Winter Wildlife Trolley Tours - Starved Rock
2024-01-06 11:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago) | Grand Hall at Starved Rock Lodge, One Lodge Lane, Oglesby, IL, 61348, United States
Join us for a narrated trolley ride to see our winter wildlife in their natural habitat! Tour will depart from the Lodge and take you on a tour through Buffalo Rock State Park to visit our resident Bison! Then we will travel to the IL Waterway Visitors Center observation deck to see if we can spot an Eagle or two! We will also travel to some other areas that are known for Bald Eagle sightings! The trolley will be narrated with history and legends of the area and the park as well. Guests will receive a sack lunch as upon boarding the trolley. Lunch will include: turkey or veggie wrap, bag of chips, granola bar, piece of fruit and a bottle of water.
$33.00 per person and reservations are required. (815) 220-7386
Wildlife Trolley Tours are also available:
March 30th 1PM
March 31st 11AM and 1PM

Winter Wildlife Trolley Tours - Starved Rock State Park
2024-01-06 13:00 - 15:00 | Grand Hall at Starved Rock Lodge, One Lodge Lane, Oglesby, IL, 61348, United States
Join us for a narrated trolley ride to see our winter wildlife in their natural habitat! Tour will depart from the Lodge and take you on a tour through Buffalo Rock State Park to visit our resident Bison! Then we will travel to the IL Waterway Visitors Center observation deck to see if we can spot an Eagle or two! We will also travel to some other areas that are known for Bald Eagle sightings! The trolley will be narrated with history and legends of the area and the park as well. Guests will receive a sack lunch as upon boarding the trolley. Lunch will include: turkey or veggie wrap, bag of chips, granola bar, piece of fruit and a bottle of water.
$33.00 per person – reservations required. (815) 220-7386

Winter Wildlife Trolley Tours - Starved Rock State Park
2024-01-07 11:00 - 13:00 | Grand Hall at Starved Rock Lodge, One Lodge Lane, Oglesby, IL, 61348, United States
Join us for a narrated trolley ride to see our winter wildlife in their natural habitat! Tour will depart from the Lodge and take you on a tour through Buffalo Rock State Park to visit our resident Bison! Then we will travel to the IL Waterway Visitors Center observation deck to see if we can spot an Eagle or two! We will also travel to some other areas that are known for Bald Eagle sightings! The trolley will be narrated with history and legends of the area and the park as well. Guests will receive a sack lunch as upon boarding the trolley. Lunch will include: turkey or veggie wrap, bag of chips, granola bar, piece of fruit and a bottle of water.
$33.00 per person – reservations required (815). 220-7386.

Winter Wildlife Trolley Tours - Starved Rock State Park
2024-01-07 13:00 - 15:00 | Grand Hall at Starved Rock Lodge, One Lodge Lane, Oglesby, IL, 61348, United States
Join us for a narrated trolley ride to see our winter wildlife in their natural habitat! Tour will depart from the Lodge and take you on a tour through Buffalo Rock State Park to visit our resident Bison! Then we will travel to the IL Waterway Visitors Center observation deck to see if we can spot an Eagle or two! We will also travel to some other areas that are known for Bald Eagle sightings! The trolley will be narrated with history and legends of the area and the park as well. Guests will receive a sack lunch as upon boarding the trolley. Lunch will include: turkey or veggie wrap, bag of chips, granola bar, piece of fruit and a bottle of water.
$33.00 per person – reservations required (815) 220-7386.

"Join the Dark Side - How Artificial Light at Night has Transformed Our World"
2024-01-11 19:00 - 20:00 | Midewin NTP Conference Room, 30239 S. State Route 53, Wilmington, 60481, United States
Ken Walzak, Senior Manager Adler Planetarium; Board of Directors, DarkSky International
In a little more than a century our use of light at night has dramatically altered the natural pattern our world has enjoyed for billions of years. How does this impact flora, fauna and ourselves – as well as our future? And most importantly, how can you help restore the vital resource of “the night” to a brightening world?

To register:
Call: (815) 423-6370
Email: SM.fs.midewin_rsvp@usda.gov

Sunrise Hike - Little Red Schoolhouse
2024-01-14 07:00 - 08:30 | Little Red Schoolhouse
Come join us for a “before hours” hike to experience the dawning of a new day.
REGISTRATION REQUIRED: Call Little Red Schoolhouse at 708-839-6897.

