Nellie Becker - A Titanic Story and Part of the 1912 Exhibit
2024-05-22 12:00 - 2024-12-31 17:00 (America/Chicago) | Bureau County Historical Museum, 109 Park Ave., Princeton, IL, 61356, United States
The Titanic sank in the frigid Atlantic Ocean on the night of April 14-15, 1912.
The tragic loss of over 1,400 lives that night, the failures of the great unsinkable ocean liner, the insufficient lifeboats, all would affect legislation of ship building and sea travel in the months and years to come.
Over 700 survivors would return home and try to pick up the pieces. Many would suffer from the reverberations of that night for the rest of their lives, with some experiencing alcoholism, depression, post traumatic stress, even suicide.
With such an enormous tragedy playing a central role upon the world’s stage, what was happening here, in Bureau County? We’ll take a look at the photographs and stories that the lives of residents here revolved around. Newspaper stories will run the gamut from the ordinary: bids for the building of Matson Public Library were discussed and the architect’s proposal for the Soldiers and Sailors Monument were accepted ahead of its projected summer 1912 build; to the criminal: three masked highwaymen rob the train in Sheffield stealing $800 in cash and a diamond ring; to the scandalous: the front-page coverage of the divorce of the heroic doctor of the Cherry Mine disaster after his wife alleged she was the victim of domestic violence.
From the sad, to the humorous, to the fashions and the politics, we hope the exhibit gives you a better understanding of what life was like here in 1912. We hope you’ll join us in March for the exhibit and all the events we have planned for you!
Museum is opened Wednesday through Saturday, noon to 5 pm. Self guided tours on Saturday at 2 pm and 4 pm.

LaSalle's Celebration of Lights
2024-11-16 17:00 - 2025-01-01 21:00 | Rotary Park, 2837 E. 5th Rd., LaSalle, 61301, United States
One of the largest (and brightest) Christmas celebrations in North Central Illinois is back and bigger than ever!
La Salle’s Celebration of Lights will be held from Nov. 16 through New Year’s Day at Rotary Park!
HOURS:

Weekly: 5PM-9PM
Week of Christmas: December 20-25th 5PM-10PM

The display is free, donations are welcome!

Happy Morning Yoga & Hike
2024-12-15 09:00 - 10:30 | Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 S Walnut Ln., Channahon, IL, 60410, United States
Start the day off right with some self-care, beautiful nature and quiet reflection. This program includes a 35- to 45-minute all-levels yoga session and a 35- to 45-minute hike along our scenic trails.
Fee: Free! Age: Ages 14 or older. Participants younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required by Saturday, Dec. 14, by calling 815-722-9470 or online.
With the cold weather, yoga will take place in our Grand Hall. Please bring a yoga mat, water and warm layers for the winter weather. Please use caution, as snow and ice may be present on the trails and parking lots.
The hike will take place on both paved and natural trails over uneven terrain. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should submit a request online (https://www.reconnectwithnature.org/…/request…/) no later than 48 hours before the program.

Winter Survival
2024-12-15 09:00 - 10:30 | Thorn Creek Woods Nature Preserve, 247 Monee Rd., Park Forest, IL, 60466, United States
Come learn about the winter survival tactics of the mammals, reptiles and amphibians that call Thorn Creek home. We will explore different types of hibernation. After the hike, participants will create a pinecone creature to take home. This program is sponsored by the Thorn Creek Audubon Society.
Fee: Free! Age: All ages.
Participants should be prepared to walk more than 1 mile outdoors on natural surface trails across uneven terrain. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should call 708-747-6320.

Winterfest Market
2024-12-15 10:00 - 15:00 | Downtown Morris, 111 E. Washington St., Morris, IL, 60450, United States
Watch our streets fill up with cool new vendors offering foods, handmade specialty pieces, home goods, and all the perfect last-minute gifts you could need!

Sensory Search
2024-12-17 10:00 - 16:00 | Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve, 27064 Dutton Rd., Beecher, 60401, United States
How will you choose to make discoveries in the preserve?
By listening, feeling or using another one of your senses? Choose a search card or two inside the nature center before heading out to explore. After your successful search is complete, return to the nature center for a tasty treat.
This is a drop-in program; visit anytime during open hours. Fee: Free! Age: All ages. No registration required.
Plum Creek Nature Center is an accessible facility; outdoor activities may take place on paved paths and 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.

