I & M Canal

Breakfast with the Birds
2026-05-10 08:30 - 10:00 (America/Chicago) | Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 S Walnut Ln., Channahon, IL, 60410, United States
Celebrate peak migration season with an unparalleled view of the Four Rivers bird feeders! View the resident birds and new spring arrivals indoors from the exhibit room and the Grand Hall. Enjoy provided warm beverages and muffins. Need more than a muffin? Bring your breakfast. A naturalist will give a brief talk about the visitors at the feeders and will be on hand to discuss all the birds that come and go throughout the morning. Registration required by Saturday, May 9: 815-722-9470.

Barn Babies
2026-05-10 10:00 - 16:00 | Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm, 17250 Weber Rd., Crest Hill, IL, 60403, United States
Get ready for an unforgettable day at Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm, where the Barn Babies event is back and better than ever! Bring your friends and family to get up close and personal with the most adorable baby animals you’ve ever seen! From pint-sized chicks to fluffy little lambs, playful baby goats and get ready to bask in farmyard bliss with your crew. Admission is $14.95 – $24.95.

A Garden Party to Celebrate the Women Who Raised You
2026-05-10 12:00 - 16:00 | Duncan Manor House & Gardens, 1002 Towanda-Barnes Rd., Towanda, IL, 61776, United States
Celebrate Mothers Day weekend with a relaxed garden gathering at Duncan Manor. A Garden Party for the Women Who Raised Us is a two-day celebration honoring mothers, daughters, grandmothers, and the women who shape our lives. Guests are invited to wander the historic grounds, enjoy live music, sip cocktails, browse a curated selection of local makers, and experience tarot and astrology readings inside The Meadows. Lawn games, croquet, and garden seating will invite guests to slow down and enjoy the beauty of spring at the manor. Throughout the weekend we will offer small-group guided tours of the historic Duncan Manor, allowing visitors to step inside the 1866 Italianate home and experience its story firsthand. Garden attire is encouraged florals, linen, hats, and vintage charm welcome. Bring your mother, your daughter, your best friend, or simply come celebrate the women who raised you. Grounds access is free. Historic house tours are $20 per person in limited small groups. Duncan Manor is a 501c3 Not for Profit Organization; All proceeds benefit the restoration and preservation of the house and its grounds.

River Road Trio
2026-05-10 14:00 - 17:00 | Clarks Run Antiques, 215 N. Division St., Utica, IL, 61373, United States
Enjoy a Sunday Funday at Clarks with accomplished musicians River Road Trio!! Free admission!

Lithuanian Opera
2026-05-10 15:00 - 18:00 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
Chicago Lithuanian Opera proudly presents its 70th Anniversary production of Friedrich von Flotow’s Martha (,,Marta) — a celebration of music, heritage, and generations united through song.
Performed by the Chicago Lithuanian Opera Chorus, together with renowned soloists from Lithuania and USA, the Opera Choreographic Group, and accompanied by Orchestra Regalis, this extraordinary production honors seven decades of unwavering dedication to preserving Lithuanian culture in the diaspora.
Tickets are $69 per person.

The Great Pages Circus
2026-05-11 08:00 - 17:00 | Bureau County Fairgrounds, 811 W. Peru St., Princeton, IL, 61356, United States
Bureau County Fairgrounds will host The Great Pages Circus. A family-friendly, traveling circus that features international acts, liberty animals, aerial, juggling, clown acts, and motorcycle mayhem.

The Great Page Circus
2026-05-12 08:00 - 17:00 | Bureau County Fairgrounds, 811 W. Peru St., Princeton, IL, 61356, United States

Needle Felting Workshop
2026-05-12 18:00 - 20:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
All materials are provided, and artist Jacqueline JoAnn will guide you step by step through the entire process, making this workshop approachable for beginners and enjoyable for experienced crafters alike. You’ll leave with charming, handmade felted pieces like mushrooms or cute animals perfect for décor or gifting. $45 per person. Registration required. BYOB friendly for 21 plus!

Still Life Speed Drawing
2026-05-13 19:00 - 20:30 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Like speed dating, but you leave with art instead of regrets.
Challenge your creativity and sharpen your observation skills in this dynamic still life speed drawing class! Artists will rotate through five unique still life setups, each offering a range of difficulty levels to keep things engaging. Bring your own supplies. 15 minute drawing intervals. $20 per person.

Sensory Night Hike
2026-05-14 19:45 - 21:00 | Hammel Woods, Black Rd. east of Rte 59, Shorewood, IL, 60404, United States
The moon is nearly new, the night is still and dark. It’s a magical time to explore the forest. Join a naturalist on a hike through the forest, test your senses and enjoy an after-hours evening in the preserve. Ages 7 and older. Registration required by Wednesday, May 13: 815-722-9470.