Taboos of the Trade
2024-01-17 18:30 - 19:30 | Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Road, Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States
Every field trip season, the interpreters at Isle a la Cache teach students about the fur trade and the people of 18th-century Illinois Country. But there are a lot of adult topics that are taboo — mature relationships, alcohol, rowdy rendezvous, even pipe breaks. Come on out and bring your own adult beverage (wine and beer only) as we explore taboos of the trade. Light refreshments will be provided. Must be 21 or older.
Registration required by Tuesday, Jan. 16: 815-722-9301.
The museum is an accessible facility. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should mention their request when registering or submit a request on line no later than 48 hours before the program.

"Ticket to Fun" Family Game Night - Mendota Museum & Historical Society
2024-01-20 16:00 - 19:00 | Mendota Museum & Historical Society, 901 Washington St., Mendota, 61342, United States
The Mendota Museum & Historical Society (MMHS) will sponsor a family game night entitled Ticket to Fun from 4 pm to 7 pm.
Held in the conference room of the Hume-Carnegie Museum, family-friendly board games will be available, or participants may bring their own board games to share.
Admission is complimentary. Refreshments will be available for purchase. Please use the Washington St. door.

Marseilles Firefighters Cabin Fever Spaghetti Dinner
2024-01-20 16:00 - 22:00 | Marseilles Lions Club, 511 Commercial St., Marseilles, 61341, United States
Do you have Cabin Fever? We have the cure. Come out to our Spaghetti Dinner on Jan. 20th and support us and the Lions Club. Serving a spaghetti dinner from 4 – 7 PM. Tickets available at the door. Adults $12, Kids under 12 $8. Games of chance sponsored by the Lions Club. Then, stick around for the musical stylings of Ryan Wotherspoon, from 7 – 10 PM. Hope to see everyone there!

Folsom Prison Experience
2024-01-20 19:30 - 21:30 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
Prepare to step back in time and immerse yourself in the unforgettable atmosphere of the legendary 1968 Johnny Cash show at Folsom Prison, where the spirit of that historic day springs to life. As the doors swing open, you’ll find yourself instantly transformed into an inmate, ready to embark on a captivating firsthand experience. Marvel at the commanding presence of Johnny Cash himself, joined by the incomparable June Carter and the melodious harmonies of the Statler Brothers. Sense the palpable tension as the watchful warden and his guards maintain order within the prison walls. Leading you through this extraordinary journey is the ever-serious emcee, Hugh Cherry. Get ready to be transported, as you become an integral part of this immersive tribute, capturing the raw energy and soul that made the Folsom Prison performance truly remarkable. A memorable show for all ages.

Nature Walk at the Forge - Lemont
2024-01-21 09:00 - 11:00 | The Forge Adventure Park and Ziplines, 227 Heritage Quarries Drive, Lemont, Illinois, 60439
Set out for an adventurous hike led by Master Naturalist, Robert Schwaan. He will lead you through some of the many miles of trails here at The Forge discovering what kind of nature and wildlife we have out there. If this is not your first time at The Forge, check out all the progress we’ve made so far with the clearing of invasive species! If this is your first time at The Forge, learn how you can get involved to help restore the land by volunteering!

Join us for outdoor activities every third Sunday of the month!

Sunday Music Bingo & Brunch
2024-01-21 12:00 - 14:00 | Digs on Canal, 316 Canal St., Lemont, IL, 60439
We’re switching up our #SundayFunday gig this Spring with our Brunch Menu and Live Music Bingo brought to you by Baig of Tricks Entertainment. It’s simple! Listen to music, mark off your Bingo card. Eat. Drink. Win prizes!
This is the only place around town you’ll find Music Bingo during Sunday Brunch… not to mention Mimosa Towers! Get here by 11:45am to secure your table, or make a reservation over the phone. Seating is limited, especially if you have a larger party.

Winter Tree ID - Camp Sagawau, Lemont
2024-01-21 13:30 - 15:00 | Camp Sagawau
Join a naturalist as we discover several ways to identify trees in winter. Ages 18 & up. Weather dependent.
REGISTRATION REQUIRED: Call Sagawau at 630-257-2045.
CONTACT: 630-257-2045
COST: Free

Ice & Lights Fest - Historic Downtown Lemont
2024-01-21 15:00 - 17:00 | Village of Lemont
The weather outside is frightful, but our ice fest will be delightful! With 20+ magical, one-of-a-kind ice sculptures placed throughout Downtown, you can spend the day in Lemont seeing them all and shopping our local businesses!
Help us ring in the new year with our 4th Annual Ice & Lights Fest! Embrace the season of snow, ice and our holiday lights in Lemont Downtown. Enjoy the day of ice carving displays all around the downtown! Shop, dine, and engage with the festive holiday lights and beautiful ice sculptures!
THE DETAILS

Over 20 ice sculptures sponsored by businesses will be on display by 1:00 pm on Sunday, January 21, and will remain on display until they melt away. See Sponsor map below.

