DeKalb County Convention and Visitors Bureau

2026 Food Truck Wednesdays
2026-04-29 11:00 - 14:00, 2026-05-06 11:00 - 14:00, 2026-05-13 11:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago) | MLK Commons, DeKalb, Illinois, 60115, United States
Come out for lunch, meet up with a friend or grab your afternoon pick-me-up from a variety of food trucks each Wednesday through the fall.

Local food trucks will line the street on Normal Road in front of the MLK Commons on Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

CAB will provide entertainment and fun, including student performances. There will also be appearances from members of NIU Athletics.

Nellie Bly: Around the World in 72 Days
2026-04-29 18:00 - 19:00 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Born Elizabeth Jane Cochran (1864-1922), this pioneer of investigative journalism is better known by her nom de plume, “Nellie Bly”. She became famous for her exposé of the New York City Lunatic Asylum on Blackwell’s Island.
On November 14, 1889, Cochrane began a solo trip around the world in emulation of the fictional character Phileas Fogg from the 1873 Jules Verne novel “Around the World in Eighty Days” – completing her trip on January 25, 1890, in the record-breaking time of 72 days, six hours, 11 minutes, & 14 seconds.
During this presentation, you’ll meet Nellie Bly in the US Embassy in Paris in February of 1919. The Great War has ended, and Nellie recounts her adventures as a reporter, in the US, Mexico and as a war correspondent, as she awaits permission to return to the US.
The presentation is followed by a Q&A and photo opportunities.
This event is sponsored by The Friends of the Library and is part of the America 250 initiative: celebrating our nation throughout the year. Registration is not required. All ages are welcome.
For more information, please contact Susan at susang@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2114.

Cortland Annual Garage Sales and Craft Show
2026-04-30 08:00 - 17:00, 2026-05-01 08:00 - 17:00, 2026-05-02 08:00 - 17:00 | Cortland, Cortland, Illinois, 60112, United States
🏡🛍️ Cortland Townwide Garage Sales!
📅 April 30 – May 2 (Thurs-Sat)
⏰ 8 AM – 5 PM
Get ready to shop all around Cortland for amazing deals!
✨ Furniture • Clothes • Toys • Home goods • Collectibles & more
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Something for everyone!
📍 Don’t miss it—plan your route & bring your friends!
100+ sales
Craft show at the Cortland Lion’s Club, 70 S Llanos St Cortland also! 9-6 Thurs and Fri and 9-4 Sat

Dessert & Dialogue
2026-04-30 18:30 - 20:00 | Sycamore Park District, 480 S. Airport Road, Sycamore, IL, 60178, United States
The DeKalb County History Center, Ellwood House Museum, and Sycamore Park District will host Dessert & Dialogue on Thursday, April 30. This session’s theme, “Exploring How Place, Identity, and Shared Stories Shape Us,” invites participants to engage in meaningful dialogue about the experiences that define DeKalb County.

Sycamore Park District Executive Director Jonelle Bailey will facilitate the discussion, creating space for thoughtful conversation and a stronger sense of belonging.

The event will take place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on April 30 at the Sycamore Park District, 480 Airport Rd. in Sycamore. Childcare will be available.

While the event is free, advance registration is recommended at dekalbcountyhistory.org. For more information, call (815) 895-5762.

FREE Senior Car Clinic 2026
2026-05-01 09:00 - 11:00 | Kishwaukee College, 21193 Malta Rd, Malta, IL
Free Car Clinic for Older Adults of DeKalb County on May 1
On Friday, May 1, DeKalb County TRIAD, Kishwaukee College, and DeKalb Township will co-host their annual free Senior Car Clinic at Kishwaukee College. DeKalb County residents age 55 and older are invited to participate.
Students from Kishwaukee College’s Automotive Technology Department will perform 25-point inspections and fluid top-offs under the supervision of instructors. While vehicles are being serviced, participants will enjoy coffee and donuts, receive May Day baskets and other gifts, and have opportunities to connect with local senior service providers.
DeKalb County TRIAD serves older adults by providing empowering and inclusive programs focused on quality of life, safety, and crime prevention. Organizers say the clinic helps keep older drivers safe, reduces the risk of unnecessary repair costs, and provides valuable hands-on training for students.
Reservations are required, and appointments are limited. To schedule, contact Kimberly at DeKalb Township at 815-758-8282. Seniors from neighboring counties are encouraged to join the waitlist and may be contacted if openings become available.

