Cheap stuff: Strawberry Fest, patriotic concert, Taste of Grayslake
Free
A patriotic evening
The 70-member Mount Prospect Community Band presents a concert of patriotic favorites, including "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" and "America The Beautiful." Concertgoers should bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating. Sandwiches and other foods will be available for purchase.
Facts: 7:30 p.m. Monday, June 29, in the Veterans Memorial Bandshell at Lions Park, 411 S. Maple St., Mount Prospect. Free admission. (847) 255-5380 or mppd.org.
Fruity fest
Strawberry treats in various shapes and sizes are featured at the annual Long Grove Strawberry Fest. Goodies include chocolate-covered strawberries, fruit smoothies, strawberry ice cream, strawberry doughnuts and baked goods. Live entertainment and kiddie rides are also featured.
Facts: Runs 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, June 26, through Sunday, June 28, at the crossroads of Old McHenry and Robert Parker Coffin roads, Long Grove. Free admission. (847) 634-0888 or longgroveonline.com.
What a day for a picnic!
Rides, musical entertainment, the Taste of Grayslake, an exotic animal show and fireworks are just some of the fun activities planned for Grayslake's Family Picnic and Fireworks.
Facts: 3 to 11 p.m. Saturday, June 27, in Central Park, on Lake Street between Washington and Center streets, Grayslake. Fireworks begin at dusk. Free general admission. Visit glpd.com.
$10 and under
Go, dogs, go!
All varieties of "weiner dogs" - Dachshunds, Corgis and Basset Hounds (or dogs with a mix of any of these three breeds), can race on an outdoor track for prizes during the Dachshund Derby 2009. Ken Rydz of the Round Lake Beach Police Department will give demonstrations with his German Shepherd partner, Gunner. Boy Scouts from Lake Villa will be on hand for a bake sale. All proceeds from the event benefit Petropolis Adoptions, a not-for-profit group that assists animals in overcrowded shelters.
Facts: Sunday, June 28, at Petland, 815 E. Rollins Road, Round Lake Beach. Registration from 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Races at 11 a.m. There is a $5 minimum donation for participants. Spectators are free. (847) 223-7900.
'Mowing & Mooing'
Experience high summer on a traditional 19th century farm in the Mowing & Mooing program at Spring Valley Nature Center and Heritage Farm. Highlights include hay mowing, cow milking, ice cream making, children's games, crafts, hayrides and refreshments.
Facts: Noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, June 28, at Spring Valley Nature Center and Heritage Farm, 1111 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. Admission is $2 per person; $8 for a family. (847) 985-2100 or parkfun.com.
The Tossers
The Tossers provide an evening of Irish punk music.
Facts: 9 p.m. Saturday, June 27, at Durty Nellie's, 180 N. Smith St., Palatine. $10. (847) 358-9150 or durtynellies.com.