CALENDAR

JUNE 2022

From the Fox River Arts Ramble to live entertainment, here’s what’s happening in

Kane County

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Clip this page out Hang it on your fridge so you can experience all that June has to offer! Please check online ahead of time for more details.

Compiled by Hannah Hoffmeister

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June marks Pride Month in the U.S.! Spend some time learning about LGBTQ history this month.

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Grab your tennis shoes and head to the Bridge Walk & 5K, with proceeds supporting the LivingWell Cancer Resource Center.

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Have you been to the Batavia Boardwalk Shops yet? They’re open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 18.

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Today is a big day — it’s Father’s Day and Juneteenth! Celebrate the dads in your life and take time to read about the meaning of Juneteenth.

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It’s national chocolate ice cream day, and you don’t have to tell us twice. Head to your favorite local ice cream parlor to honor the day!

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Today is Flag Day, which marks the adoption of the U.S. flag back in 1777. Do you know how to play “The StarSpangled Banner” on an instrument?

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Take a bike ride or walk along the Fox River Trail, and consider stopping in one of the Tri-Cities for a coffee or meal after.

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Catch the Fox River Arts Ramble from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., held at four major arts organizations in the Tri-Cities.

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St. Charles Business Alliance hosts STC Live: free music hosted Wednesdays and Saturdays all summer.

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Catch Blues on the Fox in Aurora, complete with riverfront views and headliners with star power.

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It’s Swedish Days in Geneva! See live entertainment and enjoy tons of great local food and drinks.

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Head to a performance of “Hand to God,” part of Copley Theatre’s “BOLD Series.” The shows on this day start at 1:30 and 7 p.m.

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It’s take your dog to work day … consider heading to “Yappy Hour” after. Learn more on P. 26.

SWEDISH DAYS IN GENEVA!

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Visit the Local Love Market at Weathered Ways Farm, 39W270 Keslinger Road in Geneva, to support local and grab fresh produce.

SINGING A BLUE STREAK

Blues on the Fox returns June 17 and 18

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske Photos provided by RiverEdge Park; Billy Branch photo taken by Roman Sobus; Kenny Wayne Shepherd photo taken by Greg Logan

Listening to the blues is more than music. It’s an experience. After a pause for the past two years, excitement is brewing for the return of Blues on the Fox at RiverEdge Park in Aurora, scheduled for June 17 and 18. “These are some of the greatest blues musicians,” says Jim Jarvis, vice president of programming and sales for RiverEdge Park, Paramount Theatre and Copley Theatre. Jarvis booked these acts more than three years ago, and nearly every act was able to remain on the lineup — including legendary performers. Friday opens with Shemekia Copeland, who is referred to as the “Queen of the Blues,” followed by headliner Kenny Wayne Shepherd. “To hear Shepherd shred on guitar is an amazing experience and I couldn’t ask for a cooler way to open,” Jarvis says. Saturday features Chicago blues legend Buddy Guy, who, at 85, still lights up the stage when he performs. Other featured performers include Billy Branch, Mindi Abair and The Boneshakers, and Melody Angel. “I feel this is one of our strongest lineups,” Jarvis notes. Bringing together blues legends of the past and present on one stage is fitting for the city of Aurora, which has a unique role in the history of blues, Jarvis explains. In 1937-38, more than 300 blues songs were recorded by a number of artists in the top floor of what was known as the Sky Club of Aurora’s Leland Tower. Marking its 24th year of the Blues on the Fox, the event draws music lovers from near and far to take in the music and great atmosphere of the outdoor concert venue — where even kayakers along the Fox River stop to take in a song or two before paddling on, Jarvis says. New this year is a collaboration with the city to highlight recent renovations of Wilder Park with Saturday’s “Party on the Promenade.” The family-friendly event features activities for all ages, music and great food vendors, including local businesses cooking up barbecue, Mexican and Indian food and much more for the crowds to enjoy. Party on the Promenade is free, open to all. Those with tickets to Blues on the Fox will have access to the new pedestrian bridge, visiting the Wilder Park activities throughout the day. The renovations to Wilder Park are one element of the reinvention of downtown Aurora, which has welcomed new restaurants, retail and service businesses to add to a cool and refreshed vibe. “It’s exciting to be a part of this,” Jarvis says.