I'm Trying to Love Spiders

This ongoing program runs from Saturday, Sept. 27, to Friday, Oct. 31. Preserve hours are 8 a.m. to sunset. “I’m Trying To Love Spiders” is an award-winning, cleverly engaging book written and illustrated by Bethany Barton. Fact-filled but also silly and relatable, it s......More

This ongoing program runs from Saturday, Sept. 27, to Friday, Oct. 31. Preserve hours are 8 a.m. to sunset. “I’m Trying To Love Spiders” is an award-winning, cleverly engaging book written and illustrated by Bethany Barton. Fact-filled but also silly and relatable, it should be on everyone’s to-read list. Your heart might not warm up to these creatures, but you will definitely learn a lot. Please remember squashing bugs in your own home is fine, but at the forest preserve all creatures great and small should not be harmed. No registration required. This story is appropriate for all ages and will be spaced out along an accessible 0.4-mile trail. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should submit a request online no later than 48 hours before the program.  

Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 S Walnut Ln., Channahon, IL, 60410, United States

Eat a Bug Challenge

Bugs are not just for animals to eat!This ongoing program will be offered from Wednesday, Oct. 1, through Friday, Oct. 31. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays to Sundays. This is no trick, but it sure is a treat!  Worldwide, 80% of countries include bugs in their die......More

Bugs are not just for animals to eat!This ongoing program will be offered from Wednesday, Oct. 1, through Friday, Oct. 31. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays to Sundays. This is no trick, but it sure is a treat!  Worldwide, 80% of countries include bugs in their diet. It is about time we see what great flavors we are missing. Drop in at Hidden Oaks Nature Center to become an entomophagist, or a person who eats bugs, by trying a seasoned cricket or mealworm. Try a buggy treat and be rewarded with a prize.  

Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 419 Trout Farm Road, Bolingbrook, IL, 60440, United States

Spooky Scavenger Hunt at Four Rivers

Wear your favorite costume and search for spooktacular items in the forest with your friends and family or scout group!Some items may be natural, while other items may be SUPER-natural! Can you find them all as you meander through the forest? Stop by Four Rivers Environ......More

Wear your favorite costume and search for spooktacular items in the forest with your friends and family or scout group!Some items may be natural, while other items may be SUPER-natural! Can you find them all as you meander through the forest? Stop by Four Rivers Environmental Education Center to get your scavenger hunt and then head out to test your searching skills. It will be a spooktacularly fun time! This ongoing program will be offered from Wednesday, Oct. 1, to Friday, Oct. 31. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays to Sundays.  

Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 S Walnut Ln., Channahon, IL, 60410, United States

Whooo's Out There Scavenger Hunt

This ongoing program will be offered from Wednesday, Nov. 1, through Sunday, Nov. 30. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays to Sundays. Owls large and small have flown in and are making Hidden Oaks their home throughout November! Whoooo is up for the challenge to find ......More

This ongoing program will be offered from Wednesday, Nov. 1, through Sunday, Nov. 30. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays to Sundays. Owls large and small have flown in and are making Hidden Oaks their home throughout November! Whoooo is up for the challenge to find all the species roosting in the trees? Start inside the nature center to pick up your scavenger hunt checklist and then head outside to the play area to see whooo you can find. Bring back your observations and earn a prize. Take the hunt to the next level by coloring an owl of your own to hide in the nature center for others to find! No registration required. This activity will take place over uneven, natural terrain of less than a half-mile. Hidden Oaks Nature Center is an accessible facility. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should mention their request when registering, or submit a request online no later than 48 hours before the program.  

Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 419 Trout Farm Road, Bolingbrook, IL, 60440, United States

Falconry at the Forge

Join us for an immersive falconry experience that you will remember for a lifetime!As part of this class, you’ll learn about the ancient sport of falconry and the biology and history of the many different types of raptors used in the hunt (including hawks, buzzards, fal......More

Join us for an immersive falconry experience that you will remember for a lifetime!As part of this class, you’ll learn about the ancient sport of falconry and the biology and history of the many different types of raptors used in the hunt (including hawks, buzzards, falcons and owls). Each participant will learn how to handle a raptor while holding one of our Eurasian Eagle Owls before moving on to the individual flights. You’ll be taught how to properly fly a hawk to and from your gloved hand, one of the Five Skills of the Falconer. We will end the class with a series of interactive free flight demos designed to allow the participants to practice their newly acquired skills.  

