I & M Canal

Winter Wonderland at The Oaks
2025-12-06 16:00 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 419 Trout Farm Road, Bolingbrook, IL, 60440, United States
Do you hear those bells jingling and ring ting tingling too? Come on, it’s lovely weather for a cozy campfire with you!
Bring the family for a night of spreading cheer by singing loudly for all to hear in addition to other winter festivities. Come adorned in your ugly Christmas sweater and enjoy the event at your own pace. Hike the woods following a lantern-lit trail then warm up inside with some hot cocoa, tea or cider. Get creative with holiday nature crafts to decorate and take home and fill your jolly belly with hotdogs and smores roasted over an open fire.

7 Year Anniversary Celebration
2025-12-06 17:00 - 19:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Come help us celebrate 7 years at Open Space! This years’ exhibition will be a group show inspired by prompts. Free to attend. Refreshments and appetizers provided.

Old Crow Medicine Show Holiday Hootenanny
2025-12-06 19:30 - 22:00 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
Old Crow Medicine Show is bringing a holiday tour to the stage! Join the GRAMMY-winning band for a festive night of foot-stompin’ Christmas classics, fan-favorite Old Crow hits, and songs from the brand-new holiday album. The band will be joined by special guest Bronwyn Keith-Hynes, adding fiddle fire and holiday cheer tothis one-of-a-kind celebration.

Yoga and Hike
2025-12-07 09:00 - 10:30 | Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 S Walnut Ln., Channahon, IL, 60410, United States
Start the day off right with yoga and a hike! This program includes a 35- to 45-minute all-levels yoga session and a 35- to 45-minute hike along our scenic trails. With the cold weather, yoga will take place in the Grand Hall.
Registration required by Saturday, Dec. 6: 815-722-9470.
Ages 14 or older.
Participants younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Lemont High School Athletic Boosters Craft Show
2025-12-07 10:00 - 14:00 | 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.

Holiday Nature Crafts: Hidden Oaks Nature Center
2025-12-07 10:00 - 16:00 | Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 419 Trout Farm Road, Bolingbrook, IL, 60440, United States
Deck the halls with nature-inspired trim.
For one day only, our upstairs Quercus room will be transformed into a holiday workshop. Drop in any time during business hours to enjoy holiday tunes and quality family time while creating personalized woodland decorations. This is a self-guided crafting session. Example crafts will be provided for inspiration or use your own imagination to create something new. Adults and kids alike will have their own nature crafting options from which to choose. Materials will be provided.

The Four Co-Notes Holiday Special
2025-12-07 10:45 - 15:00 | Jacob Henry Mansion, 20 S. Eastern, Joliet, IL, 60433, United States
Ring in the holidays with The Four C Notes and their rockin’ holiday show! The Hits of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons PLUS Rock and Roll Holiday Classics! This show features the biggest hits from those iconic “boys from Jersey”, PLUS your favorite holiday chart toppers by artists such as Dion and the Belmonts, The Drifters, The Beach Boys, and many more!
Lunch Entree: Traditional lasagna with steamed vegetable and garlic bread.
Itinerary:
10:45 AM Doors open for self-guided tour of The Jacob Henry Mansion
11:15 AM Group arrival for Luncheon
11:30 AM Luncheon Served
1:00 PM Show Begins “The Four C Notes” Holiday Special
2:30 PM Self-guided tour of The Old Central Church
3:00 PM Departure. Thank you for sharing your day with us!
Cost: $60 per person,
Email groupsales@jacobhenrymansion.com to be added for reservations.

Winter Craft Weekend
2025-12-07 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.

Book Discussion + Signing! "Passage to Chicago" by Tom Willcockson
2025-12-07 12:00 - 15:00 | I&M Canal Visitor Center, 754 First Street, LaSalle, IL, 61301, United States
Tom Willcockson, author and illustrator of “Passage To Chicago: A Journey on the Illinois & Michigan Canal in the Year 1860,” will be at the I&M Canal Visitor Center, Lock 16 Gift Shop and Café on Sunday, December 7 to talk about his book and sign copies.
Join us! The schedule for that day is:
• 12-1 pm: Get your book signed.
• 1-1:45 pm: Hear him discuss the book and participate in a Q&A
• 1:45-3pm: Another chance to get your book signed.
We will be selling copies on site. Can’t make it? Click here to order a signed copy of the book (along with shirts, totes and more) from our partner site >
“Passage to Chicago” takes an in-depth look at life on a fictional canal boat, the Prairie Star, as it travels along the I&M Canal to Chicago in 1860–the precipice of the Civil War. This 2nd edition printing is a great gift for lovers of local history, U.S. history, illustrations and art or for people who just enjoy a compelling story.

