I & M Canal

Sightseeing Cruise with Narration Featuring Barry Cloyd
2024-07-14 14:30 - 16:30 (America/Chicago) | Sainte Genevieve Riverboat, 231 Albin Stevens Dr., Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Light on the narration, heavy on the ambience and views, our guests will enjoy the beautiful sights of the Illinois River Valley and learn a thing or two along the way.

Turtle Tuesday
2024-07-16 14:00 - 15:00 | Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Road, Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States
What is green and yellow, has a hard shell and looks awesome? The Blanding’s turtles of Isle a la Cache! Meet some of our ambassador turtles up close as a naturalist will bring one or two turtles from the exhibit tank out for closer viewing. Learn the story of their journey as an endangered species and all about Blanding’s turtles.
This is a drop-in program; come anytime between 2 and 3 p.m. Fee: Free! Age: All ages. No registration required.
Isle a la Cache Museum is an accessible facility; outdoor activities may take place on 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.

Land & Water Cruise
2024-07-17 11:00 - 15:00 | Starved Rock Lodge & Convention Center, 2680 E. 875th Rd., Oglesby, 61348, United States
Tour begins with lunch in our restaurant followed by a narrated trolley tour. Learn about Starved Rock’s history and legends of the area. The trolley takes passengers to the Eagle 1 to see the east end of Starved Rock State Park by water. Restrooms are available throughout the tour and minimal walking is involved. Both the trolley and boat are wheelchair accessible. Please inform us when booking if special accommodations are needed.

Happy Hour
2024-07-17 16:00 - 18:00 | Wine & Cheese Co., 24104 Lockport St., Plainfield, IL, 60544, United States
Happy Hour is every Wednesday from 4PM to 6PM. Enjoy $6 pours!

Wednesday Night Live Featuring James Herr
2024-07-17 17:00 - 20:00 | Camp Aramoni, 809 N. 2199th Rd., Tonica, 61370, United States
Camp Aramoni is the place to be on Wednesday nights!
At Wednesday Night Live, you can enjoy our fast casual menu of appetizers, salads, pizzas, handhelds and desserts, all paired with live music and drinks from 5 to 8 PM. Our live music schedule features all the best local artists in the area playing everything from country to classic rock and everything in between. Artists generally play on our outdoor deck overlooking the Vermilion River, and both indoor and outdoor seating is available.

Acrylic Pour Workshop
2024-07-17 18:00 - 19:30 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Come pour with us! Paint pouring is so fun for all ages!
All materials provided. Learn the blow out technique on canvas! Additional canvases available for $10 each.
All materials Provided. All ages welcome. Preregistration required

BYOB Bingo
2024-07-17 18:00 - 20:00 | Hickory Creek Preserve, 10537 W. LaPorte Rd., Mokena, IL, 60448, United States
Come on out for a night to socialize outdoors and enjoy the beautiful Hickory Creek Preserve and some bingo!
Compete for prizes and share some laughs in good company. Feel free to bring dinner or snacks and add some beverages (beer and wine only, please, for alcoholic beverages) to enjoy while you play.
Fee: Free! Age: Ages 21 or older. No registration required.
Bingo will take place under the Hickory Hollow Shelter, located just off the second parking lot at Hickory Creek Preserve — LaPorte Road Access.
The walkways to the shelter and the nearby latrine are accessible. 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.

Cruise Nights & Block Party
2024-07-17 18:00 - 21:00 | Cruise Nights & Block Party Location, Main Street & Canal Street, Lemont, IL, 60439, United States
Cruise Nights & Block Party
Imports: Euro, JDM (Porshe, VW, BMW, Mazda, Etc.) Expo Night
Light up your engines! The fastest and coolest cars are making their way to Lemont Downtown for our legendary cruise night car shows and block party. Wander the streets of historic Lemont Downtown viewing cars that take you back in time and make you dream of the future.

Weekly Trivia Night
2024-07-17 19:00 - 21:00 | Lone Buffalo Restaurant & Tap Room, 812 LaSalle St., Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Weekly trivia night at The Lone Buffalo by Tangled Roots Brewing Co. in Ottawa.
Drink amazing beer and eat delicious food while you and your friends enjoy a night of trivia!
Ottawa, IL is home to The Lone Buffalo, our first restaurant and the home of our original craft brewery. It’s also home to our hops and barley farm, whose crop we use to create our authentic Farm to Foam beers. At the heart of the Lone Buffalo are the large twin copper brewing kettles, imported from Bavaria, and admired and enjoyed by fans far and wide.

