Come celebrate summer in Park Ridge at the next Market After Dark July 25

Year three of the Park Ridge Market After Dark, located in the same area as the Park Ridge Farmer’s Market (15 Prairie Ave.), kicked off in a big way back in May, and the second event of the season is coming up Saturday, July 25 from 4:30-9:30 p.m.

This popular summer street party from the Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce features a variety of food trucks and art vendors, mixed with small-business pop-ups, live music and a large, handpicked collection of local guest craft breweries, wineries and distilleries that will be offering tasting opportunities galore.

Following July 25, the final Market After Dark of the summer will take place Aug. 22. For more information, visit MarketAfterDark.com

The National Sports Collectors Convention takes over Rosemont July 29-Aug. 2

The National Sports Collectors Convention (NSCC) is the country’s most recognized sports card and memorabilia trade show, and the 46th annual event just happens to be returning to Rosemont’s Donald E. Stephens Convention Center July 29-Aug. 2.

What to expect? Try an incredible 500,000 square feet of continuous floor space featuring more than 600 of the country’s most prolific sports card and memorabilia dealers (who will be looking to buy and sell).

Whether you’re hunting for that elusive rookie card to bolster your collection or seeking an autographed game-worn jersey, you’re guaranteed to find it here.

And don’t forget the live autograph signings and celebrity photo opportunities happening each day too. Just a few of the big-names scheduled to be in attendance this year are Bo Jackson, Barry Sanders, Joe Montana, Drew Brees, Lawrence Taylor, Hakeem Olajuwon, Allen Iverson, Mike Tyson, David Ortiz and many more.

Show hours are as follows:
Wednesday, July 29: 2-8 p.m.
Thursday, July 30: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Friday, July 31: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 1: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 2: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

For ticket, autograph and show information, visit NSCCShow.com

Free Friday Concerts in the Park continue Fridays at Hodges Park

It’s time to pack a picnic and enjoy a variety of music in Hodges Park (101 S. Courtland Ave.) again this summer, as one of the area’s best seasonal traditions continues on the steps of City Hall in Park Ridge.

The remaining concert lineup, presented by the Park Ridge Fine Arts Society, features the Park Ridge Fine Arts Symphony Orchestra July 24 and 31 followed by Chicago Big Band Aug. 7 and the Brian Patti Big Band Aug. 14. Performances run from 8-9:30 p.m., and donations are accepted.

Jazzin’ at the Shedd Wednesdays through Sept. 2

The Shedd Aquarium hosts summer Jazz concerts every Wednesday through Sept. 2. Shows start at 5 p.m. and run until 10 p.m., with music in the indoor lobby and on the outdoor terrace. You can dance, relax with a drink, and see the Navy Pier fireworks not too far away. You also get access to the entire aquarium, enabling you to walk around exhibits with a cocktail in hand.

Fiesta del Sol fest runs July 23-26

Fiesta del Sol, one of the biggest annual Latin festivals in the country, returns for its 54th year in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood. Spanning eight blocks, the festival is home to some of the most authentic food vendors in the city, as well as carnival rides, local art, games and vibrant live music.