From 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. activities taking place on Front Street:

Join Nate Johnson of Johnson Studios Ice Sculptures for a 3-ice block LIVE carving demonstration on the patio next to Next Mex on Front Street. It’s audience choice and vote, so come with your ideas of what you want to see!
Visit two LIVE REINDEER in General Fry’s Landing and Jack Frost, Mr. Snowman and Lemontster Archie (lot next to Next Mex).
Roast Marshmallows with the Lemont Firefighters
Weather permitting, the Lemont Tractor Club will be giving hayrides around the downtown starting on Front Street!
The Creamery truck will be giving away 500 FREE, delicious hot chocolates courtesy of Village of Lemont.

WHERE TO PARK (See Map Below)
All of the Village of Lemont’s public parking lots will be available for this event. There are public bathrooms at the Metra Station and at Safety Village. In addition, port-a-potties will be located on Front Street near the light display by Next Mex. Abundant parking is located in the north Metra Lot and in the River Street parking garage.

Half Price Hot Dogs - Polk-A-Dot Drive In
2024-01-23 11:00 - 19:00 | Polk A Dot Drive-In, 222 N. Front St., Braidwood, IL, 60408, United States
1/2 Price Hot Dog Tuesdays!
$1.60 hot dogs, add chili & cheese for just .50
Every Tuesday in January at the iconic Polk-A-Dot!

Insights from Search and Rescue - Staying Prepared in Winter
2024-01-23 19:00 - 20:00 | Midewin NTP Conference Room, 30239 S. State Route 53, Wilmington, 60481, United States
Allen Matza, Search and Rescue Division Chief, Will County Emergency Management Agency

Whether you’re part of the search team or the one being searched for it’s crucial to stay ready for any weather scenario. In this discussion, we’ll delve into the challenges faced during winter searches. We’ll discuss winter weather, examine the elevated risks and obstacles, and offer tips on how to be well-prepared this season. Winter months can be a busy time for Search and Rescue, but when you need us, we’ll be there.

To register:
Call: (815) 423-6370
Email: SM.fs.midewin_rsvp@usda.gov

Growing Up "X"
2024-01-26 09:00 - 2024-05-31 16:30 | Illinois State Museum – Lockport Gallery, 201 W. 10th St., Lockport, IL, 60441, United States
The Growing Up X exhibition explores the toys, technologies and cultural touchstones surrounding Gen Xers in their childhood. Museum visitors will see items familiar to anyone who grew up in the 1970s and 1980s, from telephones with cords, record and cassette players, and an Apple IIe computer to Teddy Ruxpin and parachute pants. Additionally, they will learn how growing up in the shadow of the Vietnam War, the Cold War, the AIDS crisis and the War on Drugs shaped Gen Xers as individuals and a generation.
The Museum is open Tuesday thru Saturday 9:am to 4:30 pm. Admission is free.

Arsenic & Old Lace
2024-01-26 19:00 - 21:00 | Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park and Theatre, 201 W Jefferson Street, Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
Mortimer Brewster is living a happy life: he has a steady job at a prominent New York newspaper, he’s just become engaged, and he gets to visit his sweet spinster aunts to announce the engagement. Mortimer always knew that his family had a bit of a mad gene — his brother believes himself to be Teddy Roosevelt and his great-grandfather used to scalp Indians for pleasure — but his world is turned upside down when he realizes that his dear aunts have been poisoning lonely old men for years! When Mortimer’s maniacal brother, Jonathan. (who strangely now resembles Boris Karloff) returns on the night that the aunts were planning to bury the newest victim, Mortimer must rally to help his aunts and protect his fiancé — all while trying to keep his own sanity. as well. An uproarious farce on plays involving murder, Arsenic and Old Lace has become a favorite amongst regional theatres throughout America.

Heritage Harbor Park Run
2024-01-27 09:00 - 11:00 | Heritage Harbor Park Run, 2 Great Loop West, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
What is Heritage Harbor parkrun, Ottawa? A free, fun, and friendly weekly 5k community event. Walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate – it’s up to you!

