I & M Canal

Needle Felting Workshop
2024-12-10 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Fiber Artist- Jacqueline JoAnni will be showing you how fun and interesting needle felting is.
Needle felting is the process of taking raw fibers with a special barbed needle to sculpt into any desired form. Flat or 3 dimensional. In this class we will be making needle felted ornaments. This class is good for beginners or experienced. Preregistration required. Ages: All ages BYOB permitted to guests over 21. Open Space disclaims any and all liability for alcohol-related accidents or injuries arising out of its activities, or arising out of the activities of its customers. Therefore, in consideration of participating in the activities of Open Space classes, attendees do hereby agree to indemnify and hold harmless Open Space, its proprietors and employees, and any guest speakers, instructors or artists for any loss, cost and expense incurred as the result of their conduct, whether on or off the premises. *All Sales Final.

The Santa Clause
2024-12-10 19:00 - 21:00 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
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.
Divorced dad Scott (Tim Allen) has custody of his son (Eric Lloyd) on Christmas Eve. After he accidentally kills a man in a Santa suit, they are magically transported to the North Pole, where an elf explains that Scott must take Santa’s place before the next Christmas arrives. Scott thinks he’s dreaming, but over the next several months he gains weight and grows an inexplicably white beard. Maybe that night at the North Pole wasn’t a dream after all — and maybe Scott has a lot of work to do.
Doors open 30 minutes before showtime.

Nature Play Day: The Snow Day
2024-12-11 10:00 - 11:30 | Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve, 27064 Dutton Rd., Beecher, 60401, United States
Join us for this monthly nature-themed program for 3- to 5-year-olds and their caregivers to enjoy together!
Although the temperature has dropped, we can still find lots of outdoor activities. We’ll learn about snowflakes and snow and spend time outdoors making our own wintery adventures. Be prepared for indoor and outdoor activities, including a hike, a story, games, art and more.
Fee: Free! Age: Ages 3-5. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. Registration required by Tuesday, Dec. 10, by calling 708-946-2216 or online.
Please register all the children and adults in your group since you’ll be joining in the fun together.
We encourage experiencing the outdoors rain or shine, so please dress accordingly. Plum Creek Nature Center is an accessible facility. Outdoor activities may take place on natural surfaces across uneven terrain. The hike will be less than 1 mile. 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.

Winter Holiday Extravaganza - Princeton Public Library
2024-12-11 16:30 - 19:30 | Princeton Public Library, 698 E. Peru St., Princeton, IL, 61356, United States
Princeton Public Library will host its 3rd Annual “Winter Extravaganza,” a drop-in evening of family-friendly activities, crafts, holiday music, and treats.
Storytelling – Snowball Pong – Spin the Dreidel – Penguin Walk – Holiday Music & Treats – Snowflake Necklaces – Salt Dough Ornaments – Polar Bear Masks – Pine Cone Wishes – Paper Strip Ornaments

Tower of Power Holidays & Hits Tour
2024-12-11 19:30 - 22:00 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
For over 55 years, Tower of Power has delivered the best in funk and soul music.
“We were a Soul band called The Motowns,” recalls Emilio Castillo. “Rocco was the bass player, I was there, and my brother was the drummer. I met “Doc” Kupka back in 1968 and gave him an audition. He came in the band, and we eventually changed our name to the Tower of Power.” The reason for the band name change was that they had a specific goal in mind. 50 years later, in 2018, they returned to Oakland to celebrate their landmark 50th anniversary. Tower’s window-rattling grooves and raucous party spirit have been a balm for the soul throughout their half-century existence, but the release of 50 Years of Funk & Soul: Live at the Fox Theater couldn’t have arrived at a better time.
The future of Tower of Power is set out to be vigorous and dynamic and will prove to be just that for fans around the world starved for the band’s groove just the way Tower of Power likes it!

Mirror of Mathis
2024-12-12 10:30 - 14:00 | Jacob Henry Mansion, 20 S. Eastern, Joliet, IL, 60433, United States
David Robbins has been thrilling audiences all over the country with his 90-minute show of Johnny Mathis’ greatest hits. As soon as he hits the stage, his uncanny likeness to Mathis will leave you spellbound. He sings Johnny Mathis’ iconic songbook, including songs from his holiday albums
Lunch Entree: Italian herb seasoned chicken breast sautéed with garlic, red pepper and spinach in a white wine cream sauce served over pasta.
Cost: $56 per person.

