

24 July 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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MasterChef Junior mixes it up Seven Chicago-area MasterChef Junior contestants will be showing kids and their families just how much fun cooking together can be when they take the stage July 8-9.

Families will meet star chefs Evan Robinson, Avani Shah, Charlie Hans, Logan Hagene, Na’Imah Johnson, Season 4 winner Evan Robinson Addison Osta Smith and Kamryn Chasnis.

So we asked a few of them what advice they plan to give on stage: Evan: “Taste new food, don’t stick with what’s comfortable. Go out of your way to try new things.”

Avani: “Don’t be afraid to try new things because you might like it and it’s OK if you don’t like it.”

Na’Imah: “Everybody needs to find what they love and makes them happy.”

The contestants might even give families Avani Shah a sneak peek at MasterChef Junior’s new cookbook coming out this fall, filled with recipes, tips and techniques inspired by contestants in the first five seasons.

MasterChef Junior Cookbook: Bold Recipes and Essential Techniques to Inspire Young Cooks is available for pre-sale now.

Read more about the inspiring young chefs at ChicagoParent.com.

The family extras Family dining area Diaper changing area Stroller parking Check out page 18 for our sponsors

Taste of Chicago The deets

The music

X July 5-9 in Grant Park X 11 a.m.-9 p.m. WednesdayFriday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

X More info: tasteofchicago. us.

Free performances noon-8 p.m. Wednesday-Friday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at the Bud Light Stage, south end of Taste of Chicago at Columbus and Balbo streets.

July 5 - R&B/Hip Hop Day July 6 - Latin Music Day July 7 - Folk and Country Day July 8 - Rock the Taste!

July 9 - Cornucopia of Music

The food Sixty-seven establishments will offer signature items, plus the popular “Taste Of” portions for $3 or less. Tickets for food and beverages can be purchased in strips of 14 tickets for $10.

The fun Daily cultural programming, including dance performances and the March of the Puppets procession. Plus, at the Lifeway Foods Taste Kitchen, chefs dish up cooking demonstrations.

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26 July 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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LONGER DAYS, MORE TIME OUTSIDE!

THURSDAY FAMILY NIGHTS

ORIGAMI IN THE GARDEN

DESTINATION ASIA FESTIVAL

PASSPORT EUROPE FESTIVAL

Thursdays, through August

Through Sunday, October 22

Friday, August 4 through Sunday, August 6

Saturday, September 23 and Sunday, September 24

After-hours in our Children’s Garden: music, kid-friendly fare, and games.

Explore the Japanese art of paper-folding, recast as metal sculptures.

Celebrate Asia through music, dance, athletics, food, trees, and more.

Experience the storytelling, performances, food, and trees of Europe.

Thursday Family Nights Sponsor

Origami in the Garden Sponsor

Onsite Enrichment Classes

What’s happening today? Check out mortonarb.org/calendar.

4100 Illinois Route 53 • Lisle, Illinois 60532 • 630-968-0074 • mortonarb.org

Excited Kids

More Family Time

Enroll now, and you’ll no longer have to run all over town for karate class or soccer practice!

The Gardner School offers numerous onsite enrichment classes to students ages 2 and up. thegardnerschool.com/enrichment Chicago’s academically-focused preschool Ages 6 weeks to 6 years

Lincoln Park 773.661.0232

Bucktown 773.661.0151

West Loop 312.229.4299

Naperville 630.657.5029

Glenview-Northbrook

Oak Brook

847.770.6260

630.576.4740

ChicagoParent.com July 2017 27

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Scooter’s Frozen Custard What would be a hot summer day in Chicago’s Lakeview without a trip to Scooter’s? An assortment of daily flavors are made from scratch with locally grown ingredients. For those grownups watching their waistlines (bathing suit season, anyone?), Scooter’s custard is 40 percent lower in butterfat than many rival ice creams. Concretes with mix-ins (Scooter’s version of a Blizzard) are always popular, as are the shakes and specialty sundaes. But beware! Customers call this the most addicting dessert around.

1658 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago; scootersfrozencustard. com

Ice, ice

BABY

BY JENNY MUSLIN

Black ck Dog Gelato Whether hether you’re craving a simple mple scoop of gelato or sorbet, et, or something more fancyy like a Root Beer Float, Black k Dog Gelato is where it’s at! t! Don’t be intimidated by gourmet ourmet flavors like the signature ature Goat Cheese Cashew Caramel mel or Raspberry Apple Cider. r. Adults and kids can’t get enough—we nough—we promise.

Multiple iple locations, including ding 859 N. Damen en Ave., Chicago; blackdogchicago.com kdogchicago.com

W

hen the sun finally emerges and temps get steamy in Chicago, you can bet ice cream is in order! Here are our favorite spots for treats that will cool you off, satisfy your taste buds and earn you some major po points with your kiddos.

Honey Dessert of Chicago Summer is the perfect time to shake it up, dessert-wise. If you’re in the mood to try something different, Honey Dessert offers refreshing shaved ice, creamy smoothies, mochi, cold fruit soup and milk teas in flavors you won’t find elsewhere. The shop is located in Chinatown, and customers have noted their “extremely reasonable prices” and “friendly service.”

2229 S. Wentworth Ave., Chicago; (312) 808-0899

Edzo’s Burger Bar Yes, Edzo’s is a burger shop, but it’s also home to the popular handdipped Nutella milkshake, a rich cup of chocolate-y goodness that’s sure to be the best $5 you’ve ever spent! If you’re not into Nutella, other Edzo’s milkshake flavors include Spicy Mexican Chocolate and Fluffernutter.

They go great with the griddled burgers.

1571 Sherman Ave., Evanston; edzos.com 28 July 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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Original Rainbow Cone In addition to loving the renowned ice cream, kids will get a kick out of the old-school warmth and decor at this Chicago institution. After all, it’s been serving everything sweet since 1926! Try a featured flavor or sundae, or go for the “original rainbow cone”: layered flavors of chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House, pistachio and orange sherbet piled high in a sugary cone. And if you’re hitting up Navy Pier this summer, check out their new location on the South Dock.

9233 S. Western Ave., Chicago; rainbowcone.com

The Brown Cow Ice Cream Parlor

Milk and Wood Milk and Wood, a new fave in Logan Square, may be the only shop where you can pick your own gelato on a stick.

Choose a pop, get it dipped or drizzled with chocolate, pick from an array of toppings and chow down!

You can also buy ready-made pops in fun flavors like Green Tea with Kit Kat or Cookies and Cream.

2529 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago; milkandwood.com

Brown Cow is designed like an old-fashioned ice cream parlor with an assortment of flavors, as well as homemade root beer and fresh baked pies. If you go for the ice cream, make sure to get yours in a cone. The waffle cones are what every ice cream cone should be. And since it’s open a bit later, it makes for a fun stop after dinner (if the kids have some leeway with their bedtime).

7347 Madison St., Forest Park; browncowicecream.com

Homer’s Gourmet Ice Cream If you’re up for a trip to the northern ‘burbs, you can’t miss award-winning Homer’s Ice Cream. The ice cream is so creamy and fantastic that actor Bill Murray has it delivered to his home. Homer’s has been churning out ice cream for more than 60 years. Flavors such as Apple Cinnamon (cinnamon ice cream with chunks of graham cracker and apple), Peach (a Homer’s specialty), or Prairie Berry (vanilla ice cream packed with an assortment of berries) are just a few of our favorites. And don’t get us started on the dreamy milkshakes.

1237 Green Bay Road, Wilmette; homersicecream.com

Mario’s Italian Lemonade Fans of Mario’s anticipate the summer opening of this famed stand in Little Italy. Choose from an assortment of flavors, each laced with big chunks of fresh fruit. Customers rave about the “not too tart or too sweet taste” and call it the “most refreshing treat.” One visit and you’ll see why there’s typically a line. Even the Brain Freeze is totally worth it.

1066 W. Taylor St., Chicago

ChicagoParent.com July 2017 29

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The Avery Coonley School

An exciting and educational summer program for children ages 4–14. Three sessions available: June 19–June 30, July 3–July 14, July 17–July 28 View the 2017 Summer Program Guide online at www.averycoonley.org/summerprogram 1400 Maple Avenue, Downers Grove, Illinois, 630-969-0800

30 July 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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#1 The plan: Don’t stress yourself out trying to impress.

There is no need for extra dishes and trips back and forth into the house, so stick with paper plates and napkins. Use a silverware caddy or glass jars for plastic silverware.

Keep a garbage bag and recycle bin outside for easy cleanup.

For appetizers, chips and dips are the way to go. Then pick a “bar”themed meal that allows guests to create their own versions of dinner with their favorite fixings. For dessert, ice cream or Popsicles are the ideal summer treat. (To indulge, try a liquorinfused ice cream like Tipsy Scoop for the adults.)

The be st Easy ideas to kick back and enjoy hosting this summer

S

BBQ ev er

#2 The food: Complex and time-consuming are not ideal meals to make for a barbecue. Instead pick something that can easily be cooked, then assembled by guests in a buffet or bar manner. You provide the options and your guests make their plates.

Mini Burger Bar

Burgers are a guaranteed crowd pleaser, but make them mini-sized for this burger bar.

For your mini-patties: mix 1 pound of ground chuck with ½ tsp. onion powder, ½ tsp. garlic powder, ½ tsp. ground black pepper and ½ tsp. kosher salt.

Prep your mini burger patties in advance, so you just have to grill them for 2-3 minutes per side.

For your burger bar options, provide cheese slices, mustard, ketchup, relish, dill pickles, mayonnaise, diced red onion, tomato slices, lettuce leaves, caramelized onions, bacon strips, avocado slices, roasted asted red peppers, crispy onions, and nd anything else you think k would add somee divine taste.

Pair thee mini burgers with a fruit salad d and either a potato or pasta salad.

BY MEGAN MURRAY ELSENER ummer is synonymous with barbecues. There’s nothing better than being outside, Flank Steak Taco Bar grilling, having A Mexican-themed taco bar will please all summer backyard barbecue ue attendees. a cocktail Marinate the flank steak for at least eight hours: Put 2 pounds of flank lank steak in and spending time with a gallon-sized Ziploc with 6 Tbsp. olive oil, 2 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar negar and 1 packet of fajita seasoning mix. friends and family.

