Explore things to do in Naperville this weekend, from dining at well-known local restaurants and enjoying family-friendly events to catching theater performances and much more.
Friday & Saturday
Kreger’s Brats and Sausage Haus!
10AM to 3PM Fridays and Saturdays at Kreger’s Brat and Sausage Haus – 606 N. Ellsworth Naperville, IL 60563
Since 1893, Kreger’s has been a cornerstone of the community, now serving as a wonderful stop for lunch, conversation and camaraderie every Friday and Saturday. With brats on the grill, let Mary Jo know that you know Bill’s wurst is the best. Find 22 fresh flavors as well as fresh made salads, fresh cooked buns, pickles, desserts and more. Pre-order at (630) 355-4418. And be reminded Kreger’s sauerkraut slaw is tasty atop a brat or all by itself! Thanks for supporting your local sausage dealer. www.kregersbrats.com.
‘Phantom in Concert’
7:30PM Friday and Saturday at Madden Theatre, North Central College – 171 Chicago Avenue, Naperville, IL 60540
Experience the haunting romance of Phantom in Concert, the stunning musical by Maury Yeston (Nine & Titanic) and Arthur Kopit, inspired by Gaston Leroux’s classic novel. This elegant concert presentation showcases the lush, melodic score and sweeping storytelling that set this version apart from all others. With its rich orchestrations and deeply human characters, Phantom offers a poignant and powerful take on the legendary tale of love, obsession, and music beneath the Paris Opera House. A must-see for musical theatre lovers and romantics alike. Tickets: $37-42. More info and tickets at brightsidetheatre.com/phantom.
Magical Starlight Theatre Presents ‘Shrek: The Musical’
7:30PM Friday and Saturday; 1:30PM Sautrday and Sunday at Naperville Central High School – 440 Aurora Ave. Naperville, IL 60540
Magical Starlight Theatre, a Naperville Park District program, presents its January 2026 production, Shrek: The Musical, the weekends of January 9-11 and 16-18 at Naperville Central High School, located at 440 Aurora Ave. The story of Shrek: The Musical follows an ogre name Shrek and his journey through the Kingdom of Duloc to rid his swamp of banished fairy tale creatures. Along the way, Shrek befriends Donkey and Princess Fiona, and the trio share a hilarious adventure together where they find acceptance and beauty in themselves. Kevin Loeper, who plays the principal role of Shrek, emphasized the show’s messaging. Tickets at napervilleparks.org/magicalstarlighttheatre.
Start 2026 with Purpose: Celebrate MLK Through Music & Community
Saturday
Shop Downtown / Redeem Gift Certificates
Find plenty to do throughout downtown Naperville!
Downtown Naperville Gift Cards are valid for use at more than 150-plus downtown shops, spas, restaurants and Hotel Indigo. Designed to celebrate every season, gift cards may be purchased in any amount from $10-$500. Check out the downtown directory for the full listing of establishments accepting gift cards. Note also, Downtown Naperville Gift Cards are available for purchase at the Downtown Naperville Alliance, 131 West Jefferson Avenue, Suite 223, 9AM-3PM Monday thru Friday.
Be prepared to celebrate the 250th anniversary of Independence
What’s more folks already are looking forward to this year when the 250th anniversary of the Independence Day will be celebrated on July 4, 2026. What’s more, in commemoration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and other historic events in 1776, Naper Settlement is planning USA 250 Special Programs. And, of course, the Naperville Municipal Band will play time-honored tributes during Thursday evening summer band concerts in Central Park. Stay tuned!
Paint and Sip at Pinot’s Palette
Afternoon & Evening at Pinot’s Palette – 175 Jackson Ave Suite 123, Naperville, IL 60540
Pinot’s Palette presents the perfect way to celebrate! Whether it’s a girls’ night out, a date night, or just a “me” night, this one’s all about slowing down, laughing lots, and creating something you’ll love to display all year long. Reserve your seat today and treat yourself to a little holiday escape. For prices (they vary), information and party planning, visit www.pinotspalette.com/naperville/events. Open just about every day, Pinot’s Palette, now in its 16th year, is located at 175 Jackson Avenue in downtown Naperville.
Enjoy Every Day at Quigley’s Irish Pub
11AM Daily at Quigley’s Irish Pub – 43 E. Jefferson Ave. in downtown Naperville
Quigley’s Irish Pub features live music Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. The pub also offers a variety of spaces for all types of special events and fundraisers. Meanwhile, stop by for honest pub fare and an Irish Coffee or enjoy a cold pint in the friendly pub EDAQ, Every Day at Quigley’s.
Sunday
Reserve a Table at Mesón Sabika for any day
11:30AM to 9PM at Mesón Sabika – 1025 Aurora Ave. Naperville, IL 60540
Find a choice in dining rooms and private spaces at Mesón Sabika to sample Spanish tapas and delicious sangria for lunch and dinner every day. Located just west of downtown Naperville at 1025 Aurora Avenue, Mesón Sabika has been serving the community since 1990. Built in 1847, the historic mansion with eight air-conditioned dining rooms is set in a beautifully landscaped four-acre estate, providing a welcoming sight with plenty of parking for lunch, dinner, special events, benefits, weddings, meetings and family gatherings throughout the year. Gift Certificates are always available.
Choices to whet every appetite north, east, west and south!
Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch & Dinner / Featuring approximately 400 eateries, Naperville serves up tastes to please all ages and budgets in between shopping, bowling, pickleball, golf, swimming, concerts and all the activities that keep families and friends busy. In fact, consider that folks may even dine out at a Naperville eatery every day of the year without eating at the same place twice!
Thanks for supporting the hospitality industry right here in Naperville. Bon Appetit!
Find ‘What We Need’ during treks along the Riverwalk…
Cheers to happy plans!
Make every day count while appreciating the good things, big or small. Here’s to good tidings, good news, good health and good graces.
And if recent events find wedding plans in your future, consider news of the annual Wedding Showcase at Naper Settlement, planned this year from 10AM to 3PM Sat., Jan. 17, 2026.
Be a Naperville Crime Stopper
Keeping our community safe is everybody’s responsibility. If an arrest is made, receive a reward of up to $1,000. Remain anonymous. Call (630) 420-6006. Stay safe.