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation at the Rialto
2025-12-07 14:00 - 16:00 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
It’s Christmas time and the Griswolds are preparing a big family celebration, but things never run smoothly for Clark, his wife Ellen, and their two kids. Clark’s perennial bad luck is aggravated by his obnoxious family guests, but he manages to keep going, knowing that his Christmas bonus is due soon.
Bring the entire family to these enjoy Christmas Vacation and enjoy the beauty of the Rialto Square Theatre at Christmas while spending quality time with your family watching this holiday favorite.
Movie tickets are $5.00 and must be purchased at the box office. They are not available online.

A Charlie Brown Christas - Live on Stage
2025-12-08 18:30 - 20:30 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
Peanuts’ timeless holiday television special comes to life with the national tour of A Charlie Brown Christmas Live On Stage will be skating into Rialto Square Theatre. This critically acclaimed holiday celebration that the whole family can enjoy brings Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, and the rest of the Peanuts gang together live on stage as they uncover the true meaning of Christmas and perform songs from the unforgettable musical score of legendary composer Vince Guaraldi. The Broadway-style production, complete with immersive sets, lighting, choreography, and colorful costumes, has sold more than 300,000 tickets over the prior holiday seasons.

The Four C-Notes Holiday Special
2025-12-09 10:45 - 15:00, 2025-12-10 10:45 - 15:00 | Jacob Henry Mansion, 20 S. Eastern, Joliet, IL, 60433, United States
Ring in the holidays with The Four C Notes and their rockin’ holiday show! The Hits of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons PLUS Rock and Roll Holiday Classics! This show features the biggest hits from those iconic “boys from Jersey”, PLUS your favorite holiday chart toppers by artists such as Dion and the Belmonts, The Drifters, The Beach Boys, and many more!
Lunch Entree: Traditional lasagna with steamed vegetable and garlic bread.
Itinerary:
10:45 AM Doors open for self-guided tour of The Jacob Henry Mansion
11:15 AM Group arrival for Luncheon
11:30 AM Luncheon Served
1:00 PM Show Begins “The Four C Notes” Holiday Special
2:30 PM Self-guided tour of The Old Central Church
3:00 PM Departure. Thank you for sharing your day with us!
Cost: $60 per person.
Email groupsales@jacobhenrymansion.com to be added for reservations.

Remembering Marshall Field's at Christmastime
2025-12-11 10:30 - 14:30 | Jacob Henry Mansion, 20 S. Eastern, Joliet, IL, 60433, United States
For many Chicagoans, no Christmas season is complete without a visit to Marshall Fields, the city’s grand dame of department stores. This illustrative presentation by Leslie Goddard traces the store’s beloved holiday traditions, including the Walnut Room Christmas tree, holiday window displays, and Christmas catalog.
Lunch Entree: Option 1: Chicken pot pie with warm apple and pear salad; Option 2: Meatloaf with mashed potatoes, gravy, and a steamed vegetable
Itinerary:
10:30 AM Self-Guided Tour of The Jacob Henry Mansion
11:10 AM Guest Arrival
11:30 PM Luncheon is Served
1:00 PM Remembering Marshall Fields at Christmas- By Leslie Goddard PHD
2:00 PM Self Guided Tour of The Old Central Church
2:30 PM Departure
Cost: $52 per person
Email groupsales@jacobhenrymansion.com for reservations.