Ottawa's Third Friday Makers Market
2026-05-15 17:00 - 21:00 | Downtown Ottawa, 223 W. Madison, Ottawa, 61350, United States
Arts, culture, and entertainment come alive every Third Friday in downtown Ottawa! This free lively street festival features 40 handmade and homegrown makers, live music, food, and rotating themed experiences each month that keep every event fresh and exciting. Bring the whole family!
We offer a free kids play zone and a free craft activity each month, making it a fun and creative night for all ages!

Two-Headed Giant Commander
2026-05-15 18:00 - 23:00 | Critical Grind Board Game Cafe, 852 Sharp Dr., Shorewood, IL, 60404, United States
Two-Headed Giant Commander Night is a monthly Commander event in which players can earn promo cards by pairing up to battle other two-player teams. Each player has their own 100-card Commander deck, but they share a 60-point life pool. Play follows the normal Two-Headed Giant rules.
This event is a great way for new players to explore in-store play and for experienced players to introduce their friends to Magic. $30 per team includes 1 cafe beverage per person.

Grosse Point Lighthouse National Landmark
2026-05-15 18:30 - 20:00 | Chicago Maritime Museum, 1200 W. 35th St., Chicago, IL, 60609, United States
The life-saving beacon of Grosse Point Lighthouse in Evanston first sailed over the waters of Lake Michigan on March 1st, 1874, as the leading navigational aid into Chicago’s harbor. In this presentation, keeper Don Terras will discuss the history and adaptive use of Grosse Point Lighthouse operating as both a private aid on Lake Michigan waters and a small but important maritime museum under stewardship of the Lighthouse Park District of Evanston.
The May 15th presentation is $5 for members and $10 for non-members, and includes Bites & Beverages, the museum’s volunteer-operated hospitality service, which begins at 6:30. Seating is limited, so reserve your place today. Virtual seats are also available with a live connection to the Q&A that follows.

Mother's Day Roses Paint Night
2026-05-15 19:00 - 20:30 | SOL Art Solutions, 81 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
Florals, brushes, and Mother’s Day vibes! A soft, elegant floral paint night. No experience is needed – just bring your mom and have a great time. $40 per person.

2026 Rooftop Concert Series - South Side Exiles
2026-05-15 19:00 - 21:00 | Joliet Area History Museum, 204 Ottawa St., Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
The JAHM Summer Music Series returns! Join us for live music and cold drinks at the only rooftop venue in downtown Joliet! Doors open at 6:15 pm.
Admission:
General Public $16
Members $14

Adult Fishing Derby
2026-05-16 07:00 - 09:00, 2026-05-16 09:30 - 11:30 | Hidden Lakes Historic Trout Farm, 475 Trout Farm Road, Bolingbrook, IL, 60440, United States
The Forest Preserve is hosting its annual Adult Fishing Derby at Hidden Lakes Trout Farm. We invite you to find the best spot along the shore and try your luck at catching fish. Bass Pro gift cards will be awarded for the biggest catch, with first, second and third place being awarded.
Pack a lunch and bring your favorite fishing pole. We provide a complimentary container of nightcrawlers! Sign up for one or both sessions. Winners will be announced once results are tallied. The first 25 registrants will receive a free giveaway!
Registration is required: 815-722-4121. Registration will be available the day of the derby if openings remain. $5 per person.
Hidden Lakes Trout Farm has paved accessible trails from the parking lot. Shoreline fishing takes place on natural surfaces over uneven terrain.  Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should mention their request when registering no later than 48 hours before the program.

Inside the Hive: An Introduction to Beekeeping
2026-05-16 10:00 - 12:00 | Hornbaker Gardens, 22937 County Rd. 1140 N, Princeton, IL, 61356, United States
Join us for an engaging workshop with Five Points Apiculture exploring the fascinating world of bees and honey. This workshop blends science and storytelling to explain honeybee behavior, pollination, and how honey is made from flower to hive. Participants will gain insight into the care of honeybees, the relationship between bees and plants, and what makes honey such a remarkable natural product. Ideal for gardeners, nature lovers, and the honey-curious alike, this session offers a deeper appreciation for the tiny pollinators behind every drop of honey. Free admission.

Spring Container Porch Pots
2026-05-16 10:00 - 12:00 | Hornbaker Gardens, 22937 County Rd. 1140 N, Princeton, IL, 61356, United States
Welcome Spring with a hands-on container gardening workshop at Hornbaker Gardens! In this session, participants will learn how to design and plant a beautiful container using fresh spring annuals. We’ll cover plant selection, color and texture combinations, proper planting techniques, and care tips to keep your container thriving all season long. You’ll leave with a custom-planted container ready to brighten your porch, patio, or entryway—perfect for celebrating the start of the growing season. $10 per person.

Reset Retreat
2026-05-16 10:00 - 13:00 | The Wildflower Boutique, 11877 County Rd. 2300E, Princeton, IL, 61356, United States
Enjoy a relaxing yoga flow, a calming meditation, and light refreshments. This is an outdoor event, please bring your own yoga mat. $46 per person.

