Get Out: Food Drive, Family Festival, Visiting Author

Looking for something fun to do this weekend? We've got the best bets for your done-with-work-outta-here time. Check out our picks for activities to hit and new places to explore this weekend.

 

1.

Where/When: in Lincolnshire; 7 p.m., Friday, August 12.

Why Go: Brad Thor, New York Times best-selling author, will speak and sign copies of his new novel, Full Black, in the West Auditorium at Stevenson High School. One copy of each of Thor's 10 novels, signed by Thor, will be awarded to one lucky reader in attendance courtesy of publisher Atria Books. To register, call the Vernon Area Public Library at 847-634-3650 or visit www.vapld.info.

Pricing: Free.


2.

Where/When: in Grayslake; 10 a.m. - 9 p.m., Saturday, August 13.

Why Go: Join the University of Illinois Extension for music, entertainment, face painting, hay rides, a petting zoo, battle of the bands and barbeque food vendors. Fun for the whole family.

Pricing: Free admission; $5 for parking.


3.

Where/When: Penny Road Pub, 28W705 Penny Road, South Barrington; 10:30 a.m. - 6 p.m., Saturday, August 13.

Why Go: Support The Rescue Riders, an all-volunteer organization of bikers that raises funds for local causes, while taking a relaxing ride in the country. The day will begin with breakfast at 9 a.m. at the Penny Road Pub. The riders will depart from there at 10:30 a.m. and end up at the Moose Lodge and Family Center in Downers Grove where there will be a party with two live bands, hot food and cold refreshments. Call 847-508-0652 or click here for more information.

Pricing: Donations will be accepted.


4.

Where/When: ; 2 p.m., Saturday, August 13.

Why Go: See The Lincoln Lawyer, the legal thriller based on Michael Connelly's novel, starring Matthew McConaughy, Rated R. Free popcorn will be available.

Pricing: Free.


5. and

Where/When: , in front of the Spray 'n Play; 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Sunday, August 14.

Why Go: Shop the great assortment of fresh produce, flowers, meats and cheeses from local farmers and vendors. The farmers market will take place, rain or shine. Also, please bring a non-perishable food item to the Cub Scout Pack 36 booth for the Vernon Township Food Pantry.

Pricing: Free admission.

6.

Where/When: ; 7 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Sunday, August 14.

Why Go: Take a day trip to one of the top 5 places in the United States to learn to surf; Lake Michigan. Visit the Third Coast Surf Shop and receive a board and a lesson from a professional surfer. The fee includes travel, board rental and lesson. Must be 8 years old or older to participate and must be able to swim. Contact Erika Strojinc at 847-850-2133 for more information.

Pricing: Free admission.

If we have missed any of your favorites, please share them with us in the comments section below.