Christmas Tour by Candlelight
2024-12-17 17:30 - 18:30 | Weber House & Garden, 1503 Baker St., Streator, IL, 61364, United States
Experience Christmas past with a guided tour through a house lit only by candles and fireplaces while hearing stories from Ted Weber and Bill Phelan about past ways of life and Christmas traditions

Little Explorers: Winter Campout
2024-12-18 10:00 - 11:30 | Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 S Walnut Ln., Channahon, IL, 60410, United States
Let’s go faux camping.
Bring your little explorer to Four Rivers for a camping experience with a story, hands-on activities, s’mores, crafts and free play.
Fee: Free! Age: Ages 3-5. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
Please register yourself along with your child. We encourage experiencing all types of weather, so please dress yourself and your child accordingly. Please use caution, as snow and ice may be present on the trails and parking lots.
This is an inclusive program, welcoming individuals of all abilities. Four Rivers is an accessible facility. The outdoor hike and activities may take place on paved and 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.

Abstract Painting Workshop
2024-12-18 18:00 - 20:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Unleash your creativity in this dynamic, two-hour abstract painting workshop!
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, this class offers the perfect balance of structure and freedom. In the first hour, Amanda will guide you through various abstract techniques, from color blending and brushwork to creative mark-making. You’ll learn how to use color, form, and texture to express emotion and bring your unique vision to life on canvas. In the second hour, you’ll have the opportunity to dive deeper into your personal style with open exploration time. Use this hour to experiment with techniques, try new materials, or develop a piece inspired by your imagination. Our instructor will be available for one-on-one guidance, ensuring you feel supported as you bring your abstract masterpiece to life.
What’s Included:

Canvas and a variety of paints and brushes
Guided instruction in abstract painting techniques
Open exploration time for personal creative expression
Access to additional materials like palette knives, sponges, and more

Ages: All Ages | Instructor: Amanda Weygand Zehr BYOB for any guests 21 or older.

An Evening with Peter Billingsley & A Christmas Story
2024-12-18 19:30 - 22:00 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
Peter will be on a limited tour this holiday season hosting a series of screenings of A Christmas Story.
The evening will include a pre-show meet and greet, screening of the 1983 film, and a moderated Q&A where Billingsley will share stories from the movie set, behind-the-scenes photos, and memories from the Christmas classic.
Audience questions are encouraged.
Each screening will feature a Toy for Tots fundraiser, and a leg lamp giveaway to one lucky winner.

Christmas Tour by Candlelight
2024-12-19 17:30 - 18:30 | Weber House & Garden, 1503 Baker St., Streator, IL, 61364, United States
Experience Christmas past with a guided tour through a house lit only by candles and fireplaces while hearing stories from Ted Weber and Bill Phelan about past ways of life and Christmas traditions.

Wood Burning Workshop
2024-12-19 18:00 - 20:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Learn to craft a custom decorative wood board using the art of pyrography.
You’ll learn the basic techniques of decorative wood burning, which, although dating back centuries, can be expressed with fun, contemporary designs. Using a pen-like burning tool, you’ll work on small wood pieces to practice the basic technique. Next, you’ll move on to your masterpiece, etching a custom design (templates provided) onto a premium wood board.
All supplies and equipment provided.
Pre-registration is required- sign up today!
Ages: 10 and up | Instructor: Amanda Weygand Pre-registration is required- sign up today!
Ages: 10 and up | Instructor: Amanda Weygand Zehr.

Jingle Mingle
2024-12-19 19:00 - 22:00 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
The Rialto Square Theatre Foundation invites you to attend its inaugural young adult event, the Jingle Mingle!
Each ticket includes: event admission, Christmas-themed appetizers, and drink tickets for the cash bar.
The event will feature a live DJ and a limited-time signature cocktail!
Wear your ugliest Christmas sweater for a chance to win the grand prize in our Ugliest Sweater Contest!
Tickets are $30.

Classical Blast - Dark Side of the Yule Concert
2024-12-20 19:30 - 22:00 | Joliet Area History Museum, 204 Ottawa St., Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
Enjoy Classical Blast – Dark Side of the Yule, where Christmas meets classic rock!
Join us for the last indoor auditorium theater concert of 2024!

