Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland
2025-11-26 18:30 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
TCG Entertainment, the leading producer of live entertainment, announces its all-new Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland tour to more than 80 cities across the U.S. and Canada. A must-see holiday event and beloved tradition for families everywhere, Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland launches with two tours on Nov. 19 in Ottumwa, Iowa and Nov. Nov. 25 in Rochester, Minnesota before traveling to more than 80 cities across the U. S. and Canada.
Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland 2025 will have all-new costumes, new music and even more spectacular cirque acts, making this year’s show the most ethereal and breathtaking in its 16 years of inspiring holiday joy. Popular V.I.P. experience tickets are available in select markets for guests to go behind the scenes to meet cast members, pose for photos with props and more.

Teddy Bear Tea
2025-11-28 09:30 - 11:30, 2025-11-28 12:30 - 14:30 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
The Rialto Square Theatre holiday tradition continues. Young and old alike will enjoy this family tradition featuring a delicious brunch buffet and family fun complete with a special appearance by St. Nick himself and a keepsake teddy bear. A ticket is required for all in attendance and space will fill up quickly!

Light Up The Light Festival & Parade
2025-11-28 10:00 - 17:30 | Downtown Joliet, Downtown Joliet, Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
Join Downtown Joliet in this annual holiday event that includes the North Pole Christmas Market, the North Pole Park, horse-drawn carriage rides, tree lighting, visits with Santa, fireworks, downtown business specials and activities, and of course, the parade!
This is a FREE event for the entire family.
Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, the University of St. Francis!

Hometown Holiday Tree Lighting & Light Parade
2025-11-28 17:30 - 20:00 | Pontiac Courthouse Square, 112 W. Madison St., Pontiac, IL, 61764, United States
Join us to celebrate the holiday season at the annual Hometown Holiday celebration on Friday, November 28th! Starting the festivities is the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony starting at 5:30PM on Washington Street, south of the historic Livingston County Courthouse. The ceremony will include a performance by the PTHS Madrigals and announcements of the WinterFest 2025 Tree Sponsors. Follow the announcements is the Light Parade, which will kick off at 6:05PM throughout Downtown Pontiac. The parade route will begin at the 1st Lutheran Church Parking Lot and continue to Washington Street, where each float will be announced as they pass. Floats will continue from Main to Madison Street and end in the County Market Parking Lot.

Stress-Free Hike for Women
2025-11-29 10:00 - 12:00 | Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 S Walnut Ln., Channahon, IL, 60410, United States
This women-only hike will be a way to get outside for a brisk nature walk after the holiday season. Let the cool air and a mindful walk lead you to calmness. This naturalist-led hike may have a few stops along the way to enjoy the tranquility of the natural world. After the hike, take a moment to sip hot beverages as we enjoy the views of the Des Plaines River. We will watch the birds, boats and busyness go by.
Registration required by Friday, Nov. 28: 815-722-9470.
Meet at Four Rivers Environmental Education Center. Wear appropriate attire and footwear for an outdoor hike.
This is an inclusive program, welcoming individuals of all abilities. The hike will be up 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.

Keep Christmas Close to Home
2025-11-29 10:00 - 21:30 | Downtown Streator, Downtown Streator, Streator, IL, United States
Light Up Streator will be lighting up the park at 6:30 pm this year.
2025 Tentative Schedule:

Downtown Shopping and Small Business Saturday – All Day during normal operating hours
Screaming Eagle MC Annual Toy Drive – SW Corner of City Park 9am to 2 pm
Model Trains – Streator Incubator 10 am to 4 pm
Holiday Markets – Park Place, Bruce Township Hall, and the Incubator 10 am to 4 pm
Ice Sculpting – Heritage Park 2-4 pm
Downtown Extended Shopping hours – 5 to 9 pm
Food Trucks – City Park 5 pm to 9 pm
Light Up Streator – City Park 6:30 pm
Lighted Christmas Parade – Main Street 7 pm
Carriage Rides – City Park 8 to 9:30 pm

Utica's Christmas in the Village
2025-11-29 11:00 - 17:00 | Downtown Utica, Downtown Utica, North Utica, IL, 61373, United States
*Horse-drawn carriage rides
*Strolling barbershop quartet
*Free trolley service
*Children’s activities 2-4:30pm
– Village Hall 248 W Canal St
*Christmas in the Canal vendor show
*Small Business Saturday specials
*Santa Parade to light the Tree – Sunday @ 4:30
*Shopping, eating, drinking, and tasting specials at local businesses

Small Business Saturday Make + Take Market
2025-11-29 12:00 - 17:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Help support your local Small Businesses on Small Business Saturday! We will be hosting a Holiday Make + Take Market! Local Makers and Small Businesses will be set up and offering step by step instruction for you to make your own, one of a kind handmade gifts including candles, ornaments, decor and more! There is no entry fee but each station will have a varying cost from $10-$40.