Then prep your taco sides the night before or morning of the bash so they are Yet, hosting a big ready to go. Some ideas are corn tortillas, flour tortillas, guacamole, gallo, mole pico de gallo backyard barbecue can salsa, cilantro, queso blanco, cotija cheese, queso fresco, shredded cheese, shredded lettuce, green onions, pickled red onions, sour cream, lime wedges and any sometimes seem a bit other taco topping you can imagine. overwhelming. Take these Remove the marinated flank steak and let it sit at room temperature for 10-20 simple ideas and three menu minutes. Grill the steak for 5-10 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, and let rest for 5 minutes once off the grill. Slice steak against the grain. options to make it easy and Serve up your taco bar to guests to create their own dream tacos! relaxing, yet still entertaining CONTINUED ON PAGE 32 and delicious.

ChicagoParent.com July 2017 31 CONTINUED ON PAGE 48 CHIPAR0717_031.indd 1

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BEST BBQ ATHLETA GIRL BARNES & NOBLE GAP/ GAP KIDS GYMBOREE POTTERY BARN KIDS

SUMMER FUN

AT DEER PARK TOWN CENTER

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31

#3 Thee ffun: un: n: Signature cocktails ktailss for both adults and kids ca can take an ta an ake k a barbecue to a new w lev llevel evell of fun. Whether it’s margaritas, argarittas argaritas, as, sangria or Moscow mu mules, m mul ulees pick a drink that re reminds emin em nds nd ds everyone of sweet su summer um mm m r thoughts.

You can even special n make ma e a ssp pe drink for the ki kids ids like kiddie cocktails orr cktailss o sparkling pink lemonade. Usee a large beverage dispenser for either water or a kids’ signature ature drink so they can n help themselves. s. Add colorful straws ws or frozen n shaped icee cubes for extra pizazz. zz.

Parents will be eager to get et in some adult conversation, versation, so have out ut a few activities to keep the kids k busy. Simple ple stuff likee chalk, sidewalk paint or bub bubbles bbles always do the trick. Or O amp it up with a few game games es that both old and young willl fi find d entert taining. Pie Face Showdown is the ultimate blast of fun for whoever has the quickest hand with whip cream to your opponent’s face. Also the games Speak Out or Watch Ya Mouth are the new rage with mouthpieces that make words a challenge to guess.

Pulled Pork bar

Pork and barbecue go handin-hand and with a slow cooker it barely takes any effort, so try a pulled pork bar for the next gathering.

Trim off any large pieces of fat from a 4-6 pound pork shoulder.

Make a mixture of ½ Tbsp. salt, ½ Tbsp. pepper, 1 Tbsp. cumin, paprika, ½ Tbsp. pap prika, 1 Tbsp.

Tbsp brown sugar and 1 Tbsp. dry m mustard the and rub th he seasoning into the pork k so it’s coated on all ssides. si des.

Put the pork sshoulder P cooker and in n a slow cooke cover co over with 1½ cups of chicken vegetable ch hicken or vege broth. brroth. Some of the pork above the p po ork will be ab liquid l quid surface. Cook li eight hours on low for eig o or high for fou four hours. o Transfer the cooked pork por rk to a bowl tto shred with two forks or your fingers. the Serve th he pulled pork with pickles, buns, pick kles, a variety of barbecue sauces, bar rbecue sauces coleslaw, sautéed co oleslaw, sauté mushrooms and mu h d crispy onions. Decadent sides could be baked beans, coleslaw, watermelon slices or macaroni and cheese. Your guests will feel the southern love for this meal.

Above all, remember to have fun and actually enjoy the barbecue yourself!

For a list of upcoming events visit ShopDeerParkTownCenter.com. All events are free, family-friendly and open to the public.

20530 N. Rand Road, Deer Park, IL ShopDeerParkTownCenter.com | 847.726.7755

32 July 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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Now O pen

Come Play With Us!

5100 Museum Drive, Oak Lawn, IL 708-423-6709 Check our web site for programs and hours www.cmoaklawn.org Have your birthday party or Field Trip with us!

Call for more details!

The Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to positively impact a child’s potential in life through play-based education.

BRING ON

SUMMER Whether your kids are headed to camp or enjoying day trips from home, summer should be about having fun, not about worrying about lost stuff! Label everything they own with durable, personalized Mabel’s Labels!

SAVE 10% with code CHICAGO10

mabelslabels.com | 1-866-30-MABEL Offer valid until July 31, 2017. Coupon may be used only once, has no cash value, cannot be combined with other offers or promotions and is not applicable towards taxes, express shipping or discounted products.

ChicagoParent.com July 2017 33

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The hall of foodie fame 3 Greens Market You might be most excited by the fact that this cozy hidden gem hosts a mini putting green and table tennis, ideal for those who love to play with their food. But the real reason to make a special trip to this downtown market is the crave-worthy Small Cheval burger and fries. We’re hungry just thinking about it. Not a burger fan? Try the creamy macaroni and cheese at the hot bar or the scrumptious buttermilk pancakes at the weekend brunch buffet for the perfect Sunday Funday treat.

3greensmarket.com

F

BY EMILY ADAMS

ood halls are the newest craze in city culture, and Chicago is all about them. Because decisions are hard. And all too often, family meals out turn into three-hour what-do-you-want-to-eat debates, which inevitably end with settling for your go-to neighborhood favorites. Make better choices, by giving yourself more choices, at these foodie utopias.

Chicago French Market

A stroller-friendly European market on the ground level of the Ogilvie Transportation Center? Oui, oui.

Melt-in-your-mouth cinnamon sugar doughnuts at Beavers Coffee & Donuts and a flaky morsel from Flip Crepes should start every very day in the city. Lunchtimee is always elevated by Lillie’s Q BBQ and Pastoral Artisan sandwiches. And for dessert, treat yo’self to assorted This hip new hall is home to those candies and Chicago hot spots you’ve always read about truffles at in top 10 lists, but never had the chance Lolli & Pops to try, all in one convenient location. So and French basically, it’s total lunch goals for a parent macarons at who doesn’t have the time to sample every Vanille Patisserie. trendy bite in town. Gorge yourself on erie.

Antique Taco Chiquito, Black Dog Gelato, Bon appétit, Furious Spoon, HotChocolate Bakery, friends!

Smoque BBQ and more. Picky eaters are frenchmarket ket no match for the variety of choices at this chicago.com delectable smorgasbord in The Loop. revivalfoodhall.com

Revival Food Hall

34 July 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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Eataly All Chicagoans who have cooking chops automatically adore Eataly for its gourmet goods and fresh finds, but this foodie rendezvous spot is a perfect bambinis as well. The Nutella counct eatery for bambin what tiny human dreams are ter is totally w Along with multiple “simple made of. Alo pasta” recipes to choose from, Eataly re hosts weekly events in La also ho Pizza & La Pasta called Eataly Loves Kids every Sunday for kids 1 12 and under. For just $9, kids ccan learn to make yummy pizzas in the shapes of hearts, bunnies, fishes and butterflies. bunnie The crea creations almost too cute to almost. eat … alm eataly.com

Latinicity One of the newer additions to the Windy City’s restaurant scene is Latinicity in Block 37, which features deeply delicious and awesomely authentic interpretations of Latin street food from regions in Peru, Mexico, Venezuela, Argentina, Cuba and more. Kids can score tasty burgers, build-your-own tacos, noodles, quesadillas, sushi, chicken, soup, hot dogs and other options at all of the hall’s restaurants. It’s a guaranteed fiesta in your mouth. latinicity.com ChicagoParent.com July 2017 35

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Summer Fun // Directory to advertisers 1 Great Price

Emerald City Theatre

German Fest

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland, OH Pro Football Hall of Fame, Canton, OH Cedar Point, Sandusky, OH ProFootballHOF.com/tickets

Summer Camps 2017 For ages 3.5 – 17 Lakeview, Lincoln Park & Lincoln Square Emeraldcitytheatre.com

200 N. Harbor Dr. Milwaukee, WI 53202 (414) 464-9444 GermanFest.com

A Fairytale Ballet & Academy

Summer Programs (224) 424-0144 www.myeyelevel.com

Lakeview, Bucktown, Evanston (773) 477-4488 (LV & EV) (773) 606-0318 (BT) AFairytaleBallet.com Ballet with stories, costumes, props & fun! Ages 2-16

Avery Coonley School Summer Program 1400 W. Maple Ave., Downers Grove (630) 969-0800 ext. 122 averycoonley.org

Eye Level Learning Center

Enroll your children to enhance their thinking

Fleetwood Roller Skating Rink 7231 W. Archer Ave., Summit (708) 458-0300 fleetwoodrollerrink.com

Authentic food, culture, entertainment, and family fun. Make it YOUR tradition.

Green Apple Campus STEM+Innovation+ Entrepreneurship Naperville, Elmhurst & Chicago (872) 240-4230 Greenapplecampus.org

Kidwatch Plus 3330 N. Lockwood Ave, Chicago (773) 993-0536

Public skating, private parties, fundraisers. Artistic speed and roller derby skating.

Join us for a fun and exciting Summer!

Barnes & Noble

Foss Swim School

Summer Reading Program Kids Earn a FREE Book Ask a bookseller for details

(773) 248-3677

2100 Patriot Blvd, Glenview (847) 832-6600 kcmgc.org

Billy Boy’s Blueberry Barn 650 Freyer Rd Michigan City (219) 872-7477 Billyboysblueberrybarn.com (check website or call for hours)

Blackhawk Waterways of NW Illinois 201 N Franklin Ave., Polo IL (800) 678-2108 www.visitnorthwestillinois.com Wide open spaces, family friendly attractions and great accommodations!

Cave of the Mounds Discover Buried Treasure.

Discover Fun! 2975 Cave of the Mounds Rd. Blue Mounds, Wisconsin (608) 437-3038 Caveofthemounds.com

3026 N Ashland Ave, Chicago 1927 Skokie Valley Rd, Highland Park

(847) 266-3677

Kohl Children’s Museum

17 exhibits including 2-acre outdoor Habitat Park and “Science + You” through Aug 27!

1360 S Milwaukee Ave, Libertyville

Little Green Tree House

(847) 680-7946

Preschool and Childcare West Loop, Lakeview, Lincoln Park, Evanston (312) 492-9876 littlegreentreehouse.com

8299 W Golf Rd, Unit 24, Niles

(847) 410-1555 100 W. Higgins Rd, South Barrington

(847) 844-1818 www.fossswimschool.com Learn to swim! Weekly Lessons and Swim Camps Available.

Funtopia 2050 Tower Dr., Glenview

(224) 432-5435 www.funtopiaworld.com/glenview Adventure park where kids have fun while being active.

Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier Dreamworks MADAGASGAR July 13 – August 27 (312) 595-5600 Chicagoshakes.com

Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn 5100 Museum Drive, Oak Lawn (708) 423-6709 www.cmoaklawn.org Two floors of fun, hands-on learning for kids through 10!

Deer Park Town Center 20530 N. Rand Road, Deer Park (847) 726-7755 shopdeerparktowncenter.com/ Find Your Summer Fun at Deer Park Town Center!

