The Evanston Symphony Orchestra kicks off its season with a summer pops concert on Thurs., Aug. 17, 7 p.m., at the Wallace Bowl at Gillson Park in Wilmette. Bring the family and a picnic and enjoy music on the lakefront as the ESO entertains with works by John Williams, Morton Gould, Johann Strauss Jr., the Beatles, and Jacques Offenbach. Entry is free to all. More information.