Winter Survival

Thorn Creek Woods Nature Preserve 247 Monee Rd., Park Forest, IL, 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.

Winterfest Market

Downtown Morris 111 E. Washington St., Morris, IL, 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

Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve 27064 Dutton Rd., Beecher, 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

Christmas Tour by Candlelight

Weber House & Garden 1503 Baker St., Streator, IL, 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

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

Abstract Painting Workshop

Open Space Art Gallery & Studios 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 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

An Evening with Peter Billingsley & A Christmas Story

Rialto Square Theatre 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 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

Christmas Tour by Candlelight

Weber House & Garden 1503 Baker St., Streator, IL, 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

Open Space Art Gallery & Studios 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 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

Jingle Mingle

Rialto Square Theatre 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 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

Classical Blast – Dark Side of the Yule Concert

Joliet Area History Museum 204 Ottawa St., Joliet, IL, 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

Messenger Woods Nature Preserve 13800 W. Bruce Rd., Homer Glen, IL, 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

Needle Punch Workshop

Open Space Art Gallery & Studios 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 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

Dr. Suess’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas

Rialto Square Theatre 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 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