The Quarry’s New Aqua Park: Bounce, Climb, Splash
Located in Crystal Lake, The Quarry has leveled up summer fun with its latest attraction: a massive floating Aqua Park. Featuring inflatable slides, trampolines, climbing walls, and a full-on obstacle course, this on-water playground is pure joy for kids and adults alike.
Sessions are time-based and fill up fast, so booking ahead is essential. It’s the perfect way to cool off, laugh out loud, and unleash your inner child before school schedules and cool breezes roll in.
Sunflower Fields in Full Bloom at Von Bergen’s and Tom’s Farm Market
Few sights capture summer’s golden glow like a sunflower field at peak bloom. At Von Bergen’s Country Market and Tom’s Farm Market, guests can wander through acres of towering blooms, cut their own stems, and capture Insta-worthy moments with a sea of yellow petals behind them.
The sunflower fields typically bloom throughout late summer, but weather plays a role — so check their social media pages for up-to-date bloom alerts and events. Don’t forget your camera and a sturdy pair of shoes!
Local Farmers Markets: Fresh, Flavorful & Full of Community
Nothing says summer like a visit to a bustling farmers market, and McHenry County has plenty to explore. From Woodstock’s Award Winning Farmers Market to the downtowns of Cary and Huntley, these markets are brimming with fresh-picked produce, handmade goods, baked treats, and local art.
Pro tip: arrive early for the best selection, bring a reusable bag, and be ready to taste your way through late-summer’s bounty—peaches, corn, tomatoes, and more.
Woodstock Truck’n Food Show: Trucks, Tunes & Tasty Eats
Rev up your August plans with the Woodstock Truck’n Food Show, an annual event that combines the spectacle of big rig trucks with the irresistible draw of food trucks, live music, and family-friendly fun.
Happening at the McHenry County Fairgrounds, this one-day celebration offers a unique twist on typical summer festivals. It’s a feast for the eyes—and the taste buds—perfect for all ages and especially fun for families with little truck enthusiasts.
Cary Main Street Fest: Live Music, Street Eats & Local Flair
Set in charming downtown Cary, Main Street Fest wraps up summer with high energy, local flavor, and big-name bands. Expect delicious street food, local vendors, carnival-style fun, and music stages featuring favorites like Modern Day Romeos and 7th Heaven.
Perfect for date night or a weekend outing with friends, this early September event delivers small-town charm with a big community vibe.
Sip & Chill: Boba Bliss at Hempstock Healing Center
After all that summer fun, cool down with a unique twist: handcrafted boba teas at Hempstock Healing Center in Woodstock. Known for its holistic offerings and earthy ambiance, this apothecary-style shop also whips up fan-favorite bubble tea flavors like taro, mango, papaya, banana, and even kefir.
Relax in their lounge space, browse health products, or schedule a wellness treatment while enjoying your drink—it’s the ultimate mindful cooldown to your sunny adventures.