Annual celebrations and events in Barrington include the Memorial Day parade, a Fourth of July parade and evening fireworks display, Concours d'Elegance (an auto show), and a Homecoming parade associated with Barrington High School. In addition, the village hosts a "Barrington Brew Fest," a mid-summer event showcasing Midwest microbrewers and local entertainment, as well as the "Great Taste Fest of Barrington," a food festival exhibiting fare from local restaurants.

During the fourth weekend of every September, Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital hosts "Art in the Barn," a juried fine arts show that featuring the exhibition and sale of fine art. Started in 1974 with only 30 artists, the event now attracts over 6,500 visitors and features live entertainment and pony rides for children in addition to the art exhibits. A fundraising event, Art in the Barn has generated more than $2.5 million dollars for the local Good Shepherd Hospital.

Historic Barrington, Illinois

The village was incorporated in 1865 and prospered as many Chicago grain merchants whose homes were destroyed in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 constructed opulent Queen Anne-style residences along Barrington's tree-shaded streets. In 1889, the Elgin, Joliet & Eastern Railway (the "EJ&E") was built through Barrington, crossing the Chicago & North Western Railway northwest of town.

In 1927, The Catlow theatre was built on Main Street in the downtown area of the Village of Barrington. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is is one of the few remaining single screen theatres and is locally operated. The Historic District of the village is the state's larges historic walking district.

The town is known for its great park districts, library, Barrington School District 220, riding clubs, restaurants, festivals, a diverse group of churches, philanthropic organizations, sports, and beauty.