Illinois
May 20-22: Super Chevy Show, Cordova. The Cordova International Raceway hosts what is billed as the world’s largest automotive manufacturer show, devoted to Chevy. There will be plenty of race competition as well as cars on display and a swap meet. www.racecir.com. Miles from Chicago: 150
May 28-29: Riverside Flea Market, Grafton. More than 75 vendors typically offer their wares the fourth weekend of each month through October in the historic Boatworks building. http://tinyurl.com/hgt2a7c. Miles from Chicago: 300
June 2-5: 75th Harvard Milk Days. The town once considered itself “Milk Capital of the World” and still celebrates that heritage. Activities include a parade, Milk Days memorabilia display, cattle show, antique tractor display, live music, milking demonstrations and more. 815-943-4614, www.milkdays.com. Miles from Chicago: 75
Indiana
May 20: Rock-IN-Roar 500, Indianapolis. As one of many special events leading up to the Indy 500 on Memorial Day weekend, this music festival on Georgia Street heats up downtown with local and national acts. There also will be a light show, food trucks, and beer and wine available. 317-237-2222, http://tinyurl.com/zugrzzu. Miles from Chicago: 185
May 19-21: RiverRoots Music & Folk Arts Festival, Madison. Contemporary and traditional folk/roots musicians perform on two stages. Also: storytelling, folk art, food, wine and beer from Indiana craft brewers. www.riverroots.org. Miles from Chicago: 285
May 26 to June 4: Banks of the Wabash Festival, Terre Haute. This marks the 43rd year of this event that includes live music, carnival rides, bingo, an auto show, food and more. 812-235-3795, www.wabashvalleyfestival.com. Miles from Chicago: 195
Iowa
May 30: Quad Cities Criterium, Davenport. Celebrating its 51st year, the criterium hosts more than 400 cyclists from across the country as they race in the village of East Davenport. Races are held throughout the day. Miles from Chicago: 175
Michigan
May 21: Fourth annual BBQ, Blues and Bluegrass Festival: A Taste of Michigan, St. Joseph. Noted bluesman Jonny Lang headlines this year’s show, which also includes Grammy-winning bluegrass player Sam Bush. Expect plenty of barbecue, craft beer and regional wines. 269-985-1111, http://tinyurl.com/z2lwd7x. Miles from Chicago: 95
June 8: The Monkees, Grand Rapids. Micky Dolenz and Peter Tork of the original ’60s group perform for the summer concert series at Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Other acts booked during the summer include Ziggy Marley, Gregg Allman, Lyle Lovett, Diana Ross and Jay Leno. Advance ticket purchase is advised. http://tinyurl.com/kj9ttc6. Miles from Chicago: 175
Ohio
May 31 to June 5: Alumapalooza, Sidney. Fans of Airstream trailers gather every year to camp next to the Airstream factory and attend seminars. Also: live music, trailer open houses, cooking demonstrations, factory tours and more. New this year is a fine-arts show. www.alumapalooza.com. Miles from Chicago: 260
Wisconsin
May 19-21: 10th annual Chequamegon Bay Birding & Nature Festival, Ashland. More than 100 field trips and programs explore nature around the Apostle Islands. Many of these book up early, so pre-registration is a must. 800-284-9484, www.birdandnaturefest.com. Miles from Chicago: 435
May 27-30: World’s Largest Brat Fest, Madison. Chow down on bratwurst while listening to music from more than 100 bands, including Lita Ford and Travis Tritt. Also: kid zone, road race and more. www.bratfest.com. Miles from Chicago: 145
Phil Marty is a freelance writer.
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