Top 10 Hometown Events, USA
Summertime is the perfect opportunity to get out of the house and explore. You never know what sort of exciting adventures might exist in your own backyard. Enjoy the warm weather at outdoor restaurants. Shop small at local boutiques. Just remember to have fun wherever you go!
1. ConnectiCon XVII
Calling all science fiction fans. ConnectiCon takes place in the middle of July. Dress up as your favorite character and take part in one of the many "cosplay" photoshoots with fellow enthusiasts. Attend a panel to learn more about subjects like gaming and anime.
2. Live After Five Summer Concert Series
This summer concert series is a highlight of downtown Anchorage. Listen to local artists while you enjoy the beer garden. The drinks change week to week. Discover classic Alaskan cuisine that stars fresh-caught seafood.
3. Eyes to the Skies Festival
The city of Lisle in Illinois has been hosting this event since the early 90s. The festival features 150 activities over July 4-6 and a carnival from July 3-7.
4. New Castle County Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Festival
Visit Delaware at the end of June for all the ice cream you could want. New Castle's annual event is full of family fun that's capped off with an incredible fireworks display at dusk.
5. West Fest Chicago
Every city has their own music scene and Chicago is no exception. West Fest celebrates Chicago house with multiple DJ sets. If music isn't your thing, check out the local craft fair or the number of restaurants along the festival's Chicago Avenue location.
6. Art in the Park
The Flagstaff arts and crafts scene gets a moment in the spotlight with the annual Art in the Park showcase. Local artists gather in Wheeler Park during the Fourth of July and Labor Day weekends.
7. Yerba Buena Gardens ChoreoFest
The Yerba Buena Gardens Festival is an organization dedicated to celebrating and preserving local creative spirit. Their ChoreoFest takes place in the middle of July. You'll see incredible works by nine local dance companies.
8. Twin Cities Bacon and Beer Classic
Minnesota and St. Paul are known for their beer culture. This year you can visit the CHS field at the end of July to sample 65+ craft beers and experience it for yourself.
9. Atlanta Water Lantern Festival
The popular Water Lantern Festival series comes to Atlanta in July. Gather with your loved ones and neighbors to design your own lantern before launching it onto the water.
10. Vermont Breakfast on the Farm
Learn more about Vermont's rich history of dairy farming through a delicious (and free!) pancake breakfast. Area farmers are there to answer questions about the process. Little ones can even pet the cows and calves.
Cities pull out all the stops during the summer. It's a time to literally bring local culture and history into the light. These events are sure to inspire you to find other activities in your area.