ArtWauk

06/03/2026

From live music and live painting to galleries, pop-up experiences, and local shopping, ArtWauk transforms downtown Waukegan into one of Lake County's most vibrant destinations for arts, culture, and community.

Families, friends, artists, and visitors come together to explore downtown businesses, discover unique creative experiences, enjoy great food, and take advantage of free trolley rides throughout the district.

Held on the third Saturday of every month, year-round, ArtWauk showcases the energy, creativity, and welcoming spirit that make downtown Waukegan a place to live, work, visit, and create.

Join us for the next ArtWauk on Saturday, June 20. We can't wait to see you downtown!
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Thank you for the video recap of May ArtWauk!

06/02/2026

The Little Fort Environmental Film Festival is coming to downtown Waukegan during ArtWauk this month on Friday, June 19 and Saturday, June 20.

This special two-day showcase brings powerful environmental storytelling to the heart of our city, featuring films that highlight wildlife, conservation, and the connection between people and nature.

One featured film follows a young birdwatcher in Thailand on a journey to find the rare Nicobar pigeon, discovering along the way a deeper understanding of wildlife conservation, peaceful coexistence, and the importance of protecting our natural world.

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience meaningful films and community conversation during ArtWauk.

Learn more at littlefortfilmfestival.org

06/02/2026

Congratulations to Ballet Folklorico Tayahua on bringing home 1st Place Adult Group at the Midwest Folklorico Competition. We are proud to have such talented artists representing Waukegan and look forward to welcoming next year's competition to our city.

Be sure to visit the Ballet Folklorico Tayahua Cultural Center during ArtWauk to learn about Mexican culture, explore their programs, and discover how you can become part of this award-winning organization.

Ballet Folkloriko Tayhua Cultural Center
32 N. Genesee St., Downtown Waukegan

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06/02/2026

Dandelion Gallery & Studio is always a must-see during ArtWauk, and this month’s exhibition is no exception!

Threads of Liberation: The Fabric of Our Truth is a community-centered exhibition inspired by Pride Month and Juneteenth, exploring identity, resilience, healing, and self-expression through fashion, visual art, and performance.

Stop in during ArtWauk to experience this powerful showcase, learn about Dandelion’s workshops and programs, and meet some of the artists whose work brings the exhibition to life.

Dandelion Gallery & Studio
109 S. Genesee St, Downtown Waukegan

06/01/2026

June is here, and we're looking forward to another exciting ArtWauk in downtown Waukegan!

One of the best parts of ArtWauk is the live music, and this month we're thrilled to welcome Los Corb, Los Exponentes del Rock en Español!

If you caught their performance during Scoop Waukegan last year, you know the energy they bring. If not, now's your chance to experience Spanish rock like never before.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, June 20. ArtWauk takes place from 5PM to 9PM, with Los Corb performing live from 6PM to 9PM.

Join us for an evening of art, music, shopping, dining, and community in downtown Waukegan.

05/28/2026

Local artists, this may be a great opportunity for you!

We’re looking for muralists to submit proposals for a large-scale public art installation honoring the 250th Anniversary of the United States. This project was made possible through funding from the Illinois Arts Council!

This is a unique opportunity to help celebrate our nation’s history, diversity, and future. Artists with experience in large outdoor murals are encouraged to apply. Follow the link here: https://www.waukeganparks.org/about/bids-quotes-rfps/

05/28/2026

You never know where you’ll experience live music during ArtWauk.

Sometimes it’s in a restaurant, sometimes it’s in a plaza, sometimes it’s in a retail space, and sometimes it’s in a random lot right between two buildings.

From jazz to metal to punk rock, there’s something for everyone during ArtWauk in downtown Waukegan.

Join us for the next ArtWauk on Saturday, June 20 from 5PM-9PM and discover live music, local art, shopping, food, and more throughout downtown.

05/27/2026

Looking for new music to add to your collection? Waukegan Music Exchange in downtown Waukegan is a go-to spot for vinyl, CDs, live music, and local band merch.

From punk and metal to indie and more, the shop carries music from local artists alongside a wide selection of popular records and CDs. Whether you're discovering a new band or supporting the local music scene, there’s always something new to check out.

Stop by and experience one of downtown Waukegan’s unique music destinations.

Waukegan Music Exchange
126 N. Genesee St, Downtown Waukegan

05/27/2026

Glass blowing is the hidden art that is performed and showcased on the 2nd floor of Kapheim Studio!

The glass blowing studio specializes in borosilicate glassblowing, with artists creating unique marbles, pendants, sculptures, and other handmade glass art behind the torch.

Interested in learning more or getting involved? Contact [email protected] or call 224-304-6029.

Kapheim Studio
122 Washington St Waukegan, IL

05/26/2026

“Somebody in Waukegan Loves Me!” shirts are back by popular demand and available now at ShadowBoxx Gallery.

Designed by local artist Gerardo Gordillo and hand printed right here in Waukegan at Shadowboxx Gallery, these shirts were created through the Waukegan Printmakers Association. This latest run includes more sizes, but it will be the final print run of the design.

Support local art, local artists, and local printmaking by grabbing yours while they last.

Shadowboxx Gallery
116 Washington St, Downtown Waukegan, IL