Christmas Tour by Candlelight
2024-12-12 17:30 - 18:30 | Weber House & Garden, 1503 Baker St., Streator, IL, 61364, United States
Candlelight Tour of the Weber House
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.

Bus Trip to Rotary Park
2024-12-12 18:00 - 20:00 | Marseilles City Hall, 209 Lincoln St., Marseilles, IL, 61341, United States
The City of Marseilles and Marseilles Elementary School have partnered to bring you a bus trip to see the lights at Rotary Park in LaSalle.
The bus will leave City Hall at 6 PM on December 12th.
RSVP here and we look forward to enjoying this evening with you!
We have room for 35 guests for this event.

Gelli Plate Printing Workshop
2024-12-12 18:00 - 20:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Dive into the vibrant world of Gelli plate printing in this hands-on workshop!
Perfect for beginners and seasoned artists alike, this class will guide you through the basics and beyond of monoprinting using Gelli plates. You’ll learn how to create stunning, one-of-a-kind prints using a variety of techniques, including layering, texturing, and stenciling. What You Will Learn: – Understand the materials, tools, and setup for Gelli plate printing. **Basic Techniques:** Learn fundamental techniques such as inking the plate, creating textures, and making your first prints. **Advanced Methods:** Explore more complex processes like layering colors, using stencils, and incorporating found objects. – **Creative Applications:** Discover how to use your prints in mixed media projects, journaling, and other artistic endeavors. All materials provided but feel free to bring any specific stencils, stamps, or found objects you’d like to use This workshop is designed for all skill levels. Whether you are a beginner looking to try something new or an experienced artist seeking to expand your creative toolbox, this class has something for everyone. Join us for a fun, relaxed, and inspiring printing experience!

Think & Drink: A Tasting & Celebration of Winter Beers
2024-12-12 19:00 - 20:30 | Gaylord Building, Lockport, 200 W. 8th Street, Lockport, IL, 60441, United States
‘Tis the season to be jolly!
For our December Think & Drink, join us for a merry evening of winter cheer and frosty beers! Host Michael Pezan, a professionally certified brewer and Master Beer Judge, will guide us through the rich history and flavors of winter brews.
Sip on a variety of seasonal beers while Michael shares the stories behind these robust and warming beverages. From spiced ales to hearty stouts, there’s a winter beer for everyone to enjoy.
Don’t miss this chance to toast the holiday season with good company and great beer!
Event Details:

Date: Thursday, December 12, 2024
Time: 7pm-8:30pm
Location: Gaylord Building banquet room
Cost: $10
Registration: Required (includes Public Landing Restaurant discount – details below)

This is a ticketed event that includes tasting five unique winter beers.
Price per ticket: $10. Limited seating, so register now!
Attendees must be 21 or older.

About your presenter:
Michael Pezan has always appreciated beers with more flavor than the typical American light lager. In 1991, he began home brewing beer and won several national awards for his homebrew. He was a professional brewer for seven years, winning Gold and Silver medals at the Great American Beer Festival®. He has also managed a specialty beer and home brew supply shop and has been a certified Master Beer Judge for 30+ years.

Public Landing Discount: When you register, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a discount code good for 20% off your full meal purchase the night of the event. Just tell your server the discount code when you sit down to order. This discount is valid only on the night of the talk, so be sure to come early (the restaurant recommends no later than 5:30pm).Think & Drink

It's a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play
2024-12-12 19:00 - 22:00 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
An annual holiday tradition returns to Rialto Square Theatre–
join WJOL for an evening you won’t forget, as local radio talents perform the Christmas classic, It’s A Wonderful Life live from the Rialto Stage, as it broadcasts on WJOL simultaneously. This is always a highlight of the holiday season! All proceeds from ticket sales benefit the Rialto Square Theatre’s mission to bring the biggest and brightest talents to the Rialto Square stage.