Paddles, Play & Popsicles
2024-07-18 13:00 - 15:00 | Monee Reservoir, 27341 S. Ridgeland, Monee, 60449, United States
Paddles, Play & Popsicles
Fee: $20. Age: Ages 13-17.
Registration required by Tuesday, July 16, by calling 815-722-9303 or online.
Please note: Waivers will be emailed upon registration. Waivers must be signed and returned by a parent or guardian prior to the start of the program. An adult responsible for the registered participant must remain onsite during the program.
All equipment is provided. Wear clothing that can get wet, including water shoes or old gym shoes. Consider bringing sunscreen, sunglasses and a water bottle. No previous experience is required.
The launch area is easily accessible by a paved sidewalk from the parking lot. 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.

Vintage Heart Cake Decorating Class
2024-07-18 17:00 - 18:30 | Hegeler Carus Mansion, 1307 7th St., LaSalle, 61301, United States
Join us for a relaxing evening of cake decorating and make your very own 6-inch vintage heart cake in the Main Hall of the Hegeler Carus Mansion in LaSalle, IL.
Attendees can choose, upon registration, between a vanilla or strawberry (up charge) cake. All supplies included! Just bring yourself, an apron, and your creativity! This event is a partnership between the Hegeler Carus Mansion and Blue Eyed Rascal Baking Co. Disclaimer- This event is non-refundable.

Star Union Spirits Bottled in Bond Bottle Release
2024-07-18 17:00 - 20:00 | Star Union Spirits, 300 5th St., Peru, IL, 61354, United States
Star Union Spirits Bottled in Bond Bottle Release
After aging 5 years in an American toasted oak barrel, Star Union Spirits will finally release their Bottled in Bond Rye and Malted Barley Light Whiskey. This 15-gallon barrel holds only 150 bottles of the 80 percent Rye and 20 percent Malted Barley Light Whiskey. (100 Proof / 50% ABV). Six bottle minimum, per day.

Kayak College
2024-07-18 18:00 - 20:00 | Monee Reservoir, 27341 S. Ridgeland, Monee, 60449, United States
This workshop, led by American Canoe Association certified instructors, introduces participants to the sport of kayaking on flat water. Specific instruction and safety topics are covered on shore. Paddle strokes are demonstrated, and the variety of kayak types are discussed. Wet exits are demonstrated by instructors on the water, and there will be time allotted to try out some paddling strokes.
Fee: $35 per person. Age: Ages 12 and older. (Children must be accompanied by an adult.) Registration is required by Tuesday, July 16, by calling 815-722-9303 or online.
No previous experience is required. All equipment is provided. Personal kayaks are welcome.
Wear clothing that can get wet, including water shoes or old gym shoes. Consider bringing sunscreen, sunglasses and a water bottle. The launch area is easily accessible by a paved sidewalk from the parking lot. 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.

Cyanotype Workshop
2024-07-18 18:00 - 20:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Embark on a mesmerizing journey into the world of cyanotype printing in our immersive Cyanotype Workshop! Discover the magic of this historic photographic process that harnesses the power of light to create stunning blue-hued prints. Our knowledgeable instructor will guide you through each step of the process, from coating paper or fabric with light-sensitive chemicals to arranging and exposing objects or negatives to light. Learn how to create intricate designs or experiment with the spontaneity of found objects to produce unique and captivating compositions. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a mixed-media artist, or simply curious about alternative printing methods, this workshop offers a hands-on experience suitable for all levels. All materials will be provided, just bring your artistic spirit and a sense of adventure!
Preregistration required 8 seats available BYOB for guests 21 and older all sales final

Sightseeing Cruise with Narration
2024-07-18 18:00 - 20:00 | Sainte Genevieve Riverboat, 231 Albin Stevens Dr., Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States

Concerts on the Hill
2024-07-18 18:30 - 21:00 | Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park and Theatre, 201 W Jefferson Street, Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
Concerts on the Hill
Free concert on the hill featuring Joliet Drama Guild’s preview of the musical Heathers and the Dan Dougherty Band!

Think & Drink - "Unremembered: Tales of the Nearly Famous & Not Quite Forgotten
2024-07-18 19:00 - 20:00 | Gaylord Building, Lockport, 200 W. 8th Street, Lockport, IL, 60441, United States
Lockport native and acclaimed author Ken Zurski will regale you with captivating stories from his history book series, Unremembered: Tales of the Nearly Famous & the Not Quite Forgotten. Books will be available for purchase.

Rockin' at the River Concert Series Presenting Carrie Sue & the Wood Burners
2024-07-18 19:00 - 21:00 | Humiston Riverside Bandshell, 612 W. Water St., Pontiac, 61764, United States
Rockin’ at the River Concert Series Presenting Carrie Sue & the Wood Burners
Please join us for the third concert of the 2024 season on Thursday, July 18th, for the City of Pontiac’s Rockin’ at the River concert series! This concert will take place at the Humiston – Riverside Bandshell from 7PM – 9PM. We will be featuring Carrie Sue & The Wood Burners – a band whose sound is a unique blend of the old and the new by combining folk, bluegrass, country, and Americana music, hailing from Urbana, IL.
For more information, please visit the Rockin’ at the River Concert Series Facebook Page or Pontiac.org.