Joliet Iron Works Tour
2025-11-29 13:30 - 15:00 | Joliet Iron Works Park, 31 Columbia St., Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
Which city carried the nickname City of Stone and Steel?
Joliet’s once-thriving industrial plant rivaled Pittsburgh’s steel power. Explore its stone foundations that are more than 100 years old. A naturalist will share the fascinating stories of the men and machines that worked at the Joliet Iron Works Historic Site.
Registration required by Tuesday, Nov. 25: 815-722-9301.
Ages 16 or older.

Polar Express at The Rialto Square Theatre
2025-11-29 19:00 - 21:00 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
Tom Hanks and director Robert Zemeckis (“Forrest Gump”; “Cast Away”) reunite for “Polar Express,” an inspiring adventure based on the beloved children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg. When a doubting young boy takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe
Tickets are $5 and must be purchased at the box office. They are not available on-line.

Utica's Christmas in the Village
2025-11-30 11:00 - 17:00 | Downtown Utica, Downtown Utica, North Utica, IL, 61373, United States
*Horse-drawn carriage rides
*Strolling barbershop quartet
*Free trolley service
*Children’s activities 2-4:30pm
-Community Hall 214 Mill St
*Christmas in the Canal vendor show
*Small Business Saturday specials
*Santa Parade to light the Tree – Sunday @ 4:30
*Shopping, eating, drinking, and tasting specials at local businesses

Winter Lights of Pullman
2025-11-30 14:00 - 17:00 | Pullman National Historic Park, 610 E. 111th St., Chicago, 60628, United States
Don’t miss the first-ever Winter Lights event at Pullman National Historical Park!
Create a new holiday tradition with friends and family at this dazzling winter celebration here at Pullman National Historical Park and State Historic Site. With support from Choose Chicago, don’t miss this fun-filled evening featuring incredible lights, snacks, selfies with Santa, music and holiday games & crafts for the whole family.
A Free Event. No Reservations Necessary.

The Nutcracker
2025-11-30 14:00 - 17:00 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
This holiday favorite fairytale ballet is perfect for the entire family. The magical production features lavish costumes, exquisite sets, including a Christmas tree that grows before your eyes, and sensational choreography. Journey through the land of whirling snowflakes and visit the kingdom of the Sugar Plum Fairy. This is one holiday tradition you won’t want to miss.
This year’s performance marks the 35th anniversary of Chicago Festival Ballet’s The Nutcracker. The ballet tells the story of a young girl, Clara, who embarks on a magical adventure after receiving a Nutcracker as a Christmas gift. This cherished holiday classic offers a unique opportunity for local dancers to perform alongside the professional artists of Chicago Festival Ballet, creating a truly unforgettable experience for performers and audiences alike.
Chicago Festival Ballet and VH Dance Center, the official school of Chicago Festival Ballet, were founded in 1990 by the late Kenneth von Heidecke, protégé of Prima Ballerina Assoluta Maria Tallchief, and were established to carry on a tradition of excellence in classical ballet. Von Heidecke served as the chief choreographer of Chicago Festival Ballet and was a celebrated choreographer internationally, with over 60 operas and 80 ballets to his name.

Embroidered Sweatshirt Workshop
2025-12-02 17:30 - 20:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Get cozy and creative with our Embroidered Sweatshirt Workshop at Open Space! In this hands-on class, you’ll learn the basics of textured embroidery techniques to create a bold, statement design on a sweatshirt. Whether you choose a seasonal word like Merry or a fun design, youll leave with a one-of-a-kind wearable piece of art.What to Expect: Learn beginner-friendly embroidery techniques for thick, fluffy lettering made with chenille. Choose your own phrase or design to stitch All chenille, hoops, and materials provided (except sweatshirt). Bring your own sweatshirt any color or size you like! This workshop is perfect for beginners and anyone looking to add a handmade touch to their wardrobe. No prior experience necessary! $40 per person.

