Military History Weekend
2023-09-09 09:00 - 2023-09-10 17:00 UTC | Dellwood Park, Woods Drive, Lockport, 60441, United States
Saturday, September 9th
9:00 am Park Opens
11:00 am. WWII Battle
12:00 pm. Sweet Reminder performing hits of ’40s, ’50s, 60s
1:00 pm Civil War Battle
3:00 pm WWII Battle
4:00 pm Fortunate Sons – Credence Clearwater Revival Tribute Band
6:00 pm Bridge Skirmish
6:45 pm Vietnam Battle
8:00 pm USO Show featuring Silver Bullet
Sunday, September 10th
9:30 am Encore Concert Band
11:00 am WWII Battle
12:00 pm Sweet Reminder performing hits of ’40s, ’50s, ’60s
12:00 pm WWII Girls Baseball Living History Demo – Meet the Rockford Peaches!! (Baseball Field)
1:00 pm Civil War Battle
2:00 pm Bridge Skirmish
3:00 pm WWII Battle
5:00 pm Camp Closes
$10 Adults
$5 Children 12 & Under, Seniors 55+, and Veterans
For tickets and info: www.lockport park.org/MHW (815) 838-1183

A River Thru History
2023-09-09 10:00 - 2023-09-10 16:00 UTC | Columbia Woods Forest Preserve, Willow Springs Rd. & Corcoran Rd., Willow Springs, IL, 60480, United States
A River Thru History is a living history reenactment of early American life, as it was on the Illinois frontier prior to 1848, with emphasis on our local history from the fur trade era to the canal era. The goal of this rendezvous is to be the premier event of this type in this area by creating an exciting, entertaining and educational experience for all ages. To this end, we strive to create a better understanding and appreciation of our history by allowing the public and the reenactors to mingle, both as witnesses and participants, in our event. Finally, we seek to have the most authentic and highest quality reenactors and trade goods to represent our vision of the rendezvous. This is consistent with the overall goal of the Illinois and Michigan Canal National Heritage Corridor Civic Center Authority, which is to promote and enhance the historic, recreational and economic development of this new style National Park
Parking at nearby UPS facility 7811 Willow Springs Road, Hodgkins IL

Admission: (cash only accepted at the gate )

Children under 6 – FREE!

$5.00 Children 6 to 17

$5.00 Senior (over 62)

$10.00 Adults

$25.00 Family Pass (1 or 2 adults, up to 4 children age 6-17)

OR BUY YOUR TICKETS ONLINE.

Illinois Watercolor Society Member Exhibition
2023-09-12 10:00 - 2023-10-07 16:00 UTC | McCord Gallery & Cultural Center, 9602 W. Creek Rd., Palos Park, IL, 60464, United States
The Illinois Watercolor Society was established in 1981, committed to promoting and encouraging the pursuit of excellence in water-based media throughout Illinois. Since that time, IWS has grown from a small group of painters to a nationally-recognized watercolor society with members stretching from Vermont to California.
Today, IWS continues to pursue its mission by sponsoring two yearly exhibitions: a National Juried Exhibition open to entries from artists across the country and a Members’ Exhibition. The Society offers members the opportunity to expand creative skills, publishes a newsletter, and maintains a website for learning and promotional resources to further assist members. More information can be found on the IWS website: illinoiswatercolorsociety.org. This exhibit will have amazing works on display!
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Regional History Symposium: Place and the Environment on the occasion of the 175th Anniversary of The Illinois & Michigan Canal
2023-09-14 09:00 - 15:00 UTC | Gaylord Building, Lockport, 200 W. 8th Street, Lockport, IL, 60441, United States
Lewis University and the Gaylord Building Historic Site invite you to a symposium marking the 175th anniversary of The Illinois & Michigan Canal – part of a year-long series of events held along the 96-miles of the nation’s first National Heritage Area.
9 – 9:25 am Coffee Reception
9 am – 2 pm Pop-up Exhibits and Display Materials
9:30 – 10::30 am First Session: The Native Land, Raphael Wahwassuck, Prairie Band Potawatomi National Tribal Council
10:40 – 11 am Break
11 am – 12 pm Second Session: Prairie Restoration and Land Use Christina Henderson, Prairie Supervisor, Midewin National Tallgrass
12 – 12:40 pm. Lunch Reception in Lobby
12:45 – 1:45 pm Third Session: Place, Region, and Changing Human Interactions with Nature, Dr. William C. Barnett, Professor of History, North Central College
2 – 3 pm Fourth Session: The I & M Canal’s 175th Anniversary: Transportation and Transformation, Ana B. Koval – President and CEO, Canal Corridor Association
To register for the event lecture please visit: alumni.lewisu.edu/sczepaniakfall2023

