I & M Canal

Lemont Authors' Panel
2026-04-26 14:00 - 16:00 (America/Chicago) | The Old Stone Church, 306 Lemont Street, Lemont, IL, 60439, United States
Don’t forget to join us for the Lemont Five Author History Panel at the Lemont Historical Society! Weve gathered a fantastic panel of local writers to discuss how the rich history of Lemont has shaped their stories and their writing process. Whether you’re into historical mysteries, middle-grade adventures, or contemporary fiction, theres something for everyone. Stay after the discussion to meet the authors and grab signed copies of their books! $5 for non-members and free for members. Tickets available on Eventbrite or at the door.
The Panel will take questions from the audience and books will be available for sale. Plan to come early and stay late to chat with the writers in person.

Live From Laurel Canyon
2026-04-27 19:00 - 22:00 | Pontiac Township High School, 1100 Indiana Ave, Pontiac, 61764, United States
Mark your calendars and join the Livingston County Concert Association for the final concert of the season! They will be featuring the folk-rock band, Live from Laurel Canyon.

Wet Felt Light
2026-04-28 18:00 - 20:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Create your own cozy, one-of-a-kind hanging light in this hands-on wet felting class! Perfect for both beginners and experienced makers, this workshop will guide you through the process of transforming soft wool fibers into a beautiful, durable felted lampshade.
You’ll learn the fundamentals of wet felting, including fiber layout, layering, and shaping, while exploring texture, color blending, and design techniques to make your piece uniquely yours. By the end of the class, you’ll have a finished felted lampshade ready to pair with the included hanging light fixture bringing warmth and handmade charm into your space.
All materials are provided, and no prior experience is necessary. Whether you’re trying felting for the first time or looking to expand your skills, this class offers a fun, creative environment to experiment and create something truly special.
$65 per person. Pre-registration required. BYOB for guests 21 plus.

Last & First: Mid-1800s Currency Issued by a Grundy County Bank in Morris, Illinois
2026-04-28 19:00 - 20:30 | Wesley Center, 111 W. North St., Morris, IL, United States
Morris Illinois was a prime spot for commerce in the mid 1800s. The Illinois & Michigan Canal was located to the south of town, and new railroad tracks to the north. In the early 1860s the country and economy were going through major changes due to the Civil War. The federal governments banking system collapsed in 1836 leaving citizens wondering what was on the economic horizon. Gold, silver, and copper coinage were in short supply. The federal paper currency was not much better. Grundy County in general, and Morris in particular, was feeling the same pinch. A local Morris bank issued state backed paper currency for a short time until Abraham Lincoln and the Secretary of the Treasury came up with a plan for the country – The National Bank Act of 1863. Now a new bank in Morris could issue National Bank notes backed by bonds to keep the Grundy County economy moving. See and hear the stories surrounding the last of the obsolete currency, and the first of the National Bank currency issued in Grundy County. Presented by Dale Lukanich. Admission is free.

Open Mic Poetry Night Hosted by Jamie Neely
2026-04-29 19:00 - 20:30 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Join us for this free event every last Wednesday of the month! All types of writing welcome. Hosted By Jamie Neely. BYOB welcome.

First Time Fishing
2026-04-30 17:30 - 19:30 | Hidden Lakes Historic Trout Farm, 475 Trout Farm Road, Bolingbrook, IL, 60440, United States
Theres no time like the present to learn a new skill! Learn fishing basics, such as putting tackle on the pole and baiting the hook. Practice casting and gain hands-on experience while fishing along the shoreline with the guidance of an instructor. All materials are provided, including pole, tackle and bait. Just bring yourself! $5 per learner. Registration required by Wednesday, April 29: 815-722-4121. Hidden Lakes Trout Farm has paved accessible trails from the parking lot. Shoreline fishing takes place on natural surfaces over uneven terrain. 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.

Sounds on 66
2026-05-01 16:00 - 19:30 | Joliet City Center, 302 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
Join us in the heart of downtown Joliet to kick off the Route 66 Red Carpet Corridor weekend. We are proud to debut this celebration at the brand-new City Square, transforming our downtown into a vibrant stage for historic sound and cars to commemorate 100 years of Route 66. Free admission.