Your Lipstick, His Collar: An Emo Dance Party
2026-05-01 18:00 - 22:00 | Fargo Skateboarding, 641 E Lincoln Hwy, DeKalb, 60115, United States
Join DJ Warm Advice for a night of emo anthems, throwback heartbreak, and dance floor therapy at Fargo Venue on Friday, May 1.

Deep V’s, heavy eyeliner, and gut-wrenching unrequited love recommended, but not required.

Doors @ 6Party @ 7$10 advance / $15 DOS18+

Shabbona Farmers Market 2026
2026-05-02 09:00 - 13:00 | Purdy Park, 205 E Navaho Ave, Shabbona, IL, 60550, United States
Shabbona Farmers Market begins Saturday, May 2 running every other weekend through October 10, 2026! New in 2026 – Family Outing Days will be held with the Farmers Market. There will be an inflatable obstacle course, games, crafts, and a sweet treat offered sponsored by Big Time Rentals. This market features 12+ vendor and craft bar!

Pints for Pups
2026-05-02 12:30 - 15:30 | Jonamac Orchard, 19412 Shabbona Rd, Malta, IL, 60150, United States
Join Rotaract Club of Sycamore for an afternoon of wagging tails, local sips, and community impact at Pints for Pups!

At Jonamac Orchard on Saturday, May 2 from 12:30-3:30PMMore info: Pints for Pups – Facebook Event Page

This dog-friendly outdoor event brings together pet lovers for a one-of-a-kind market filled with live demos, local vendors, interactive activities, and meaningful ways to give back.

Donation Entry:$5 to donate a toy or treats to Tails Humane Society or Meals on Wheels HomeBuddiesOrbring your own: toys, treats, or dog/cat food

Kids under 16 – FreeDogs welcome, must be leashed, well behaved & vaccinatedCats please stay home for your safety!

Special Touch: Write a note with your donation for a future or current pet family!

Kentucky Derby Celebration
2026-05-02 14:00 - 15:30 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
The Kentucky Derby is the longest continually held sporting event in America, and it is one of the most prestigious horse races in the world. It has a rich tradition of fancy dress, specialty food, and of course, horse-racing. Celebrate the Run for the Roses by making a traditional “Fascinator” hat to wear while you view clips of the greatest two minutes in sports, sip Mint Juleps (non-alcoholic) and enjoy other refreshments.
Explore horse riding gear provided by Tiny Voice Therapy Services of Elburn, play games including a children’s obstacle course, “place your bets” to win a raffle prize, and get your photo taken in the winner’s circle! Dressing up for a day at the races is encouraged for this program.
This all-ages event is sponsored by the Friends of the Library and is part of the America 250 initiative: celebrating our nation throughout the year. No registration is required.
For more information, please contact Susan at susang@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2114.

WCPW: Windy City Pro Wrestling
2026-05-02 19:00 - 21:30 | DeKalb Sports and Recreation Center, 1765 S 4th St, DeKalb, IL, 60115
WCPW®

Saturday May 2nd, 2026

Doors 6:30pm, Bell 7pm

DeKalb Cinco De Mayo
2026-05-03 12:00 - 20:00 | Van Buer Plaza, 148-198 N 2nd St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Downtown DeKalb’s annual Cinco de Mayo celebration is back—bigger and better than ever!

Enjoy a full day of live entertainment, featuring performances ranging from traditional dance to mariachi and grupo music. Explore a variety of vendors, grab a bite from local food trucks, and stop by the 21+ beer garden.

This free, family-friendly event also includes a dedicated kids’ zone.

Don’t miss the kickoff Wagon Parade as it takes over Lincoln Highway—starting at First Street and making its way to the main stage—right through the center of the action, with horses, dancers, and brightly decorated wagons.

Be sure to check out the car show from 12–6 PM!

Cinco de Mayo at Los Rancheros
2026-05-05 00:00 - 23:59 | Los Rancheros, 2000 2350 Sycamore Rd, DeKalb, Illinois, 60115, United States
Los Rancheros is not holding back this Cinco de Mayo with surprises, trivia, giveaways, Mexican food and music!

Cinco de Mayo at El Jimador
2026-05-05 15:00 - 21:00 | El Jimador Mexican Grill, 260 E Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb, Illinois, 60115, United States
Keep the celebration going at El Jimador! Join them on May 5th to continue celebrating Cinco de Mayo!

They will be having fun vendors starting at 3:00 pm and live music at 5:00 pm. Joining will be DJ NRG and Mariachi Luna.