Celebrate Polish Christmas Heritage
2025-12-11 18:00 - 19:30 | Gaylord Building, Lockport, 200 W. 8th Street, Lockport, IL, 60441, United States
Join us for an evening celebrating the region’s rich Polish heritage and beloved holiday traditions. Enjoy authentic Polish holiday foods and drinks prepared by the Public Landing Restaurant while learning about the customs, stories, and spirit of a Polish Christmas.
This special ticketed event also serves as our annual fundraiser to support the Gaylord Building’s public programs, helping us continue to offer educational talks, exhibits, and community events that remain free and open to all.
Tickets are limited! Tickets are $75 per person. Reserve yours today: https://PolishHolidays.eventbrite.com.
✨ Additional details and speaker announcements coming soon!
Please note that the start time for this event (6pm) is earlier than our usual Think & Drink programs to accommodate an earlier meal time. The Banquet Room will open at 5:45pm.

3D Trees or Cardinal Stained Glass Workshop
2025-12-12 17:30 - 20:30 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Create your own beautiful stained glass art!The session will deal with type & quality of glass, appropriate tools, cutting techniques and assembling. Each person will leave the class with a completed stained glass cardinal or 3D tree. $150 per person. Preregistration required. 6 seats available. Age 16 and up. *All sales final.

Candlelight Open House
2025-12-12 18:00 - 20:00 | The Reddick Mansion, 100 W. Lafayette St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Take a step back to the past and experience the splendor of a Victorian Christmas by visiting the Reddick Mansion by candlelight. Adult admission – $15; Students (K-12) $5.

Tannenbaum Brunch
2025-12-13 11:00 - 13:00 | Hegeler Carus Mansion, 1307 7th St., LaSalle, 61301, United States
The Tannenbaum Brunch will feature an elaborately decorated Hegeler Carus Mansion, delicious holiday brunch by Good Morning Good Day Cafe and Blue-Eyed Rascal Bakery Co., holiday music performed by Manderley Strings (violin/viola/cello trio), and a Christmas Tree Silent Auction. $65 per person.

Downtown Pontiac Christmas Market
2025-12-13 12:00 - 16:00 | Downtown Pontiac, Downtown, Pontiac, 61764, United States
Join us as Madison Street (between Main & Mill) transforms into a festive marketplace filled with holiday cheer. The market will feature a variety of local vendors and small businesses offering unique gifts, seasonal treats, handmade goods, and more — the perfect way to check off your holiday shopping list while supporting our community. We are currently seeking local vendors and small businesses who would like to be part of this special event. If you’re interested in sharing your products and holiday spirit, we’d love to have you join us!

Merry Sing-A-Long & Santa
2025-12-13 13:00 - 15:00 | The Old Stone Church, 306 Lemont Street, Lemont, IL, 60439, United States
Live Music and Caroling, Delicious Food and Drinks! Meet Kris Kringle! Ho-Ho-Hope to see you there!

Holiday Open House - Hegeler Carus Mansion
2025-12-13 14:00 - 16:00 | Hegeler Carus Mansion, 1307 7th St., LaSalle, 61301, United States
Come all ye faithful to our self-guided mini-holiday tour of the Main Floor of the Mansion! This open house will allow guests to get a quick peek into the Hegeler Carus Mansion and see some of the beautifully decorated Christmas Trees.

"It's a Wonderful Life"
2025-12-13 17:30 - 20:30 | The Old Stone Church, 306 Lemont Street, Lemont, IL, 60439, United States
Kick off the season with a cozy night inside Lemont’s Historic Old Stone Church! Join us for a special screening of “Its a Wonderful Life” with festive trivia, holiday treats, and a classic small-town atmosphere you cant get anywhere else. 2 nights to choose from! Each night will have its own Facebook event but tickets can be ordered for either day on our website. What to Expect: A jingle bell for every guest, ring it each time Clarence appears. Fun holiday trivia before the movie. Snacks and drinks for purchase (popcorn, cookies, hot chocolate, cider, water) Guess-the-Bells Jar Contest. A warm community vibe in one of Lemont’s most iconic buildings. All proceeds support the Lemont Area Historical Society and help preserve our shared history. Bring your friends, bring your family and bring your holiday cheer.

Birds & Beans
2025-12-14 08:30 - 09:30 | Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Road, Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States
Birdwatch with hot, fresh-brewed, bird-friendly coffee from the comfort of Isle a la Cache Library. Chat about the birds that show up at the feeders through the picture windows and enjoy the company of others over winter morning muffins. Registration required by Friday, Dec. 12: 815-722-9301. Ages 16 or older. Free admission.