The Forge: Lemont Quarries, 1001 Main St, Lemont, IL, 60439, United States

Morning Fresh Air Hike

Take a deep breath of crisp, fall air. Move between colorful trees in the forest, frosted grasses in the prairie and glittering water in the river. This naturalist-led hike will let you experience the beauty of nature on this fall morning. Registration required by Satur......More

Take a deep breath of crisp, fall air. Move between colorful trees in the forest, frosted grasses in the prairie and glittering water in the river. This naturalist-led hike will let you experience the beauty of nature on this fall morning. Registration required by Saturday, Nov. 1: 815-722-9470. Ages 8 or older. The hike will be up to 2 miles and take place on paved and natural surfaces over uneven terrain.  

Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 S Walnut Ln., Channahon, IL, 60410, United States

Wonderkids: Nature's Sounds

Calling all families with preschoolers! Join us for a hands-on program designed for your little one.This program is geared toward children ages 2 to 5 and is complete with tons of facts, singing, story time, table activities and crafts. Registration required by Tuesday,......More

Calling all families with preschoolers! Join us for a hands-on program designed for your little one.This program is geared toward children ages 2 to 5 and is complete with tons of facts, singing, story time, table activities and crafts. Registration required by Tuesday, Nov. 4: 815-722-9301.  

Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Road, Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States

BYOB Crafts & Crows

Grab your friends and head to Four Rivers for a crafty evening.Learn about murders of crows that are gathering outdoors and the long history of trying to scare them off. Celebrate the fall season with a homemade, not-so-scary crow decoration. All crafting materials will......More

Grab your friends and head to Four Rivers for a crafty evening.Learn about murders of crows that are gathering outdoors and the long history of trying to scare them off. Celebrate the fall season with a homemade, not-so-scary crow decoration. All crafting materials will be supplied. BYOB wine and beer only. Registration required by Tuesday, Nov. 4: 815-722-9470. $5.00 per person. Ages 21 or older.  

Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 S Walnut Ln., Channahon, IL, 60410, United States

Karaoke Night

Get ready to unleash your inner superstar!Start your weekend on a high note with delicious food, a self-serve beer wall, craft cocktails, and awesome giveaways! Don’t miss out on the fun – bring your friends and let’s make some unforgettable memories!    

The Twisted Pin, 15610 Joliet Rd., Plainfield, IL, 60544, United States

Shop, Sip & Sparkle Weekend!

Kick off the holiday season in the Middle of Everywhere with a magical weekend full of festive fun! Happenings All Weekend Long Downtown Ottawa Christmas Open Houses Ornament Hunt & Lamp Light Carolers (Friday) King Carriage Rides (Friday 4-9 PM) Freshly Baked Cobbler b......More

Kick off the holiday season in the Middle of Everywhere with a magical weekend full of festive fun! Happenings All Weekend Long Downtown Ottawa Christmas Open Houses Ornament Hunt & Lamp Light Carolers (Friday) King Carriage Rides (Friday 4-9 PM) Freshly Baked Cobbler by the Ottawa Boy Scouts (Friday) Wine & Art Walk at Heritage Harbor (Saturday, Nov. 8, 2–6 PM) Exploreum’s Sparkle Spectacular Christmas Tree Auction Shop Local & Win!Bring 5 receipts from any downtown Ottawa businesses you shop at during Shop, Sip & Sparkle Weekend to the Ottawa Visitors Center. Each set of 5 receipts enters you for a chance to win a $250 Downtown Discover Gift Card! Drawing will be held Tuesday, November 26 at noon. Wine & Art WalkSip, stroll, and shop as you enjoy wine tastings and beautiful works from local artists at Heritage Harbor. Tickets are on sale now—don’t wait! It’s the perfect way to jumpstart your holiday spirit, find unique gifts, and make magical memories with family and friends.  

Downtown Ottawa, 223 W. Madison, Ottawa, 61350, United States

Frosty on First - Winter Festival

Frosty on First is La Salles ultimate winter festival celebration, held downtown on First Street.This two-day, family-friendly event features live bands, inflatables, an ice skating rink, delicious food trucks, real reindeer, and spectacular fireworks. Bundle up and bri......More

Frosty on First is La Salles ultimate winter festival celebration, held downtown on First Street.This two-day, family-friendly event features live bands, inflatables, an ice skating rink, delicious food trucks, real reindeer, and spectacular fireworks. Bundle up and bring the whole family for nonstop winter fun, festive cheer, and magical memories! Festival Highlights: Ice rink and kids activities: Glide into the season on our synthetic ice rink or explore the excitement of our inflatable maze, slide, and snowman perfect for kids and kids at heart! Delicious Culinary Delights: Indulge your taste buds with a mouthwatering array of food vendors. From savory street food to sweet treats, every bite is a new adventure in flavor. Live Music Entertainment: Groove to the beats of live performances featuring talented bands and musicians. The stage will be alive with music that will get you dancing and singing along all night long. Cap off your evening with a breathtaking fireworks show that lights up the night sky in a dazzling array of colors. It’s the perfect grand finale to an incredible day of festivities. Bundle up, bring your family and friends, and experience a weekend full of winter magic, local pride, and unforgettable memories. From live entertainment and cozy treats to family activities and holiday surprises, theres something for everyone.  