Facilitate the optimal growth and development of the whole child.

The Little Gym of Chicago 3216 North Lincoln Avenue (773) 525-5750 www.TheLittleGym.com/ChicagoIL Offering programs that develop the happy, confident kid you love.

A Midsummer Night’s Daydream Ethel M. Barber Theater 30 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston (847) 491-7282 wirtz.northwestern.edu A family-friendly adaptation of the Bard’s summer comedy.

The Morton Arboretum 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle (630) 968-0074 mortonarb.org “Origami in Garden”. The exhibit runs through October 22.

Nova Quarter Horses, Inc. 10129 W. 187th Street, Mokena (708) 479-3696 Riding lessons, birthday parties, horse camps, field trips, scout events

Painting Time Now 13 Waukegan Rd. Deerfield (847) 315-0882 www.paintingtiemnow.com Art Summer Camp, Weekly or Daily. Ages 5 - 14.

The PlayGround Games (847) 373-6925 thepggames.com Inflatables, Bubble Soccer, DJ/ Emcee, Interactive Games, Indoor/ Outdoor FUN!

PJ MASKS Time To Be A Hero LIVE! September 30 & October 1 The Chicago Theatre thechicagotheatre.com pjmaskalive.com

Pump It Up Party Orland Park Chicago

(708) 479-2220 (312) 664-PUMP

Rainforest Café A Wild Place to Shop and Eat Downtown Chicago (312) 787-1501 Woodfield Mall (847) 619-1900 Gurnee Mills (847) 855-7800 Rainforestcafe.com

Reed’s Canoe Trips Kankakee, IL (815) 932-2663 ReedsCanoeTrips.com Offering exciting and memorable trips seven days a week

RidgeFest July 27-30 Held at Freedom Park in Chicago Ridge located at Birmingham & Oak (2 blocks east of 104th & Ridgeland). www.chicagoridge.org Super Sunday Family Fun Day on July 30th.

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Summer camp 2013 Fun

Directory special advertising to advertisers section // // Roscoe Village Burger Fest July 8-9 at Belmont & Damen 11am-10pm www.roscoevillageburgerfest.com Fun-filled Kids’ Zone 11am-6pm both days!

Safari Land Indoor Amusement Park 701 W. North Ave., Villa Park (630) 530-4649 safariland.com

Skokie Park District 9300 Weber Park Pl., Skokie (847) 674-1500 SkokieParks.com

Sonnets Academy Lincoln Park: 1932 N. Clark St. (312) 951-1024 River North: 430 W. Erie St. (312) 344-1926 West Loop: 229 S. Peoria St. (312) 733-7580 Hyde Park: 5548 S. Hyde Park Blvd., (773) 891-0029 sonnetsacademy.com Boundless learning through play. Six weeks to six years.

Sugar Factory 55 E Grand Ave- Chicago & 5445 Park Pl -Rosemont

Events Line - (773) 598-8026 www.sugarfactory.com Perfect for birthdays, showers, date nights, moms night out and more!

#GetYourDeutschOn! Summerfest Grounds

Taste of Lincoln Avenue July 29 and 30th, Kids Carnival from noon-6pm On Altgeld Street between Lincoln & Halsted. www.tasteoflincolnchicago.com Free, easy entry on Halsted. Giant slide, inflatables, pony rides, games, face painting and more!

Veggie Fest 2017 Aug 12-13 4045 N. Naperville Rd, Lisle (630) 955-1200 Veggiefestchicago.com

Visit Springfield Illinois (800) 545-7300 www.visitspringfieldillinois.com Discover the makings of your legendary vacation in Springfield, IL

The Yard 233 W. 63rd St. Westmont (630) 737-1000 westmontyard.com 1607 Legacy Circle Naperville (630) 245-1100 napervilleyard.com

Milwaukee

Friday, July 28th Saturday, July 29th Sunday, July 30th

GermanFest.com

• $3 Admission for Everyone on FRIDAY! • Local German Dance Groups • German Music: From Germany, the U.S. and local favorites • FAMILY FUN for EVERYONE!!

The STIHL® TIMBERSPORTS® Series.

U.S. Pro and Collegiate Championship New at GERMANFEST in 2017!

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Health // directory of advertisers Advanced Family Dental Carlinville, Chicago, Crest Hill, Crest Hill – Orthodontics, Frankfort, Joliet, Lockport, Lombard, Mt. Olive, Naperville, Plainfield, Romeoville, Shorewood, Westmont, Woodridge (815) 768-2188 AdvancedFamilyDental.com

Autism Home Support Services Chicago, Evanston, Northbrook, Arlington Heights, Elgin, Schaumburg, Oak Park, Naperville, Rockford (844) AHSS-ABA AutismHomeSupport.com

(847) 698-2088 www.care4kidsteeth.com

Dentistry For Kids, Ltd. 4801 W. Peterson Ave., Chicago (773) 790-4282 Dentistry4Kids.net Long-term relationships built on confidence and trust.

Dr. Russell S. Pollina 601 W. Central Rd., #4 Mt. Prospect (847) 392-2457 18 E. Dundee Rd., Bldg. 5, Ste. 100, Barrington (847) 382-1720 www.grins4kids.com

Dr. Yaa N. McDonald

Every Tooth Counts

Joyful Smiles Pediatric Dentistry We take the fear out of dentistry for your child.

16345 South Harlem, Tinley Park (708) 633-8700 KidsDDS.net

Pediatric Dental Center 2711 Flossmoor Road, Flossmoor (708) 799-9755 EveryToothCounts.com

DuPage Medical Group

John G. Crawford, DDS MS

Over 50 locations provide primary and specialty care for your entire family.

(888) MyDMGDr www.dupagemedicalgroup.com

Concerned & caring - we love kids!

505 N. Ridgeland Ave Oak Park (708) 524-9788 www.MyKidsDentist.cc

Children’s Dentistry Jerry Udelson, DDS Where Kids Have Fun at the Dentist!

1129 S. Harlem, Forest Park (708) 386-5437 www.little-teeth-big-smiles.com

Children’s Dentistry in Park Ridge John P. Kenney, DDS, MS Infants, Children, Teens and Special Needs Children 101 S. Washington St, Suite 114 Park Ridge

Specialist in dentistry for infants, children and adolescents.

Pediatric Dentistry Christopher J. Morin, DDS 811 W. Wellington, Chicago (773) 871-4964 BigSmilesChicago.com Practice dedicated to infants, children and adolescents.

Shriners Hospitals for Children – Chicago 2211 N. Oak Park Avenue Chicago (773) 622-5400 www.shrinerschicago.org Pediatric specialty care in orthopedics, cleft lip & palate and rehabilitation Call 773-385-KIDS (5437) for an appointment

THERE IS POWER IN EVERY

G.I.R.L.

Unleash it at Girl Scouts.

Join our network of more than 60 million girls and women already redefining leadership and showing the world their inner G.I.R.L. (Go-getter, Innovator, Risk-taker, Leader)™.

JOIN TODAY! www.girlscoutsgcnwi.org/July 38 July 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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Perfect 5-star rating on Yelp Chicago’s best-reviewed magician

Learn more: thegreatscott.com (847) 361-0924

Mary Macaroni

Princess & Character Parties Magic • Clowning Guitar Sing-a-Longs Face Painting & Balloons!

Children’s Parties!

Corporate Events!

Call Today:

312-498-9845

www.marymacaroni.com

HOUSE OF BOUNCE Shaved Ice & Cotton Candy machines also available

Serving the greater Chicagoland area

Call Ron at 708-927-5455 www.houseofbounce.org

Themes to choose from: • Disney Princess • Scooby Doo • TMNT • Sports • Strawberry Shortcake • Plain • World of Disney 5 in 1 Combo • 30’ Dual Lane Obstacle • Water Slides • Slip ‘n’ Slides

SUE’S PARTY ANIMALS

Book us for your next party or event!

•We Entertain •We Educate •We're Cute & Fun •We're Clean & Safe

You'll LOVE US!

Call Sue Johnson, Educator

847-215-8508

Magic & Juggling Shows Balloon Animals and Puppets

Providing Quality, Professional Entertainment since 1991 Several Themed Characters available.

Video clips and party ideas are provided on the website.

www.IYQENT.com IYQ Entertainment

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Natures Creatures Animal Show

A fun Exotic Educational Animal Show for kids & adults of all ages!

Serving the Chicago land area for over 10 years!

• Birthday Parties • Block Parties • Scouts • Schools • Licensed & Insured • Veterinarian & Teacher Approved!

For more info or to book:

call Erin at

• Snakes • Frogs • Bunnies • Lizards • Giant Turtles • Spiders • Ducks • Talking Parrots • Alligators • Pony Rides

(773) 881-9379 or visit:

www.naturescreatures.net Low rates!

Book Now!

Summer Special $10 Off Indoor & Outdoor Party Rentals for...

• Birthday Parties • School Festivals • Church Events • Reunions • Picnics

Games/Concessions/Tables/Chairs also available! Face Painting!

708-620-HOPP Call to reserve and lock in low rates!

Local delivery, Setup & Pick-up included

www.hippity-hop.com

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calendar JULY

1

This is not your grandmother’s regatta. Ya Gotta Regatta puts a wacky twist on the traditional high-society boat race, with seafaring vessels that are made entirely of cardboard and duct tape.

Participants get two hours to build a skiff that’s fit to sail, then test its sea-worthiness in a swimming pool. And if your dinghy can’t stay above the waves, don’t worry. The coveted “Titanic award” goes to whoever has the most spectacular sinking. $5. 2-5 p.m. July 22. Hunt Club Park Aquatic Center, 900 N. Hunt Club Road, Gurnee. (847) 623-7788, gurneeparkdistrict.com.

3

2

Do snow leopards snore or parrots talk in their sleep? Find out at Campout at the Zoo, an overnight adventure that lets you pitch a tent on the zoo’s South Lawn and enjoy the sights and sounds of the animal kingdom after all the other human visitors have gone home.

The evening’s activities include after-hours animal house tours, a campfire and s’mores before bedding down under the stars. Catching some zzz’s with (or near) the zebras?

Sign us up. Evening Encounter: $40, $34 for members; Full Overnight: $65, $55 for

members; Add-on dinner: $12. 7 p.m.8:30 a.m. July 8, 22 and 29. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago.

(312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org.

For 20 years Barrel of Monkeys has been acknowledging what moms and dads everywhere already knew: Kids are pretty freakin’ creative. So the organization uses that natural bent to teach creative writing courses in schools across the city, then turns those tales into stage-worthy sketches performed by real actors. Kids Write It: 20 Years of Intergenerational Storytelling celebrates the standing ovation-worthy mission with a retrospective of the past two decades.