Star Union Spirits Featuring: Not Petty
2024-12-13 17:00 - 20:00 | Star Union Spirits, 300 5th St., Peru, IL, 61354, United States
Not Petty returns to the Tasting Room for their second evening at our distillery.
Not Petty is America’s favorite Tom Petty Tribute Duo! Their simplified approach showcases the words & melodies at the heart of Petty’s songwriting. Their passion & energy revives the rock & roll spirit that made Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers legends.
Craft cocktails and bottle sales at 1:00 pm.
The music starts at 5:00 pm.
This will be a great show to check out!

Christmas in the Valley Exhibit
2024-12-13 18:00 - 20:00 | NCI ARTworks Gallery, 400 5th St., Peru, IL, 61354, United States
The December 13th exhibition features the work of Spring Valley artist Bill Swisher, Streator artist Gayle Akerman, and Princeton artist Earlene Campbell.
​Princeton-area artist Earlene Campbell will join Spring Valley artist Bill Swisher and Streator artist Gayle Akerman at the 2024 December art exhibition in the NCI ARTworks Gallery in the west wing of the Westclox Building on December 13th 2024. The artists’ opening reception begins at 6 pm and is free. All are welcome to enjoy refreshments and art and common ground.

Christmas Candlelight Open House
2024-12-13 18:00 - 20:00 | The Reddick Mansion, 100 W. Lafayette St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Take a step back in time and experience a Victorian Christmas at the Reddick Mansion.
Located at 100 W. Lafayette Street in Ottawa, Illinois.
Come any time between 6pm and 8pm and see the Jewel of Ottawa at her finest. Costumed docents will be scattered throughout the building to answer questions and relate the history of the Reddick Family and their home which once housed the original Reddick Library. After your tour, enjoy the holiday refreshments served on the first floor.
This year, your $10 fee will also include touring the home of Civil War General WHL Wallace, known as The Oaks located at 2101 Caton Road. This historic home was recently purchased by Mr. and Mrs. Jay McCracken who have lovingly restored The Oaks back to its Victorian splendor.

Macrame Tree Workshop
2024-12-13 18:00 - 20:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Join us for a fun night of knot-tying!
You’ll be provided everything you need to make and leave with a wonderful macramé tree wall hanging. Macramé is a form of textile-making using knotting, as opposed to knitting or weaving. Whether it’s used for wall hangings or planters, macramé can add such great texture to any wall or corner of the home. It turns out; it’s a pretty fun way to spend your free time. Interested in learning more? Aubrey Sipula of Toil and Thyme will be taking over our studio to teach you how to make this great tree wall hanging. These workshops are designed to help develop a new craft, meet new friends, and walk away with a beautiful work of art–created by you, for your home.
All ages welcome, children may need an adults help to complete project.
BYOB for any guests 21 or older.

Christmas Candlelight Open House
2024-12-13 18:00 - 20:00 | The Reddick Mansion, 100 W. Lafayette St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Take a step back in time and experience a Victorian Christmas at the Reddick Mansion.
Located at 100 W. Lafayette Street in Ottawa, Illinois.
Come any time between 6pm and 8pm and see the Jewel of Ottawa at her finest.
Costumed docents will be scattered throughout the building to answer questions and relate the history of the Reddick Family and their home which once housed the original Reddick Library.
After your tour, enjoy the holiday refreshments served on the first floor.
This year, your $10 fee will also include touring the home of Civil War General WHL Wallace, known as The Oaks located at 2101 Caton Road. This historic home was recently purchased by Mr. and Mrs. Jay McCracken who have lovingly restored The Oaks back to its Victorian splendor.
Tickets for students K thru 12 = $5.

The Forge: Hootin' & Hot Chocolate
2024-12-13 18:30 - 20:30 | The Forge Adventure Park and Ziplines, 227 Heritage Quarries Drive, Lemont, Illinois, 60439
Join us for a guided night hike led by The Forge: Lemont Quarries’ naturalist as we set out in search of owls.
The ideal time for owl observation is from November to February, coinciding with their breeding season. During our hike, we will discuss various owl species and explore their fascinating adaptations.
We’ll provide the hot chocolate to keep you warm!
The hike will cover approximately two miles on natural and paved surfaces.