When is it? Every Saturday at 9:00am.
Where is it? The event takes place at Heritage Harbor, 2 Great Loop West, Ottawa, IL 61350. See Course page for more details.
What does it cost to join in? Nothing – it’s free! but please register before you first come along. Only ever register with parkrun once and don’t forget to bring a scannable copy of your barcode (request a reminder). If you forget it, you won’t get a time.
How fast do I have to be? We all take part for our own enjoyment. Please come along and join in whatever your pace!
Heritage Harbor parkrun, Ottawa needs you! It is entirely organized by volunteers – email heritageharbor@parkrun.com to help.
We’re friendly! Every week we grab a post parkrun coffee in the Red Dog Grill – please come and join us!

Eagle Watch Weekend at Starved Rock
2024-01-27 09:00 - 16:00 | Starved Rock State Park, One Lodge Lane, Oglesby, IL, 61348, United States
Eagle Watch Weekend is a two-day, family-friendly event (9am to 4pm both days). Open to the public – Free admission.
Events take place at several locations in the Starved Rock area.
Saturday, January 27th: 9 AM – 4 PM
Sunday, January 28th: 9 AM – 4 PM

Community Garage Sale - Rt. 66 Old School Brewing Co.
2024-01-27 11:00 - 14:00 | Rt. 66 Old School Brewing Co., 110 Bridge St., Wilmington, IL, 60481, United States
One man’s junk is another man’s treasure so come on out and find yours (if you only want to shop and not sell)
Let’s give this a whirl! We welcome you to come sell your unwanted goods on January 27th!! We have a limited amount of spots.
•8×8 spot with your own 6ft table in Nelson’s is $10 or 8ft table provided by OSB in the party room is $20
•Funds will be donated to Kuzma Care
•Setup time is 9:30-10:45!!
•Sale opens to the public at 11:00
•Vendors MUST register & pay cash in person at OSB before 1/27/24. There will be NO holds via email, phone calls, fb comments etc.
•No crafts, food items, appliances or large furniture items are allowed!
•Please bring your items already priced.
•Bring your own cash/change for sales.
•All items are sold as is by the seller.

Make a Wish Penguin Plunge
2024-01-27 11:00 - 15:00 | Skydive Chicago, 3215 E. 1969th Rd, Ottawa, 61350, United States
Give JOY today, restore HOPE for tomorrow!
Jump in for Wishes at the Make a Wish Illinois Penguin Plunge! This crazy fun winter fundraiser supports wish granting for local children with critical illnesses. Grab a team & pick a theme, or join as an individual plunger. All proceeds support Illinois wishes. A fun afternoon of music, food & ice fun!!!
Registration: 11:00 am
Live Music, food and beverage: 11:00 am to 12:30 pm
Program: 12:30 pm
Plunge Begins: 1:00 pm
We are incredibly grateful to Skydive Chicago and our sponsors for supporting this event.

Limestone Legacies Bus Tour of Chicago
2024-01-27 11:45 - 15:00 | Village of Lemont
Join us for a guided bus tour through Chicago, where Lemont limestone (otherwise known as Athen’s Marble) has left its mark on architectural treasures. Local historians and authors of Lemont: Images of America Jason Berry and Kevin Barron will be your guides for this bus tour, which will focus on landmarks around Michigan Avenue and the West Loop neighborhood.

Perfect for architecture enthusiasts and history lovers alike, this tour offers a close-up view of Lemont’s native limestone. Space is limited, grab your tickets now! Purchase tickets on Eventbrite.

Meet at 230 Main St., Lemont.

International Port Wine Day
2024-01-27 13:00 - 22:00 | Wine & Cheese Co., 24104 Lockport St., Plainfield, IL, 60544, United States
Celebrate International Port Wine Day
with a Port Tasting and an additional 15% off!