You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll marvel at the brilliance of Chicago’s young minds. $25, $10 kids under 10. 7:30 p.m. July 27. Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport Ave., Chicago. barrelofmonkeys.org.

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CALENDAR 1 | SATURDAY SUBURBS WHERE THE WILD THINGS LIVE. A fun and informative look

at how different animals build their homes. 2-3 p.m. Morton Grove Public Library, 6140 Lincoln Ave., Morton Grove. (847) 929-5102, webrary.org.

2 | SUNDAY SUBURBS MALOTT JAPANESE GARDEN FAMILY SUNDAY. Practice using

chopsticks, rake miniature dry gardens, make Japanese kites and more. $30 parking. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

Fourth Four th of Ju July ly Cele Ce le ebr brat atio at ion io

4 | TUESDAY

Seee Ju Se July ly 4

FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION. Commemorate our

nation’s independence with familyfriendly activities, musical performances and more. 10 a.m.-noon.

Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St., Chicago. (312) 642-4600, chicagohistory.org.

LAKE FOREST FESTIVAL & FIREWORKS. Features food, a beer

garden, live music, activities for kids and fireworks display. $10 residents, $15 non-residents; free kids 5 and under; VIP packages start at $25.

5-10 p.m. Deerpath Park, Deerpath and Hastings roads, Lake Forest. friendslfpr.org.

RED, WHITE AND BLUE VALUE DAY. The museum marks America’s

birthday and the Trolley Museum’s birthday. $2. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Fox River Trolley Museum, 361 S. LaFox St. (Ill. 31), South Elgin. (847) 697-4676, foxtrolley.org.

6 | THURSDAY CONCERT IN THE PARK.

Includes “Toddlers, Tunes & Turtles” (5:30 p.m.), a family drum circle demonstration (6:30 p.m.), and marches, show tunes and classics

performed by VanderCook’s Graduate Concert Band (7 p.m.). 5:30 p.m.

Chicago Women’s Park and Gardens, 1801 S. Indiana, Chicago. (312) 3280821, chicagoparkdistrict.com.

NATURE DISCOVERY DAY.

Drop in for a fun afternoon of nature discovery, including stair races, obstacle courses, nature hikes, kite flying and more. 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Swallow Cliff Stairs, 10267 Calumet Sag Road, Palos Hills. (800) 8703666, fpdcc.com.

8 | SATURDAY CHICAGO KIDS EAT CHICAGO. Chicago

Parent and its advertisers present activities galore, from climbing walls to bounce houses, and music and entertainment from family favorites.

Parents and kids can enjoy chef demos from some of Chicagoland’s best, plus healthy living and culinary tips. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Grant Park, 331 E. Randolph St. (312) 744-3315, KidsEatChicago.com.

SUBURBS NATURE NIGHTS. Bring a picnic

dinner and spend an evening in the garden. Includes a short tram ride, planting project and s’mores. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

VICTORIAN AMAZING RACE. A

no-rush race through the 1890s village. Kids and adults work together to complete activities such as Road Blocks, Yields and Detours with fun, historic twists. Free with museum admission. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford. (815) 397-9112, midway village.com.

MOVIE NIGHT FEATURING “KUBO AND THE TWO STRINGS.”

A summer movie night featuring animated action-adventure Kubo and the Two Strings. Before the film, take in the 25 displays of “Origami in the Garden.” Free with arboretum admission. 8 p.m. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

9 | SUNDAY CHICAGO KIDS EAT CHICAGO. See July 8.

SUBURBS CHILDREN’S MONARCH FESTIVAL. Booths and activities

focus on the conservation and preservation of the monarch butterfly. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wilder Park, 175 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. (630) 739-1071, epd. org.

10 | MONDAY DAIRY DAY. Features make-your-own ice cream sundae station, historical demonstrations, old-fashioned games, a live cow, museum tours and more. $5. Noon-3 p.m. Elk Grove Historical Museum, 399 Biesterfield Road, Elk Grove Village. (847) 439-3994, elkgroveparks.org/museum.

11 | TUESDAY WINTER WONDERLAND POOL PARTY. Cool down at a winter

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CALENDAR wonderland pool party. Free with pool admission. 4-7 p.m. Roosevelt Pool, 2239 Fir St., Glenview. (847) 724-5670, glenviewparks.org.

WONDERFUL WATER. Kids 18-35

months, with adult, splash, play and learn in a sensory-based program all about water. $22, $15 members. 9:3010:45 a.m. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

IN SEARCH OF BATS. Families roast marshmallows around a campfire while learning about bats, then go on a hike to find these mosquitoeating machines. Wear long sleeves, pants and bug repellent. $8. 7:30-9 p.m. Pilcher Park Nature Center, 2501 Highland Park Drive, Joliet. (815) 741-7277, jolietpark.org.

12 | WEDNESDAY WONDERFUL WATER. Kids 3-5

splash, play and learn in a sensorybased program all about water. $25, $18 members. 9:30-11 a.m. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

NATURE PLAY DAY. Parents and kids 3-5 participate in a hike, story, game, dancing or playing.

10-11:30 a.m. Plum Creek Nature Center, 27064 S. Dutton Road, Beecher. (708) 946-2216, reconnect withnature.org.

13 | THURSDAY MIDDLE SCHOOL NIGHT AT THE POOL. Kids 11-14 swim and listen to

music provided by a D.J. Drinks and snacks are available for purchase. $10, $7 pre-registration. 8:30-10:30 p.m. East End Pool, 463 Schiller, Elmhurst. (630) 993-8986, epd.org.

14 | FRIDAY RUBBER DUCKY DERBY DAY.

Day Camp

June 26 - August 4

Enjoy rubber ducky games and crafts. The first 50 guests receive a duck to race and take home.

Free with pool admission. 1-3 p.m.

Itasca Waterpark, 100 N. Catalpa Ave., Itasca. (630) 773-1213, itascaparkdistrict.com.

KIDS’ NIGHT OUT: ICE CREAM DAY. Parents enjoy the night out,

while kids 4-12 celebrate National Ice Cream Day with fun activities: Make Your Own Ice Cream, Eat Ice Cream, Decorate Ice Cream Bowls and Pin the Cherry on the Sundae. $30, $20 resident. 6-9 p.m. Naperville Park District, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, naper villeparks.org.

SMALL ANIMAL CARE BASICS.

Kids 8-12 learn the general care needs for small animals like snakes, turtles, rodents and birds. $8. 1-4 p.m. Pilcher Park Nature Center, 2501 Highland Park Drive, Joliet. (815) 741-7277, jolietpark.org.

Late Summer Camps

August 7-18

(Offered at many parks. Varies by park.)

Online Summer Registration opens April 24-25 In-person Summer Registration opens April 29 Financial assistance is available for eligible city of Chicago residents.

Learn more at www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/day-camp/

Warrior Games

STAY CONNECTED.

June 30 – July 8 City of Chicago, Rahm Emanuel, Mayor Chicago Park District Board of Commissioners Michael P. Kelly, General Superintendent & CEO For more information about your Chicago Park District visit www.chicagoparkdistrict.com, or call 312.742.7529 or 312.747.2001 (TTY)

in Chicago

GreenApple Campus STEM + Innovation + Entrepreneurship

FAMILY TWILIGHT ADVENTURES.

Families with kids under 10 go on a hike, do activities and roast marshmallows before going on a silent tram ride through the woods. $19. 7-9 p.m. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

About the calendar The deadline for submitting listings for the August issue is June 26. All events are subject to change. Please call the event sponsor at the number listed to confirm before you go.

Events taking place on four or more dates during the month are listed in Ongoing Events, beginning on page 57.

Robotics, Coding, AR/VR Mobile Game & App Design Minecraft, Maker in the FabLab, GirlsTech Kids 6 - 14 years Elmhurst & Chicago 872.240.4230 GreenAppleCampus.org

Searchable listings updated daily ChicagoParent.com/calendar ChicagoParent.com July 2017 43

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CALENDAR MOVIES IN THE PARK. Grab a

NEW!

Light Show and Sound System!

Celebrating 60 Years of Family Fun! • EST. 1957 PUBLIC SKATING • PRIVATE PARTIES • FUND RAISERS ARTISTIC, SPEED, & ROLLER DERBY SKATING PRIVATE & CLASS LESSONS AVAILABLE

blanket and popcorn and enjoy a movie in the park. Movies begin at dusk. Stop by early for a children’s craft project. Today’s movie is Zootopia. 7:30 p.m. Wilder Park, 175 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. (630) 739-1071, epd.org.

15 | SATURDAY

BIRTHDAY PACKAGE INCLUDES: • ADMISSION TO RINK • SKATE RENTAL • DECORATED CAKE • PIZZA & SOFT DRINK

• BIRTHDAY CENTERPIECE • BIRTHDAY HOST & MIC ANNOUNCEMENT • GIFT FOR BIRTHDAY PERSON

12 - 14 PER PERSON MINIMUM 10 PEOPLE

$

$

(Birthday package available during any public session.)

PRIVATE EVENTS, GRADUATIONS, SHOWERS AND MORE! DAY TIME AND EVENING AVAILABILITY 7 DAYS A WEEK

325 - $500 (Taxes Included)

$

As Seen on TV WGN’s Ch. 9 “Around Town”

PUBLIC SKATING HOURS WED EVENING 6:30PM-9PM $7 FRI EVENING 7:30PM-10:30PM $8 SAT MORNING 10:30AM-1PM $7 SAT AFTERNOON 1:30PM-4:30PM $8 SAT EVENING 7:30PM-10:30PM $8 SUN AFTERNOON 1:30AM-4:30PM $8 SUN EVENING 6:30PM-9PM $7

As Seen on TV ABC’s Ch. 7 “190 North”

PLUS $3.00 FOR SKATE RENTAL

like us on Facebook

CHICAGO CHICAGO YACHT CLUB RACE TO MACKINAC. More

than 300 boats compete in a 333-mile sprint from the Chicago Lighthouse, just east of Navy Pier, to the Round Island Channel near Mackinac Island, Mich. Sailors from U.S. and nine countries, spanning from Australia to the United Kingdom, will compete. Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. (312) 595-7437, navypier.com.

SUBURBS

7231 West Archer Ave. • Summit (1/4 Block West of Harlem, 3 Blocks South of I-55) Additional parking across Archer Avenue in our lot

708-458-0300 • www.fleetwoodrollerrink.com

NATURE NIGHTS. Glencoe. See

July 8.

