School starts tomorrow but there’s still time for some end-of-summer outdoor activities, including the CommUNITY picnic, Shakespeare in the park and SoccerFest. Check the options for everyone this week:
Evanston’s CommUNITY Picnic takes place today from noon to 4 p.m. at Ingraham Park, Leonard Place at Asbury Avenue, behind the Morton Civic Center. The event features free food, games, live music, the Jesse White Tumblers and a balloon artist.
The Big Evanston Block Party, hosted by Evanston SPACE, continues this afternoon with live music performances, food from local vendors and beer from Half Acre, on Dempster Street at Chicago Avenue starting at 2 p.m. The event is free with a $5 suggested donation.
Stargazers will enjoy the CIERA Astronomy Evening at the Dearborn Observatory on Friday night, from 9 to 11 p.m. The free program on the NU campus at 2131 Tech Drive begins with a 10-minute introduction to a topic in astronomy, followed by an open Q&A session and fun, interactive demonstrations.
Muse of Fire Theater Company continues its performances of Shakespeare’s Richard III at Ingraham Park, just behind the Morton Civic Center at 2100 Ridge Ave., on Saturday and Sunday at 3 p.m. The show is free.
Black Panther, the last of the Starlight Movies in the Park, will be shown on Saturday at James Park, Oakton Street at Dodge Avenue, starting at dusk.
SoccerFest is being held on Sunday, Sept. 2, in the ETHS football stadium, 2285 Church Street. Co-ed 5-on-5 tournaments for students in grades 1-8 will be held starting at 11 a.m. Besides lots of soccer, there will be concessions, a dunk tank and other sideline attractions. Registration closes Aug. 31.