Spring Events and Activities in Will County 2026

Winter's finally loosening its grip on northeastern Illinois, and Will County residents are eager to get outside. Here's what to look forward to this spring across our communities.

Farmers Markets Are Back

Nothing signals spring quite like the return of local farmers markets. Will County has several worth visiting, and most open between late April and early May.

Joliet Farmers Market

The Joliet market reopens along Chicago Street with a strong mix of produce vendors, baked goods, and local artisans. Early-season offerings typically include spring greens, herbs, asparagus, and greenhouse tomatoes. The market runs Saturdays through October.

Plainfield Farmers Market

Located near the village center, Plainfield's market draws consistent crowds. Beyond fresh produce, you'll find honey from local apiaries, handmade soaps, and rotating food trucks. It's a Saturday morning ritual for many families in the area.

Lockport Farmers Market

Lockport pairs its market with the historic canal corridor, making it easy to combine a shopping trip with a walk along the I&M Canal Trail. Vendors here tend to be smaller operations, which means you'll occasionally find unusual heirloom varieties.

Outdoor Recreation Opens Up

Will County's forest preserves and trail systems are among the best in the Chicago suburbs. Spring means trails dry out, wildflowers emerge, and the birding gets genuinely exciting.

Four Rivers Environmental Education Center

Situated at the confluence of the DuPage and Des Plaines rivers near Channahon, Four Rivers hosts guided nature walks and birding programs throughout spring. Their staff leads excellent programs for beginners and experienced birders alike. The spring migration window from late April through May brings warblers, herons, and raptors through the area.

Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie

This 20,000-acre preserve south of Joliet transforms in spring. Prairie grasses start greening up, bison herds become more active, and the wildflower displays from May onward are remarkable. The 8-mile loop trail is flat and well-maintained. Bring binoculars for the bison herd, which now numbers over 100 animals. See our full Midewin visitor's guide for trail maps and tips.

I&M Canal Trail

The Illinois and Michigan Canal State Trail stretches through multiple Will County communities. Spring conditions are ideal for cycling and running before summer humidity arrives. The Lockport to Channahon section offers particularly scenic stretches with canal locks and limestone bluffs. For more routes, check our best trails guide.

Community Festivals and Events

Youth Sports and Recreation

Spring means the return of organized youth activities across Will County's park districts. Registration usually opens in February and March, so check with your local district soon if you haven't already.

• Baseball and Softball: Every major community runs leagues through their park district. Plainfield, Joliet, and Bolingbrook all have multiple divisions by age group.
• Soccer: Will County has several competitive and recreational soccer organizations. Spring seasons typically run March through May.
• Track and Field: Park district track programs give kids a structured introduction to running and field events without the pressure of school teams.
• Fishing Clinics: Several forest preserves and park districts run youth fishing programs at stocked ponds. These are free or very low cost and provide equipment.

Garden and Nature Programs

For residents with green thumbs, spring brings opportunities to connect with fellow gardeners and learn from experts.

University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners

The Will County Master Gardener program offers free workshops on topics like vegetable gardening, native plant landscaping, and pest management. They also run a help desk where you can bring in plant samples or soil questions. These volunteers know Will County growing conditions inside and out.

Community Garden Plots

Several communities rent garden plots to residents. Joliet, Bolingbrook, and Plainfield all maintain community garden spaces. Plots go quickly once sign-ups open, usually in March. If you've been thinking about growing your own food, this is a low-risk way to start.

Planning Your Spring

A few practical tips for making the most of spring in Will County:

• Layer up: March and April weather here is unpredictable. A 60-degree afternoon can follow a frosty morning.
• Register early: Popular programs and events fill fast, especially youth sports and community garden plots.
• Check park district websites: Each community's park district publishes seasonal program guides. Plainfield, Joliet, Bolingbrook, and New Lenox all have online registration.
• Follow forest preserve social media: The Forest Preserve District of Will County posts trail conditions, wildlife sightings, and event updates regularly.
• Carry bug spray by May: Mosquitoes and ticks emerge as temperatures climb. Treat it as standard outdoor gear.

Looking Ahead

Spring sets the tone for what Will County does best: bringing communities together through shared spaces and experiences. Whether you're a longtime resident who knows every trail by heart or someone who just moved here, there's plenty to discover once the weather cooperates.

We'll update this guide as more events are announced for the 2026 season. Check back or follow your local community calendars for the latest information.