Modern Terrariums - A Guided, Social Plant Experience

Join us for Modern Terrariums, a hands-on terrarium experience where participants will create a unique, living terrarium of their own in a relaxed and social setting. Guided instruction and all materials are provided, making this experience approachable for both beginne......More

Join us for Modern Terrariums, a hands-on terrarium experience where participants will create a unique, living terrarium of their own in a relaxed and social setting. Guided instruction and all materials are provided, making this experience approachable for both beginners and plant lovers alike. All terrarium supplies are included in workshop registration.This event takes place at Juliet’s Tavern, a beautifully restored historic restaurant known for serving some of the best American comfort food and cocktails in the area. Throughout the workshop, guests are welcome to order food and beverages directly from the Juliet’s Tavern menu. Price per person is $65.(Menu items and drinks are available for purchase and are not included in the ticket). 

Juliet’s Tavern, 205 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL, 60432, United States

Trail Club: February at Lake Chaminwood

Welcome to Trail Club! Each month we will meet at a different preserve for a brisk weekly walk to promote fitness and community! Join other walkers to beat the winter blues and embrace the beauty of the season. Trail Club will be held from January through March. Februar......More

Welcome to Trail Club! Each month we will meet at a different preserve for a brisk weekly walk to promote fitness and community! Join other walkers to beat the winter blues and embrace the beauty of the season. Trail Club will be held from January through March. Februarys walks will be two laps totaling 1.5 miles around Lake Chaminwood. Enter the preserve from Shepley Road and follow the access drive to the left for parking. Meet the group at the picnic shelter at the edge of the lake. Join us for any or all Trail Club sessions! Participants who attend at least three walks this season will earn a Trail Club sticker. If inclement weather affects a program, an update will be posted on this page the morning of. 

Lake Chaminwood Preserve, 24251 W. Shepley Rd., Minooka, IL, 60447, United States

Adult Lecture Series: Winter Sowing for Monarchs

Stay curious by discovering something new with Hidden Oaks Adult Lecture Series. Join naturalists as they share fascinating stories, science and natural histories of the wild world. This time around we will be getting our hands dirty! We will study the importance of com......More

Stay curious by discovering something new with Hidden Oaks Adult Lecture Series. Join naturalists as they share fascinating stories, science and natural histories of the wild world. This time around we will be getting our hands dirty! We will study the importance of common milkweed the host plant for the monarch butterfly and home to an assortment of other garden friends!Learn the ins and outs of winter seed sowing. You can help provide the migrating monarch butterflies an advantage by getting a head start on gardening season with the winter sowing method. Participants will leave with an upcycled greenhouse ready to be put outside to endure the winter weather while waiting for spring to arrive. Ages 16 and older. Registration required by Thursday, Feb. 5: 815-722-4121.

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

Four Rivers Wedding Open House

Dreaming of a beautiful, eco-friendly celebration? Start your journey at the Four Rivers Environmental Education Center open house!Plan a truly unique wedding or event surrounded by nature. Stroll through our facility to get a feel for the space, view photos of past eve......More

Dreaming of a beautiful, eco-friendly celebration? Start your journey at the Four Rivers Environmental Education Center open house!Plan a truly unique wedding or event surrounded by nature. Stroll through our facility to get a feel for the space, view photos of past events and collect inspiration for your own green decorations. You can also chat with our friendly staff and meet approved caterers. Other vendors will be on-site to help you with your planning process. View our 2,000-gallon fish tank and hands-on exhibit gallery that you and your guests can enjoy during your event. The first 50 couples will go home with a special swag bag! Ages 18 or older. Registration recommended by calling 815-722-9470 or emailing [email protected].  

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

Motorcycle Swap Meet

All kinds of great things can be found HERE!!! Grab all that old stuff sitting in the garage, and come out to Walneck’s motorcycle swap meet. $10 admission. Vending is $50 for a 10′ x 10′ spot. Please call to reserve spots 630-985-2905.Admission $10.00 Under 15 are ‘FRE......More

All kinds of great things can be found HERE!!! Grab all that old stuff sitting in the garage, and come out to Walneck’s motorcycle swap meet. $10 admission. Vending is $50 for a 10′ x 10′ spot. Please call to reserve spots 630-985-2905.Admission $10.00 Under 15 are ‘FREE” Plus “FREE” ParkingHeated & connected buildings. Free Tables.ONE LOW PRICE.$50.00. Great Food in Building. 