"Brothers After War" - Gary Sinise Film
2025-12-14 12:00 - 16:00 | The Eagle Theatre, 319 N. Plum St., Pontiac, IL, 61764, United States
FOR ALL VETERANS OF VIETNAM, IRAQ, AFGHANISTAN AND THEIR FAMILIES! Gary Sinise Productions is bringing a new documentary and discussion to Pontiac’s Eagle Theater. Free signup using RSVP baw.mov/1214525. The film-maker, Jake Rademacher (a native of Decatur), reconnects with his brothers, elite Soldiers and Marines he embedded with during the Iraq War. Intercutting footage past and present, he leads us on an insightful, humorous, and moving journey as we watch twelve men and women explore loss, meaning and hope. Brothers After War provides a rare look of the bonds and service on the frontlines and the profound effects their military service has on the loved ones they leave behind. Limited space. Get your free tickets now!

Kids Giftmas
2025-12-14 13:00 - 17:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Looking for a fun, creative way to keep your kids entertained while you tackle holiday shopping or last-minute wrapping? Join us for our Kids Giftmas Workshopa 4-hour gift-making extravaganza where your child will craft 4 unique gifts! Each gift will be beautifully wrapped and ready to go under the tree, ensuring a truly special surprise for loved ones. Whats included: All materials for four handmade gifts A card & gift tag station for early finishers Delicious pizza and drinks to fuel their creativity. Cost: $85 per child. Ages: 5-12. 20 seats available**Please let us know if your child has any food allergies**Give your kids a day of festive fun while you check off your holiday to-do list! Spots are limited, so sign up today to secure their seat at this magical workshop. Let’s make this season unforgettable!

Full Moon: Family Bonfire
2025-12-15 00:00 | IL
Every moon tells a story of tides, time and seasonal changes. Join us across Will County for full moon nights throughout 2026 and discover where science and wonder meet beneath the glow of the moon! Our Full Moon: Family Bonfire at Prairie Bluff will feature panoramic views of the night sky at the open prairie space with smores and fireside trivia, facts and stories about the moon. Get cozy with your family and bring camp chairs and blankets or warm beverages to sit by the fire and enjoy the sights and sounds of the winter night while we revel at the moon. This program is part of our full moon program series. Registration required by Thursday, Jan. 29: 815-727-8700.

Little Explorers: Gifts From Nature
2025-12-17 10:00 - 11:30 | Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 S Walnut Ln., Channahon, IL, 60410, United States
Everything comes from somewhere, and the answer is not just the store.
Bring your children to Four Rivers to learn about how we depend on the natural world with a story, a hike, hands-on activities, crafts and free play.
Registration required by Tuesday, Dec. 16: 815-722-9470.
Ages 3-5. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.

It's A Wonderful Life: Live Radio Show
2025-12-18 19:00 - 21:00 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
FOR THE FINAL TIME, a holiday tradition returns to Rialto Square Theatre– join WJOL along with talent from Star 96.7, Q Rock 100.7, 95.9 The River, and Free Country @ 98.3 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, and this performance will be the last time performed at the Rialto Square Theatre. All proceeds from ticket sales benefit the Rialto Square Theatre’s mission to bring the biggest and brightest talents to the Rialto Square stage.
Ticket price starting at $15.50.

The Nutcracker Presented by The Dance Theater of Will County
2025-12-18 19:00 - 22:00 | Lockport Township High School – East Campus, 1333E. 7th St, Lockport, IL, 60441, United States
The Dance Theater of Will County is presenting their annual holiday production of The Nutcracker, featuring local dancers and professional performers, promising a magical journey for families with Clara through the Land of Sweets. Tickets are $25 per person and available now for this classic tale of holiday enchantment, with booking through {https://buy.tututix.com/dancetheaterofwillcounty}.

Owl Hike for Adults
2025-12-19 16:00 - 18:30 | O’Hara Woods
Whoooo goes there? The woods may get quiet in the winter, but if were lucky we will hear a loud call from an elusive bird. Join us at OHara Woods to learn about the owls of Will County and their unique adaptations. We will head out on a quiet hike listening for our nocturnal neighbors. While we listen for owls, well also have the chance to hear the other creatures of the night. Registration required by Wednesday, Dec. 17: 815-722-9470. Ages 18 or older.