Holiday PJ Bar Crawl
2024-12-13 19:00 - 22:00 | Lemont Area Historical Society, 306 Lemont Street, Lemont, 60439, United States
Cheers to holiday spirits and a night to remember!
Put on your favorite holiday pajamas and join Ebenezer Scrooge on a spirited pub crawl through Lemont!
Christmas Past: Nostalgic holiday-themed drinks and games.
Christmas Present: Merriment and surprises at every stop.
Christmas Future: Hilarious fortunes delivered by Scrooge himself!
Highlights Include: Fun games, trivia, and prizes. Encounters with the ghosts of Christmas and plenty of holiday cheer!
Cost is $25 a person.
Go to our website for details!

Little Christmas Brunch & Tree Silent Auction
2024-12-14 11:00 - 13:00 | Hegeler Carus Mansion, 1307 7th St., LaSalle, 61301, United States
The Little Christmas Brunch will feature an elaborately decorated Hegeler Carus Mansion, delicious Holiday brunch, Holiday music performed by Manderley Strings (violin/viola/cello trio), and a Christmas Tree Silent Auction. Christmas Trees, decorated by local sponsors, will be available for silent auction to adorn your home in the years to come. Winners of the Auction are able to pick up their tree after January 12, 2025. Trees will be packaged for storing. Make this an annual tradition to celebrate the holidays by joining us for this inaugural event. If you’re seeking a place to immerse yourself in the wonder of the season, look no further.

Holiday Sing a Long at The Old Stone Church
2024-12-14 13:00 - 15:00 | The Old Stone Church, 306 Lemont Street, Lemont, IL, 60439, United States
Cookies & Carols: A Sweet Tradition This holiday season, lets celebrate community and tradition together! The LAHS is hosting a festive sing-along to bring our towns history to life with songs of the past, and were thrilled to join forces with St. Matthew Church for their annual Cookie Walk! Heres how it works: Start your day at St. Matthew Church to fill your baskets with homemade cookies and treats. Then, head over to the LAHS, where well be spreading holiday cheer with timeless carols.By combining music and sweet traditions, were celebrating what makes our community specialhistory, family, and togetherness. Dont miss this chance to kick off the holiday season with joy and nostalgia!

Holiday Traditions at Pullman National Historic Park
2024-12-14 14:00 - 16:00 | Pullman National Historic Park, 610 E. 111th St., Chicago, 60628, United States
People from around the world came to work for the Pullman Company, bringing unique traditions to their new home in America.
Join us Saturday, December 14 from 2 to 4 PM at Pullman National Historical Park to celebrate the rich and diverse holiday traditions of the early Pullman residents.
Enjoy an afternoon of family fun including ornament-making, caroling, a Christmas tree lighting, and even a visit from the Jolly Old Elf!

1st Annual Downtown PontiacNathan Joerndt Caroling Walk & Hosted Scavenger Hunt
2024-12-14 14:00 - 17:00 | Downtown Pontiac, Downtown, Pontiac, 61764, United States
Join us downtown Pontiac on December 14th for the 1st Annual Downtown Pontiac Nathan Joerndt Caroling Walk & Hosted Scavenger Hunt. Carolers will meet at the Block 59 Shoppes on Washington Street to be welcomed by Pontiac’s own Nathan Joerndt and given more information as to the caroling locations around the courthouse square, Centennial Plaza and Block 59. There will be cookie and beverage stations, gift wrap pop-up, Salvation Army bell ringing and the ice rink for your enjoyment. If you are wanting to join in the Hosted Scavenger Hunts, pick one of the locations, arrive between 2- 2:30 pm, to do the hunts as a group with the host leading the way!

Christmas on the Prairie
2024-12-14 14:00 - 18:00 | Annunciation Byzantine Catholic Church, 14610 S. Will Cook Road, Homer Glen, IL, 60491, United States
At Annunciation Byzantine Catholic Church in Homer Glen, IL the celebration of the Feast of St. Nicholas, which occurs on December 6th each year, is a venerable tradition.
Annunciation parish also has a special reverence for the natural prairie lands of Illinois.
In the spirit of the season of gift and joy, Annunciation parish would like to share the gifts of our St. Nicholas tradition and our prairie in our 9th Annual “Christmas on the Prairie” event. Participants will have an opportunity to learn about the true story of the original St. Nicholas and what Christmas on the prairie might have been like for the early settlers.
This indoor/outdoor family event will take place on the Annunciation’s rolling ten acres of restored prairie on Saturday, December 14th from 2pm to 6pm.