Kites in Flight
2026-05-16 11:00 - 15:00, 2026-05-17 11:00 - 15:00 | Peck Park – Ottawa, 1498 State St., Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Get ready to look to the skies! Kites in Flight returns for its 6th year at Peck Park in Ottawa with two days of high-flying fun and family entertainment. We’re excited to welcome Chicago Kite back again this year, bringing their incredible professional kite displays that fill the sky with color and excitement. Admission is free.

You can look forward to:

FREE kite flying and professional kite demonstrations
Kids + family activities
Live entertainment
Community vendors + sponsors
A relaxed outdoor festival atmosphere
Important Admission Info:
Kite flying and kite demonstrations are FREE to enjoy
All other activities will require a $5 activity fee
(This helps support the event and allows us to continue offering engaging activities for families)
Grab your kite, gather the family, and help us celebrate six years of Kites in Flight!!

Walldogs Makers Market
2026-05-16 12:00 - 13:17 | Streator City Park, 301 N. Vermillion St., Streator, 61364, United States
The Food Trucks are coming back to Streator for our 9th year and we are looking for artisan, antique, garden and other unique vendors to join us on May 16th 12-7pm. Registration cost is $35. Email the Streator Walldogs at streatormarketmanager@gmail.com for a registration form. Looking forward to seeing you for a great day in the City Park (221 E. Hickory St) with great music, family fun and amazing food at the ready. Please, send all inquiries to our email and not facebook as it is easier to organize. Thank you.

The Streator Food Truck Festival
2026-05-16 12:00 - 19:00 | Streator City Park, 301 N. Vermillion St., Streator, 61364, United States
A family fun day of great food trucks, artisan vendors, and great music. Bring a lawn chair, and a healthy appetite for a full day of good food and fun.
The Streator Food Truck Festival was started in 2017 as a fundraiser for the Streator Walldogs Murals. The event continues to raise funds for murals and public art in Streator.

Downtown Pontiac Cruise Nights
2026-05-16 17:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Pontiac, Downtown, Pontiac, 61764, United States
Join us for Pontiac Cruise Night, hosted by Twisted Machinez Car & Truck Club! This is a welcoming event for car and truck enthusiasts of all kinds, featuring classic vehicles, food, music, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a casual car fan, or just looking for a fun night out, everyone is invited to cruise, connect, and enjoy the Pontiac community.Get ready for a historic year of cruising, classic cars, and community fun! 2026 marks the 100th anniversary of both Route 66 and the Pontiac, and we’re celebrating in style with Pontiac Cruise Night!!

Monthly Craft & Vendor Fair
2026-05-17 09:00 - 15:00 | Bronkberry Farms, 18061 Bronk Rd., Plainfield, IL, 60586, United States
Every third Sunday from the months of May through October, Bronkberry Farms hosts vendors from the Chicagoland area and beyond who showcase, share, and sell their unique products to the community. See what our talented crafters and vendors have to offer this season and mark your calendars to come out and enjoy a day at the farm, supporting local!
Admission into our Craft & Vendor Fairs is ALWAYS FREE!
FOOD TRUCKS. FARM ANIMALS. COFFEE TRUCKS. AND MORE!

Natural Dye Tea Towels
2026-05-19 18:00 - 20:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Discover the beauty of natural color in this hands-on Natural Dye Tea Towel Workshop. In this class, you’ll explore the art of botanical dyeing using plants, flowers, and kitchen scraps to create one-of-a-kind textiles. Guided step by step, you’ll learn how to prepare fabric, extract color from natural materials, and use simple techniques to transfer those pigments onto cotton tea towels. $45 per person. All materials provided. Registration required. BYOB friendly for 21 plus.

Annual Dinner Meeting
2026-05-19 18:00 - 20:30 | Maria’s Ristorante, 1591 N. Division St., Morris, IL, 60450, United States
Join us for our annual dinner meeting. Joe Schmitz will be sharing with us the history of Operation St. Nick. $35 per person. Reservations and payment can be made on our website https://grundycountyhs.org/upcoming-events/.

Girl Dinner 90's Edition
2026-05-19 18:00 - 22:00 | Mauve Cocktail Lounge, 1146 W. Jefferson St., Shorewood, IL, 60404, United States
Step into a night of nostalgia, indulgence, and elevated chaos… Welcome to Girl Dinner: 90’s Edition at Mauve.
We’re taking everything you loved about the 90’s—snack plates, sleepovers, strawberry everything, pizza nights, and late-night sweets—and transforming it into a luxury 5-course pairing experience designed for the grown-up palate.
This isn’t your average dinner. This is your inner child… with a cocktail. $125 per person.

Journaling Night
2026-05-20 19:00 - 20:30 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Slow down, reflect, and reconnect at our Journaling Night. This relaxed, creative session is designed to help you carve out intentional time for yourself—whether you’re new to journaling or already have a well-loved notebook. Journaing supplies provided. Bring your journal. $20 per person. Registration required.