Sunset Soiree - Timing's Everything
2024-07-18 19:00 - 22:00 | Sunset Soiree Location, Stephen & Talcott, Lemont, 60439, United States
Sunset Soiree – Timing’s Everything
Free concert series! Join us in downtown Lemont on Stephen St, bring your blankets & chairs for free open seating. Seating opens at 6pm, music begins at 7pm. Food and drink will be available on site.

Thanks to our sponsors at Village of Lemont, CITGO Lemont Refinery, Lemont Bank & Trust and Gelsosomo’s Pizzeria & Pub.

Summer Concert: Steve & Steve
2024-07-19 08:00 - 17:00 | Hegeler Carus Mansion, 1307 7th St., LaSalle, 61301, United States
Band: Steve & Steve, Classic Rock | Volunteer Appreciation Night
Summer Concert Series: Every Friday the Hegeler Carus Foundation presents the Summer Sunset Concert Series (with the exception of the 4th of July weekend) there are 11 performances in total between the months of June and August. Bands play on the west lawn of the Mansion. Enjoy food vendors, 50/50 raffles, mansion fun facts, and more.
Gates open at 6:00pm
Concerts begin at 6:30pm
Bands play until 8:00pm
Admission is $5 per person. Purchase tickets online here or at the gate.
Food Vendor: Rodeo Taco / Churros

Friday Lunch at the Tasting Room
2024-07-19 11:30 - 14:30 | August Hill Winery Tasting Room, 106 Mill St., Utica, IL, 61373, United States
Friday Lunch at the Tasting Room
Join us for Lunch at the Tasting Room, offered every Tuesday & Friday, from 11:30 am – 2:30 pm. Enjoy a glass of wine of your choice and a choice of four different lunch options. $25 per person.
������� ���� ���� ►Reservations are required at least 72 hours prior to your lunch. ►Time slots are 11:30am, 12:30pm, and 1:30 pm. ►Online sign-up limited to 6 people per time slot. If you have more than 6 people in your group, please call the Tasting Room at 815-667-5211.
����� ������� �️ Mushroom Panini: Sautéed Mushrooms, Gruyere Cheese, and Whole Grain Mustard on Focaccia bread; served with side salad with homemade dressing and Tiramisu for dessert. �️ Roasted Tomatoes Panini: Roasted Tomatoes, Mozzarella Cheese, and Basil Pesto on Focaccia bread; served with side salad with homemade dressing and Tiramisu for dessert. �️ Soppressata Panini: Soppressata, Gruyere Cheese, and Caramelized Onion on Focaccia bread; served with side salad with homemade dressing and Tiramisu for dessert. �️ Coppa Panini: Coppa, Chèvre Fraise cheese, and Fig Jam on Foccacia Bread; served with side salad with homemade dressing and Tiramisu for dessert.

Kindling
2024-07-19 15:00 - 21:00 | True North, 539 Bedford Rd., Morris, IL, 60450, United States
A fun new to Morris event, featuring live Midwest music, unique vintage finds and local makers. Kindling’s goal is to bring a good time to the community, every 3rd Friday night from 3p-9p starting this May through October.

Ottawa's Third Friday Artisan Market
2024-07-19 17:00 - 21:00 | Downtown Ottawa, 223 W. Madison, Ottawa, 61350, United States
We’re in the dog days of summer, but that’s OK because even dogs Third Friday! Bring your pup for a night on the town next Friday starting at 5 pm on Madison Street. With temps forecasted in the low 80s, it’s shaping up to be a howling good time (sorry but we just can’t resist a good pun)! Be sure to check out our dog-friendly vendors like Howlin Moon Barkery, Tricera Designs, and more!
Arts culture and entertainment event in downtown Ottawa, IL every Third Friday of the month.

Twigs & Tomatoes
2024-07-19 17:00 - 21:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Come see the latest art collection of Amanda Weygand Zehr at Open Space Art Gallery & Studios during the July Ottawa’s Third Friday Artisan Market! This is a free event – appetizers and refreshments provided.
ARTIST STATEMENT This series of work is an experimentation. A playful combination of materials, textures and colors. All inspired by the land surrounding me. Created with materials I’ve used before. Created with materials I’ve never used.
Capturing the feeling of of being among the garden, watching the seeds turn to plants, turn to flowers, turn to fruit.
Capturing the colors of the first ripe tomato, the grapes on the vine, the flesh of a peach.
Explore the beauty around you.