Teen Salsa Tasting
2026-05-05 15:30 - 16:30 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Celebrate Taco Tuesday, Cinco De Mayo, or just your love for salsa by sampling various salsas! Mild, medium, and spicy versions will be offered, and you’ll learn a bit about each salsa. At the end of the tasting vote for the one you liked the best.

This program is for tweens and teens in grades 6-12. Registration is not required, but the tasting has first come, first served as supplies are limited.

For additional information, please contact Steven at stevenm@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 3400.

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at Rivers'
2026-05-05 17:00 - 21:00 | Rivers’ Mexican Cantina & Grill, 407 Sycamore Rd, Genoa, IL, United States
Grab your boots & cowboy hats!

Celebrating Cinco de Mayo on 5/5Estilo Norteño / Cowboy Style

-Outside Entertainment by DJ Fiesta Latina & Los Pericos Norteño Dúo! -Mini Mercado by Artesanias Ameliah-Dessert by Blissful Bites Snack Bar

All the fun stats after 4:30 pm!

Give DeKalb County
2026-05-07 00:00 - 23:59 | DeKalb County, illinois
Celebrate 13 years of generosity during Give DeKalb County! This annual fundraising event supports nonprofits with easy ways to give—plus every donation is boosted by the Bonus Pool.
Give online from midnight to midnight on May 7 at GiveDeKalbCounty.org. Browse by cause, follow the leaderboard, or support multiple nonprofits in one transaction.
Beginning in April, donors who prefer to give by check can print a mail-in donation form at GiveDeKalbCounty.org, list their chosen organization(s) and donation amount(s), then write one check for the total amount payable to “DCCF.” Mail it with the completed donation form to the DeKalb County Community Foundation, 475 DeKalb Avenue, Sycamore, IL 60178 (postmarked April 23 – May 7). Donations from Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA) follow the mail-in guidelines.
Hosted by the DeKalb County Nonprofit Partnership, a program of the DeKalb County Community Foundation, Give DeKalb County has raised more than $12.8 million to date. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram and make a difference on May 7!

Mother's Day at Blumen Gardens
2026-05-08 09:00 - 17:00, 2026-05-09 09:00 - 17:00, 2026-05-10 09:00 - 17:00 | Blumen Gardens, 403 Edward St, Sycamore, IL, 60178, United States
Mother’s Day Weekend is Blumen Gardens’ biggest weekend of the year! Join in on garden shopping, seasonal inspiration, and a full weekend experience with food trucks and live music.

Stroll the garden center, shop gifts and home décor, pick out plants for spring, and enjoy lunch and music while you browse. This weekend is made for celebrating moms, friends, and the start of the season at Blumen.

Mother's Day Wildflower Walk
2026-05-08 12:00 - 14:00 | Lions Park, 700 W. Taylor Street, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
This Mother’s Day, decorate and showcase a flower to celebrate that special woman in your life. Purchase a wooden flower from us to take home and decorate in your own unique, beautiful way that represents the person you would like to honor this Mother’s Day. You’ll bring your decorated flower back to us and we will line the walking path in Lion’s Park with all the decorated flowers and invite the community to take time over the weekend to enjoy the artistry and celebrate.

Pick Up Your Flower: Friday, May 1st through Wednesday, May 6th at Haish Gym (303 S. 9th St).Return Your Decorated Flower: by 5:00pm on Thursday, May 7thPick Up Your Decorated Flower: May 12th-22nd from Haish Gym, your flower is ready to be proudly displayed in your garden!

POSTPONED: Back Road Derby Drive
2026-05-09 00:00 - 23:59 | Illinois
This event has been postponed with a new date TBD.

Do you have a street legal golf cart or UTV?The Genoa Area Chamber of Commerce is looking for people with golf carts or UTVs who want to have some fun!The Genoa Area Chamber is excited to introduce a brand-new event the Back Road Derby Drive designed to collect food donations for Rooted for Good and raise funds to support free events like Waddle on the Riverbank featuring the Great Genoa Duck Race, Celebrate the Season, and to bring Santa Claus to town throughout the month of December.

What is the Back Road Derby Drive?It’s two events in one! Participants with street legal golf carts or UTVs are invited to decorate their vehicle, dress to match their theme, and pick a song to show off their style!

Drivers will parade along a back road block while the community cheers them on from the sidelines. A panel of judges will select the top 10 finalists based on creativity, theme, decoration and crowd appeal. The finalists will then drive individually through the Vet’s Club parking lot where one will take home the title Champion of the Back Roads for the year. The top 6 will be selected and be offered a VIP spot in the Genoa Day’s Parade! Once the parade competition wraps up, the excitement continues as the top 6 vehicles also get to compete in the Genoa Derby!

