Dejan B.
Yelp
Coming from a Serbian background as I do this is a place I have been going to for quite a few years not for the religious aspect but for the cultural enrichment and holiday entertainment ;) As the previous reviewer said they have annual holiday picnics on the grounds around church/monastery on the summer holidays of Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day which are one of the highlights of the year I look forward to year round.
The grounds are around Third Lake (which is a lake and also a city of its own next to Grayslake) and the intersection is basically 45 N and Dada Dr.
There is usually a entry fee of about $5.00 per person from what I can remember. Parking is in the grass and around the grounds where they allow it...Memorial Day weather is usually iffy so be prepared for some rain though usually it is not an all day thing and usually the picnic will continue within doors and under roofs of various sorts throughout the rain.
They have cevapi (grilled sausage made from ground beef and pork) usually available along with a healthy dosage of onions, fresh Serbian bread, and some lamb which is usually tender enough to fall apart with the slightest touch all which can be bought with some tickets that you have to buy before...There is usually a stage set up with music and a lot of dancing. Beer is usually available (the domestic mainstream sh*t) for purchase with tickets.
Typically there are vendors around the entrance of the grounds selling Serbian merchandise like shirts, jewelery, cds, books, and the like...
The church and monastery are also beautiful (and their immediate grounds) and they have a small cemetery behind the church as well.
A great place to get in touch with your Serbian/Balkan heritage, to learn a little about the aforementioned, to people-watch, or just to have an awesome summer time you will hopefully always remember fondly. Check it out and invite your friends!