Five Things To Do in the Western Suburbs: May 1 to 3, 2026

Spring is in full swing, and it's time to get out and enjoy it. Take a look at what's happening nearby this weekend.

Take in the beauty of spring at Lilac Time in Lombard.
This weekend kicks off Lilac Time in Lombard, two weeks packed full of events all about celebrating the great outdoors and the beautiful lilac trees and shrubs that are in bloom this time of year. You can check the Lilac Time website for a full schedule of events, including Lilac Heritage Tours, the Lilac Queen Coronation, concerts, craft fairs, a wine tasting, storytime in the park, and much more. 

Date: May 1-17
Time: Various times
Cost: Various prices
Location: Lilacia Park, Lombard
More Info: lombardlilactime.com 

All aboard for the Great Midwest Train Show.
Come see the nation's largest monthly model train show this weekend at the DuPage County Fairgrounds. The show features over 300 tables across three buildings of dealers and collectors selling model trains, accessories, and the parts any model train enthusiast might need. 

Date: May 3
Time: 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
Cost: $8
Location: DuPage County Fairgrounds, Wheaton
More Info: greenbergshows.com 

Solve a thrilling mystery at the Dinner Detective.
Step into a night of suspense at The Dinner Detective, North America's largest immersive mystery dinner experience. This interactive show puts you right in the middle of a thrilling crime, where anyone in the room could be a suspect. As the mystery unfolds, you'll work to uncover clues and solve the case — all while enjoying a delicious three-course meal.

Date: May 2
Time: 6:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.
Cost: $90.22+
Location: Hyatt Regency Lisle-Naperville
More Info: thedinnerdetective.com 

Find something special for mom at Mother's Day Craft & Vendor Market.
Hosted by Hometown Vendor Market, this lively indoor and outdoor event features a wide variety of local businesses offering everything from handmade crafts and jewelry to food, fashion, home décor, and more — perfect for finding unique gifts just in time for Mother's Day.

Date: May 1-3
Time: Various times
Cost: Free
Location: 203 Yorktown Shopping Center, Lombard
More Info: yorktowncenter.com 

Kick off the season at the Premier Spring Artisan and Craft Show.
This indoor/outdoor event at Bartlett Town Center features 50+ artists and vendors showcasing handmade goods, art, and unique finds, along with local restaurants serving freshly prepared food for a fun spring outing.

Date: May 2 (rain date May 3)
Time: 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. 
Cost: Free
Location: Bartlett Town Center
More Info: artsinbartlett.org