Lost & Found: Season of the Sticks
2024-12-21 10:00 - 11:30 | Messenger Woods Nature Preserve, 13800 W. Bruce Rd., Homer Glen, IL, 60491, United States
Trees hold mysteries even when not hiding behind their foliage. Celebrate the beginning of stick season, where trees have lost their leaves and appear to be huge sticks in the ground. Discover the beauty of individual species’ barks, the distinct shapes they form without us even knowing and the nests and cavities they created and protected earlier in the year. Find your own joy in the season of the sticks!
Fee: Free! Age: All ages. Registration required by Friday, Dec. 20, by calling 815-722-9470 or online.
The hike will be no longer than 2 miles and take place on paved and natural trails 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.

Photos with Sankt Nikolaus
2024-12-21 10:00 - 14:00 | Hegeler Carus Mansion, 1307 7th St., LaSalle, 61301, United States
Sankt Nikolaus has confirmed he will make three special visits to the Mansion. You and your family will have the opportunity to take a photo with him. During his first visit to the Mansion (and if you’ve been good all year) you can have cookies and hot cocoa. Allow 10-20 minutes for each photo session. -Friday, December 6th, 6pm to 8pm | Cocoa and Cookies with St. Nicholas -Saturday, December 7th, 10am to 2pm -Saturday, December 21st, 10am to 2pm $20 session – 5 digital photos emailed to Guardian.

Needle Punch Workshop
2024-12-21 16:00 - 18:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Join us for an evening of fun while we learn the art of Needle Punching!
Our finished project will be a needle punched holiday tree scene on a 5 embroidery hoop. Needle Punching is a slow and relaxing art, you will be able to take home all supplies needed to work on your project at home if you do not finish. All skill levels welcome.
All ages welcome – Children should be accompanied by an adult for help. BYOB for guests 21+.

Dr. Suess' How the Grinch Stole Christmas
2024-12-21 19:00 - 21:00 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
In this live-action adaptation of the beloved children’s tale by Dr. Seuss
The reclusive green Grinch (Jim Carrey) decides to ruin Christmas for the cheery citizens of Whoville. Reluctantly joined by his hapless dog, Max, the Grinch comes down from his mountaintop home and sneaks into town to swipe everything holiday-related from the Whos. However, the bitter grump finds a hitch in his plans when he encounters the endearing Cindy Lou Who (Taylor Momsen).
Tickets are $5 each, and will be available day-of at the Rialto Square Theatre Box Office.
All seating will be General Admission—first come, first serve.
Cash and credit will be accepted for payment. Bar and concessions will be available for purchase.
Doors open 30 minutes before showtime.

Birds & Beans
2024-12-22 08:30 - 09:30 | Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Road, Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States
Birdwatch with hot, freshly brewed, bird-friendly coffee from the comfort of the Isle a la Cache Museum library. Chat about the birds that show up at the feeders through the picture windows and enjoy the company of others over winter morning muffins.
Fee: Free! Age: Ages 16 or older. Registration required by Friday, Dec. 20, by calling 815-722-9301 or online.
Isle a la Cache Museum is an accessible facility. 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.

Holiday Owl Prowl for Adults
2024-12-27 16:30 - 18:00 | Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve, 27064 Dutton Rd., Beecher, 60401, United States
Who goes there? Winter may seem like a quieter time for birds, but it is a special time for owls in our woods!
Join us to learn about the owls of Will County and what makes this time of year special to listen for them. After an introduction to our local owls, we will head out on a quiet hike listening for our nocturnal neighbors.
Fee: Free! Age: Ages 18 and older. Registration required by Monday, Dec. 23, by calling 708-946-2216 or online.
This program takes places entirely outdoors. Dress for the weather and use caution while walking outdoors as snow and ice may be present on the paths and in parking lots. This hike will be up to 1.5 miles on paved and natural surfaces over 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.

