You’ll be surprised how much fun your family can have for free at Northbrook Autumnfest, 2-6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 1 at Meadowhill Park, 1479 Maple Ave.
“Autumnfest is definitely a community favorite,” said Tiffany Greene, Leisure Services supervisor for the Northbrook Park District. “Families come back year after year because of all the different activities that we offer. We have hayrides, we have bonfires with s’mores, we have a petting zoo.”
Other activities include inflatables, games, bingo, face-painting, a pumpkin launcher and the particularly popular Gary, the pumpkin-crushing dinosaur. Two favorite children’s entertainers will perform — magician Jaime Aponte and Miss Jamie’s Farm, a singer/songwriter/musician who teaches kids about farming.
There’s no charge for the s’mores or for hot apple cider.
“People can come and have a great time at no cost to them,” Greene said. “The only thing they would have to buy is if they decide to make a purchase from the food truck.”
For details, call (847) 291-2960 or go to nbparks.org.
Another autumn outing
Travel back in time as costumed interpreters relive local history during Folk Fest at The Grove, 1421 Milwaukee Ave., Glenview, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 2. There will also be folk music, square dancing, hayrides, a Native American flute circle and craft fair. Admission is $4; $1 for ages 12 and under.
For details, call (847) 299-6096 or go to thegroveglenview.org.
Juicy concert
Squeeze into SPACE, 1245 Chicago Ave., Evanston, 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 8 for popular family entertainer Justin Roberts’ album release party for “Lemonade,” his 13th album. The twice Grammy-nominated songwriter, singer and musician will be joined by Robbie Fulks, Liam Davis, Gerald Dowd and John Abbey who perform on the CD.
For details, call (847) 492-8860 or go to evanstonspace.com.
Highlight of their day
There will be puzzles, group activities and a make-and-take book (while supplies last) at a Highlights Magazine Storytime, 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 1 at Barnes and Noble, 1630 Sherman Ave., Evanston. The event celebrates the more than 70 years the magazine has been enjoyed by kids.
For details, call (847) 424-0848 or go to www.barnesandnoble.com.
Tricks a treat
Children will get a chance to participate during Family Magic with James Sanden, 10-11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 1 in the Lloyd Room at Winnetka Public Library, 768 Oak St. Registration is required for this comedy magic show.
For details, call (847) 446-7220 or go to www.winnetkalibrary.org