Sounds of December
2025-12-03 10:00 - 2025-12-31 16:00 | Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 419 Trout Farm Road, Bolingbrook, IL, 60440, United States
Visit Hidden Oaks in search of wintertime sounds.
This ongoing program will be offered from Wednesday, Dec. 3, through Wednesday, Dec. 31.
Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays to Sundays.
Can you identify the symphony of sounds the season brings? Explore the nature center and listen carefully to the sounds of December using the interactive buttons. Match each sound to its wintertime origin using the scavenger hunt sheet. Some sounds might be easy, but others may challenge your listening skills! Listen closely the sounds might be subtle or surprising. Once you have completed the scavenger hunt, bring your sheet to the front desk for a prize!

Wonderkids: Stars
2025-12-04 10:00 - 11:30 | Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Road, Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States
Calling all families with preschoolers!
Join us for a hands-on program designed for your little one. This program is geared toward children ages 2 to 5 and is complete with tons of facts, singing, story time, table activities and crafts.
Registration required by Tuesday, Dec. 2: 815-722-9301.
Ages 2-5. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.

Serenity Hike Under the Full Moon
2025-12-04 16:00 - 17:30 | Little Red Schoolhouse
Hike 2 miles under the glow of the rising Cold Moon within the tranquil expanse of the world’s largest Urban Night Sky Place. Subject to trail conditions. Ages 13 & up.

Moonlight Hike
2025-12-04 16:00 - 18:00 | Camp Sagawau
Hike by the light of the full moon.

Palette Knife Painting Workshop
2025-12-04 18:00 - 20:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
In this fun, hands-on art class you will learn the basics of palette knife painting while creating holiday trees. Using thick, textured paint and palette knives, students will explore a new way of painting – no brushes required! We’ll focus on techniques like layering, scraping, and blending to bring our whimsical trees to life. We will also show how to make other holiday designs like gingerbread, ornaments, and wreaths. Perfect for beginners, this class encourages creativity and experimentation while introducing a unique and exciting art tool. $40 per person. All materials are provided – just bring your creativity! BYOB for guests 21 and older. Pre-registration required.

Jingle Mingle at The Rialto Square Theatre
2025-12-04 18:00 - 21:00 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
The Rialto Square Theatre Foundation is excited to once again host our young adult event, Jingle Mingle! The night will also consist of multiple appetizer samplings from local vendors, a cash bar, and a signature drink! PLUS: This year’s event will be even bigger and better with the addition of LIVE MUSIC! So come kick off the Christmas season with your friends in one of Joliet’s most historic and gorgeous venues!! ($30 ticket price includes appetizers and 2 drink tickets.)

Armchair Historians: The Conservation Movement
2025-12-04 18:30 - 19:30 | Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Road, Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States
Nature is constantly changing, but nothing has changed the environment and impacted wildlife more than human trade, travel, settlement and later preservation acts. Join a naturalist on a journey from before the fur trade to the roots of conservation movement to today from the comfort of your chair.
Light refreshments will be provided.
Registration required by Tuesday, Dec. 2: 815-722-9301. Ages 16 and older.

Princeton's Night of Lights
2025-12-05 18:00 - 20:00 | Veteran’s Park, Princeton, East Mechanic St., Princeton, IL, 61356, United States
Presented by the Princeton Area Chamber of Commerce.Kick off the holiday season in true small-town style with Princetons Night of Lights, an evening overflowing with Christmas magic!The celebration features our Christmas Tree Lighting (6PM), Living Windows downtown (6-8PM), a Lighted Holiday Parade (6:30PM), and a festive Candy Cane Hunt for the kids (7PM). Meet Santa & Mrs. Claus and get up close with real live reindeer (7:30PM)a favorite for families every year!