Talk Derby To Me
2026-05-01 16:00 - 21:00 | Downtown Morris, 111 E. Washington St., Morris, IL, 60450, United States
It’s time to TALK DERBY TO ME! Gallop to Morris for the fun!! Run for the Roses!! Trifecta of Prizes! Winner’s Circle After Party!!
Grab your girls, throw on your cutest hat, and get ready for a night out you don’t want to miss. Shop, dine, and explore downtown Morris! Earn raffle tickets for every $10 you spend (We’re talking LOTS of chances to win). Enter to win amazing prize baskets + MRRA gift card.

Show up in your best Derby look for the Hat Contest! End the night at the After Party at Keg Grove!
Downtown will be decorated, businesses will have specials, and the energy is going to be unmatched!

Cars & Guitars - Sounds on 66
2026-05-01 17:00 - 20:00 | Joliet City Center, 302 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
Join the Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66 as we kick off the Cars & Guitars Summer Season! We will be at our new location, Downtown Joliet City Square, to kick off the Route 66 Red Carpet Corridor Weekend! Experience the evolution of the automobile up and down Chicago Street for a premier auto show! The first 75 cars receive a Cars & Guitars Dash Plaque.

Wine Glass Painting
2026-05-01 18:00 - 19:30 | Bronkberry Farms, 18061 Bronk Rd., Plainfield, IL, 60586, United States
A BYOB creative night at Handmade Happy Hour!!
Sip, paint, and unwind at our Paint Your Own Wine Glass Workshop, part of our Handmade Happy Hour series. This BYOB, adults-only craft night on the farm invites you to design a custom wine glass that’s as fun, bold, or elegant as you’d like. $40 per person.

Tom Papa: Grateful Bread Tour
2026-05-01 19:00 - 21:30 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
The comedian has had 6 highly rated stand-up specials including his most recent Netflix stand-up special, Home Free, which premiered on October 29th. Filmed at the Warner Theatre in Washington, D.C., Tom holds nothing back, as his kids are finally out of the house and it’s just him, his wife and a bunch of animals ready to return to their glory days. Tom has seen a lot over the years, from close calls with a pachinko ball to late night 7-Eleven runs, and he’s sharing all his thoughts as he parties on into the next stage of life. The special trended in the Top 10 TV Shows the first week of release. Papa’s other specials include What A Day!, You’re Doing Great!, Human Mule, Freaked Out and Tom Papa Live in New York City, two of which were directed by Rob Zombie.

Midwest Morel Fest & Burger Bash
2026-05-02 07:30 - 13:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E. Lafayette St., Ottawa, Illinois, 61350
It’s all part of a weekend that honors Tom Nauman’s legacy and the Midwest way of life: good people, great food, and plenty of laughter!!
Join us at Washington Park, where you can shop and peruse a large Botanical Market and Morel Market featuring everything… You guessed it… MUSHROOMS! We’ll even host MOREL UNIVERSITY, where you’ll learn to identify morels, so you know exactly what to look for on your guided hunt. (Please note: The educational hunt has limited availability.)
Schedule:

7:30 am: Hunt and Morel Market sign-in

8-8:30 am: Morel University

8:45 am: Busses depart for guided hunt

9 am-3 pm: Morel Market – morel mushrooms only

8 am-3 pm: Vendor Market

9 am-11:30 am: Guided Hunt

Noon: Burger Bash

12:30 pm: Awards

Repot & Refresh: A Houseplant Styling Bar
2026-05-02 10:00 - 14:00 | Hornbaker Gardens, 22937 County Rd. 1140 N, Princeton, IL, 61356, United States
Refresh your indoor plants at our Houseplant Restyling Bar! Browse a curated selection of houseplants, containers, and soil available for purchase and create a freshly styled plant ready for your home. You can also bring your own plant and/or container and we will provide fresh soil based on your plant’s needs. Our team will be on hand to offer tips on pairing plants with pots, proper repotting techniques, and styling ideas to help your houseplants thrive and look their best. Whether you’re upgrading a favorite plant or starting something new, this relaxed, drop-in experience is a fun way to give your indoor space a fresh update. $10 per person.