175th Anniversary Regional Symposium
2023-09-14 09:00 - 15:00 UTC | Lewis University – Saint Charles Borromeo Convocation Hall, 101 Airport Road, Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States
Lewis University and the Gaylord Building Historic Site invite you to a symposium marking the 175th anniversary of the Illinois & Michigan Canal – part of a year-long series of events held along the 96 miles of the nation’s first National Heritage Area. This event is free and open to the public with funding from the Lewis University History Center, Gaylord Building, and Sczepaniak Lecture Series.
In a rare appearance, the Canal Corridor Association’s President & CEO Ana Koval will preside over the day’s final session “The I&M Canal’s 175th Anniversary: Transportation & Transformation” in which she’ll talk about the impact the canal had on the newly formed canal towns, Chicago, Illinois and the United States.
The event also features speakers, tabletop displays, pop-up exhibitions, and an opportunity for students, the public, and interpretive sites to engage with the complex history of this shared landscape. Light lunch to be served.
Register here: https://www.alumni.lewisu.edu/sczepaniakfall23

AGENDA
9:00 AM – 9:25 AM
Coffee Reception

9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Pop-up Exhibits and Display Materials

9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
The Native Land: Raphael Wahwassuck, Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation Tribal Council

10:40 AM – 11:00 AM
Break

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Prairie Restoration and Land Use: Christina Henderson, Prairie Supervisor, Midewin National Tallgrass

12:00 PM – 12:40 PM
Lunch Reception in Lobby

12:45 PM – 1:45 PM
Place, Region, and Changing Human Interactions with Nature: Dr. William C. Barnett, Professor of History, North Central College

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
The I & M Canal’s 175th Anniversary: Transportation and Transformation: Ana B. Koval, President and CEO, Canal Corridor Association

The legacy of Jim and Mary Clare Sczepaniak lives on at Lewis University through scholarships, enhancements and a history lecture series. The lectures began in October 2016 and have brought scholarly speakers on a variety of topics.

Autumn in the Park
2023-09-15 18:00 - 23:00 UTC | Palos Park Village Green, 8901 W. 123rd St., Palos Park, 60464, United States
Schedule of Events

Friday, September 15, 2023

6:00 pm – Grounds Open
6:00 pm – NAWS Animal Rescue will be onsite
6:00 to 10:30 pm – Food Vendors, Beer, Wine and Spirits $
6:00 to 10:30 pm – Sports Cave – Gazebo
7:30 to 10:30 pm – Musical Entertainment –Hairbangers Ball – Main Stage
11:00 pm – Grounds Close

Saturday, September 16, 2023

11:00 am – Parade Begins
11:30 am – Grounds Open
Noon to 5:00 pm – Face Painting, Balloons, Bouncy Houses and Kids Crafts provided by McCord Gallery, Palos Park Library, and Palos Fine Arts
Noon to 10:30 – College Football – On the big screen – Gazebo Sports Cave
Noon to 10:30 pm – Food Vendors, Beer, Wine and Spirits
Noon to 1:00 pm – Amazing Bob – Roaming Magician
12:15 to 3:00 pm – Community Demonstrations – Kids Area

12:15 – 12:45 pm – Do Good Movement Youth Yoga
1:00 – 1:30 pm – Mystic Warrior Martial Arts Tae Kwon Do Demo
1:45 – 2:15 pm – Fencing Demonstration by Zoya Zackavec
2:30 – 3:00 pm – Recreation Skills Challenge by the Rec. and Parks Dept.

Noon to 3:30 pm – The Children’s Petting Farm – hosted by The Center of Palos Park
Noon to 6:00 pm – Artisan Vendors
12:30 – 1:45 pm – House of Music – Band Showcases – Main Stage
1:00 pm – Adult Bags Tournament – (Registration on-site staring at noon) $
2:30 to 3:00 pm – The Reta Wegele Beautification Awards presentation
3:00 to 6:00 pm – Musical Entertainment – Five Guys Named Moe – Main Stage
7:30 to 10:30 pm – Musical Entertainment – Mike and Joe – Main Stage
11:00 pm – Grounds Close

Saturday Parade Information
Beginning at 11 am, the parade kicks off with bands, floats, civic groups, fire and police vehicles, horses, dogs, walkers, riders and community for this wonderful tradition. The parade kicks off at 82nd Avenue on 123rd Street in Palos Park and travels westbound to 90thAvenue ending near the festival grounds.
Free Trolley/Shuttle Bus and Parking
Free Festival parking can be located at:

Palos Park Presbyterian Church – 12312 S. 88th Avenue
The Village Courtyard – 8301 W 123rd Street [Handicap parking and accessibility]
Metra Parking lot – 12100-12114 South 82nd Avenue

Trolley/Shuttle Bus Service – Pick up/Drop Off Locations:

Palos Park Metra Lot
Front of Recreation Center
Village Courtyard

Shuttle Hours:

