May is the perfect time to explore the Aurora Area of Illinois, where blooming flowers and vibrant events set the stage for unforgettable experiences. Whether you're looking for family-friendly activities, cultural performances, or delicious food and drink, this region has something for everyone. Let’s dive into the highlights of an exciting spring weekend in the Aurora Area!

Thursday, May 1: A Theatrical Start to the Weekend

Arthouse - Aurora, Illinois

Begin your adventure with a touch of Broadway magic at the Paramount Theatre in downtown Aurora. Their latest production of Cats promises a spectacular circus-themed revival of Andrew Lloyd Webber's iconic musical. Featuring acrobats, aerialists, and unforgettable songs like “Memory,” this show is a must-see for theater enthusiasts. Make your evening even more special by dining at one of Aurora’s top restaurants—Arthouse, conveniently located next to the theater, offers a perfect blend of ambiance and flavor.

Cats May 01

The most beloved musical in theater history brings the colorful world of Cats to the stage. Inspired by a collection of poems by T.S. Eliot, Cats, the iconic musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber, is a well-loved fantastical journey into the world of Jellicle Cats. Long-time subscribers of Paramount will…

Friday, May 2: Tulips, Art, and Food Trucks

Phillips Park - Sunken Garden - Tulips

Celebrate spring with a stroll through Phillips Park’s Sunken Garden in Aurora, where over 10,000 tulips are in full bloom. This stunning floral display is sure to leave you inspired! As evening falls, head downtown for Aurora’s First Fridays event. Enjoy live music, browse local art exhibits, and indulge in mouthwatering treats at the annual Food Truck Fest. With dozens of vendors serving up diverse cuisines, it’s a foodie’s paradise.

Food Truck Fest May 02

Join us for a feast of flavors at our Food Truck Festivals, happening twice a year to celebrate the best in mobile cuisine! Whether you’re a foodie, a family, or a group of friends, these festivals are the perfect way to indulge in an unforgettable culinary experience. Location: Benton Street, from…

Saturday & Sunday, May 3-4: Wine on the Fox and More

Oswego Wine on the Fox - 2024 - Sign

The weekend culminates with Oswego’s beloved Wine on the Fox festival at Hudson Crossing Park. This family-friendly event features over 100 wine selections from Illinois wineries, craft beer options, live music, and delicious food from local vendors. Bring a blanket or lawn chair to relax by the scenic Fox River while enjoying performances from talented bands throughout the weekend.

On Sunday morning, unwind at Geneva French Market in downtown Geneva. This charming open-air market offers fresh produce, baked goods, flowers, and artisanal crafts—perfect for a leisurely start to your day. For music lovers, The Venue in Aurora hosts two fantastic shows: Latin Rock Night on Saturday and a tribute to Bob Dylan’s Highway 61 Revisited on Sunday evening.

  • May 04, 2025
  • Hudson Crossing Park

Gather with friends and family for the 19th annual Wine on the Fox, presented by john greene Realtor, returning to the scenic Hudson Crossing Park along the Fox River. This beloved festival is free and open to all ages, with live music, food trucks and over 100 wine selections from Illinois…

  • May 03, 2025
  • The Venue Aurora

⭐ Sueños Líquidos ⭐ (Chicago Rock Ensamble ) We are a group of musicians friends from different well known local bands and we share the same taste of music. We got together to pay tribute to the most popular band in the history of Spanish Rock in Latin America, "Mana " - Grammy winners with top tens…

  • May 04, 2025
  • The Venue Aurora

⭐ Album Covers Presents: Bob Dylan - Highway 61 Revisited ⭐ On his 6th album, Bob Dylan once again changed music forever by fusing blues, rock and roll along with poetic verses and songs with stories that didn’t just stop and start within the 2 and a half minute mark. Continuing with the vision that…

Plan Your Spring Adventure

With so much to see and do in the Aurora Area this May, now is the time to start planning your visit! Explore shopping destinations, savor diverse dining options, and book affordable lodging at enjoyaurora.com. Whether you’re here for a day or staying for the weekend, you’ll find endless opportunities to make memories in this vibrant region.

Let spring awaken your sense of adventure—come experience all that the Aurora Area has to offer!

Cats May 01

Cats

The most beloved musical in theater history brings the colorful world of Cats to the stage. Inspired by a collection of poems by T.S. Eliot, Cats, the…