EMPEROR’S NEW DESIGNER CLOTHES. This comic

A party your kiddo will never forget.

play is loosely based on the famous tale written by Hans Christian Andersen about weavers who trick an emperor into wearing “invisible” clothes. 2-3 p.m. Morton Grove Public Library, 6140 Lincoln Ave., Morton Grove. (847) 929-5102, webrary.org.

LAURIE BERKNER. Best-selling, award-winning children’s musician Laurie Berkner is a fixture on TV. Her music speaks to kids. $15, $5 lawn. Noon; 11 a.m. gates open.

Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Road, Highland Park. (847) 266-5100, ravinia.org.

icago Two Ch s! n Locatio

Rosemont • (773) 598-8027 rosemont.parties@sugarfactory.com River North • (773) 598-8026 chicagoparties@sugarfactory.com

* Mention this ad when booking your event for a complimentary party favor!

A PLAY ON WORDS. An

hour-long, interactive family-friendly show that explores the power of words. Bring a blanket and/or chairs and enjoy a picnic on the lawn. 5 p.m. McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. (630) 942-4000, atthemac.org.

AWESOME TRANSPORTATION WEEKEND. Explore all of the ways

to move by land, water and air.

Create a parachute and test it out, use everyday items to construct a water-powered boat, participate in static electricity races and more.

Free with museum admission.

DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville. (630) 637-8000, dupagechildrensmuseum. org.

PLAY DAY. Families can explore the playground, plant flowers in the Fragrance Garden, blow bubbles, draw with chalk, and socialize. Local libraries present sensoryfriendly story times. 10 a.m.-noon.

The Sensory Garden Playground, 2751 Navistar Drive, Lisle. playforall dupage.org.

16 | SUNDAY CHICAGO CHINATOWN SUMMER FAIR. Iconic annual celebration of

Far East culture includes the Dragon & Lion Dance Procession, artisans and food vendors. 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Wentworth Avenue and Cermak Road. (773) 868-3010, chinatown specialevents.org.

BLUE MAN GROUP AUTISMFRIENDLY PERFORMANCE. A

slightly modified performance of the Blue Man Group. Minor changes will be made to the performance including the reduction of sound levels at select moments. Headphones available upon request. In addition, Blue Man Group creates a calming environment in the lobby for anyone seeking a sensory break. $49, with $5 donated to Autism Speaks. 4 p.m.

Briar Street Theatre, 3133 N. Halsted St. (773) 348-4000, blueman.com.

SUBURBS WOODSTOCK FOLK FESTIVAL.

Music festival features folk acts.

Check website for performance information. $15, $10 seniors and students, $25 family. Noon-6 p.m.

Woodstock Square, Woodstock. woodstockfolkmusic.com/ folkfestival.

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CALENDAR

Ch C hin nattow own n Summ Su mmerr Faiir See JJuullyy 16 Se See

MALOTT JAPANESE GARDEN FAMILY SUNDAY. Glencoe. See

19 | WEDNESDAY

July 2.

WONDERFUL WATER. Lisle. See

July 11.

A PLAY ON WORDS. Glen Ellyn. See

July 15.

AWESOME TRANSPORTATION WEEKEND. Naperville. See July 15.

SPECIAL NEEDS NIGHT AT CENTENNIAL BEACH. Families of

individuals who have special needs can enjoy a quiet, relaxing evening outside normal hours. The shallow end and shallow-end slide will be open. No registration required. Check website for details. $3, members may use passes. 6:30-8 p.m. Centennial Beach, 500 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 848-5000, naper villeparks.org.

18 | TUESDAY MIDDLE SCHOOL NIGHT POOL PARTY. Middle schoolers enjoy food

specials at the concession stand with music provided by a DJ. Free with pool admission. 8:30-10 p.m. Flick Pool, 3600 Glenview Road, Glenview.

(847) 724-5670, glenviewparks.org.

FIREFLY FAMILY HIKES.

Take a short hike and seek out an incredible insect. 7-9 p.m. Plum Creek Nature Center, 27064 S. Dutton Road, Beecher. (708) 946-2216, reconnect withnature.org.

WONDERFUL WATER. Lisle. See

July 12.

20 | THURSDAY WONDERFUL WATER. Lisle. See

July 12.

21 | FRIDAY COOL SCIENCE: JUNIOR STAR WARS COOKING SCIENCE. Kids

3-5 make galactically delicious treats. $39, $26 resident. 4-5:30 p.m. Naperville Park District, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 8485000, napervilleparks.org.

ELMHURST CYCLING CLASSIC. A full day of professional

and amateur bike racing near Wilder Park and around Elmhurst College.

Register for the Family Fun Bike Parade and ride a couple laps on the same course as the pros. All surplus proceeds support community charities. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Wilder Park, 211 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. elmbike.com.

CHILDREN’S GARDEN CAMPOUT.

A campout designed especially for families with kids 2 and up, complete with activity stations, snacks, night hikes and bedtime stories. Bring a tent. Light evening snacks and light breakfast are included. $37. 6:30 p.m.-9 a.m. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

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dnesday -

pm l are invited. on Thurs.

CALENDAR 22 | SATURDAY CHICAGO DISABILITY PRIDE PARADE.

Parade marches west on Van Buren to Dearborn and north on Dearborn to Washington. Post-parade celebration takes place on Daley Plaza at 12:30 p.m. 11 a.m. Downtown Chicago. disabilityprideparade.org.

SUBURBS LOMBARD CIVIL WAR REENACTMENT. Mingle with Union

and Confederate soldiers, visit with Abe Lincoln, view a skirmish in the morning and larger battle in the afternoon. Four Seasons Park, Finley Road and 16th Street, Lombard. (630) 953-7300, lombardparks.com.

METAPHYSICALLY FIT FEST.

The festival brings together yoga teachers, holistic healers and live entertainment. Kids’ activities include children’s yoga, jump houses, face painting, arts and

crafts, and more. $10, $20 All Access; free kids 12 and under. 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Bicentennial Riverfront Park, E. Hydraulic Street, Yorkville. metaphysicallyfitfest.com.

CREATING CONNECTIONS.

Sensory story time especially for families of children with exceptional abilities and sensory processing issues. 2-3 p.m. West Chicago Public Library District, 118 W. Washington St., West Chicago. (630) 231-1552, westchicago.lib.il.us.

23 | SUNDAY SUBURBS IMAGINE U DRAMA WORKSHOP. A 45-minute creative

drama workshop with Northwestern teaching artists for kids 5-8 with members of the creative team from Wirtz Center’s “A Mid-Summer Night’s Daydream.” 12:30 p.m. Upstairs Blackbox, 1949 Campus Drive, Evanston. (847) 491-7282, communication.northwestern.edu/tic.

LOMBARD CIVIL WAR REENACTMENT. Lombard. See July

22.

MOVIE ON THE GREEN.

26 | WEDNESDAY DISCOVERY ISLE. Different activities or demonstrations focus on natural or cultural history. 1-3 p.m. Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E. 135th St. (Romeo Road), Romeoville.

(815) 886-1467, reconnectwith nature.org.

29 | SATURDAY CHICAGO SCIENCE OF THE CHICAGO AIR & WATER SHOW: BOATS. Kids 5-12

U.S. CLASSIC. The final qualifying event for women’s gymnastics for the P&G Gymnastics Championships. $79-$129. 2:30 p.m. Sears Centre Arena, 5333 Prairie Stone Parkway, Hoffman Estates. (847) 649-2270, searscentre.com.

get ready for the Chicago Air and Water Show by learning all about how boats work. $40, $36 members.

6:15-9 p.m. The Laboratory Chicago, 2349 W. North Ave. (630) 880-6458, thelaboratorychi.org.

SUBURBS FRIDAY NIGHT WITH THE FIREFLIES. Guided program offers

activities, a craft and a short hike.

7:30-9 p.m. Whalon Lake, Royce Road, 1 mile west of Route 53, Naperville.

GREAT AMERICAN FAMILY CAMPOUT. Includes outdoor

games, activities and campfire as well as a family movie, dinner

UPCOMING EVENTS: 2017 Fall Family Fun Day : Oct. 15, ages 6 and up, 12pm-2pm, $60 per person. You and your family will spend an afternoon horsing around. You will learn to groom, saddle and receive a riding lesson. Hot Dogs, chips and beverage are included.

10129 W 187 Street, Mokena, IL 708-479-3696 Novaquarterhorses1@yahoo.com th

Camp Dates: Week 4: July 10th - July 13th Week 5: July 24th -July 28th (Advanced Camp) Week 6: July 31st - August 3rd Cost: $325.00 per camper $350 per camper for Advanced Camp**

2017 Ladies Night Out : Nov. 3, 6:308:30pm, ages 18 and up. Bond over appetizers and beverages as you prepare for fun activities on horseback. $60/person.

2018 Holiday Horse Camp : Jan 2-5, 10am3pm. Check website for more details.

Camp Hours: Monday - Thursday 9am -3pm Ages 7 to 18 *Camp t-shirt provided

Enjoy a free movie every Friday at dusk. Sit back, relax and enjoy the outdoors. Today’s movie is Moana.

7:45 p.m. Odyssey Fun World, 19111 S. Oak Park Ave., Tinley Park. (708) 429-3800, odysseyfunworld.com.

28 | FRIDAY

Nova Quarter Horses, Inc. 2017 Summer Horse Camp

Participants will get hands-on experience learning: • Horsemanship skills • Feeding, grooming, bridling and saddling • Daily riding lesson • Barn Etiquette

(815) 727-8700, fpdwc.org.

10 off %

a riding package www.novaquarterhorses.com 46 July 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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CALENDAR Saturday and breakfast on Sunday.

Bring camping gear. $35 family, $28 resident family. 6 p.m.-7:30 a.m.

Hunt Club Park, 920 N. Hunt Club Road, Gurnee. (847) 623-7788, gurneeparkdistrict.com.

CHICAGO INTERNATIONAL DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL. Races

begin at 9 a.m. and continue throughout the day. Festival grounds offer a variety of activities, including Asian cultural performances. Kids can enjoy games and activities in the Kids Zone.

9 a.m.-4 p.m. Lake Arlington, 2201 N. Windsor Drive, Arlington Heights. gwndragonboat.com.

Children’s Garrd de en Camp Ca pou o t See July Se July Ju ly 21

IMAGINE U BLOCK PARTY.

A fun-filled day of outdoor family activities, music and games. The event will take place during the twoshow day of “A Mid-Summer Night’s Daydream,” just outside the theater.

Fairy costumes are encouraged.

Noon-5 p.m. Ethel M. Barber Theater, 30 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston.

(847) 491-7282, communication. northwest ern.edu/tic/.

JOYOUS STRING ENSEMBLE. A kid string ensemble with musical aptitude way beyond their years. $10. 11 a.m.; gates open at 10 a.m.

Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Road, Highland Park. (847) 2665100, ravinia.org.

U.S. CLASSIC. Hoffman Estates.

See July 28. Today’s times are 1 p.m.

(juniors) and 6:30 p.m. (seniors).

FAMILY TWILIGHT ADVENTURES.

Lisle. See July 14.

BEETLE MANIA! Kids 9-12 experi-

ence the amazing colors and shapes of beetles. Use scientific equipment to collect live beetles and observe them. $24, $16 resident. 10 a.m.-noon.

Naperville Park District, 305 W. Jackson Ave., Naperville. (630) 8485000, napervilleparks.org.

30 | SUNDAY SUBURBS SPECIAL NEEDS NIGHT AT CENTENNIAL BEACH. Naperville.

See July 16.

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• Beautiful, picturesque, wooded countryside • One hour & 15 minutes from Chicago Loop!

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BILLY BOY’S BLUEBERRY BARN 650 Freyer Rd. • Michigan City, IN 219.872.7477

www.billyboysblueberrybarn.com (check website or call)

ChicagoParent.com July 2017 47

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EXHIBIT

Exhibits perfect for Chi kids

T

here are lots of reasons to feel lucky to live in Chicagoland, and our three excellent children’s museums are at the top of the list. Thanks to relaxed schedules (and the need for some non-classroom learning), arning), summer is the perfect time to explore these se local gems. And while you’re there, check out their heir newest exhibits! All three are free with museum admission.

Chicago Children’s Museum: Building forts is a hallmark of childhood—and the inspiration behind the museum’s “Forts” exhibit. Kids can use their imaginations to o build the fort of their dreams, with the help elp of construction materials that are a bit more ore exotic than what you have at home (we’ree looking at you, couch cushions). Of course, while th they’re ’ constructing, they’re also learning problem solving skills, working with other kids … and having a ball.

Through Sept. 17. 700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago. (312) 527-1000, chicagochildrens museum.org.

Kohl Children’s Museum: School may be out for the summer, but you don’t want your kids to lose their hard-earned STEM skills.

Enter “Science + You,” a returning exhibit (it was here back in 2011) that explores how scientists impact our health and wellness.

The kid-sized laboratory is stocked with hands-on items like microscopes, test tubes and a glove box, not to mention some downright adorable mini-lab coats. Just try not to take a picture! #futurescientist. Through Aug. 27. 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview. (847) 832-6600, kohlchildrensmuseum.org.

Chicago Parent is having a new baby, too!

Hey Baby, (in conjunction with Bump Club and Beyond) is an essential guide for expectant and new parents.

DuPage Children’s Museum: Water tables are always a big hit at children’s museums, but the brand new “AWEsome Water” really makes a splash. The long-awaited exhibit shows kids the power of water, letting them experiment to come up with some creative solutions and popping a few bubbles along the way. You might want to bring along a change of clothes for your littles—they’re going to want to get up-close-and-personal with this one! 301 N. Washington St., Naperville. (630) 637-8000, dupage childrensmuseum.org.

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Come find the best ideas and talent for your next school assembly or youth program.

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FAIRS & FESTS OAK FEST. Features bingo, a bean bag tournament, bands, a car show, food and family fun, including a carnival. Event culminates with fireworks. Check website for cost and schedule. June 29-July 4. Northeast corner of 159th Street and Central Avenue, Oak Forest. oakfest.com.

WINDY CITY RIBFEST. Features live music, lots of ribs, arts and crafts, and a kids’ area (on Saturday and Sunday afternoons). $5. June 30-July 2. Lawrence Avenue and Broadway Street, Chicago. windycityribfest.com.

EYES TO THE SKIES BALLOON FESTIVAL. Features hot air balloon

shows and rides (weather permitting), as well as musical entertainment, a special kids’ area, an arts and crafts fair, fireworks, a carnival and daily events. $8; free kids 6 and under. Check website for schedule.

June 30-July 2. Community Park, 1825 Short St., Lisle. (630) 769-1000, eyestotheskies.org.

NAPERVILLE RIBFEST. Features a BBQ contest with several rib vendors, food, two live music stages, special events and fireworks. Family area features carnival rides, inflatables, circus tricks, magic show, face painting, petting zoo and live performances.

Check website for cost. Noon-10 p.m.

June 30-July 3. Knoch Park, 700 S. West St., Naperville. ribfest.net.

FRONTIER DAYS. Features family-friendly activities, live music, a carnival, a Fourth of July parade and a craft market. Carnival tickets and other activities cost extra. June 30July 4. Recreation Park, three blocks east of Arlington Heights Road at 500 Miner St., Arlington Heights. (847) 577-8572, frontierdays.org.

CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN ART FESTIVAL. Guests can stroll

the Esplanade and shop for botanicthemed art and art made from plant materials. More than 90 juried artists display their work. Artist talks and family activities are featured. Parking fees apply. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 1-2.

Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

EA E AA A AiirrV Ven entu ture tu rre e Osh Os Oshk hk kos osh SSeee pa paagge 53

INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF LIFE. Features international and

local acts on two stages, arts and crafts, food, games and entertainment for kids. Check website for cost and schedule. July 1-4. Union Park, 1501 W. Randolph St., Chicago. (312) 4270266, internationalfestivaloflife.com.

TASTE OF CHICAGO. A massive foodie fair complete with live music and activities for the entire family. Popular features include a three-course fine dining experience prepared by a notable Chicago chef, Kids Eat Chicago (July 8-9), pop-up restaurants, food trucks and more. Additional cost for food and seating at Petrillo. Check website for schedule. July 5-9. Grant Park, 331 E. Randolph St., Chicago. (312) 7443315, tasteofchicago.us.

WEST CHICAGO RAILROAD DAYS. Music, food, fireworks,

carnival rides, parade, 5K run/ walk, community art show and beer garden. Check website for schedule.

July 6-9. Pioneer Park, Lyman Street, West Chicago. (630) 231-3003, westchicago.org/city-events/railroad-days.

MILLENNIUM ART FESTIVAL. Art and design show that

showcases the talents of more than 110 juried artists. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. July

7; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 8; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 9. Lake Street at Michigan Avenue, Chicago. amdurproductions. com/millennium-art-festival.

Roscoe Village, Belmont and Damen avenues, Chicago. (773) 868-3010, roscoevillageburgerfest.com.

SQUARE ROOTS FESTIVAL. More

A celebration of creativity in African American heritage that begins and ends with an artistic explosion. The weekend-long celebration marks many different contributions from the African American community to a global cultural landscape. Includes music and entertainment. Noon-10 p.m. July 8-9. The DuSable Museum of African American History, 740 E. 56th Place, Chicago. (773) 947-0600, dusablemuseum.org.

ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL.

than 70 acts including music, dance parties, jams and kids area with games, crafts, interactive concerts, the “Instrument Petting Zoo” and more. Also features local and regional craft breweries and restaurants.

Suggested donation: $10, $5 seniors and kids, $20 families. 5-10 p.m. July 7; noon-10 p.m. July 8; noon-9 p.m.

July 9. 4400-4560 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago. (773) 728-6000, square roots.org.

WEST FEST. Features live music on

three stages, plus Kid Fest, Pup Fest, and an array of vendor booths from neighborhood retailers, restaurants and artists. $5 donation. 5-10 p.m.

July 7; noon-10 p.m. July 8-9.

Chicago Avenue between Damen Avenue and Wood Street, Chicago.

(312) 850-9390, westfestchicago. com.

ROSCOE VILLAGE BURGER FEST.

The savory patty and a rockin’ music lineup are in the spotlight. In addition to food and music, arts/crafts and a Kids’ Zone are on the weekend’s menu. $10. 11 a.m.-10 p.m. July 8-9.

NORTH SHORE FESTIVAL OF ART OLD ORCHARD. Features

more than 120 juried artists, food, live music and kids’ activities including art bingo and color creation station. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 8-9.

Westfield Old Orchard, 4999 Old Orchard Center, Skokie. (847) 9264300, northshorefestivalofart.com.

CIVIL WAR DAYS. See large-scale

battle reenactments, explore camps and shops and meet various characters. $10; $5 kids 4-17. Includes museum admission and parking. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 8; 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

July 9. Lakewood Forest Preserve, Rte. 176, west of Fairfield Road,

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FAIRS & FESTS Wauconda. (847) 968-3400, lcfpd. org/civilwar.

VERNON HILLS SUMMER CELEBRATION. Includes live music,

carnival rides, food, bingo games, car show and kids’ activities. Check website for schedule. July 13-16. Century Park, north of U.S. 60 on Lakeview Parkway, Vernon Hills. (847) 3618979, summercel.com.

BENFEST. Highlights a menu

of food and refreshments, craft beer, live music and quality family entertainment. The marketplace on Leavitt includes local vendors.

“Rock the Fest” is a youth band showcase hosted by School of Rock.

The popular children’s area features live music and dance for various ages, games, waterslide, inflatables, face-painting, arts and crafts area, Sport Zone and more. $5 donation.

4-10 p.m. July 14; 1-10 p.m. July 15; 1-7 p.m. July 16. St. Benedict Church, 2215 W. Irving Park, Chicago. benfest.com.

ORY

WINDY CITY SMOKEOUT. Guests can enjoy southern-inspired fare from premiere Chicago BBQ restaurants and have the opportunity to interact with chefs and their culinary teams.

Plus, country music and a Family Day on Sunday. Check website for cost and schedule. July 14-16. Grand and the Chicago River, Chicago. windy citysmokeout.com.

ST. HARALAMBOS BIG GREEK FOOD FEST OF NILES. Features

Greek food, cooking demonstrations, live Greek music and dancing.

Kid’s Korner is a secure area where kids can enjoy face painting, crafts and more. Tours of the church are available. $2, $1 seniors, free kids 12 and under; free 3-5 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday. 5 p.m.midnight July 14; 3 p.m.-midnight July 15-16. Holy Taxiarhai and Saint Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church, 7373 Caldwell Ave., Niles.

(847) 647-8880, biggreekfoodfest ofniles.org.

West We es stt F es est See pa Se p ggee 50

Churchill Park hosts a Children’s Area (10 a.m.-noon) with nature inspired activities sponsored by local businesses and schools. $5 donation.

11 a.m.-5 p.m. July 15-16. Bucktown Garden Walk, 1825 N. Damen (starting point at Churchill Park), Chicago.

(773) 486-4353, facebook.com/ bucktowngarden.

WINDMILL CITY FESTIVAL.

Features carnival, entertainment, music and demonstrations. Check website for schedule. July 14-16.

Batavia Riverwalk, 100 Island Ave., Batavia. (630) 879-5235, windmill cityfest.org.