Friday 6:30 – 11:00 pm
Saturday Noon – 11:00 pm

Kids Area and Activities
Saturday, September 16, 2023
Noon to 3:00 pm – Community Demonstrations (See schedule of events)
Noon to 12:30 – Amazing Bob – Roaming magician
Noon to 3:30 pm – Children’s Petting Farm – hosted by The Center of Palos Park
Noon to 5:00 pm – Bounce Houses, Face Painting, Balloon Animals, Playground & Tot Town
Noon to 5:00 pm – Children’s Crafts (McCord Gallery, Palos Park Library and Palos Fine Arts)
Live Music
Friday, September 15, 2023

Hairbangers Ball on the Main Stage

Saturday, September 16,2023

3:00 to 6:00 pm – Five Guys Named Moe on the Main Stage
7:30 to 10:30 pm – Mike and Joe on the Main Stage

Food Vendors

Frangella’s Italian Market
The Original Plush Horse
Robinsons Ribs
Zacarelli’s
Doughs Guys Bakery
The Original Shrimp House
Durbin’s Pizza
Boba Heaven
Lions Club – corn on the cob
Palos Park Woman’s Club

2023 Community Partners

Palos Fire Protection District – First Aid
Palos Park Police Department
CERT
Honor Flight Chicago
McCord Gallery
Palos Park Library
Palos Community Church
Palos Fine Arts
The Center Palos Park
Palos Area Chamber of Commerce
Palos Park Pedalers
Forest Preserves of Cook County
Palos Historical Society

Artisans

Fabulous Fleece & More/Dress My Goose – fleece blankets & pillows, goose outfits
Adara Selene Creations – jewelry, t-shirts, home décor, and more
Trinketara – handmade jewelry
Regarding Rainey – jewelry, dog toys and leashes
Saboona Soap – handcrafted soaps and make-your-own magnets
Dirienzo Designs – crocheted and knitted items for all ages
Aubrey’s Attic – stainless steel/glass tumblers, keychains and pens, epoxy resin art
Jump Start Novelties – light up novelties
Kathy’s Doll Kreations – doll clothes and accessories
Windrose Designs – original art, mixed media art, stickers, gifts and more

Lemont Township Fall Craft Fair
2023-09-16 09:00 - 15:00 UTC | Lemont Township Community Center, 16300 Alba St., Lemont, 60439, United States
Craftors, vendors, raffles and more! All proceeds to benefit the Lemont Township Family Assistant Fund. $2 suggested donation entry fee.

Goose Lake Prairie Day
2023-09-16 10:00 - 15:00 UTC | Goose Lake Prairie Park
The Annual Prairie Day celebrates the prairie environment at the Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area. Enjoy the butterfly barn, the picnic areas and play yards. Walk the trails and look into the Cragg Cabin.

SuperMotocross World Championship
2023-09-16 18:30 - 20:30 UTC | Chicagoland Speedway, 500 Speedway Blvd., Joliet, 60433, United States
MX Sports Pro Racing and Feld Motor Sports, Inc., jointly announced a partnership that will see the formation of the SuperMotocross World Championship.
Tickets are now on sale and prices range from 42.00 USD to 276.00 USD, Don’t miss your chance, Get your tickets for SuperMotocross World Championship today!

Architecture Serviette - Reception
2023-09-17 12:00 - 15:00 UTC | Gallery Seven, 200 W. 8th St., Lockport, IL, 60441, United States
Art and Architecture of Robert Morris – Ink Doodles on Napkins over Wine

"Down in the Mine: American Coal Miners and Their Songs, 1890-1960" Presentation
2023-09-17 13:30 - 14:30 (America/New_York) | Lock 16 Cafe, 754 First Street, LaSalle, IL, 61301, United States
Hop aboard the I&M Canal Boat for an afternoon of music and history! The Canal Corridor Association is hosting a FREE Illinois Humanities Road Scholars Speakers Bureau presentation entitled “Down in the Mine: American Coal Miners and Their Songs, 1890-1960” by Bucky Halker.
Coal miners in Illinois and the rest of the US have a long tradition of writing poetry and music related to their occupation. This program brings that tradition to the forefront through the combination of music performance (guitar and vocal) and spoken commentary, placing this important folk tradition in a broader historical context and offers details on coal mining, coal-miner bards and songwriters, early country music, and individual songs.
Bucky Halker is a songwriter, performer, and historian with 15 albums, including Anywhere But Utah: Songs of Joe Hill (2015), a musical tribute to martyred labor songwriter Joe Hill (1879-1915), and The Ghost of Woody Guthrie (2012), an original music tribute to the legendary folksinger.