How will we have the Genoa Derby?The chosen 6 golf carts or UTV’s will be the jockeys with their carts. The jockeys will take turns rolling jumbo dice to see how fast they can get to the finish line. Spectators can “bet” by placing their chips on who they think will win the race. Odds will be given and the excitement will grow as everyone awaits to see who will win the Back Road Cup.

Come out and help create a brand-new Genoa tradition!

DeKalb Back Alley Market
2026-05-09 09:00 - 16:00 | Downtown DeKalb, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
The DeKalb Back Alley Market (BAM) takes over downtown DeKalb with a curated mix of vintage, handmade, and just plain cool. You’ll find 150+ vendors spread through streets and alleyways—everything from vintage clothing and home décor to pottery, candles, apothecary goods, and specialty foods.

It’s not a craft fair and it’s not a flea market. BAM is built to feel a little different—more curated, more unexpected, and fun to wander. Add in live music, local food, and a crowd that shows up ready to explore, and it turns into more than just shopping.

Come dig around, find something you didn’t know you needed, and spend a few hours having fun in our alley!

Location: DeKalb Back Alley Market, Palmer Ct., 2nd and 3rd St. DeKalb, ILAdmission is free. Bring your family and well-behaved petsDon’t miss out on this unique shopping experience in Downtown DeKalb!

Mother's Day Saturday Flower Walk 2026
2026-05-09 10:00 - 13:00 | Russell Woods Forest Preserve, 11750 IL-72, Genoa, 60135, United States
On the day before Mother’s Day, come out to the guided wildflower walks at the Natural Resource Education Center in Russell Woods Forest Preserve. The guided walks will start on the hour, starting at 10 AM. The last walk will start at 1 PM. The NREC will be open, so come in a see the live animal displays!
Find more details at: https://extension.illinois.edu/bdo/natural-resource-education-center
If you have questions or need a reasonable accommodation to participate in programming, call the DeKalb County Extension office at 815-758-8194.

Turn of the Century Tea Party @ Ellwood House
2026-05-09 14:00 - 16:00 | Ellwood House, 420 Linden Place, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
You and your little one are cordially invited to a charming, turn-of-the-century tea party where imagination meets elegance! Take a delightful step back in time and enjoy a “proper” afternoon of tea, treats, and games with Dekalb Public Library at the historical Ellwood House Museum. Start by making fancy hats and accessories to complete party attire before gathering for tea, juice, treats, and etiquette games. Afterwards, retire to the courtyard lawn (weather permitting; otherwise, inside) for old-fashioned party games and end the party with a visit to Ellwood Dollhouse.
Patrons are encouraged to “play dress up” for the occasion!
Teatime starts promptly at 2:00 p.m. and families will be seated first come, first served. Please arrive early for seating. No registration is required.
This program is intended for families with children ages 6-11. Younger children may need additional assistance with crafts and activities.
For additional information, please contact Stormy at stormye@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3310.

Sunday at Sandwich Market
2026-05-10 08:00 - 15:00 | Sandwich Fair Grounds, 15730 Pratt Road, Sandwich, IL
Sunday at Sandwich is a vintage, antique, and handmade goods market held at the Sandwich Fairgrounds! Visitors have a chance to shop for new or repurposed items, consumables, and vintage or handmade goods by local vendors from all over the Midwest.

Mother’s Day Brunch at Faranda’s
2026-05-10 09:30 - 14:30 | Faranda’s Banquet Center, 302 Grove Street, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Celebrate Mom with a special Mother’s Day Brunch at Faranda’s! Join on Sunday, May 10th for a memorable dining experience featuring an abundant brunch buffet, chef-attended stations, and a variety of sweet and savory favorites the whole family will enjoy.
Guests can indulge in classic breakfast selections, carved meats, fresh salads, decadent desserts, and more—all served in a family friendly setting. Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or starting a new one, Faranda’s is the perfect place to gather and celebrate the moms in your life.
Seating times are available every 15 minutes from 9:30am to 2:30pm. Reservations are required and fill quickly, so be sure to reserve your table in advance.
Make this Mother’s Day one to remember—treat Mom to a relaxing and delicious brunch at Faranda’s!
Adults: $44.99
Children 4-12: $32.99
Toddlers 0-3; Free
