Organizer: Welsh National Gymanta Ganu Association

What to expect: Welshmen (and women) from all over will be at the Doubletree Oakbrook to celebrate the diverse culture of Wales at the largest Welsh gathering in North America.

Why to go: The eistedfodd. We're pretty sure this is Welsh for "contest with cool prize," as the winner of this traditional literature, music and song competition will get a free trip to Wales for the national showdown.

Additional info: Performing artists include Fflur Dafydd, Aled Wyn Davies and Cor Aelwyd CF1.