Register Now

This event is being produced by Canal Corridor Association in partnership with Illinois Humanities. The Illinois Humanities Road Scholars Speakers Bureau invites Illinois authors, artists, and educators to share their expertise and enthusiasm with people throughout the state, enabling local nonprofit organizations to present free-admission cultural programs to their communities. You can find more information on Bucky Halker and his presentation at https://www.ilhumanities.org/bucky-halker/

Prairie Companion
2023-09-18 09:00 - 2023-10-21 16:30 UTC | Illinois State Museum – Lockport Gallery, 201 W. 10th St., Lockport, IL, 60441, United States
Prairie Companion features artwork and specimens from the Illinois State Museum collection that highlight aspects of prairie ecology and how our actions have consequence for prairie survival. Presented in conjunction with Philip Juras’ exhibit celebrating the wide views of prairie preserves, this exhibition considers individual species and details of places that define this vital ecosystem.
Artists include Harry Breen, Roger Brown, H.B. Colby, Tom Denlinger, Winifred Godfrey, Frank Sadorus, Kevin Veara, Mel Watkin.
This exhibition is organized by Doug Stapleton, Curator of Art, with Dr. Meredith Mahony, Curator of Zoology and Dr. Melissa Pardi, Assistant Curator of Geology.

The Long View - Philip Juras
2023-09-19 09:00 - 16:30 UTC | Illinois State Museum – Lockport Gallery, 201 W. 10th St., Lockport, IL, 60441, United States
This exhibition features paintings from 23 nature preserves across Illinois by artist and conservationist Philip Juras. The work celebrates the 60-year legacy of the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission and offers a window into the past and present ecology of the Prairie State.
The prairies featured in Juras’ paintings range geographically from the shore of Lake Michigan, Lockport, and down through the southern end of Illinois. They show the visual variety found in remnant prairies based on physical characteristics and the ephemeral qualities of weather and season. Juras remarks that, ‘together, they represent multiple aspects of the tallgrass landscape I’ve come to cherish. For example, as a southerner more accustomed to densely forested environments, I find the long views in prairies irresistible.’
Together with Juras’ paintings is another exhibition, Prairie Companion. This exhibition features artwork and specimens from the Illinois State Museum collection that highlight aspects of prairie ecology and how our actions have consequence for prairie survival. While Juras’ exhibit celebrates the wide vistas of the prairie, this exhibition considers individual species and details of places that define this vital ecosystem.

‘As an artist, I’m enthralled by tallgrass prairie. Its beauty, rich ecology, and fascinating history are the essential ingredients in what I believe makes a compelling landscape. It is moving to set foot in a true prairie remnant where I can ponder the profusion of flowers and grasses and imagine how the patch of prairie in front of me could once have covered millions of acres.’ Philip Juras

Could it Be Magic
2023-09-19 11:00 - 14:30 UTC | White Fence Farm, 1376 Joliet Road, Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States
A fascinating performance looking back at the music of Barry Manilow. One of Brooklyn’s most popular singer-songwriters whose songs took the charts by storm in the 1970’s. The show includes a few hits that you probably never knew he wrote.
Tickets can be purchased by check for $42 by calling Janet at 815.893.9202.
Tickets purchased by credit card will be $45 per person.
Ticket includes lunch, tax, gratuity and the performance.
Your lunch includes: Four pieces of the famous White Fence Farm chicken along with homemade corn fritters, baked potato, cottage cheese, kidney bean salad, coleslaw, pickled beets. And a choice of one beverage of coffee, tea or soft drink. No refills on soft drinks. A cash bar is available.

Seneca Prairie Shipyard Festival
2023-09-20 18:00 - 2023-09-23 21:00 UTC | Seneca Shipyards, 100 S. William St., Seneca, 61360, United States
Celebrate Prairie Shipyard Days in Seneca- “Bringing Us All Together”! Celebrating the 175th Anniversary of the I&M Canal!

The Historic Gaylord Building Plein Air Painting
2023-09-22 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Gaylord Building, Lockport, 200 W. 8th Street, Lockport, IL, 60441, United States
Join the Lemont Artist Guild and Gallery Seven for a Plein Air Painting Event. Capture the Lincoln Landing’s Fall Colors!!!

Lemont Township Scarecrow Trail
2023-09-23 09:00 - 2023-10-21 17:00 UTC | Lemont Heritage & Woodland Sanctuary, 16300 Alba St., Lemont, IL, 60439, United States
Take a walk through the Lemont Heritage & Woodland Sanctuary to see all the Scarecrow Contestants!!

Museum Campus Exploration Days
2023-09-23 10:00 - 16:00 UTC | Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Road, Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States
If you’ve never visited Isle a la Cache Museum, take advantage of this opportunity to see what’s going on in the 18th century Traders Cabin and peek inside the Native American longhouse.

