The NW Illinois Directory
Explore All 821 Places
Every supper club, trailhead, main-street shop, and stay across all four counties — searchable in one place.
Autumn on ParadeAnnual fall festival held the first full weekend in October in downtown Oregon. Features more than 180 market vendors, a food court, car and tractor shows, a family Fun Zone, the Olde English Faire and Harvest Time Parade.
ByronFestAnnual downtown Byron family festival held the second full weekend in July. ByronFest features live music on multiple stages, a carnival midway, Taste of ByronFest, a parade, car show, 5K and fun run, children’s activities, sports tournaments, and community events.
Canterbury Concert Series | Rendezvous ArtsRendezvous Arts — a series under Canterbury Concert Series — brings music, visual art, and community spirit together across Northwest Illinois and greater Chicagoland. Initially founded in spring 2020 by a collective of artists responding to pandemic-era challenges, Rendezvous Arts has grown into a vibrant nonprofit platform dedicated to reshaping artistic expression, nurturing emerging talent, and spreading the joy of live music and art. As part of Canterbury Concert Series, Rendezvous Arts delivers a curated lineup of performances and exhibitions across multiple venues — including Dixon, Lake Forest, and Chicago — offering 23 events in the 2025–26 season alone. These monthly gatherings (plus special events like the Ravenswood ArtWalk) showcase everything from string quartets and jazz ensembles to live painting and multimedia art. Whether you’re a longtime music lover or new to the arts scene, Rendezvous Arts offers something for everyone: world-class performances, local talent, and an inviting community atmosphere under the broader Canterbury umbrella.
Dixon City MarketDixon City Market brings 50+ local and regional crafters, artisans and food vendors to the riverfront, with live music, drinks and kids activities. The 2026 market runs 5–8 p.m. Wednesdays from May 27 through Aug. 5 on the published event dates, concluding with Dixon City Market Jr. Check Discover Dixon for the current schedule and vendor applications.
Dixon Municipal BandThe Dixon Municipal Band is one of Dixon’s longest-standing traditions, bringing more than a century of live music to the community. This volunteer-powered ensemble blends the talents of high school musicians, community players, and experienced professionals, creating warm, crowd-pleasing performances all season long. Each summer, the band fills the Page Park Band Shell with marches, classics, Broadway hits, and other familiar favorites during its free outdoor concert series. They also present an annual Christmas concert—free to attend with reserved tickets—along with appearances at parades and special community events. Committed to offering meaningful musical opportunities and enriching local culture, the band continues to grow through community support, fundraising, and sponsorships. Performances take place at venues throughout Dixon, with the Page Park Band Shell and The Historic Dixon Theatre serving as frequent hosts.
- Dixon Petunia Festival, Inc.
Lanark Old Settlers Days🎉 Join us for Old Settlers Days – Fun for the Whole Family! 🎉 Step into a celebration packed with excitement for all ages! Enjoy free inflatables for the kids, explore exotic animals, and test your skills with laser tag or ax throwing. Treat your taste buds with a variety of food vendors, shop unique treasures from our craft vendors, and sip your favorite drinks at the beer garden. There’s never a dull moment with family-oriented games, face painting, a petting zoo, and kiddie water fights to cool off. Start your morning strong with our 5K run, marvel at balloon animals, enjoy the parade, and soak in the rhythm of live music. Brave souls can even take a turn at the dunk tank! Whether you’re young or young at heart, Old Settlers Days has something for everyone—come make memories that will last a lifetime!
Ogle County Fair Association & Fairground
- PawPaw Festival in Paw Paw
Rhythm Section AmphitheaterThe Rhythm Section Amphitheater is 2 miles north of Mt. Carroll and part of the MCMotopark Motocross Track. The Amphitheater stage offers optimal sound with the best secluded outdoor scenery. Multiple seating areas and viewing decks allow for more intimate listening experiences. It also offers camping and is kid-and dog-friendly. Beyond the music, this creatively designed, legendary venue adds even more to the concert-going experience. Enjoy the atmosphere at the outdoor venue while listening to top-notch acoustics while taking in the stunning scenery. If you’re looking for a truly memorable concert experience – it’s right here at The Rhythm Section Amphitheater. They hold a full schedule of live music throughout the summer months. Direct link to show schedule: https://www.therhythmsectiononline.com/shows
- Rock Falls River Chase
Sauk Valley Pride
- Tampico Days
- Whiteside County Central Agricultural SocietyWhiteside County Central Agricultural Society was formed on May 28, 1872, in Morrison, Illinois. Its purpose is to promote all the industrial pursuits of the county, especially the agricultural, horticultural, floricultural, and mechanical interests, and also the fine arts and domestic manufactures. This group is the Carroll County Fair organizers.
- Whiteside County FairAnnual Morrison county fair held each August, with livestock and agricultural exhibits, competitions, carnival rides, grandstand entertainment, food, vendors, and family activities. Check the official site for current dates, admission, and schedules.
