Best Free Midwest Attractions: Illinois

Air and Water Show, Chicago A free show by the awe-inspiring likes of U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds (pictured), U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights, Chicago Fire Department Air and Sea Rescue Team. Held one weekend in August along Lake Michigan. Air and Water Show

Seasonal Festivals, Chicago During St. Patrick's day, watch the Chicago River run green and see the downtown parade. In the fall, don't miss the city's Chicagoween celebration. Chicago Seasonal Festivals

Groundhog Days, Woodstock The annual winter festival includes trivia contests, storytelling, a chili cook-off, free film showings of the movie--and a guided walking tour of 14 plaque-marked film sites. Woodstock Groundhog Days