Joliet PrideFest
2023-09-23 12:00 - 18:00 UTC | Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park and Theatre, 201 W Jefferson Street, Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
Main Festival 12-6:00PM
Finale Performance by Brian Justin Crum begins at 6:00pm
Get ready for a day filled with boundless joy, laughter, and unity at the Joliet PrideFest! We’re pulling out all the stops to create an unforgettable experience that celebrates the LGBTQ+ community and promotes acceptance and equality. Joliet PrideFest is packed with an array of exhilarating activities designed to cater to all ages and interests.
The Beat Goes On: Live Music Extravaganza
Feel the rhythm of love as our stages come alive with electrifying live music performances. From local talents to renowned artists, the music will be a powerful reminder that diversity is our strength and harmony is our anthem.
Artistic Expression at Its Best
Let your true colors shine with face painters who transform faces into vibrant canvases of self-expression. From rainbow designs to glittering masterpieces, our artists will help you wear your pride proudly.
Magic, Mermaids, and More
Prepare to be dazzled by mesmerizing magic acts that will leave you in awe. And don’t miss the chance to meet a real-life mermaid, a symbol of fantasy and wonder that embodies the spirit of PrideFest.
Connect and Empower
Explore our resource fair, a hub of knowledge and support from LGBTQ+ organizations and allies. This is your opportunity to engage with advocates, learn about important issues, and strengthen the bonds of our community.
Shop ’til You Drop: Vendor Market Delights
Indulge in retail therapy at our diverse vendor market, where artisans, crafters, and food vendors offer a treasure trove of unique finds and delectable treats.
Bingo, Bouncies, and Boundless Fun
Challenge your luck and play thrilling rounds of bingo, bounce around in our inflatable play zones, and frolic in the foam machine frenzy – all ensuring smiles and laughter are in abundance. If tech is more your thing our game truck is packed with thrilling video games that promise hours of entertainment.
PrideFest Storytime: Sweet Tales of Acceptance and Love
Gather ’round, dear friends, for special PrideFest story times! With hearts as vibrant as a rainbow and a spirit that shines like a disco ball, join us for tales that celebrates love, diversity, and the magic that happens when we embrace our true selves.
Interactive Encounters
Prepare to be amazed by up-close and personal encounters with some of our animal ambassadors. Get a chance to touch, learn, and bond with creatures that might be unfamiliar but share our world. These interactions provide a bridge between different species and remind us of the shared bonds that make our planet so unique.
Axe Throwing Adventure
Discover your inner warrior with our exciting axe throwing experience. Test your aim, compete with friends, and add a touch of exhilaration to your PrideFest adventure.
All Day, All Love
Every activity is available throughout the day, ensuring there’s something for everyone, no matter the hour. Share laughter, make memories, and forge new friendships in a space that embraces love and inclusivity.
Joliet PrideFest is a testament to the power of unity and acceptance. It’s a celebration that reminds us that together, we’re stronger and that our differences are what make us truly beautiful. Join us as we honor diversity, create connections, and write a new chapter in the story of love and equality.
Save the date, spread the word, and let’s make Joliet PrideFest an extraordinary celebration that will echo with laughter and love for years to come!

Scarecrow Trail & Fest
2023-09-23 14:00 - 17:00 UTC | Lemont Heritage & Woodland Sanctuary, 16300 Alba St., Lemont, IL, 60439, United States
Join Lemont Township at Scarecrow Fest! DJ, Food Trucks, Horses, Crafts, Storytimes!!

Channahon Community Potato Festival
2023-09-23 14:00 - 20:00 UTC | Arrowhead Community Center, 24856 W. Eames St., Channahon, IL, 60410, United States
Save the date for the 2023 Channahon Community Potato Festival!
Returning this fall, the Channahon Community Potato Festival is a joint event between the Village of Channahon, Channahon Park District, and the Three Rivers Public Library District.
That’s right – we will be celebrating the infamous Channahon Potato Rocks again this year! The fun-filled day will include children’s activities, food trucks (featuring potato-themed dishes), a car show, and Brass from the Past playing into the evening.
Follow our website or social media pages for more updates!

Olivia Newton-John Tribute Lunch Show
2023-09-26 11:00 - 14:30 UTC | White Fence Farm, 1376 Joliet Road, Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States
September 26th is Olivia’s birthday! Celebrate the life and music of the one and only Olivia Newton-John! From her early hits to her “Sandy” tunes from the hit movie musical Grease and beyond, this is a fun musical tribute for any “Hopelessly Devoted” Olivia Newton-John fan! Have You Never Been Mellow, I Honestly Love You, Physical, Xanadu, You’re the One That I Want, and more!

PRICE: $50.00

Sweet Reminder is the dynamic duo that entertains audiences with the hits of yesterday in their unique playful style! Beautiful vocals and interesting harmonies meet light-hearted fun, as Nancy Baumet and Dia Madden invite you to join in an engaging musical experience. These former Legacy Girls are no strangers to delighting audiences with their upbeat personalities as well as their great vocals.

History of the I&M Canal
2023-09-26 18:30 - 21:00 UTC | Morris Municipal Building, 700 N. Division, Morris, 60450, United States
Join the Grundy County Historical Society & Museum with their first program for the year at the Morris Municipal Building. Jill Jackson with the Department of Natural Resources will be talking about the history of the I&M Canal and will also provide an update on the Nettle Creek Aqueduct. There is no admission charge and it is open to everyone.