2026 Swinging Bridges Art Festival & Red Carpet Corridor
2026-05-02 10:00 - 19:00, 2026-05-03 10:00 - 19:00 | Downtown Pontiac, Downtown, Pontiac, 61764, United States
Join us for the 18th Annual Red Carpet Corridor Festival on Saturday, May 2nd and Sunday, May 3rd as we celebrate 100 miles of Route 66 through Illinois! This exciting event spans 14 communities, each hosting their own unique activities and attractions.
Pontiac is packed with exciting events you won’t want to miss! The celebration features the Swinging Bridges Art Festival, hosted by the Pontiac Community Art Center. During the festival, two blocks of Madison Street will be closed to traffic and filled with local artists and vendors creating and showcasing their work, live music performances, and more.
In celebration of the Route 66 Centennial, we’ll also unveil our newly constructed Centennial Plaza this weekend. The plaza is located behind the Historic Museum Complex and next to the iconic Route 66 shield mural.
Be sure to check out the Skoolie Swarm as well – a gathering of 30 to 50 converted vans, buses, and other unique vehicles taking over Downtown Pontiac for the entire weekend. This Route 66 Swarm honors the legacy of Route 66 artist Bob Waldmire and adds a vibrant, one-of-a-kind element to the festivities.

Route 66 Skoolie Swarm
2026-05-02 10:00 - 19:00, 2026-05-03 10:00 - 19:00 | Downtown Pontiac, Downtown, Pontiac, 61764, United States
Join us in Downtown Pontiac for the first-ever Skoolie Swarm during Red Carpet Corridor Weekend. In honor of the beloved Route 66 artist Bob Waldmire and his Road Yacht, what better way to celebrate the Route 66 Centennial than with a gathering of conversion vehicles? Explore 50+ unique rigs displayed throughout downtown Pontiac while enjoying the Red-Carpet Corridor and Swinging Bridges Art Festival, all happening simultaneously. This free, walkable event invites you to take photos, meet the vehicle owners, and tour their one-of-a-kind homes on wheels.

Route 66 Spring Social
2026-05-02 12:00 - 16:00, 2026-05-03 12:00 - 16:00 | Duncan Manor House & Gardens, 1002 Towanda-Barnes Rd., Towanda, IL, 61776, United States
Join us during the annual Red Carpet Corridor Festival as Duncan Manor opens its grounds for a lively spring weekend just steps off historic Route 66. Visitors are invited to wander the property, explore a curated outdoor vendor market, enjoy drinks and food from local vendors, and soak in the energy of one of the most celebrated travel weekends along the Mother Road. Throughout the day we will also be offering small-group guided tours of the historic 1866 Duncan Manor, where guests can step inside the Italianate home and hear the story of its restoration and the generations of life that have unfolded within its walls. Whether you’re traveling the Route 66 corridor or visiting from nearby Bloomington-Normal, we invite you to stop by, explore the grounds, and experience a piece of Towanda’s history. Grounds access is free. Historic house tours are $20 and offered in limited small groups throughout the day. Duncan Manor is a 501c3 Not for Profit Organization. A ll proceeds benefit the restoration and preservation of the house and its grounds.

The Amazing Race
2026-05-02 14:30 - 18:00 | Historic Downtown Lemont, Canal & Stephen St, Lemont, IL, 60439, United States
Downtown is your game board.Think youve got what it takes?Grab your team and take on The Amazing Race: Downtown Lemont a fast-paced afternoon of challenges, clues, competition, and just enough chaos to keep things interesting.Race through local businesses. Compete for prizes. Discover downtown in a whole new way. individual $40 (we will match you). Teams $130. $300 + $200 prizes. Limited spots Register: lemonthistory.org/amazing-race.

Market on Canal
2026-05-03 09:00 - 15:00 | Historic Downtown Lemont, Canal & Stephen St, Lemont, IL, 60439, United States
We’ve waited all winter to be reunited with the amazing vendors at Market on Canal hosted by Mabel’s Market. We are so proud of this sweet outdoor vintage and handcrafted market that includes over 50+ talented vendors, live music, food truck, and drinks. It’s a vibe you can find nowhere besides Downtown Lemont!