Southern Accents - Tribute to Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers
2024-07-19 18:30 - 21:00 | The Forge Adventure Park and Ziplines, 227 Heritage Quarries Drive, Lemont, Illinois, 60439
Get ready to celebrate the music and legacy of the one and only Tom Petty at The Forge in Lemont, IL, on Friday, July 19th, as Southern Accents brings their heartfelt tribute to the stage.
Join us for an evening of unforgettable melodies and timeless classics as Southern Accents pays homage to Tom Petty, one of rock ‘n’ roll’s most beloved icons. From Free Fallin’ to American Girl, I Won’t Back Down to Learning to Fly, experience the magic of Petty’s music brought to life with authenticity and passion.
With their impeccable musicianship and heartfelt performances, Southern Accents captures the spirit and essence of Tom Petty’s legendary sound, taking audiences on a journey through his greatest hits and deepest cuts.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Tom Petty’s incredible songwriting or simply appreciate great music, this tribute concert promises to be a night to remember. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of The Ultimate Tom Petty Experience by Southern Accents at The Forge. It’s a concert event that’s sure to touch your heart and leave you singing along all night long!

Super Hero Night/Guns & Hoses
2024-07-19 18:30 - 21:00 | Joliet Slammers Stadium, 1 Mayor Art Schultz Dr., Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
Friday, July 19 @ 6:35 PM vs. Windy City Thunderbolts Post Game Fireworks Super Hero Night/Guns n Hoses – Grab your cape and head out to the ballpark for Super Hero and Guns n Hoses Night! Join us for a special evening dedicated to honoring our real-life heroes and the extraordinary sacrifices they make every day! Fans are encouraged to dress like their favorite superhero.

Chicago Maritime Museum 3rd Friday Lecture - Writing with Maps: Emily Barton Altman
2024-07-19 19:00 - 20:30 | Chicago Maritime Museum, 1200 W. 35th St., Chicago, IL, 60609, United States
Join CMM as Emily Barton Altman discusses Lake Michigan bathymetric map poetry. Altman will read her work and then trace the map and score-based practices that inform her writing. Beginning with 20th century avant-garde practices and ending with contemporary work, Altman will show how writers and artists of the 20th and 21st centuries used maps in their poetry to interrogate space, politics, and everyday life.
Emily Barton Altman is the author of two chapbooks, Bathymetry (Present Tense Pamphlets, 2016), and Alice Hangs Her Map (dancing girl press, 2019). Recent poems appear in The Spectacle, Bone Bouquet, Quarterly West, and elsewhere. She holds an MFA in Poetry from NYU and a PhD in creative writing from the University of Denver. In the fall she will begin teaching at Michigan State University.
In conjunction with the Bridgeport Art Center’s Third Friday Open House, the Chicago Maritime Museum opens its doors for lively presentations on maritime history and current events each month. Come early and explore the Bridgeport Art Center’s many art galleries. Join us on Friday, July 19 at 7:00 p.m. either in person or virtually.
The special pricing is $5.00 for members and $10.00 for non-members. However, you might just consider joining the CMM for an annual membership of just $35, which provides unlimited visits, access to our monthly newsletter and special events such as the Third Friday maritime lecture series.
Join us at chicagomaritimemuseum.org or call us (773) 376-1982. We are located on the lower level of the Bridgeport Art Center at 1200 W 35th Street. Parking is free in the north lot.

Sunset & Small Bites Featuring Steve Sharp
2024-07-19 19:00 - 21:00 | Sainte Genevieve Riverboat, 231 Albin Stevens Dr., Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
As the sun sets, you’ll head west out of Ottawa under the railroad bridge and travel to Buffalo Rock. The breathtaking rock faces that edge the river will offer the perfect backdrop as you wind down your day. Guests will enjoy our cocktail buffet featuring heavy appetizers and curated bites from local restaurants. Seating is first-come-first-served, and we encourage guests to mingle about the upper and lower decks to enjoy the views.

Cabarets
2024-07-19 19:30 - 21:00 | Grace Theatre, 316 Main St., Princeton, 61356, United States
Come see the actors, production staff, and team in a new light on the Cabaret stage. This is a great opportunity to be entertained with songs from a variety of genres as you get to know the entire company better.

Firefly Glow Hike & Campfire
2024-07-19 20:00 - 21:30 | Theodore Marsh, Gaylord Rd. at Fox Meadow Dr., Crest Hill, 60403, United States
Independence Day may be over, but Mother Nature is bringing her own bright explosions to a preserve near you — fireflies! Become immersed in nature at night and experience the bright magic of these beautiful beetles. Discover the science behind these staples of summer and craft a glowing creation of your own. Once the stage is set, take a short hike and seek out this incredible insect for a closer look. End the night by the light of a campfire and roast a tasty marshmallow.
Fee: Free! Age: All ages. Registration required by Thursday, July 18, by calling 815-722-4121 or online.
The program will include a 0.5-mile hike on 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.