BUCKTOWN GARDEN WALK.

Features a garden walk, tree walk, trolley rides, live music at Club Lucky and petting zoo at Lottie’s Pub.

SOUTHPORT ART FESTIVAL.

Showcases the work of 100 juried

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Infants, Children, Teens & Special Needs Children

www.care4kidsteeth.com ChicagoParent.com July 2017 51

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FAIRS & FESTS artists. In addition to the artwork, festival-goers enjoy food from neighboring restaurants and live musical performances. $5 donation. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. July 15; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 16. 3700 N. Southport at Waveland, Chicago. (773) 665-4682, south portartfestival.com.

ART IN THE PARK. Juried fine art and fine craft show. Includes live music both days, hands-on kids’ art activities and a food court. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 15-16. Village Green Park, Meadow and Shermer, Northbrook.

(847) 726-8669, amdurproductions. com/art-park-festival.

WORLD ARTS & MUSIC FESTIVAL. Features more than 100

nations represented through the work of visual artists, two venues of continuous performances and entertainment, children’s art activities and ethnic food booths. Noon-7 p.m. July 15-16. Dawes Park, Sheridan Road at Church Street, Evanston. (847) 4488260, cityofevanston.org.

NORTH SHORE TACO FEST WITH HIGHWOOD DAYS. Features

carnival rides, funnel cakes, live music and tons of food from local vendors. Plus, the region’s best taco-centric restaurants, caterers and food trucks offer a wide range of taco creations. Check website for schedule. July 20-23. Everts Park, 130 Highwood Ave., Highwood. (847) 433-2100, celebratehighwood.com/ taste.html.

TASTE OF RIVER NORTH. Enjoy

cuisine from River North restaurants, merchants, artists and music.

Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago & Kohl’s Cares present the Kid Zone with entertainment, the Ward Park playground, dancing, face painters, stilt walkers, balloon artists and various demos.

The tent is staffed by the Lurie Children’s Community Volunteer Corps, who help teach kids about bike, pedestrian and safety. $5 donation. Check website for schedule.

July 21-23. Ward Park, Kingsbury

La L Lake ake ke Cou o ntty F Fa airr Seee pa Se page ggee 53

Street and Erie, Chicago. tasteof rivernorth.com.

SHEFFIELD GARDEN WALK & FESTIVAL. In addition to two

stages of music, more than 80 of

the neighborhood’s lush residential gardens are open for the pubic to explore. There are both self-guided garden tours and guided architectural tours. Also includes food and the Kids’ Corner with entertainment

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52 July 2017 ChicagoParent.com

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FAIRS & FESTS and activities for families. $7-$10 suggested donation. Noon-10 p.m.

July 22-23. Sheffield Avenue, between Webster and Belden, Chicago. sheffieldgardenwalk.com.

derbies, carnival rides, community service projects, concerts, craft fair and horse shows. Check website for cost and schedule. July 26-30. 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton. (630) 668-6636, dupagecountyfair.org.

GENEVA FINE ARTS FAIR.

Features more than 150 artisans and a kids’ art area with special activities.

Check website for schedule. July 22-23. Third Street, Geneva. (630) 232-6060, genevachamber.com/ geneva_art_fairs.php.

EAA AIRVENTURE OSHKOSH.

Features 10,000 aircraft, 2,500 showplanes, world-class daily air shows plus two night air shows featuring pyrotechnic and fireworks (Wednesday & Saturday), evening entertainment, 800 exhibit areas, 1,000 forums and workshops, onsite camping, and KidVenture with handson activities. Check website for cost and schedule. July 24-30. Oshkosh, Wis. airventure.org.

DUPAGE COUNTY FAIR.

Entertainment includes rodeo, demo

ORY

LAKE COUNTY FAIR. Features

motocross and demolition derbies, professional rodeo, daily entertainment stages, Camping World and County Fair traditions in the livestock barns and auction, horse show, carnival midway, petting zoo, diverse food and more. $5-$10; free kids under 5.

July 26-30. Peterson and Midlothian roads, Grayslake. (847) 680-7200, lcfair.com.

FIESTA DEL SOL. Includes Aztec

dancing, local art exhibit, craft workshop, a children’s area with read-out-loud sessions, free books, games and educational activities, Civil Rights of Immigrants Booth, College Fair, live entertainment, Pilsen School Expo, indoor soccer tournaments, free health screenings and food vendor. Check website for schedule.

July 27-30. 1400 W. Cermak Road, Chicago. (312) 666-2663, fiestadel sol.org.

PIEROGI FEST. Features food, entertainment, kids’ play area, polka parade and pierogi-eating contest.

Check website for schedule. July 28-30. Downtown Whiting on 119th Street, Whiting, Ind. (888) 659-0292, pierogifest.net.

TASTE OF LINCOLN AVENUE.

Features 100-plus vendors, food and more than 20 acts on two music stages. New “Sausage Fest” features local restaurants and meat emporiums selling encased meats.

Ticketed wine tastings also available.

Afternoons feature a stand-alone “kids’ carnival” on Altgeld with art activities, pony rides and more. $8 donation. Noon-10 p.m. July 29-30.

North Lincoln Avenue between Fullerton & Wrightwood, Chicago. tasteoflincolnchicago.com.

GLENCOE FESTIVAL OF ART.

Features more than 110 juried artists

from around the world. Plus, live music, food and activities for kids, including an art scavenger hunt. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 29-30. Green Bay Road and Park Avenue, Glencoe.

(847) 926-4300, glencoefestivalofart. com.

RANDOLPH STREET MARKET.

Features art, antiques, vintage, handmade, food, drinks, live music and a kids’ area in Plumbers Hall. Every kid gets a treasure map to navigate the market. $8, free kids under 12.

10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 29-30. 1350 W. Randolph St., Chicago. randolph streetmarket.com.

WICKER PARK FEST. Features three

stages of continuous live music, a dedicated children’s fun area, an arts section with installation and performance acts, dozens of local vendors and restaurants, and environmentally-friendly production efforts. $10 donation. Noon-10 p.m. July 29-30.

Milwaukee Avenue, between North Avenue and Paulina, Chicago. (773) 384-2672, wickerparkfest.com.

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4 fantastic fourth fests

T

his month, we’re celebrating the good old US of A from sea to shining sea— and all across Chicagoland.

Independence Day parades are a dime a dozen, and fireworks displays can happen in your backyard (sometimes quite literally). But here are four fourth fests that combine all the festivity into some pretty epic shindigs.

NORTH: This party kicks off in the morning and doesn’t stop until after the sun goes down! Highland Park’s 4th of July Celebration includes a children’s bike and pet parade before the main parade steps off, so they can march and collect those piles of candy (that is why they’re really there). Then spend the afternoon in Sunset Woods Park, which has carnival rides

and amusements, plus a petting zoo, pony rides, good eats and rockin’ music.

Wrap up your day at Hidden Creek AquaPark, where you can watch the spectacular fireworks from the comfort of a pool raft. pdhp.org.

SOUTH: Whatever your family’s interests, you’ll find lots to do at Oak Lawn’s Star Spangled Fourth of July Celebration. The day is packed with family-friendly pursuits from inflatables to a treasure hunt and even a tricycle car wash. Show off your unusual abilities in the Oak Lawn’s Got Talent competition or the more traditional Watermelon-Eating Contest (adults can join too!).

Tickets include admission to Centennial Aquatic Center, so you can really make a splash.

And once you’ve worn out the kiddos with a full day of fun, head over to Richards

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High School for music and a fireworks display. olparks.org.

WEST: We’re firm believers in keeping the party going as long as possible, which is why Glen Ellyn’s 4th of July Celebration sounds like such fun. The festivities kick off on Saturday (July 1) with a Food Truck Picnic in the Park and a cardboard boat race across Lake Ellyn. Then come back on the 4th for a four-mile run, followed by the community parade, afternoon activities such as a penny arcade, an inflatable obstacle course and dancing, and fireworks at dusk. Sounds like there’s a good chance your kids might

actually sleep in on the 5th! glenellyn4thofjuly.com.

CITY: Everyone knows that Chicago has the best fireworks, and the rooftop at Navy Pier is simply the best vantage point for maximum ooohs and aaahs.

So head to the family-friendly Freedom Fest, where you can chow down on BBQ faves before watching the brightly colored explosions over Lake Michigan. A DJ will be spinning some tunes—patriotic and otherwise—so be sure to wear some shoes you can dance in.

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ONGOING EVENTS EXHIBITS CHASING ECLIPSES. Exhibit immerses visitors in the spine-tingling, goosebump-inducing experience of a solar eclipse. Prepare to chase down the great solar eclipse on Aug. 21.

Free with museum admission. Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 922-7827, adlerplanetarium.org.

DINOS & DRAGONS. Features 17 animatronic creatures along an outdoor path. Inside a tented area, get up-close views of live reptiles, including a 6-foot-long Komodo dragon. $5, $3 kids 3-11. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. (708) 688-8000, czs.org.

BUTTERFLIES & BLOOMS.

Outdoor butterfly garden with hundreds of live tropical butterfly species from around the world. $6, $5 seniors, $4 kids 3-12. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., weather permitting. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicago botanic.org.

BRICK BY BRICK. Features more

than a dozen giant Lego-built structures of engineering marvels. Requires a separate, timed-entry ticket.

Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (773) 684-1414, msichicago.org.

EXTREME ICE. Touch and see a

7-foot-tall ice wall, see how rising temps will affect Chicago, explore the work of ice scientists throughout the world and understand the part they can play in mitigating the effects of climate change. Free with museum admission. Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (773) 6841414, msichicago.org.

ROBOT REVOLUTION. A collection of cutting-edge robots, including a life-sized humanoid robot, the Cube Solver, who dazzles guests with its lightning-fast ability to solve a Rubik’s cube. $12, $9 kids. Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (773) 6841414, msichicago.org.

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OUR HOUSE: RETHINKING HOME IN A CHANGING CLIMATE.

Families can build, play and discover how scientists are rethinking home to face the challenges of climate change.

Packed with fun, interactive experiences. Free with museum admission.

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago.

(773) 755-5100, naturemuseum.org.

JURASSIC WORLD: THE EXHIBITION. The exhibit immerses

audiences of all ages in settings inspired by the film franchise. Guests walk through the famous Jurassic World gates to get up close to the towering dinosaurs, some more than 24 feet tall, and explore the Park through a specially guided tour. $15, $10 kids (daytime); $25, $20 kids (evening). 9 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. The Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. (312) 922-9410, fieldmuseum.org.