ILLIART 2023
2023-09-28 12:00 - 2023-10-28 17:00 UTC | Gallery Seven, 200 W. 8th St., Lockport, IL, 60441, United States
A juried exhibition of 2D and 3D art for visual artists of Illinois.
Theme: TIME
Special thanks to Angel Ambrose Fine Art Studio for inspiring this year’s theme.

Evolution of the Modern Zombie
2023-09-28 17:00 - 18:00 UTC | Fountaindale Public Library District, 300 W. Briarcliff Rd., Bolingbrook, IL, 60440, United States
Join Scott Kenemore, best-selling author of “Zombie Illinois,” on a rollicking tour of the zombie’s origins in Haitian mysticism through its evolutions in pop culture to the ravenous zombies of today.

Forge On! With the Scouts!
2023-09-29 10:00 - 2023-10-01 15:00 UTC | The Forge Adventure Park and Ziplines, 227 Heritage Quarries Drive, Lemont, Illinois, 60439
Join us for a Scouting Adventure of epic proportions! Announcing Forge On! Scouting Adventure:
On September 30, Three Fires Council’s main Scouting Adventure will take place with various activities and a Scout show for the ages. Hosted at The Forge: Lemont Quarries, this event will run from September 29th – October 1st.
Enjoy hiking, biking, zip lining, kayaking, fishing, archery, camping and so much more! High adventure courses are available for Scouts BSA, Scouts. The Climb and Zipline Adventure is an an optional add-on for scouts aged 14-20 which provides toured access through the Forge’s adventure towers and ziplines.
Forge On! is open to all Scouts and their scout aged siblings and friends. Cub Scouts will have their own Scouting Adventure zone at The Forge. Come with your Pack, Troop, or family and enjoy all The Forge has to offer!
For Scouts attending, there is weekend camping starting Friday night through Sunday morning. Camping for the weekend is limited to all registered Scouts BSA, Venture, Sea Scouts, Explorers for both in and out of Council units. Three different camping styles are available; standard woods campsites, field camping, and remote backpack style camping. Camping selections are available through the registration process.
There will be age-appropriate activities for Scouts BSA, Cub Scouts, Venturers, Sea Scouts and Explorers. Non-scout aged youth and their families are also invited to attend and participate in activities.

Lemont Quarrymen vs. Chicago Salmon Vintage Base Ball Game
2023-09-30 13:00 - 15:00 UTC | Mt. Assisi Field, 13900 Main St, Lemont, IL, 60439, United States
The Lemont Quarrymen battle the Chicago Salmon as they play base ball by the rules of the 1860s. Don’t miss out on the fun and the historical interpretation! Food and refreshments are offered.

Lemont's Historically Haunted Bus Tour
2023-09-30 13:30 - 15:00 UTC | Village of Lemont
Join the Lemont Area Historical Society for a spine-tingling journey though the eerie history of Lemont. Discover the untold stories and ghostly legends that linger within the town’s most haunted buildings and sites. Are you brave enough to venture into the unknown? Bring your own BOOze. (Adult 21+)
Meet at the Old Stone Church, 306 Lemont Street, Lemont.
Tickets are $25 each. For more info: www.lemonthistory.org/hauntedbustour2023.