Downtown LaSalle, 1st Street, LaSalle, IL, 61301, United States

The Red Roses in Concert

The Red Roses band performs live in the Joliet Area Historical Museum’s Auditorium Theater on Friday, Nov. 7th at 7pm (doors open 6:15pm).The Red Roses are a fantastic Chicago-based 5-piece band that plays rock, alternative & indie hits that you know and love! Awesome g......More

The Red Roses band performs live in the Joliet Area Historical Museum’s Auditorium Theater on Friday, Nov. 7th at 7pm (doors open 6:15pm).The Red Roses are a fantastic Chicago-based 5-piece band that plays rock, alternative & indie hits that you know and love! Awesome guitar, buzzy synths, driving beats and soaring vocals played with passion and authenticity. You’ll hear songs by The Strokes, The White Stripes, The Killers, The Black Keys, The Flaming Lips, Coldplay, Beck and more!Beverage bar (beer, mixers, wine, soda, etc.), snack vendor, access to museum galleries & exhibits. Only $13 for Museum Members or $15 for General Public. General seating for all, with reserved highboy tables available for additional fee.Museum located at 204 N. Ottawa St. in downtown Joliet. Register/Info go to www.jolietmuseum.org or call (815) 723-5201. 

Joliet Area History Museum, 204 Ottawa St., Joliet, IL, 60432, United States

Migratory Bird Hike

Many birds use Lake Renwick to rest and refuel during migration.Join us for a guided hike in search of amazing waterfowl, soaring eagles and beautiful songbirds. Registration required by Thursday, Nov. 6: 815-722-9470. Bring binoculars and dress for the weather. A limit......More

Many birds use Lake Renwick to rest and refuel during migration.Join us for a guided hike in search of amazing waterfowl, soaring eagles and beautiful songbirds. Registration required by Thursday, Nov. 6: 815-722-9470. Bring binoculars and dress for the weather. A limited supply of binoculars will be available for loan. The group will meet at the visitor center at the Renwick Road entrance. No dogs or bicycles please. Participants will hike up to 1.5 miles on natural surfaces across uneven terrain. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should submit a request online no later than 48 hours before the program. Ages 7 or older.  

Lake Renwick Preserve, 23113 W. Lockport Street, Plainfield, IL, 60455, United States

Frosty on First - Winter Festival

Frosty on First is La Salles ultimate winter festival celebration, held downtown on First Street.This two-day, family-friendly event features live bands, inflatables, an ice skating rink, delicious food trucks, real reindeer, and spectacular fireworks. Bundle up and bri......More

Frosty on First is La Salles ultimate winter festival celebration, held downtown on First Street.This two-day, family-friendly event features live bands, inflatables, an ice skating rink, delicious food trucks, real reindeer, and spectacular fireworks. Bundle up and bring the whole family for nonstop winter fun, festive cheer, and magical memories! Festival Highlights: Ice rink and kids activities: Glide into the season on our synthetic ice rink or explore the excitement of our inflatable maze, slide, and snowman perfect for kids and kids at heart! Delicious Culinary Delights: Indulge your taste buds with a mouthwatering array of food vendors. From savory street food to sweet treats, every bite is a new adventure in flavor. Live Music Entertainment: Groove to the beats of live performances featuring talented bands and musicians. The stage will be alive with music that will get you dancing and singing along all night long. Cap off your evening with a breathtaking fireworks show that lights up the night sky in a dazzling array of colors. It’s the perfect grand finale to an incredible day of festivities. Bundle up, bring your family and friends, and experience a weekend full of winter magic, local pride, and unforgettable memories. From live entertainment and cozy treats to family activities and holiday surprises, theres something for everyone.

Downtown LaSalle, 1st Street, LaSalle, IL, 61301, United States

Stories from the Shelf

Do you have an interesting item sitting on your shelf? A fossil? A rock? A rare postcard?Objects are powerful they’re scientific evidence, they’re story tellers and sometimes they are just curious. Join a naturalist to discover how interesting items, weird collections a......More

Do you have an interesting item sitting on your shelf? A fossil? A rock? A rare postcard?Objects are powerful they’re scientific evidence, they’re story tellers and sometimes they are just curious. Join a naturalist to discover how interesting items, weird collections and curiosity cabinets morphed into the museums we have today. After the presentation, we will learn from each other! Guests are invited to bring their own item to share the objects story or facts and answer questions from the rest of the group. You do not need to bring an object to attend the program. Registration required by Thursday, Nov. 6: 815-722-9301 Ages 18 and older.  

Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Road, Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States

Pumpkin Smash - Ages 18 & Older

Come smash and bash pumpkins in the name of saving the Earth!Choose how your jack-o-lantern will meet its demise pounded to a pulp, launched over a railing and more. It’s going to be a smashing good time! Work up an appetite smashing your pumpkin then enjoy roasting hot......More

Come smash and bash pumpkins in the name of saving the Earth!Choose how your jack-o-lantern will meet its demise pounded to a pulp, launched over a railing and more. It’s going to be a smashing good time! Work up an appetite smashing your pumpkin then enjoy roasting hotdogs and smores over an open fire. Stay a while and enjoy the rest of the festivities as well. Pumpkin Smash is a regional event spearheaded by SCARCE to promote composting and wise use of resources. By composting your pumpkin, you are keeping waste out of landfills, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and creating a natural fertilizer for soils.  

Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 419 Trout Farm Road, Bolingbrook, IL, 60440, United States

Stories from the Shelf for Kids

Do you have an interesting item sitting on your shelf?Objects are powerful they’re scientific evidence, they’re story tellers and sometimes they are just curious. Join a naturalist to discover how interesting items and weird collections morphed into the museums we have ......More

Do you have an interesting item sitting on your shelf?Objects are powerful they’re scientific evidence, they’re story tellers and sometimes they are just curious. Join a naturalist to discover how interesting items and weird collections morphed into the museums we have today. Guests are invited to bring their own item. A pretty rock, a fossil, a seashell, a skull found in the backyard you name it! After the presentation, we will learn from each other! Guests will have time to share their objects story or facts and answer questions from the rest of the group. You do not need to bring an object to attend the program. Registration required by Thursday, Nov. 6: 815-722-9301. Ages 6 and older. Children must be accompanied by an adult.  

Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Road, Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States

Shop, Sip & Sparkle Weekend!

Kick off the holiday season in the Middle of Everywhere with a magical weekend full of festive fun! Happenings All Weekend Long Downtown Ottawa Christmas Open Houses Ornament Hunt & Lamp Light Carolers (Friday) King Carriage Rides (Friday 4-9 PM) Freshly Baked Cobbler b......More

Kick off the holiday season in the Middle of Everywhere with a magical weekend full of festive fun! Happenings All Weekend Long Downtown Ottawa Christmas Open Houses Ornament Hunt & Lamp Light Carolers (Friday) King Carriage Rides (Friday 4-9 PM) Freshly Baked Cobbler by the Ottawa Boy Scouts (Friday) Wine & Art Walk at Heritage Harbor (Saturday, Nov. 8, 2–6 PM) Exploreum’s Sparkle Spectacular Christmas Tree Auction Shop Local & Win!Bring 5 receipts from any downtown Ottawa businesses you shop at during Shop, Sip & Sparkle Weekend to the Ottawa Visitors Center. Each set of 5 receipts enters you for a chance to win a $250 Downtown Discover Gift Card! Drawing will be held Tuesday, November 26 at noon. Wine & Art WalkSip, stroll, and shop as you enjoy wine tastings and beautiful works from local artists at Heritage Harbor. Tickets are on sale now—don’t wait! It’s the perfect way to jumpstart your holiday spirit, find unique gifts, and make magical memories with family and friends.    

Downtown Ottawa, 223 W. Madison, Ottawa, 61350, United States

UpBynOOn

UpByn00n started first as a lifestyle with a mission as simple as its name, to make it out of bed at a time functional adults do (before noon). As we grew, the music has grown with us tackling issues like feeling trapped in your own life and the inability to escape the ......More

UpByn00n started first as a lifestyle with a mission as simple as its name, to make it out of bed at a time functional adults do (before noon). As we grew, the music has grown with us tackling issues like feeling trapped in your own life and the inability to escape the digital world around us. That being said we hope the common line across the board here is we put out bangers. Admission $15. 

Festival 56, 316 S. Main St., Princeton, IL, 61356, United States

Living History Encounter: 18th Century Weaponry

Hear history go BOOM as you learn about weaponry of the 18th century.During this Living History Encounter, you will see live demonstrations of various weapons from Alexander Hamilton’s New York Provincial Company of Artillery as well as meet voyageurs and settlers who j......More

Hear history go BOOM as you learn about weaponry of the 18th century.During this Living History Encounter, you will see live demonstrations of various weapons from Alexander Hamilton’s New York Provincial Company of Artillery as well as meet voyageurs and settlers who journeyed to this land and made it home. This is a drop-in program come anytime between noon and 3 p.m.  

Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Road, Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States