Englebert Humperdinck: A Winter World of Love - A Night of Holiday Classics& Greatest Hits
2025-12-05 19:30 - 22:00 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
In a career spanning over 50 years, Engelbert has generated sales in excess of 140 million records, including 64 gold albums and 35 platinum, four Grammy nominations, a Golden Globe, and stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Las Vegas Walk of Fame, and Leicester Walk of Fame.
He has performed for the Queen four times, several presidents and many heads of state. He has recorded everything from the most romantic ballads to movie theme songs, disco, rock, and even gospel. His unique voice has charmed millions of fans around the globe.
However, it’s not just the voice, but the man himself, with his endearing sense of humor and self- deprecating jokes. Engelbert has managed to strike a new chord with the younger generation, and his YouTube music videos & social media numbers are incredible.

Lemont High School Athletic Boosters Craft Show
2025-12-06 09:00 - 15:00 | Lemont High School Performing Arts Center, 800 Porter St., Lemont, IL, 60439, United States
This event includes more than 200 vendors offering a wide variety of arts, handmade crafts, jewelry, holiday decor, fashion, beauty products, candles, doll and pet accessories, specialty foods, and more!
Admission is $5 each day, with vendors available in both the Gymnasium and Field House.
Attendees should enter through the Performing Arts Center entrance, which is available off of Julia Street on the southwest side of campus and adjacent to the school’s Parking Garage and PAC Lot. Shuttles will be available from other lots on campus as well. Please click here for directions to campus and the school’s parking lots.
For more information, please visit the Boosters Craft Show Group on Facebook, or email lemonthscraftshow@gmail.com.
The LHS Blue & Gold Athletic Boosters is a parent-led, not-for-profit and an official 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Proceeds from the Craft Show benefit the school’s athletic programs.

Deck Your Halls with Milkweed Pods
2025-12-06 10:30 - 15:00 | Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Road, Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States
The holiday season is here, and its the perfect time to get creative with decorations starting with something you can find right outside: milkweed pods! Join us at Isle a la Cache Museum to discover fun and fascinating facts about milkweed and its vital role in the life cycle of the monarch butterfly. Then tap into your artistic side as we transform milkweed pods into beautiful holiday ornaments using paint, glue and other craft supplies. All materials will be provided, and you’ll leave with a unique, handmade decoration to impress your holiday guests.
Two sessions will be offered:

Session 1: 10:30 a.m.-noon
Session 2: 1:30-3 p.m.

Registration required by Thursday, Dec. 4: 815-722-9301.

Winter Craft Weekend
2025-12-06 12:00 - 15:00 | Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 S Walnut Ln., Channahon, IL, 60410, United States
Enjoy the wintery landscape and crisp fresh air while challenging yourself with a fun winter-themed scavenger hunt. Head to our Grand Hall to warm up with a cup of hot cocoa and craft your heart out! All materials and supplies will be provided, as well as a variety of samples to spark your creativity.

"Last Call at Smokey Row" Book Signing
2025-12-06 14:00 - 17:00 | Smokey Row Antique Shop, 112 Stephen Street, Lemont, IL, 60439, United States
Last Call at Smokey Row, a standalone novel about a young woman who sets out to recreate her life with the help of a group of odd characters in a Lemont bar reminiscent of Lemont’s Smokey Row Days.
Pat is the author of the award-winning Cora Tozzi Historical Mystery Series, set in Lemont. She has also written the bestselling memoir, Staying Alive Is a Lot of Work: Me and My Cancer.
Pat is the archivist for the Lemont Historical Society, an Ambassador for the Head and Neck Cancer Alliance, and an Imerman’s Angels mentor. She is also Vice President of the Lemont Library Board.
All Pat’s books will be available for purchase and signing.

Hometown Holidays - Lemont
2025-12-06 14:00 - 17:00 | Historic Downtown Lemont, Canal & Stephen St, Lemont, IL, 60439, United States
Get into the holiday spirit with your favorite hometown celebration. Join us in Lemont Downtown on Saturday, December 6 from 2-5PM for the annual tree lighting, shopping, visits from Santa and more!

Photos with Sankt Nikolaus
2025-12-06 14:00 - 20:00 | Hegeler Carus Mansion, 1307 7th St., LaSalle, 61301, United States
Sankt Nikolaus himself has confirmed he will make two special visits to the Mansion — don’t miss the opportunity to take a photo with him! Enjoy cookies and hot cocoa during each visit to the Mansion — if you’ve been good all year! Allow 10-20 minutes for each photo session. $20 per session. 5 digital photos will be emailed to Guardian.