Hike & Dine Experience at Camp Aramoni
2024-01-27 14:00 - 18:00 | Camp Aramoni, 809 N. 2199th Rd., Tonica, 61370, United States
Hike, dine and drink your way through Camp Aramoni’s historic 96-acre property at our upcoming Hike and Dine Experience! This enhanced culinary tour is the culmination of many wonderful things including delicious food, upscale drink pairings, gorgeous hiking trails and live music. Celebrate the winter season in style with us! Tickets can be purchased online in advance.
The event begins at our venue, Bricks & Stones, where you’ll learn about the history of the brickyard that once operated on site. From there, you’ll hike to our boutique campground where you’ll be greeted by a delicious spread of appetizers and hot spiced rum. We’ll then continue our hike around the property where we will see the Vermilion River, two creeks, one pond and wildlife (if we are lucky!) Along the way, we’ll stop at the Serenity Now picnic area to enjoy spiked hot chocolate with your choice of spirit and toppings.
Then, the fun really begins. The group will hike back to Bricks & Stones to enjoy live music by Kevin Kramer and a buffet of delicious bites. After you visit the buffet, sit back and relax as you listen to live music around the fireplace. When all is said and done, we promise you’ll feel absolutely satiated! This event is for everyone so grab a group of friends or come with your partner! Be sure to dress warm and comfortable for this unforgettable experience in nature. Limited spots are available so don’t wait to purchase your tickets.
ABOUT THE CHEF: Chef Carson Barger is the Executive Chef at Camp Aramoni. Traditionally trained in Lebanese cuisine, Chef’s food is influenced by Mediterranean plant centric fare. Now serving many different demographics between Camp Aramoni’s events and campground, Chef takes pride in implementing a plant-centric, upscale rustic menu that incorporates locally sourced and foraged ingredients.

Galentine's Day Succulent Workshop
2024-02-02 18:00 - 20:00 | Camp Aramoni, 809 N. 2199th Rd., Tonica, 61370, United States
Celebrate Galentine’s Day with Petals by Peyton and Camp Aramoni!
Join us on Friday February 2, 2024 for a cozy evening filled with charcuterie, wine, crafts and laughs.
Tickets are $45 per person and include charcuterie, a drink ticket, and all of the materials needed for your succulent centerpiece nestled in a heart-shaped vessel.
The workshop begins at 6 PM, and doors open at 5 PM along with our full bar.
Each guest may order one complimentary glass of wine or beer, and additional beverages may be purchased for an additional charge.
Reservations are required. Tickets are nonrefundable once purchased.

Lemont Wine Walk
2024-02-03 12:00 - 14:00 | Village of Lemont
Sip and Shop your way through Downtown Lemont during the Lemont Wine Walk! This self-guided tour features different wine samples thoughtfully curated by BTB Wines.

Nature from Inside
2024-02-03 13:00 - 15:00 | Sugar Creek Administration Center, 17540 W. Laraway Rd., Joliet, 60433, United States
Winter weather got you feeling a bit gloomy? Looking to connect with nature and people, but wanting to stay warm and comfortable? Come on out to Sugar Creek for an afternoon of nature connection with indoor recreational activities sure to sweep away the chills. Participants will receive a nature journal and have an opportunity to try to an assortment of activities after a presentation on ideas for indoor fun to keep us busy all winter long! Snacks and supplies are included with registration.
Fee: $5 per person.
Age: Ages 16 and older.
Registration required by Wednesday, Jan. 31, by calling 815-727-8700 or online.
Sugar Creek Administration Center is an accessible facility. 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.

Morning Bird Hike
2024-02-04 08:00 - 10:00 | Hickory Creek Preserve, 10537 W. LaPorte Rd., Mokena, IL, 60448, United States
The trails may be snowy and cold, but the birds will be out. Join other birders as we learn, explore and search for winter residents in the preserve. This hike will highlight birds that spend their winters in Hickory Creek Preserve. Winter is a great time for birdwatching. With the leaves gone from the trees, the birds are easier to spot. Even in the cold the birds are still active. Bring your binoculars and a favorite bird guide. New birders are welcome as this is an excellent way to increase bird knowledge.
Fee: Free!
Age: Ages 16 and over.
Registration required by Saturday, Feb. 3, by calling 708-946-2216 or online.
This program will be at Hickory Creek Preserve — LaPorte Road Access. Dress for the weather.
Participants will enjoy a hike of 1.5 miles to 2 miles on paved and natural surfaces across 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.

History at Home: Soup (via Zoom)
2024-02-04 12:00 - 14:00 | Zoom Meeting, 000, (000) 000-0000, IL, 00000, United States
Today is National Soup Day! Let’s celebrate by learning all about this delicious, slurpy meal. Join us in this short virtual program where we will briefly discuss soup — from its origins to becoming a household staple in everyone’s pantry. Open a can of Campbell’s and curl up in front of your computer to learn about the fascinating history of soup.
Fee: Free!
Age: Ages 13 or older.
Registration required by Sunday, Feb. 4.
The meeting ID and password for the Zoom session will be sent via email after registration.