Bureau County Fairgrounds, 811 W. Peru St., Princeton, IL, 61356, United States

Yoga & Hike

Start the day off right with yoga and a hike! This program includes a 35- to 45-minute all-levels yoga session and a 35- to 45-minute hike along our scenic trails. Ages 14 or older. Participants younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required by S......More

Start the day off right with yoga and a hike! This program includes a 35- to 45-minute all-levels yoga session and a 35- to 45-minute hike along our scenic trails. Ages 14 or older. Participants younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required by Saturday, Feb. 7: 815-722-9470.

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

Lunar New Year

Embrace the promise of luck and prosperity in 2026 by honoring the Year of the Horse through festive activities, hands-on crafts, and lively performances. 

Little Red Schoolhouse

Everyone in Nature

Join us for a sensory class where individuals with disabilities and homeschoolers can learn about nature. Participants must be with an adult. 

Little Red Schoolhouse

Audrey Hepburn: A Portrayal by Historian Leslie Goddard

It is 1988, and Audrey Hepburn has returned home after visiting Ethiopia for UNICEF. As she ponders whether to take on more work as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, she shares stories about her childhood during World War II, her remarkable success in Hollywood in films suc......More

It is 1988, and Audrey Hepburn has returned home after visiting Ethiopia for UNICEF. As she ponders whether to take on more work as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, she shares stories about her childhood during World War II, her remarkable success in Hollywood in films such as Roman Holiday and Breakfast at Tiffany’s and her lifelong efforts to find real love. Luncheon includes: fresh tossed garden salad, warm rolls, tuscany chicken (italian herb chicken breast sauteed with garlic, red pepper, spinach in a white cream sauce). Also includes dessert and coffee. Option to upgrade your dessert to chocolate cake for $6.00 per person. 10:30 AM: Self guided tour of the Jacob Henry Mansion11:00 AM: Dining room open11:30 AM: lunch is served 1:00 PM: Living history portrayal of Audrey Hepburn2:00 PM: Departure – thank you!$52 per person.  

Jacob Henry Mansion, 20 S. Eastern, Joliet, IL, 60433, United States

Trail Club: February at Lake Chaminwood

Welcome to Trail Club! Each month we will meet at a different preserve for a brisk weekly walk to promote fitness and community! Join other walkers to beat the winter blues and embrace the beauty of the season. Trail Club will be held from January through March. Februar......More

Welcome to Trail Club! Each month we will meet at a different preserve for a brisk weekly walk to promote fitness and community! Join other walkers to beat the winter blues and embrace the beauty of the season. Trail Club will be held from January through March. February’s walk will be two laps totaling 1.5 miles around Lake Chaminwood. Enter the preserve from Shepley Road and follow the access drive to the left for parking. Meet the group at the picnic shelter at the edge of the lake. Join us for any or all Trail Club sessions! Participants who attend at least three walks this season will earn a Trail Club sticker. If inclement weather affects a program, an update will be posted on this page the morning of. 

Lake Chaminwood Preserve, 24251 W. Shepley Rd., Minooka, IL, 60447, United States

Love You A Latte Decorating Class

Love is in the air…and it smells like coffee! On February 12, come decorate your very own 6-inch round, espresso cake at the Hegeler Carus Mansion in LaSalle, IL. All supplies included! Just bring yourself (and a friend or two), an apron, and your creativity! This event......More

Love is in the air…and it smells like coffee! On February 12, come decorate your very own 6-inch round, espresso cake at the Hegeler Carus Mansion in LaSalle, IL. All supplies included! Just bring yourself (and a friend or two), an apron, and your creativity! This event is a partnership between the Hegeler Carus Mansion and Blue Eyed Rascal Baking Co. $55 per person. 

