Like a scene out of Wizard of Oz, a blizzard erupted suddenly on the mid-April morning I was writing this article, burying the budding crocuses under a four-inch accumulation of snow. Although it was little disheartening after one of the most brutal winters on record, I couldn’t help but think of brighter things to come. An internet search revealed a world of promise: Naperville’s abundant summer offerings will keep residents and visitors entertained and involved into the fall. Here are just a few:
The Naperville Municipal Band launches its season with “The Greatest Generation” in Central Park on Thursday, June 6 at 7:30PM. Concerts continue weekly through August 15, each featuring a different theme. Attendees can supply their own chairs or sit on benches installed on the grounds. BYOF (bring your own food) or purchase homemade treats from local charitable organizations.
Naperville Park District presents free outdoors movies at various park locations beginning June 7 and running through September 13. Five family films, including “Christopher Robin,” “Incredibles 2,” and “Mary Poppins Returns,” will be shown around 8:30PM on preselect Friday nights. Have your picnic baskets and blankets ready for evenings under the stars.
Naper Settlement gets in the act with Naper Nights, June 14 – 15, July 19 – 20, and August 16 – 17 from 5PM to 10PM. Some of the best cover bands in the area are on tap, performing the music of Fleetwood Mac, Rolling Stones, Chicago, and more. Guests can bring chairs and blankets – outside food is not allowed. No worries, though. Quality food and beverage vendors will be on site, waiting to serve. Admission is charged.
If Naperville doesn’t feel exotic enough for you, Summer Place Theater has a solution: escape to the Islands with their summer line up of “South Pacific” (June 7 – June 15), “My Three Angels” (June 28 – 29), and “Mamma Mia!” (July 19 – August 3). This season, performances will be held at Community Christian Church’s Community Yellow Box Theater, 1635 Emerson. Admission is charged.
Many more events are waiting to be discovered. To find a full listing of artful things you can do this summer, visit artsdupage.org.