2023-09-30 15:00 - 2023-10-01 02:00 UTC | Old Joliet Prison, 1125 Collins St., Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
Paranormal Access Events returns to Illinois’s Most Haunted Pr*son!!
Hosted by Chris Fleming, international paranormal investigator and medium from TV’s HELP! My house is haunted, the Telly Award Winning The Curse of Lizzie Borden, and the international hit series for Discovery+, Haunted Scotland with Gail Porter, and the upcoming second season Haunted Ireland releasing late fall of 2023!
Join us once again for a fun filled spooktacular day and night at the Old Joliet Pr*son as seen recently on TV’s Destination Fear, Ghost Hunters, and Ghost Adventures. If this is your first time, you won’t be dissapointed. The staff at the Pr*son are amazing and the location is one of the most haunted places you could ever visit.
You will get an exclusive oppportunity to investigate with Chris inside Illinois’s most haunted and notorious Pr*son joined by Old Joliet Prisons experienced tour guides whom will take us to each location, introducing us its historical and paranormal significance. For those of you that have attended previous paranormal access events at Old Joliet Pr*son, you know how active this place can be.
Access to this event are Limited to only 50 ticket at this price until July 31st, then pre-sale is over and prices will revert to original price of $130.
Chris will make sure to spend time with each group and run various experiments to communicate with the spirits of the Pr*son. You will have the opportunity to walk around on your own (daytime tour), take plenty of photos, investigate and use your own equipment and join in on various ITC and EMF paranormal experiments and communication circles. The Tour guides will also be there throughout the night, to guide us and answer any further questions.
This Pr*son is known to have housed Richard Speck, John Wayne Gacy, Baby Face Nelson, James Early Ray, and Leopold and Loeb. We have heard singing, screaming, yelling, humming, strange noises, seen shadows, weird lights, and witnessed incredible spirit communiation in multiple groups.
Who will come through this time?
THE SCHEDULE :
Investigations day and night at: Old Joliet Pr*son, 1125 Collins St, Joliet, IL 60432
If you are looking for a Hotel, we normally stay at: Clarion Hotel & Convention Center Joliet, 411 S. Larkin Avenue, Opal Room, Joliet, IL, 60436, US
2:45-3 PM – Arrive and Park at 1125 Collins St, Joliet, IL 60432 in the Old Joliet Pr*son and Check in with Chris Fleming to Receive your Paranormal Access VIP Badge. Parking FRONT at main entrance. You will see the lot and lower lots for parking. Park and Enter there at the Vistors Center. There will be an entrance and a counter inside where I will check everyone in giving you your VIP pass and sign a wavier that the Pr*son requires. Everyone must check in, receive pass and sign waiver to enter the Pr*son.
3 PM – 4:30PM (90 min) – Old Joliet Pr*son Daytime Access Tour– This is a great opportunity to walk around the Pr*son freely on your own for 90 minutes. Take photos of the Pr*son capturing the colors and textures of this amazing Pr*son, grab Photos with Chris, Sam and Dave, walk the grounds freely and visit the Pr*son areas. See the locations we will be investigating BEFORE the nights ghost hunt. Tour guides will also be there to answer any questions.
6 PM – 7:30 PM – DINNER @ GOLDEN CORRAL BUFFET GRILL – You are welcome to join us for dinner. We will have tables reserved under Paranormal Access Event (chris) Golden Corral, 2100 W Jefferson St, Joliet, IL 60435-6622. Only 5 minutes away from Hotel. This is an option and you are free to eat anywhere else if you prefer.
**Note: If you purchase a ticket for this event and you cannot make it for the 3pm day time walk or dinner and only make it for the 8pm night time ghost hunt, thats okay. Please let me know so I can take note. You have that option and I will see you and check you in when you arrive for the night time event.
Clarion Hotel is 15 minutes away from the Old Joliet Pr*son
8:30 PM Check in / Meet at Old Joliet Pr*son for Late Night Ghost Hunt – Paranormal Access badge Passess will be checked as you enter. Old Joliet Pr*son Visitors Entrance, 1125 Collins St, Joliet, IL 60432
A Group Photo will be taken as soon as everyone is together.
We will break down into 5 groups. Each group will be led to a different location each 45 min by a Joliet Pr*son tour guide that will stay with each group from location to location. Chris will get the opportunity to work with each group and will rotate throughout the evening after each location, investigating, answering questions and working with you while we ghost hunt and make contact with the spirits of the Pr*son. This way every group gets to investigate with every host. There will be one location each group will be without a host, but still have the tour guide.
5 Locations will be investigated. (Map# & Location);

15/17 – East and West Cell Houses
13/14 – Chapel and School
22 – North Segregation
21 – Cafeteria
19 – Hospital

