Events Happening Today in Illinois
Chicago Cubs vs. Arizona Diamondbacks
Venue: Wrigley Field, Chicago, IL
Date and Time: Friday, May 1, 2026, 1:20 p.m.
Enjoy an afternoon of Major League Baseball as the Chicago Cubs take on the Arizona Diamondbacks at the iconic Wrigley Field.
Legions of Metal 2026
Venue: Reggies Rock Club, Chicago, IL
Date and Time: Friday, May 1, 2026, 5:00 p.m.
Experience a night of heavy metal performances featuring various bands at the annual Legions of Metal festival.
Hard Country Honky Tonk with The Hoyle Brothers
Venue: Empty Bottle, Chicago, IL
Date and Time: Friday, May 1, 2026, 5:30 p.m.
Join The Hoyle Brothers for an evening of classic country music and honky-tonk vibes.
An Evening with South Chicago Dance Theatre
Venue: Harris Theater, Millennium Park, Chicago, IL
Date and Time: Friday, May 1, 2026, 6:00 p.m.
Witness the ninth annual home season concert of the South Chicago Dance Theatre, showcasing contemporary dance performances.
The Great Gatsby
Venue: Cadillac Palace, Chicago, IL
Date and Time: Friday, May 1, 2026, 7:00 p.m.
Experience the classic tale of Jay Gatsby brought to life on stage in this theatrical adaptation.
Kenny Garrett
Venue: Garcia's Chicago, Chicago, IL
Date and Time: Friday, May 1, 2026, 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.
Enjoy an evening of jazz with renowned saxophonist Kenny Garrett performing two sets.
Better Together
Venue: Winter's Jazz Club, Chicago, IL
Date and Time: Friday, May 1, 2026
Experience a night of jazz with the ensemble Better Together at Winter's Jazz Club.
Sarah's Place: A Zach Bryan & Noah Kahan Tribute
Venue: The Castle Theatre, Bloomington, IL
Date and Time: Friday, May 1, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Enjoy a tribute performance celebrating the music of Zach Bryan and Noah Kahan.
Reading Day (Spring 2026)
Venue: Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL
Date: Friday, May 1, 2026
A designated day for students to prepare for upcoming exams and complete assignments.
Senior Design Project Showcase
Venue: NIU Convocation Center, DeKalb, IL
Date and Time: Friday, May 1, 2026, 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. CDT
Explore innovative projects developed by senior engineering students at Northern Illinois University.
Glow Wild Lantern Festival
Venue: Brookfield Zoo, Brookfield, IL
Date and Time: Friday, May 1, 2026, 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Experience the zoo illuminated with handcrafted lanterns inspired by nature and wildlife.
Grease Fan Event at Skyview Drive-In
Venue: Skyview Drive-In, Belleville, IL
Date: Friday, May 1, 2026
Enjoy a special screening of the classic film "Grease" at the Skyview Drive-In.
The Farms: Bluebell Festival presented by Busey Bank
Venue: Allerton Park & Retreat Center, Monticello, IL
Date: Friday, May 1, 2026 – Sunday, May 3, 2026
Celebrate spring with a festival featuring a plant sale, spring market, live music, and more.
Please note that event details are subject to change. It's recommended to check the provided links for the most current information.
