Warmer weather has a way of turning everyone’s attention back to the great outdoors. And Illinois is no exception, thanks to seasonal festivals and fairs throughout the state. Visit the Illinois State Fair. Enjoy music under the stars at Ravinia Festival. Or immerse yourself in one of Chicago’s many diverse festivals, ranging from Blues Festival or Jazz Festival to the Taste of Chicago and Gold Coast Art Fair.

Air & Water Show - Head to the beach and see thrilling performances by some of the most skilled civilian and military pilots in the world.

Blues Festival - This four-day annual event brings more than 70 performers to six stages in Grant Park each June.

Chicago Flower and Garden Show - A showcase of beautiful and magical displays featuring gardening demonstrations, tablescapes, family and children’s activities and entertainment.

Chicago Tribune Printers Row Lit Fest - The Midwest's largest collaborative gathering of authors, readers, booksellers, poets and literature.

Gold Coast Art Fair - 300 artists and thousands of art lovers from around the world convene in the beautiful Gold Coast neighbourhood.

Gospel Music Festival - Grant Park comes alive with soul-stirring gospel performances by leading acts from around the U.S.

Illinois State Fair - Just 3 hours south of Chicago in the state capital of Springfield, explore 366 acres of exhibits, Illinois artisans, top-notch live music and don't forget to visit the famous Butter Cow!

Jazz Festival - A swinging Labour Day tradition. The sweet sounds of jazz fill Grant Park every September.

Lollapalooza - One of the biggest events of the summer and unique to Chicago, this three-day, eight-stage music festival boasts 130+ bands ranging from breakthrough to world-famous music acts.

Long Grove Chocolate Festival - The business district, home to 80 shops and restaurants including the well-known Long Grove Confectionery, becomes a chocolate lover’s paradise during this annual festival that celebrates the beginning of the Long Grove outdoor special events season.

Old Town Art Fair - Among the most prestigious of America's art fairs and one of the nation's oldest.

On the Waterfront - Just 90 minutes north of Chicago in Rockford, Illinois' largest music festival spans 30 blocks and features more than 246 hours of music on 7 stages; plus food booths, the Urban Marketplace to buy treasures from around the world and spectacular fireworks every night!

Ravinia Festival - This wonderful 3-month festival hosts more than 100 world-class events, spanning musical genres from classical to pop, at its beautiful outdoor venue in Highland Park.

St. Patrick’s Day - They say everyone is Irish on St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago, and the city hosts a giant parade to celebrate.

Taste of Chicago - A food fair like you’ve never seen. Amazing food in sample-size portions from more than 65 Chicago restaurants.