Top Fun Things to Do Before Summer Ends

Staying entertained doesn’t have to cost a ton, especially here in the Midwest. We are known for cramming a year’s worth of outdoor fun into a handful of months. Whether your taste leans toward rock concerts, country music, quirky festivals, chill picnics or people watching on the lakefront, this region has you covered.

Search for Cheap, Upcoming Outdoor Events Near You Online

If you’re looking for options that are easy on the wallet and still up your alley, it may take a bit of searching, but they are out there! Concerts might be smaller, they may happen in the daytime, or you may have to travel over to the next town to satisfy your particular tastes. But there is something for everyone, which is why it pays to take advantage of all the street fests and outdoor shows while you can.

Find Free and Low Cost Music Shows and Festivals in Illinois, Wisconsin and Indiana

A person doesn’t usually have to go far to experience the pleasure and fun of free live entertainment in the Midwest this time of year. There should be enough happening close to home that choosing something that matches your tastes – and is family-friendly, if necessary – shouldn’t be difficult.

But summer is also the time for exploring new activities and unfamiliar towns and regions. Now that you’ve had a few weeks or more to relax, why not expand your horizons and look for something new to try before summer ends? Just some of the popular ongoing shows, parties and festivals open to the public:

1. Navy Pier Beer Garden (open all summer)

Chicago, IL

Free outdoor music and dancing (food and drinks available for purchase)

2. Chicago Summerdance (June – September)

Free dance classes, followed by live music and open air dancing

3. Reverb Music Festival (August 16-17)

Eau Claire, WI

Camping, emo performances, hip hop and more

4. Off the Rails Concert Series (August – October)

Carbondale, IL

5. Free Concerts at Taste of Chicago (September 6-8)

Chicago, IL

Free admission to concerts in Grant Park

Food and drinks available for purchase

With so much going on, take a minute to find out about shows and entertainment that align with your specific tastes. If you’re low on cash, pack a drink and a sandwich and head out to enjoy an afternoon in the sun.

Bristol Renaissance Faire and Other Live Summer Theater & Entertainment

While there is an entrance fee to get in, the Bristol Renaissance Faire (July – September) at the Illinois/Wisconsin border offers up a lot of bang for your buck. It takes place on a sprawling patch of land in Bristol, giving visitors plenty of space to spend the day walking around and taking in the sights and sounds. There are sixteen stages, as well as smaller themed performances taking place all around you. As you explore the fairgrounds, you may come across jousting, dancing, music and other stylized shows put on by hundreds of performers in period costumes.

Arrive early to avoid crowds. If you’re also in costume you will have a lot of company!

If you’re looking for something closer to home, find out what else lies in your neck of the woods. Surely, there is a street fest around the corner. Families can enjoy a picnic while taking in an outdoor movie or live children’s show, with space for the little ones to run around.

Currency Exchange in Illinois and Throughout Midwest Can Help You Manage Your Finances

It’s always smart to get your money in order before heading out to a show or entertainment venue. If there are lots of booths and vendors, everyone likes to indulge in a cool drink and something delicious to eat. But these kinds of costs add up quickly. Ask about entrance fees in advance, and be sure to budget your entertainment expenses so the bill doesn’t take you by surprise.

When it comes to smart personal finance behavior, Currency Exchanges throughout Illinois are an excellent source of a broad range of convenient services, from check cashing to auto title and registration.

Contact the helpful team at Community Currency Exchange (CCEA) for more information. Don’t forget to stop by your nearest location to find out what we can do for you in person.