Venetian Night
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The annual parade of decorated boats (followed by a fireworks show) has become so popular that people have been known to stake out a viewing spot along the lakefront as early as 9 a.m. This year’s theme is “Hollywood on the Lake.” When: 8:15 p.m. Where: Lake Michigan, Lake Shore Drive and Congress Parkway Price: Free; 312-744-3315; explorechicago.org
DuPage County Fair
Big musical acts, big trucks (Illinois State Pullers), food and fun are all on the schedule for the annual fair. When: 8 a.m.-10 p.m. (also Sunday) Where: DuPage County Fairgrounds, 2015 W. Manchester Rd., Wheaton Price: $10, $3 for children 3-12, free for children 2 and younger, $30 for 5-day pass; 630-668-6636, dupagecountyfair.org
Smokey Robinson
There’s always sunshine on a cloudy day when the legendary soul crooner performs. And the Arboretum as a backdrop makes for a lovely live music experience. When: 7 p.m. Where: Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Highway 53, Lisle Price: $50-$52; 630-725-2066, mortonarb.org
Newberry Library Book Fair
If you are into antiques, zoology or any topic in between, this 25-year-old book fair with more than 100,000 books probably has something to your liking. Also catch the Meet the Author event with Alex Kotlowitz (noon-1 p.m.) and the Bughouse Square Debates (1-4 p.m.) while you’re there. When: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday (also Sunday) Where: Newberry Library, 60 W. Walton St. (debates and author event take place across from street from the library at Washington Square Park) Price: All events are free; 312-255-3501, newberry.org
Dragon Boat Race for Literacy
Decorated boats compete along the South Branch of the Chicago River. If you’ve never seen a race of this kind, as the human-powered machines battle for supremacy, it’s stirring. This ninth annual event also includes music, food, acrobats, dancing, arts and crafts, and more. When: 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday Where: Ping Tom Park, 300 W. 19th St. Price: Free; 312-326-5320 or chinatown.org