America 250
Celebrate America's 250th at Cantigny! Explore stories of innovation relating to Col. McCormick's personal passions and professional pursuits through engaging exhibits and exciting events all year.
Exhibits
Gardens: 1893 Columbian Exposition
The Chicago Tribune was instrumental in securing the Fair for Chicago. Joseph Medill, McCormick’s grandfather, was one of 45 Fair Directors and a member of the Buildings and Grounds Committee. Robert Sanderson McCormick, McCormick’s father, served as a Commissioner of the World’s Fair in London. These garden displays will pay tribute to the Architecture, Culture, and Foods that debuted at the World’s Fair.
Visitors Center: Our Founding Fathers and Colonel McCormick
Col. McCormick’s wrote extensively on American history. His passion influenced his art collection, which includes busts and prints of founding fathers and monumental moments in history, which will be on display in the Visitors Center.
McCormick House: Innovations at the Chicago Tribune
Col. McCormick was a pioneer in many aspects of his business, from the development of Tribune Tower, to the production of the paper. His innovation extended to how he managed Cantigny as an experimental farm. The McCormick House will explore these stories.
First Division Museum: Hamilton’s Own, the 5th Field Artillery
During WWI, McCormick served in the 5th Field Artillery, one of the country’s oldest Army units, which was led during the Revolutionary War by Alexander Hamilton. The Museum will tell how this unit, and American artillery, evolved over the last 250 years.
Events
Remembering the Revolution
Revolutionary War Enactments, June 13 & 14, relive history with battle reenactments, a reading of the Declaration of Independence, a concert by the Wheaton Municipal Band, Fife and Drum Corps, and more. Saturday night will feature a fireworks show!
Voyage en France, July 19, celebrate America’s first ally with musical performances, dancers, artists, and our iconic Eiffel Tower replica.
Showcasing American Music
Jazz Fest, June 21, a day-long festival with an incredible line up of talent featuring the finest of Chicago’s legendary jazz scene. Produced in partnership with WDCB Radio.
Lt. Dan Band, July 11. Each concert by the Lt. Dan Band, named after Gary Sinise’s iconic character in Forrest Gump, celebrates our heroes.
Saturday Evening Concert Series, May 23 – September 5, features the most popular of American music in a weekly series showcasing local acts and touring bands.
Cantigny Beer Garden Music Series, Thursdays and Fridays, May – September, offers the perfect place to unwind in the evening and enjoy live acoustic sets, soul, R&B, and motown, and offering special Cantigny brews and other local beers.
Celebrating Americana
Red Oaks Farm Table Dinners, monthly, April – October are hosted in the McCormick House and Cantigny gardens, featuring a different region of American cuisine each month.
Great American Dog Show, September 4-6. Professional trainers and dog owners of 200 different breeds compete for the coveted title of “Best In Show.” The Great American Dog Show also features family friendly content for all dog lovers including Greet The Breeds, Demonstrations, and special events just for kids.
Car Show, September 20. Vintage cars, live entertainment, and classic American food and beverages come together at Cantigny’s annual car classic.
Salute to Service
Less than 1% of Americans serve, but Cantigny celebrates their service and commemorates their sacrifice every day. Annually, the season leading up to Veterans Day presents special opportunities to support those who have served.
Cantigny 5k, October 17. Race to support the Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans. Participants enjoy a course that tours the grounds of Cantigny, including the Gardens, the Robert R. McCormick House, and the First Division Museum.
Brew it Forward, November 7. Outdoor beer tasting to celebrate our local heroes and thank them for their service. Your attendance benefits the Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans in Wheaton. Guests may also choose to purchase beer tokens for attending veterans or donate directly to the Midwest Shelter. Veterans who attend will receive complimentary tastings.