8:50 PM – Groups head to each location for 45 min each. 5 minute break to move to next location and use restroom if needed.
9 PM – 9:45 PM Location 1-5
9:50 PM – 10:35 PM Location 1-5
10:40 PM – 11:15 PM Location 1-5
11:20 PM – 12:05 AM Location 1-5
12:10 AM – 1:00 AM Location 1-5
1 AM – 2:00 AM FREE FOR ALL GHOST HUNT – Ghost hunt any area you would like on your own.
2 AM – Say goodbyes, Hhead home or to hotel & drive safe !
BREAKFAST ON YOUR OWN – THE CLARION HOTEL HAS FREE BREAKFAST
* Schedule (times) may change slightly to accommodate specific locations and allow access for all attendees.
Hotel Info:
Clarion Hotel & Convention Center Joliet
411 S. Larkin Avenue, Building A, Joliet, IL, 60436, US
(815) 768-1354
Lunch & Dinner:
Meals are not part of ticket price, but attendees are welcome to join.
The Clarion Hotel has free breakfast, but no lunch .
Sat Evening, we will eat 6 pm – 7:30 pm at the Golden Coral Buffet and Grill, 2100 W Jefferson St, Joliet, IL 60435-6622
Q&A:
What do I bring?
Feel free to bring your own flashlight and ghost hunting equipment (recorders, SLS cameras, EMF detectors, Cameras, snacks, . There will be water bottles there in a cooler. No Ouija boards please. Not allowed. Bring an umbrella and rain coat in case it rains. It might Friday night! the locations are inside but we do walk outside to each location.
What do I wear?
Wear appropriate clothing for the weather and evening. Must wear closed toed shoes. No sandles. (due to debris on the grounds and in the building).
What if it rains?
If by chance there is rain please bring umbrella. The locations are inside, but we will be walking outside to get to each location. There may be thunderstorm or rain during the day Sat, but expected to clear up by early evening. So we are still on!
Bathrooms:
There are port a potties on site and there maybe public bathrooms running by May. I have been told they are updating one of the meeting rooms and bathrooms and it may or may not be completed by May 9th.
PARKING:
This year parking has been moved to the front Visitors entrance. They now have a heated and air conditioned entrance building. Park in the upper or lower lot and enter through the gates. We will have someone at counter to take your name. This is Free Parking. We will park here for each event. You will see flags there for parking and visitors.
Cancellations:
If event needs to be cancelled by promoter or location due to emergency, tornados, severe thunderstorms or disaster, or if Pr*son shuts down due to COVID, all tickets purchased will be rescheduled or refunded.
Refunds:
Sorry No refunds* . If you need to resell your ticket let me know. To avoid phishing and resale scams, all resell of tickets MUST GO THROUGH ME (chris) to avoid any such scams. Do not buy tickets from anyone posting on this page, except from the EVENT BRITE website. We will try to resell your ticket if possible, but no guarantees.
Respect:
The utmost respect must be had for all the spirits there. No disrespect or taunting of the spirits please.
NO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES ALLOWED IN Pr*son. Please do not drink just before the event. We want everyone sober.
DM with any further questions.
HISTORY of Old Joliet Pr*son:
Opened in 1858, just six years after the incorporation of the City of Joliet, the Illinois State Penitentiary, Joliet, now known simply as the “Old Joliet Pr*son,” has – for better or worse been – synonymous with the City of Joliet for nearly its entire history. The Joliet Pr*son, with its iconic castellated gothic architecture was designed by Chicago earliest architect W.W. Boyington, who also designed the Chicago Water Tower. The use of Joliet limestone was a trademark of Boyington’s designs and this locally quarried stone was used to erect structures all around the country. The Pr*son in Joliet replaced the first state penitentiary in Alton, built on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River in 1831. The privately-managed Pr*son quickly degraded into a state of horrendous conditions. Noted reformer Dorothea Dix personally petitioned the Illinois General Assembly to construct a new penitentiary after inspection the Alton Pr*son in 1847.
While action from the State legislature and some construction occurred in prior years, May 22, 1858 marks the “beginning” of the Joliet Pr*son when fifty-three inmates arrived at a small structure, which still stands, to begin the work of constructing the larger Pr*son around themselves. This included the quarrying of the limestone from two adjacent quarries.
Upon its opening, the Chicago Tribune declared glowingly, “We came away fully impressed with the belief that the important trusts at Joliet are in good hands, that there is growing a State work which will be for long years to come the pride of her citizens.” The image of the Joliet Pr*son, however, quickly changed. By 1878, the Pr*son was filled well over capacity with nearly 2,000 inmates. Reports of unsanitary and dangerous conditions emerged and by 1905, calls for the closure of the “old Pr*son” were made. The 1926 construction of Stateville Penitentiary in what is now Crest Hill was intended to close the Pr*son, but it continued to house offenders until 2002, when it was finally closed by Governor George Ryan as a budgetary measure.
The Pr*son is probably best known today for its most popular, albeit fictional inmate – “Joliet Jake” Blues from the 1980 film “The Blues Brothers.” Since then, the Pr*son has made a number of appearances in films in television, including as the character of “Fox River State Penitentiary” in the critically acclaimed Fox series “Pr*son Break,” and in smaller scenes in Derailed, Let’s Go to Pr*son, and recently, Empire.
Sadly, despite this interest from Hollywood, the Pr*son remained closed, and in addition to damage from the elements, was subject to rampant vandalism, including several acts of arson. Attempts were made to find suitable options for reuse, including tourism, by the Collins Street Task Force of concerned public and private leaders, but these efforts were stalled by the Great Recession of 2008. Continued vandalism and destruction of the site led Joliet Mayor Bob O’Dekirk to personally petition the state government to allow the City of Joliet to take control of the property in December of 2017. Since then, the City looked to the Joliet Area Historical Museum to take a leadership role in operating tours at the site. In partnership with the City, the Museum identified a number of community partners to form a public/private partnership entity, The Old Joliet Pr*son Preservation Coalition. To date, the project has been met with an enthusiastic response from the community of Joliet, culminating in over 6,500 volunteer hours, one million dollars in in-kind labor and donations, and nearly $200,000 in funds raised to benefit the site.
True to its historic legacy, the Old Joliet Pr*son now takes it rightful place as an authentic, unique asset which is inextricably linked the history of the City of Joliet, and it continues to draw interest from visitors all around the world.
GET TICKETS AT EVENTBRITE!!

Camping without Limits
2023-09-30 15:00 - 2023-10-01 15:00 UTC | Camp Bullfrog Lake, 9600 S. Wolf Rd., Willow Springs, IL, 60480, United States
In partnership with Adaptive Adventures, join an overnight event geared for individuals with physical disabilities, their families and friends.

REGISTRATION REQUIRED:Register at https://adaptiveadventures.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/adaptiveadventures/event.jsp?event=77383.
COST: Free

CONTACT: (708)771-1573or experience.camping@cookcountyil.gov
