Welcome to Summer in McHenry County!

Whether you're a local or a visitor, our vibrant community comes alive during the summer months with an array of activities and events that cater to everyone. From the festive atmosphere of our epic festivals to the fresh, farm-to-table offerings at our farmers markets, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the warm weather.

Explore the scenic waterfronts that offer a refreshing escape from the summer heat, or plan a family day out with our countless kid-friendly attractions. For those who love the outdoors, our summer farms and adventurous trails provide unique experiences that are as enriching as they are exciting.

Join us as we dive into the best of McHenry County this summer—your ultimate guide to festivals, markets, and unforgettable outdoor experiences await!

Summer Festivals

Get ready to party at McHenry County's Summer Festivals! Picture this: live bands, amazing food, eclectic artisan finds, and the best vibes all summer long. Mark your calendars and find out which festivals are a must for your summer bucket list.

More Summer Festivals

Farmers Markets

Stroll through McHenry County's Farmers Markets and treat yourself to some seriously fresh finds. From farm-to-table veggies to unique handmade goodies, it's the perfect spot to grab a bite, meet local artisans, and chill out on a sunny morning.

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Waterfront Fun

Cool off and kick back by the water this summer in McHenry County. Whether you're up for paddling, fishing, or just laying back by the lakeside, we've got all the chill spots mapped out. Find your new favorite spot to soak up the sun and make a splash.

Three Oaks Recreation Area

Rte. 14 & Main St.
(815) 459-2020

Three Oaks Recreation Area provides visitors with a unique recreational experience. The Three Oaks Recreation Area is a reclaimed quarry that has…

The Quarry Cable Park

5517 Northwest Highway
815-455-9688

The Quarry is a next-generation cable wake park located within the beautiful Three Oaks Recreation Area in Crystal Lake. This multi-faceted…

Miller Point Park

1202 Riverside Dr.

Cary Lake at Rotary Park

1300 Klasen Road
(847) 639-0003

Cary Lake at Rotary Park offers a year-round adventure with 3 miles of scenic walking/biking trails, a serene kayak launch, and a fishing pier to…

Family Friendly Fun

Bring the whole crew along for some epic family fun this summer in McHenry County. From cool parks with all the playground thrills to farms where you can pick your own berries, there’s plenty of fun for the little ones and big kids alike.

McHenry Outdoor Theater

1510 Chapel Hill Road
(847) 362-3011

Drive-in theaters were all the rage in the 1950's. They offered a casual movie going experience where you could pull your Thunderbird up, hook the…

Volo Museum

27582 W. Volo Village Rd.
(815) 385-3644

Volo Museum is a World Famous, family-owned, all-day tourist destination in Volo, IL. We are known across the world for our all-indoor showroom…

3D Sideouts

4018 Roberts Rd
847-526-7174

16 BRUNSWICK ANVILANE PRO LANES Touchworx Auto-Scoring — More fun and inviting for bowlers! Full lower consoles and by-lane overheads with Touch…

Deicke Park

12015 Mill St.

More Family Fun

Outdoor Adventures

Ready for an adventure? McHenry County’s outdoor scene is calling your name. Hit the trails for a hike, grab your bike for some off-road action, or just find a quiet spot in nature to reset. Whatever your style, we’ve got the outdoor escape you’ve been looking for.

Glacial Park Conservation Area

6705 Route 31
(815) 338-6223

Glacial Park is McHenry County Conservation District’s most treasured open space holding, characterized by its rolling prairie, delta kames, oak…

Chain O'Lakes State Park

8916 Wilmot Road
(847) 587-5512

Chain O'Lakes State Park is a 2793 acre Illinois state park at the inlet of the Fox River into the Chain O'Lakes in Lake and McHenry counties, in…

Prairie Trail South

400 Washington St.

Algonquin - Village of McHenry 17 miles of trail This paved section which runs from the county line in Algonquin to the Village of McHenry for a…

Nippersink Canoe Base Conservation Area

400 E. US Highway 12
(815) 338-6223

Situated along the southern banks of Nippersink Creek, the 377-acre conservation site is home to a variety of natural communities including…

More Outdoor Recreation

Summer Farm Fun

Ready to embrace the vibrant colors and fresh tastes of summer? Join us for some Summer Farm Fun in McHenry County! Wander through lush sunflower fields, pick your own strawberries, explore our scenic flower farms, and indulge in the freshest produce around. It’s the perfect mix of picturesque scenery and hands-on fun, ideal for a day out with friends or a cute date.