Run the Rock
2026-05-03 10:00 - 13:00 | Old Joliet Prison, 1125 Collins St., Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
Get ready to run into summer with the most exciting and energetic event of the season! The Giant Summer Kickoff Run is not just a race—it’s a celebration of sunshine, good vibes, and the start of an unforgettable season. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just in it for the fun, this event has something for everyone! $45 per person.

Create Your Own Spring Planter
2026-05-03 10:00 - 13:00 | Bronkberry Farms, 18061 Bronk Rd., Plainfield, IL, 60586, United States
S
tart the Season in STYLE and deck out your porch patio, or garden area with a gorgeous, handmade planter…done by YOU!
We are there to help and guide you as you create, but the sky is the limit on what you bring to life. The class is a $20 sitting fee and the pot and flowers you choose are additional and dependent on your choices.
Customize to your hearts desire! Your final total will be based on the flowers and add-on’s you chose as you create away. These classes are ALL AGES so whether 6 or 60 – planters can be made!
Have a favorite planter or two you want to use, feel free to BRING YOUR OWN POT and dive into your beautiful creation!

Oil Painting Workshop
2026-05-03 13:00 - 16:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Join Marjorie Myers, a local artist who has learned from Dana Jester, Steve Ross and Kevin Hill as she helps you step by step create a beautiful landscape oil painting. All materials provided. We will be painting on a 16×20 canvas. Ages: All ages welcome | Instructor: Marjorie Myers (Margie Paints) $65 per person. Preregistration required. BYOB friendly for 21 plus!

Intro to Watercolor
2026-05-03 18:00 - 20:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Looking for a jumping off point to get into watercolor? In this beginner class, we will cover a variety of techniques to help get you started! We will be making multiple small paintings experimenting with masking, layering, wet-on-wet, and dry brushing techniques. All supplies will be provided but feel free to bring any you wish to experiment with. $45 per person. Preregistration required. BYOB friendly for 21 plus.

Painted Planter Workshop
2026-05-04 18:00 - 20:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Get ready to bring some personality to your plants in this playful Funny Face Planter Workshop! In this hands-on class, you’ll design and decorate your own one-of-a-kind planter featuring a quirky, expressive face—goofy, grumpy, glamorous, or anything in between. All materials provided. $40 per person. Pre-registration required. BYOB friendly for $21 plus!

Cyanotype Workshop
2026-05-07 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! $45 per person. Pre-registration required. BYOB friendly for 21 plus!!

Think & Drink: These ARE the Droids You're looking For!!!
2026-05-07 19:00 - 20:00 | Gaylord Building, Lockport, 200 W. 8th Street, Lockport, IL, 60441, United States
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away… people imagined a future filled with intelligent machines, hovering drones, and robots that could think for themselves. As it turns out, that future may be closer than we think.
Join us for our next Think & Drink as researchers from Argonne National Laboratory explore the real-world science behind robots, drones, and artificial intelligence, and connect it to the futuristic technologies imagined in Star Wars. This engaging presentation will look at how today’s scientists are developing tools that once belonged purely to science fiction, and examine how pop culture continues to inspire real scientific discovery.
Whether you’re a lifelong Star Wars fan, a technology enthusiast, or just curious about the future, this promises to be a fascinating evening of science, storytelling, and big ideas.

Craft Night: Pressed Flower Workshop
2026-05-08 18:30 - 20:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
This laid-back workshop is all about slowing down, enjoying the process, and making something beautiful with your hands. Using delicate pressed flowers you’ll design your own set of dreamy, botanical candles. $45 per person. All materials provided. Pre-registration required. BYOB friendly for 21 plus!

Joliet Slammers Opening Night - Joliet Slammers vs. Washington Wild Things
2026-05-08 18:30 - 22:00 | Joliet Slammers Stadium, 1 Mayor Art Schultz Dr., Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
Joliet Slammers vs. Washington Wild Things Opening Night. Fireworks to follow game!!