Hegeler Carus Mansion, 1307 7th St., LaSalle, 61301, United States

Mocktails at The Museum

Mark your calendars for some mocktails! During this program, guests will enjoy different mocktails, learn about their connection to the preserves, participate in activity stations and explore the museum after hours. Light snacks will be provided. $5.00 per person. Regis......More

Mark your calendars for some mocktails! During this program, guests will enjoy different mocktails, learn about their connection to the preserves, participate in activity stations and explore the museum after hours. Light snacks will be provided. $5.00 per person. Registration required by Tuesday, Feb. 10: 815-722-9301.

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

Vermillion Players Present: "A Dog's Life"

A Dog’s Life is a heartfelt and humorous musical that explores love, loyalty, and the unexpected bonds that change us. When Joel reluctantly adopts a dog to try to win back his girlfriend, and two very different shelter dogs search for their forever homes, hesitant rela......More

A Dog’s Life is a heartfelt and humorous musical that explores love, loyalty, and the unexpected bonds that change us. When Joel reluctantly adopts a dog to try to win back his girlfriend, and two very different shelter dogs search for their forever homes, hesitant relationships grow into meaningful friendships. Filled with both laugh-out-loud moments and tender emotion, the show celebrates companionship and unconditional love. Directed by Dylan Webster, produced by Terri Heinz-Butler, and musically directed by Beth McCleary, performances run February 12–15 with tickets priced at $20. Adding to the fun, the Humane Society will bring real, adoptable dogs to the performances, with concessions available throughout the run.   

The Eagle Performing Arts & Conference Center, 319 N. Plum St., Pontiac, 61764, United States

Think & Drink: Ichabod Codding & The Fight for Freedom

We’re excited to announce our first Think & Drink of the year, and it’s a special one.Our February Think & Drink will feature Lindsey Minas, whose research on 19th-century abolitionist Ichabod Codding forms the foundation of our newest Story Wall exhibit, Ichabod Coddin......More

We’re excited to announce our first Think & Drink of the year, and it’s a special one.Our February Think & Drink will feature Lindsey Minas, whose research on 19th-century abolitionist Ichabod Codding forms the foundation of our newest Story Wall exhibit, Ichabod Codding: Lockport’s Forgotten Voice of Freedom (details below). Lindsey is a recent graduate of Lewis University and a graduate student at the University of Chicago. Her work explores Codding’s role in the abolitionist movement, his ties to Lockport and Illinois, and his influence on Abraham Lincoln and the political coalitions that helped shape the era.Although Codding is little-known today, some people have called him the most nationally significant person to have lived in Lockport. We’re honored to share Lindsey’s student research on Codding with the wider public.We’re also thrilled to welcome Dr. Larry McClellan, a leading scholar of the Underground Railroad aabolitionist activity in the Midwest, who will open the evening with a short presentation before introducing Lindsey’s talk. His perspective helps place Lindsey’s research within the broader story of abolition and resistance in northern Illinois.Registration is encouraged to gauge audience size.

Gaylord Building, Lockport, 200 W. 8th Street, Lockport, IL, 60441, United States

Coal Creek Brewing Company Valentine's Party: Shop & Sip Affair

Join us Friday February 13th from 4-7 pm for a fun night out with your best Gal Pals! Late night shopping hours, special Valentine’s Day products, snacks, and a very special Make & Take!Stop in from 4-6:30pm and make your very own Melt & Pour Heart Shaped Shaving Soap f......More

Join us Friday February 13th from 4-7 pm for a fun night out with your best Gal Pals! Late night shopping hours, special Valentine’s Day products, snacks, and a very special Make & Take!Stop in from 4-6:30pm and make your very own Melt & Pour Heart Shaped Shaving Soap for only $10 per person. You can choose your color and scent from our huge scent board (essential oils available for a small addition charge). Please note that each soap will take approximately 5-10 minutes to make (after choosing your scent) and approximately 15-30 minutes to set up before it can be taken. While walk-ins will be accepted, contact us to set up an appointment to secure your spot as there are only 35 spots available. Message us here, email [email protected] or call 815-915-2001 to book your spot in advance.Buttercream Bake Shop will also be here with her amazing treats, so you don’t want to miss out on that!! If you’ve never tried Buttercream Bake Shop before, you need to because they are delicious and you’ll need to get some extra so you’re not kicking yourself for devouring them too quickly and not having a treat or two for the next day!We can’t wait to see you! 

