Summer Festivals to put on your “must-do” itineraries

Summer in Northwest Illinois is a time for celebration, community, and a whole lot of fun. Our four-county region—Carroll, Lee, Ogle, and Whiteside Counties—comes alive with vibrant festivals and county fairs that offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a local looking to enjoy the best of the season or a visitor seeking to experience authentic Midwest culture, our summer events are not to be missed.

2024 FESTIVALS

FIRST UP–our 2024 summer festivals in date order,
AND THEN–our 2024 county fairs, also in date order.

Polo Town & Country Days

June 13-16 | Polo, IL | Ogle County
Kicking off the summer festivities is the beloved Polo Town & Country Days. In its 58th year, this event is a staple in Ogle County. It kicks off with fireworks and ends with its annual parade. In between are carnival rides, delicious food, and live music–all held in the middle of downtown Polo. It’s the perfect way to dive into the summer spirit with family and friends. LEARN MORE

Rock Falls Summer Splash

June 21-22 | Rock Falls, IL | Whiteside County
Join us in Rock Falls for the Summer Splash, a two-day extravaganza filled with water-themed activities, local vendors, and entertainment, all set along the beautiful Rock River at RB&W District Park. This year’s Summer Splash begins with a unique Wild Game Cookout featuring the popular Alligator Brats. It’s an ideal family-friendly festival to enjoy the vibrant community atmosphere by the river.  LEARN MORE

Lanark Old Settlers Day

June 28-30 | Lanark, IL | Carroll County
Step back in time at Lanark Old Settlers Day, where history meets fun. Enjoy a weekend of camaraderie, entertainment, and local charm in the heart of downtown Lanark. This event celebrates life in rural Northwest Illinois with craft vendors, a parade, bingo, pork chop dinner, kids’ games, a beer garden, and plenty of family-friendly activities. LEARN MORE

60th Petunia Festival

July 3-7 | Dixon, IL | Lee County
A true gem of Lee County, the Petunia Festival in Dixon celebrates its 60th year with a bang. Its concert series is unparalleled in the area. Two stages are set on the Dixon Riverfront Plaza, each featuring talented bands from 5 p.m. to late in the evening. Expect fireworks, concerts, a carnival, an outdoor art festival, and the famous Petunia Parade. It’s a festival that embodies our region’s charm and hospitality. LEARN MORE

ByronFest

July 12-14 | Byron, IL | Ogle County
ByronFest, one of the finest family festivals in Northern Illinois, is held annually during the second full weekend in July. Enjoy live bands each day, a carnival, a bag tournament, a 5K, a quilt show, a car show, and a parade. Situated in downtown Byron, this festival offers a lively atmosphere perfect for all ages. LEARN MORE

Tampico Days

July 18-21 | Tampico, IL | Whiteside County
Experience the small-town charm of Tampico Days, Ronald Reagan’s birthplace. This four-day celebration promises a variety of activities and entertainment suitable for all ages in downtown Tampico. The Main Street Historic District festival includes a parade, family games, a classic car show, and live music, making it a delightful weekend outing for everyone. LEARN MORE

Lincoln Highway Heritage Festival

August 16-18 | Rochelle, IL | Ogle County
Celebrate the historic Lincoln Highway in downtown Rochelle with its annual heritage festival. Enjoy a car and motorcycle show, a craft fair, a beer garden, and live music. The festival guarantees music for all tastes, kicking off with Blue Steel and wrapping up with diverse performances throughout the weekend​. It’s a perfect way to honor our local history and have a great time. LEARN MORE

Rock Falls River Chase

August 16-18 | Rock Falls, IL | Whiteside County
River Chase in Rock Falls is another summer highlight. It features stock outboard boat races with 9- to 70-year-old racers! They compete in different classes of boats, ranging in speeds from 35 to 80 mph and more. This thrilling event brings the community together by the water. LEARN MORE

Amboy Depot Days

August 22-25 | Amboy, IL | Lee County
Rounding out the summer is Amboy Depot Days. Known for its vast car show, the very famous 50/50 drawing (winners have walked away with over $100,000 a couple of times), and the traditional Depot Days Parade, this event is a festive farewell to summer, packed with fun. LEARN MORE

2024 COUNTY FAIRS

County Fairs embrace our Region’s Agricultural Heritage

County fairs are usually agricultural in nature. They showcase local farming, livestock, crafts, and community achievements and celebrate rural and community life. They are generally longer in duration than festivals. Our four county fairs will always draw local attendees, but they also give visitors to Northwest Illinois a chance to experience our past and present culture. 

How often will you get the thrill of a demolition derby, harness racing, monster truck race, or chicken poo bingo? More on that one later.

Lee County Fair & 4H Show

July 25-28 | Amboy, IL | Lee County
The Lee County Fair & 4H Show in Amboy celebrates Lee County’s agricultural heritage at the Lee County Fairgrounds in Amboy. Enjoy livestock shows, where every animal is judged–from rabbits to swine. It’s a great way to support future local farmers and enjoy some rural fun. The rodeo with large bucking bulls will provide heart-stopping thrills, including tractor pulls and carnival rides. Kids will love making mud pies at Kids’ Korner or taking pony rides on the midway. LEARN MORE

171st Ogle County Fair

July 31-August 4 | Oregon, IL | Ogle County
One of the oldest fairs in the state, the Ogle County Fair is a must-visit. Established in 1853, the very first county fair was held on the Ogle County Court House lawn. It is now held at the Ogle County Fairgrounds in Oregon.  With its classic fair attractions—livestock exhibitions, demolition derbies, and carnival rides—it offers timeless fun for all ages. Added highlights this year are the Big Hat Rodeo and Kids Power Wheel Derby.  LEARN MORE

72nd Carroll County Fair

August 6-10 | Milledgeville, IL | Carroll County
Take a road trip to the Carroll County Fair at the Carroll County Fairgrounds in Milledgeville, where tradition meets entertainment. The grandstand hosts many exciting motor events, including the legendary demolition derby. This event is a summer staple, featuring thrilling rides, livestock competitions, a cake walk, power wheel and bike races, line dancing, and delicious fair food. LEARN MORE

153rd Whiteside County Fair

August 13-17 | Morrison, IL | Whiteside County
The Whiteside County Fair in Morrison, at the Whiteside County Fairgrounds, boasts a long history of community celebration. There’s no shortage of excitement with harness horse racing, a midway full of rides, and grandstand events. Don’t miss experiencing Chicken Poo Bingo–held every day. LEARN MORE

Mark your calendars and GPS maps!

Each of these events offers a vibrant and unforgettable experience, showcasing the heart and soul of Northwest Illinois. Whether you’re dancing to live music, enjoying a thrilling demolition derby, or savoring delicious local cuisine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, mark your calendars, invite your friends and family, and dive into the joyous celebrations that define our summer.

Don’t miss the chance to create lasting memories at these spectacular festivals and county fairs. See you there!

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