ORIGAMI IN THE GARDEN. See 25

displays of metal sculptures based on the traditional Japanese art of paper folding. Created by artists Kevin and Jennifer Box, the exhibit features installations, gallery works, and the Boxes’ own compositions, as well as collaborative works with some of the

world’s top origami artists. Free with arboretum admission. 7 a.m.-sunset daily. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 9680074, mortonarb.org.

week has a theme. $5 parking. 1-3 p.m. Wednesdays. Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton.

(630) 668-5161, cantigny.org.

DROP-IN PROGRAM. Stop by

MODEL RAILROAD GARDEN: LANDMARKS OF AMERICA.

Features trains traversing bridges and trestles, past miniature scenes of America’s best-loved landmarks and beautiful gardens planted to scale. $6, $5 seniors, $4 kids 3-12, free kids under 3. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily; 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Wednesdays.

Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

OTHER EVENTS TREE POSE YOGA. Kids 4-6, with

adult, learn about the environment while stretching, moving and breathing like the creatures around them. $17, $10 members. 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Mondays. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

WILD WEDNESDAYS. Kids 3-10 enjoy hands-on nature exploration through games and crafts. Each

for some fun featuring the exhibit “McDonald’s Hamburger University.”

This month’s theme is “Shake it Up.” $1 per child. Noon-5 p.m.

Wednesdays. Elk Grove Historical Museum, 399 Biesterfield Road, Elk Grove Village. (847) 439-3994, elkgroveparks.org/museum.

ACORN EXPRESS ADVENTURES.

Families with kids 2 and up take an open-air tram ride adventure through the arboretum. Plus, make a craft. $5, $4 member, plus admission. 11-11:45 a.m. Wednesdays and Fridays. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

FAMILY DROP-IN ACTIVITIES IN THE COVE. Explore the plants

and animals in aquatic habitats and learn what animals depend on ponds and lakes. Parking fee applies.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesdays and weekends. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe. (847) 835-5440, chicagobotanic.org.

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ONGOING EVENTS

Bu B utt tter erfl erfl fliies & Bl Bloo Bloo ooms ooms See Se ee pa page ge 57

PARENT AND TODDLER YOGA.

Kids 2-5, with adult, practice fun animal yoga poses and engage in activities like guided nature exploration, reading storybooks and more.

After class, visit animals that inspire this unique, animal-themed yoga class. $20. 10-11 a.m. Thursdays.

Lincoln Park Zoo, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago. (312) 742-2000, lpzoo.org.

THURSDAY FAMILY NIGHTS.

Enjoy live music, kid-friendly fare and entertainment after-hours in the Children’s Garden. $5 after 4:30 p.m. 5-8 p.m. Thursdays. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb. org.

SUMMER NIGHTS. Enjoy live

music, kids’ entertainment, a beer and wine garden, roaming performers, and special Zoo Chats on the zoo’s East Mall. Each night concludes with a laser light show. Free with zoo admission. 4-9 p.m. FridaysSaturdays. Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. (708) 688-8000, czs. org.

CHICAGO SUMMERDANCE.

One-hour dance lessons by professional instructors and two hours of live music and dancing. 6-7 p.m. dance lessons, 7:30-9:30 p.m. live music and dancing Fridays-Saturdays;

4-5 p.m. dance lessons, 5-7 p.m. live music and dancing Sundays. Spirit of Music Garden in Grant Park, 601 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. (312) 7424007, chicagosummerdance.org.

SATURDAY FAMILY FUN. Enjoy

a covered pony ring, the Children’s Farm Animal Barn with farm animals, and horseback trail rides for riders 8 and up. $3 pony and wagon rides; $30, $25 resident trail rides.

Noon-4 p.m. Saturdays. Lockwood Park Trailside Equestrian Centre & Children’s Farm, 5201 Safford Road, Rockford. (815) 987-8809, rockford parkdistrict.org/lockwood.

TOT TIME AT SMALLEY POOL. A

chance for little ones 5 and under to splash around without the bigger kids. Free with pool admission. 9 a.m.-noon Saturdays. Norman P. Smalley Swimming Pool, 665 S. York Road, Elmhurst. (630) 993-8985, epd.org.

BRISTOL RENAISSANCE FAIRE.

More than 1,200 performers, artisans and merchants take visitors on a trip through Elizabethan England. Kids Kingdom is an enclosed play area. $24.95, $11.50 kids, free kids 4 and under. 10 a.m.-7 p.m. weekends.

West of I-94, exit Russell Road and follow the signs, near the IllinoisWisconsin border, Kenosha, Wis. (847) 395-7773, renfair.com/bristol.

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PERFORMANCES THEATRE-HIKES. A walking

production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Each performance lasts about three hours. Check website for cost. 6:30 p.m. weekends. The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle. (630) 968-0074, mortonarb.org.

CIRQUE ITALIA. A production that combines acrobatics, dance, contortion and high-performance BMX and roller-skating. Includes mermaids, dinosaurs, laser lights, bubbles, aerialists and more. $10-$50. 7:30 p.m. July 6-7; 1:30, 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. July 8; 1:30 and 4:30 p.m. July 9. Orland Square Mall, 288 Orland Square, Orland Park. cirqueitalia.com ALICE IN WONDERLAND.

Through July 13. Follow Alice down the rabbit hole. Playing at East Leyden Auditorium, Joliet Junior College, Moraine Valley College and Tivoli Theatre. Recommended for families with kids 4-10. $8.50. Check website for schedule. AlphaBet Soup Productions, P.O. Box 85, Lombard.

(630) 932-1555, absproductions.com.

MADAGASCAR – A MUSICAL ADVENTURE. Opens July 13. Follow

Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Gloria the Hippo, Melman the Giraffe and the Penguins on a hilarious journey from Manhattan to Madagascar. $34, $22 kids 12 and under. Check website for schedule. Chicago Shakespeare Theater, 800 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago. (312) 595-5600, chicagoshakes.com.

RHYTHM WORLD. The oldest festi-

val of American tap and contemporary percussive arts in the world takes place at the American Rhythm Center, Studebaker Theater, Jazz Showcase and the Polk Bros. Performance Lawns at Navy Pier. Check website for cost and schedule. July 17-22.

Chicago Human Rhythm Project, 410 S. Michigan Ave., Suite 464, Chicago.

(773) 281-1825, chicagotap.org.

ROBIN HOOD AND MAID MARIAN. Join Robin Hood

on a merry musical adventure.

Recommended for families with kids 4-10. $14, $12 kids 12 and under. 10

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a.m. and 1 p.m. Monday-Friday; 11 a.m. Saturday. July 17-22. Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights.

(847) 577-2121, metropolisarts.com.

THE UGLY DUCKLING. Through July 21. This bilingual musical is an updated version of the classic tale with Sophia, the new duckling at Lucky Duck School. Recommended for families with kids 2-8. $12. 10:30 a.m. selected weekdays. Stahl Family Theater, 5900 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago. (773) 205-9600, chicagokids company.com.

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DAYDREAM. A new, original adaptation

of the comedic romp. Recommended for families with kids 9 and up. $5-$25. Check website for schedule.

July 21-30. Ethel M. Barber Theater, 30 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston. (847) 491-7282, communication.north western.edu/tic.

CIRQUE DU SOLEIL PRESENTS LUZIA - A WAKING DREAM OF MEXICO. Opens July 21. Rich in awe-

inspiring moments, LUZIA incorporates rain into acrobatic and artistic

scenes. $35 and up. Check website for schedule. United Center, 1901 W. Madison St., Chicago. cirquedusoleil. com.

CHICAGO SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARKS. Opens July 26.

This 75-minute abridged production of “Romeo and Juliet” is coming to 18 neighborhood parks across the city. Check website for schedule and locations. Chicago Shakespeare Theater, 800 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, Chicago. (312) 595-5600, chicagoshakes.com.

DISNEY’S ALADDIN. An extraordinary theatrical event where one lamp and three wishes make the possibilities infinite. $35 and up.

Check website for schedule. Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St., Chicago. (312) 977-1700, broadway inchicago.com.

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. In this original adaptation, Bella ventures from her village to the Beast’s castle to save her Papa. Recommended for families with kids 2-10. $6-$12.

Check website for schedule. Stahl Family Theater, 5900 W. Belmont,

Chicago. (773) 205-9600, chicagokids company.com.

MOTHER GOOSE’S GARDEN.

Join Jack and Jill as they search for Mother Goose. Recommended for families with kids 5 and under. $16.

Emerald City’s Little Theatre, 2933 N. Southport Ave., Chicago. (773) 9356100, emeraldcitytheatre.com.

THAT’S WEIRD, GRANDMA: ATTACK OF THE PHANTOM OF THE BBQ. Barrel of Monkeys

premieres new stories written by Chicago Public School students and adapted by company members. $12, $6 kids under 12. 8 p.m. Mondays.

Barrel of Monkeys, Neo-Futurist Theater, 5153 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago. (312) 409-1954, barrelof monkeys.org.

HOGWASH: AN IMPROVISED TALL TALE. An improvised

children’s show full of music, art, laughs and audience participation.

Recommended for families with kids 2-12. $10 kids, free adults. 10:30 a.m. Saturdays. Bughouse Theater, 1910 W. Irving Park, Chicago. bug housetheater.com.

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For more information, call (708) 386 5555 or visit ChicagoParent.com

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WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS

Dance the summer away

I

t’s not a surprise that we’re suckers for dancing kids in any context. But put them in the beauty of the Chicago Botanic Garden and add in some delicious eats (and wine for mommy) and we’re completely sold.

That, in a nutshell, is what Dancin’ Sprouts is all about: free musical entertainment for the kiddos, while parents chow down on food they purchase on site or bring in a picnic basket (your littles will probably want a bite, too). And the garden books some of our area’s favorite musicians!

This month, enjoy the musical stylings of The Exceptionals (July 5), who specially design their concerts for kids with sensory differences; Mr. Singer

& The Sharp Cookies (July 12), a rock band with a few surprises; bilingual kindie group Moona Luna (July 19); and Farmer Jason (July 26), whose unique brand of Americana will get your toes tapping.

The concerts take place on

Dancin’ Sprouts u Free, $30 parking u 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesdays u Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe u chicagobotanic.org. the normally picnic-free Esplanade, which is basically the ideal spot for enjoying an outdoor concert with lots of audience participation.

Dancin’ Sprouts continues through August with an eclectic mix of musicians, so you’re sure to find a concert that’s perfectly fitted to your family’s musical tastes.

Once you’re done busting a move and downing that rosé, stop by the alwayspopular Model Railroad Garden, which stays open until 8 p.m. on Wednesdays for maximum family participation, post-concert.

Trains, tunes and time spent in a gorgeous garden? We’ll see you there.

Elizabeth Diffin

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