Rachel Rene: Handcrafted Bath & Body Products, 620 S. Main St., Princeton, IL, 61356, United States

Lantern-Lit Hike for Lovers

This is your chance to enjoy each other’s company under the quiet night sky. Take time for just the two of you in the warm glow of lanterns along the trail. Get cozy indoors with a hot chocolate bar, a gourmet smores station and fun optional games and activities. Be rem......More

This is your chance to enjoy each other’s company under the quiet night sky. Take time for just the two of you in the warm glow of lanterns along the trail. Get cozy indoors with a hot chocolate bar, a gourmet smores station and fun optional games and activities. Be reminded of just how much you enjoy being together. Join us anytime between 6 and 9 p.m. and participate as much or as little as you like. Valentines Day-themed trivia competitions will be held at 6:30 and 8 p.m. This BYOB program (beer and wine only, please) is for adults only. Ages 21 or older. Registration required by Thursday, Feb. 12: 815-722-9470.

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

Gabby's Dollhouse Live! Presented by Walmart

Gabby’s Dollhouse Live! Presented by Walmart brings the hit DreamWorks Animation series to life in a brand-new stage production. Filled with music, dance, and larger-than-life puppetry, this interactive adventure invites the audience to jump inside the dollhouse for an ......More

Gabby’s Dollhouse Live! Presented by Walmart brings the hit DreamWorks Animation series to life in a brand-new stage production. Filled with music, dance, and larger-than-life puppetry, this interactive adventure invites the audience to jump inside the dollhouse for an a-MEOW-zing journey with Gabby and her friends! 

Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States

Vermillion Players Present: "A Dog's Life"

A Dog’s Life is a heartfelt and humorous musical that explores love, loyalty, and the unexpected bonds that change us. When Joel reluctantly adopts a dog to try to win back his girlfriend, and two very different shelter dogs search for their forever homes, hesitant rela......More

A Dog’s Life is a heartfelt and humorous musical that explores love, loyalty, and the unexpected bonds that change us. When Joel reluctantly adopts a dog to try to win back his girlfriend, and two very different shelter dogs search for their forever homes, hesitant relationships grow into meaningful friendships. Filled with both laugh-out-loud moments and tender emotion, the show celebrates companionship and unconditional love. Directed by Dylan Webster, produced by Terri Heinz-Butler, and musically directed by Beth McCleary, performances run February 12–15 with tickets priced at $20. Adding to the fun, the Humane Society will bring real, adoptable dogs to the performances, with concessions available throughout the run. 

The Eagle Performing Arts & Conference Center, 319 N. Plum St., Pontiac, 61764, United States

Model Train Fair & Farm Show

NEW & USED & ANTIQUE TRAINS AND TOYSRegistration form here!Space Available for Train LayoutsVendors Wanted with all scales of trains – HO, N, O, G, Thomas, Lionel, Marx plus accessories Farm Toys & Tractors, Die Cast, Trucks, Hot Wheels, Ertl, NASCAR & Racing Collectibl......More

NEW & USED & ANTIQUE TRAINS AND TOYSRegistration form here!Space Available for Train LayoutsVendors Wanted with all scales of trains – HO, N, O, G, Thomas, Lionel, Marx plus accessories Farm Toys & Tractors, Die Cast, Trucks, Hot Wheels, Ertl, NASCAR & Racing Collectibles and other types of toys. For info call Kathy 815-866-3606. 

Bureau County Fairgrounds, 811 W. Peru St., Princeton, IL, 61356, United States

Love Stories

Fall in love with stories this Valentines Day. Be entertained by a storyteller sharing tales of critters and people finding their other half, inspired by natural history and the lore of Illinois Countrys past. Hot chocolate and tea provided! Registration required by Thu......More

Fall in love with stories this Valentines Day. Be entertained by a storyteller sharing tales of critters and people finding their other half, inspired by natural history and the lore of Illinois Countrys past. Hot chocolate and tea provided! Registration required by Thursday, Feb. 12: 815-722-9301. Admission is free. All ages. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.

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