Discover the real story of St. Nicholas on the prairie paths
Frontier era Christmas crafts for children
Experience the mystical beauty of a Byzantine Church
Homemade Christmas bake sale items
Visit with St. Nicholas and get a ride on his horse drawn carriage

WAO Winter Wonderland & Parade
2024-12-14 14:00 - 19:00 | City of Oglesby, 110 E. Walnut St., Oglesby, IL, 61348, United States
A Winter Wonderland is coming to Oglesby!
Business & Organization Open House: 2:00 – 5:00 PM
Explore holiday fun with crafts, refreshments, treats, and festive activities at participating local businesses and organizations.
Plus, enjoy Pictures with Santa, Carriage Rides, Face Painting, and more! Maps of participating locations will be provided. 3rd Annual Winter Parade: Starts at 5:00 PM
The parade kicks off at the Oglesby Elks Lodge and heads west to School Avenue.
Tree Lighting Ceremony: Immediately following the parade
Join us at Senica Square for the official lighting of the Christmas tree!
Parade Entries: Open until December 2nd This year, we’re introducing a special prize!
The Best Winter Wonderland-Themed Entry will win $200 in WAO Bucks to spend at participating member locations!
For parade sign-up and additional details, visit: https://forms.gle/kyvN2ekQTXb5Sxgc7 Questions?
Message us or contact Angie at (815) 202-6433.

Sparkle of the Season
2024-12-14 16:00 - 18:00 | Ottawa High School, 211 E. Main St., Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
The Illinois Valley Community College Collegiate Choir and choirs from Ottawa High School join the IVSO to perform Shaw and Bennett’s The Many Moods of Christmas and a portion of Handel’s Messiah, featuring soprano Jenilyn Roether. Also included in this wide variety of holiday music is Michael W. Smith’s powerful and moving Glory Overture, as well as additional selections by our guest choirs. You won’t want to miss this wonderful way to usher in the season!

Holiday in the Park
2024-12-14 16:00 - 19:00 | Goold Park, 308 Northern Avenue, Morris, 60450, United States
Enjoy an old-fashioned Christmas celebration in the heart of Morris- Goold Park.
Surrounded by the lights of the community ice rink, this event will feature sweet treats from Downtown establishments, including Alpine Coffee Bar, Morris Chop Shop, and more. Montage Wine Bar will be serving up holiday cocktails for adults! Santa will be waiting in the bandshell to hear final requests before Christmas. Kids of all ages are welcome.
Admission is free.

Full Moon Hike & Stories
2024-12-14 18:30 - 20:00 | Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve, 27064 Dutton Rd., Beecher, 60401, United States
December’s full moon has many names, including the storytelling moon.
Bundle up for a night of wonder hearing moon lore and legend while hiking a moonlit trail. Then share your own stories while roasting moon pies over a campfire.
Fee: Free! Age: All ages.
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 long and take place on paved and 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(Opens in a new window) no later than 48 hours before the program.

Dean Z - Ultimate Elvis Christmas
2024-12-14 19:30 - 22:00 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
Coming to the Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet, IL is Dean Z’s Rockin’ Christmas Show.
Get ready to rock into the holiday spirit when award-winning and internationally acclaimed entertainer Dean Z, alongside his high-energy band and the beautiful Dynamite Singers as they present your favorite rock ‘n’ roll, rockabilly and swing holiday hits – spanning Christmas standards made famous by Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, Brenda Lee, Dean Martin, The Ronettes & more!

9th the Drunk'n Gnome
2024-12-14 20:00 - 22:00 | Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park and Theatre, 201 W Jefferson Street, Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
Saturday night only! Get the REAL story behind the gnomes. These wee creatures tend to be a wee-bit tipsy, so they’re ready to spill the beans in the live, comedy production held in the indoor theatre.

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.
