Will County Events Calendar

Will County communities host numerous events throughout the year, from seasonal festivals to weekly farmers markets. Check back regularly for updates on upcoming community activities.

Annual Community Events

Spring & Summer Events

Farmers Markets (May-October)

Various Locations: Multiple Will County communities host weekly farmers markets featuring local produce, crafts, and artisan goods.

  • Joliet Farmers Market: Downtown Joliet, Tuesdays and Saturdays
  • Plainfield Farmers Market: Village Green, Sundays
  • Frankfort Farmers Market: Old Plank Road Trail, Thursdays
  • New Lenox Farmers Market: Veterans Park, Thursdays

Memorial Day Parades & Ceremonies (May)

Multiple Communities: Many Will County towns host Memorial Day parades and remembrance ceremonies honoring veterans and fallen service members.

Plainfield Fest (June)

Location: Settlers' Park, Plainfield
Annual community festival featuring live music, carnival rides, food vendors, arts and crafts, and family entertainment. One of Will County's largest community celebrations.

Old Joliet Prison Tours (May-October)

Location: Collins Street, Joliet
Guided public tours of the historic Old Joliet Prison. This National Historic Landmark offers a fascinating glimpse into 19th and 20th-century corrections history.

NASCAR Races at Chicagoland Speedway (Various Dates)

Location: Chicagoland Speedway, Joliet
Major NASCAR events bring racing excitement to Will County, attracting fans from across the Midwest.

Independence Day Celebrations (July 4th)

Multiple Locations: Nearly every Will County community hosts fireworks displays and July 4th festivities. Major celebrations in Joliet, Plainfield, Bolingbrook, Frankfort, and New Lenox.

Fall Events

Lockport Old Canal Days (September)

Location: Historic Downtown Lockport
Annual festival celebrating the I&M Canal heritage with live music, carnival, food, craft vendors, and historical exhibits.

Frankfort Fall Festival (September)

Location: Downtown Frankfort
Celebrating fall with arts, crafts, food vendors, live entertainment, and family activities in the charming village square.

Halloween Events (October)

Various Locations: Trunk-or-treats, haunted houses, pumpkin patches, and Halloween parades throughout Will County communities.

Winter Events

Holiday Light Displays (November-January)

Multiple Locations: Communities light up for the holidays with tree lighting ceremonies, holiday parades, and festive displays.

  • Joliet City Center Holiday Lights
  • Frankfort Holiday Market & Tree Lighting
  • New Lenox Winter Wonderland

New Year's Eve Celebrations (December 31st)

Various Venues: Restaurants, entertainment venues, and community centers throughout Will County host New Year's Eve events.

Recurring Community Activities

Weekly & Monthly Events

  • Concert Series: Many communities host summer outdoor concert series in parks
  • Movie Nights: Free outdoor movies in parks during summer months
  • Library Programs: Regular events at Will County library branches
  • Park District Activities: Sports leagues, fitness classes, and recreational programs
  • Chamber Networking: Business networking events in various communities

Entertainment Venues

Rialto Square Theatre (Joliet)

This beautiful historic theater hosts concerts, comedy shows, Broadway productions, and special events year-round. Known as the "Jewel of Joliet."

Chicagoland Speedway & Route 66 Raceway

Major motorsports venue hosting NASCAR, drag racing, and other racing events throughout the season.

Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre (Tinley Park)

While technically in Cook County, this major concert venue is easily accessible to Will County residents and hosts top musical acts.

Sports & Recreation Events

  • Joliet Slammers Baseball: Minor league baseball at DuPage Medical Group Field (summer season)
  • Marathon & 5K Races: Various running events throughout the year
  • Golf Tournaments: Charity and recreational tournaments at county courses
  • Youth Sports: Leagues and tournaments through park districts

Festival & Event Resources

For the most up-to-date event information, check these resources:

  • Individual municipal websites for each community
  • Will County tourism information
  • Local park district calendars
  • Chamber of commerce event listings
  • Social media pages for specific communities

Planning to Visit? Check out our Things to Do guide for attractions, parks, and entertainment options in Will County.