Stress-Free Hike for Women
2024-12-28 09:30 - 11:00 | Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 S Walnut Ln., Channahon, IL, 60410, United States
Let the cool air and a mindful walk lead you to calmness.
This women-only hike will be a way to get outside for a quick fitness walk after the holiday season. This naturalist-led hike may have a few stops along the way to enjoy the tranquility of the natural world. After the hike, take a moment to sip on hot beverages as we enjoy the views of the Des Plaines River. We will watch the birds, boats and busyness go by.
Fee: Free! Age: Women ages 16 or older. Registration required by Thursday, Dec. 26, by calling 815-722-9470 or online.
Meet at Four Rivers Environmental Education Center. Wear appropriate attire and footwear for an outdoor hike.
This is an inclusive program, welcoming individuals of all abilities. Use caution while walking outdoors, as snow and ice may be present on the paths and in parking lots. The hike will be up to 2 miles on paved and 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.

Restoration Workday
2024-12-28 09:30 - 11:30, 2024-12-29 09:30 - 11:30 | Camp Sagawau
Join a naturalist as we help restore our ecosystems by removing invasive species. Tools and safety gear provided. Ages 12 & up.

Forest Therapy for Adults
2024-12-28 10:30 - 12:30 | Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Road, Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States
Need to relax? Want to reconnect with nature in a new way?
Join an interpretive naturalist for this simple Japanese method of being calm and quiet amongst the trees. We will meet and learn a few tips then walk to the trail for guided mindful activities.
Fee: Free! Age: Ages 18 and older. Registration required by Thursday, Dec. 26, by calling 815-722-9301 or online.
Please dress for the weather. The meeting point will be emailed after registration. The program includes hiking on both paved and natural trails over uneven terrain. Part of this program includes sitting on the ground (mats provided); please contact us if you need a chair. 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.

Feeding Time
2024-12-28 11:00 - 12:00 | Little Red Schoolhouse
Learn about the diets of our ambassador animals and observe a feeding demonstration.
Registration required.Contact organizer to sign up, (708) 839-6897

People & The Pullman Strike Exhibit
2024-12-28 12:00 - 16:00, 2024-12-29 12:00 - 16:00 | Pullman Exhibit Hall, 11141 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, 60628, United States
On May 11th, 1894, nearly 4,000 Pullman employees walked off the job.
And it began one of the biggest events in American labor history. In honor of the 130th anniversary of the Strike of 1894, Historic Pullman Foundation introduces a unique look at that important moment from the perspective of the actual people who lived and worked in Pullman. The exhibit explores the human cost of the strike, and tries to view the struggle from all sides.
Step back in time and experience the hardships Pullman families endured. Learn how the press and politicians of the day stirred up passions. And how pride got in the way of progress.
Ultimately, the Pullman Strike galvanized the labor movement. And started the long road to a better world for American workers.

Pullman Model Train Experience
2024-12-28 12:00 - 16:00 | Pullman Exhibit Hall, 11141 S. Cottage Grove, Chicago, 60628, United States
Join us at Exhibit Hall for an awesome display of vintage Lionel trains featuring four unique set-ups including a Polar Express exhibit showcasing the role our Pullman community played in the making of that Christmas classic.
Kids of all ages get to experience lots of hands-on excitement as Tom McMahon and staff dazzle visitors with tales of Pullman history, Lionel trains, and a whole lot of facts and fun you can only find here at Exhibit Hall. But you better hurry. It’s only here through Sunday, January 7.

Forest Therapy for Teens
2024-12-28 13:00 - 14:30 | Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Road, Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States
Need to relax? Want to reconnect with nature in a new way?
Join an interpretive naturalist for this simple Japanese method of being calm and quiet amongst the trees. We will meet and learn a few tips then walk to the trail for guided mindful activities.
Fee: Free! Age: Ages 13 to 18. Registration required by Thursday, Dec. 26:, by calling 815-722-9301 or online.
Please dress for the weather. Program waivers will be emailed upon registration; signed waivers must be returned electronically or in person before the start of the program.
The program includes hiking on both paved and natural trails over uneven terrain. Part of this program includes sitting on the ground (mats provided); please contact us if you need a chair. 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.

Holiday Tractor Rides
2024-12-28 18:00 - 21:00 | Historic Downtown Lemont, Canal & Stephen St, Lemont, IL, 60439, United States
Bundle up and head to Lemont Downtown for Holiday Tractor Rides from the Lemont Tractor Club!
Tractor Rides from the Lemont Tractor Club are back weather permitting.
Catch a festive ride around town while enjoying Light Up Lemont! Pick up location is on Front Street near the holiday light display (AKA General Fry’s Landing
