You can now book your trip for a tour along the I&M Canal on our 1840s-Replica, Mule-Powered I&M Canal Boat. In addition to the leisurely 60-to-90-minute ride, the experience includes the opportunity to meet Moe the Mule as part of our "Mule Tending 101" pre-tour introduction, be
New for this year, we’re dedicating the 11:30 am ride each day to providing a fun adventure for our younger passengers aged 5-12. Purchase tickets for the 11:30 am I&M Canal Boat Ride, and children and their guardians will discover what it would have been like to
The Titanic sank in the frigid Atlantic Ocean on the night of April 14-15, 1912. The tragic loss of over 1,400 lives that night, the failures of the great unsinkable ocean liner, the insufficient lifeboats, all would affect legislation of ship building and sea travel in the
22nd Annual Woods Walk challenge! This ongoing program runs from Sunday, Sept. 1, through Saturday, Nov. 30. Get out on the trail and enjoy the changing of the seasons with the 22nd annual Woods Walk challenge! Experience 10 beautiful Will County trails during their fall splendor: Forsythe
Squirrel needs your help! His best friend, Acorn, has gone missing! To solve this mystery, stop by the Plum Creek Nature Center front desk to get your first clue. Then unlock your inner detective and follow the rest of the clues as they lead you on a
Create your own monster fish this spooky season. Visit the Tackle Box bait shop to receive crayons and a fish in need of color and life. Then explore Hidden Lakes Trout Farm to find textures to add as well as challenges that may add a few more
Wear your favorite costume and search for spooktacular items in the forest with your friends and family or scout group! Some items may be natural, while other items may be SUPER-natural! Can you find them all as you meander through the forest? Stop by Four Rivers Environmental
This ongoing program runs from Saturday, Sept. 21, to Sunday, Dec. 8. Museum hours are: Tuesdays to Saturdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays Noon to 4 p.m. Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are
This ongoing program runs from Tuesday, Oct. 15, to Sunday, Dec. 29. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays to Saturdays and noon to 4 p.m. Sundays. This traveling exhibition presents the work of landscape photographer Miles Lowry. Through remarkable photographs, Lowry captures the grace and
It 's back! The Lemont Farmers Market takes place in Village Green Park in #LemontDowntown. Enjoy local vendors serving up fresh produce, baked goods, and special treats along with live music. Find the market every Tuesday from August - October 18 with new vendors each week. Thank you
This ongoing program runs from Saturday, Sept. 21, to Sunday, Dec. 8. Museum hours are: Tuesdays to Saturdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays Noon to 4 p.m. Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are
Plan your spooky night out in Downtown Joliet. Walk to any or all of our participating businesses for some spirited entertainment and some themed food and spirits (alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages). Local ghost stories, psychics, mini haunted houses, ghost hunters, aura readings, live music, and haunted tours
This ongoing program runs from Saturday, Sept. 21, to Sunday, Dec. 8. Museum hours are: Tuesdays to Saturdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays Noon to 4 p.m. Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are
This ongoing program runs from Saturday, Sept. 21, to Sunday, Dec. 8. Museum hours are: Tuesdays to Saturdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays Noon to 4 p.m. Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are
Returning for our third year, The Forge Trail Run Festival embraces the adventure of trail running with short, mid, and long distance events that will be run on Sunday, November 3rd. Can you run 4.167 miles in ONE hour? And do it again and again and again....
Participating in Woods Walk and looking for company on our longest leg? We've got you covered! Let's team up to conquer the 4.4-mile trip on the Spring Creek Greenway Trail as we travel through Hadley Valley as a group and take in the sights and sounds of
This ongoing program runs from Saturday, Sept. 21, to Sunday, Dec. 8. Museum hours are: Tuesdays to Saturdays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays Noon to 4 p.m. Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are
Returning for our third year, The Forge Trail Run Festival embraces the adventure of trail running with short, mid, and long distance events that will be run on Sunday, November 3rd. Can you run 4.167 miles in ONE hour? And do it again and again and again....
Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are the right words to describe the people who have always lived here? It is common for people to have questions about the lives and experiences
Utica is closing down Mill Street for the Veterans' Parade & Air Show on Sunday, November 3! The spectacular parade and air show is one of the largest in the state, including a flyover and military vehicles on display. Come see a TBM WWII Torpedo Bomber, T-6
Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are the right words to describe the people who have always lived here? It is common for people to have questions about the lives and experiences
How will you choose to make discoveries in the preserve? By listening, feeling or using another one of your senses? Choose a search card or two inside the nature center before heading out to explore. After your successful search is complete, return to the nature center for
This ongoing program runs from Tuesday, Oct. 15, to Sunday, Dec. 29. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays to Saturdays and noon to 4 p.m. Sundays. This traveling exhibition presents the work of landscape photographer Miles Lowry. Through remarkable photographs, Lowry captures the grace and
Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are the right words to describe the people who have always lived here? It is common for people to have questions about the lives and experiences
Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are the right words to describe the people who have always lived here? It is common for people to have questions about the lives and experiences
Discover whooo makes Will County home! Learn about owls and their unique adaptations – especially pellets! Dissect an owl pellet, get tips on what to look and listen for while owling, then go on a hike in search of our feathered friends. Fee: Free! Age: Ages 8
Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are the right words to describe the people who have always lived here? It is common for people to have questions about the lives and experiences
Back by popular demand and for ONE NIGHT ONLY! Join us in the Ottawa Hot Glass Hunt through enchanting downtown Ottawa, IL. The Ottawa Visitors Center has once again commissioned local artist Laura Johnson owner of Starved Rock Hot Glass to create 20 beautiful glass blown ornaments
As winter closes in and the nights get longer, imagine what life was like for people in a time before electricity, when Will County was dominated by prairie grasses. Learn about the three generations of the Clow family and their farmstead all by the light from lanterns.
Be sure to add the Rusty Halo Snowman Express Market to your weekend plans. Shop for one-of-a-kind jewelry, artwork, seasonal home decor, and so much more!! This market features over 30 vendors showcasing their creations for special gifts or unique holiday treasures to add to your home.
Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are the right words to describe the people who have always lived here? It is common for people to have questions about the lives and experiences
It’s holiday season! Chances are good that you’ll feast on turkey sometime soon. This program will provide you with turkey talking points so you can get through those celebratory meals without having to resort to talking about the weather. You’ll learn natural history, fun facts and what
Be sure to add the Rusty Halo Snowman Express Market to your weekend plans. Shop for one-of-a-kind jewelry, artwork, seasonal home decor, and so much more!! This market features over 30 vendors showcasing their creations for special gifts or unique holiday treasures to add to your home.
Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are the right words to describe the people who have always lived here? It is common for people to have questions about the lives and experiences
Come explore how animals prepare for cold weather and darker days. Participants will create a bird feeder, feel how fat insulates animals and look for clues of winter preparation on a hike in the preserve. This program is sponsored by the Thorn Creek Audubon Society. Fee: $5
Nurse Blake is a nurse, creator, advocate, touring comedian, viral sensation and so much more. From nursing school to the bedsides of patients, Nurse Blake uses his unique experiences for a fun-filled comedy event that celebrates the hard work of healthcare providers. He is truly a one-of-a-kind
How will you choose to make discoveries in the preserve? By listening, feeling or using another one of your senses? Choose a search card or two inside the nature center before heading out to explore. After your successful search is complete, return to the nature center for
This traveling exhibition presents the work of landscape photographer Miles Lowry. Through remarkable photographs, Lowry captures the grace and grandeur in what remains of the vast forests and savannas that once covered the eastern half of the United States. Since 2001, he has searched out and documented
Menopause The Musical 2: Cruising Through ‘The Change’® is the sequel to the long-running, international hit show Menopause The Musical®, a groundbreaking celebration of women who are on the brink of, in the middle of, or have survived “The Change.” In its first year on tour, Menopause
Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are the right words to describe the people who have always lived here? It is common for people to have questions about the lives and experiences
Experience the enchanting tale of Sleeping Beauty brought to life in a mesmerizing ballet by Classical Arts Entertainment. Witness the captivating performance by the State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine as they tell the story of Princess Aurora, cursed to a century-long slumber by the evil fairy Carabosse.
Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are the right words to describe the people who have always lived here? It is common for people to have questions about the lives and experiences
For November's Think & Drink, join award-winning Ojibwa author and Illinois Humanities Road Scholar Kim Sigafus McIver for an interactive presentation on Native American women in Illinois history. Dressed in her native regalia, Sigafus McIver will highlight the lives of influential women like Singing Bird (Blackhawk’s wife) and
Don't miss this excellent opportunity for organizations and interpretive sites to engage with other leaders from communities within the I&M Canal National Heritage Area and beyond. 9:30 AM Registration 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Introductions 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM Bob Navarro, President & CEO, Heritage Corridor
Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are the right words to describe the people who have always lived here? It is common for people to have questions about the lives and experiences
Attend the opening reception for the month-long exhibition.
Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are the right words to describe the people who have always lived here? It is common for people to have questions about the lives and experiences
One of the largest (and brightest) Christmas celebrations in North Central Illinois is back and bigger than ever! La Salle's Celebration of Lights will be held from Nov. 16 through New Year's Day at Rotary Park! The display is free, donations are welcome!
Bourbon Country continues to be one of the most diverse bands in the Midwest. They play from 7 decades of music from The Eagles to Chris Stapleton, The Carpenters to Zac Brown, Doobie Brothers to Alabama, and everything in between. Tickets are $25/person.
Explore the magic of Messenger Woods as we celebrate National Take a Hike Day in one of our own forest preserves. We will explore the community of trees in Will County's oldest preserve and learn how the trees support each other. In fact, this community welcomes and
Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are the right words to describe the people who have always lived here? It is common for people to have questions about the lives and experiences
Calling all artists, from beginner to advanced and everyone in between. Have fun learning to draw a real-life owl or cute, colorful owl, adding your own creative touches. Explore your unique skills with teaching artist Kim Watts-Rayon. It will be a hoot! All materials will be provided.
Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are the right words to describe the people who have always lived here? It is common for people to have questions about the lives and experiences
How will you choose to make discoveries in the preserve? By listening, feeling or using another one of your senses? Choose a search card or two inside the nature center before heading out to explore. After your successful search is complete, return to the nature center for
This traveling exhibition presents the work of landscape photographer Miles Lowry. Through remarkable photographs, Lowry captures the grace and grandeur in what remains of the vast forests and savannas that once covered the eastern half of the United States. Since 2001, he has searched out and documented
Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are the right words to describe the people who have always lived here? It is common for people to have questions about the lives and experiences
The Caroling Party, Chicago's largest and best caroling group, is celebrating its 37th season this December. Join them as they welcome in the Christmas season with their book of over 100 festive musical arrangements. Come for the music, and stay for the sweets and snacks for sale
Join us for this must-attend networking conference for those working in the I&M Canal National Heritage Area. You'll enjoy collaborating and brainstorming with colleagues from around the area as we discuss plans and opportunities for 2025. Click here to sign up > Building upon the successes of past congresses,
Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are the right words to describe the people who have always lived here? It is common for people to have questions about the lives and experiences
Join us for the 29th Annual Festival of Trees. The trees, wreaths, centerpieces and other articles will be on display at the Museum on November 1st. The on-line auction site (bidluckyauctions.com) is live now. The Special Raffle is a $500 travel voucher on Southwest Airlines. There are
Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are the right words to describe the people who have always lived here? It is common for people to have questions about the lives and experiences
Join us for the 29th Annual Festival of Trees. The trees, wreaths, centerpieces and other articles will be on display at the Museum on November 1st. The on-line auction site (bidluckyauctions.com) is live now. The Special Raffle is a $500 travel voucher on Southwest Airlines. There are
We are taking Wild Child on the road this season, visiting different preserves around Will County. Answer the call of your wild child by getting your toddler outside with this monthly nature-themed program. Join a naturalist for hands-on activities, such as games, stories, crafts, hikes and more!
Join us for the 29th Annual Festival of Trees. The trees, wreaths, centerpieces and other articles will be on display at the Museum on November 1st. The on-line auction site (bidluckyauctions.com) is live now. The Special Raffle is a $500 travel voucher on Southwest Airlines. There are
Give thanks and give back this Thanksgiving season! Hike Four Rivers' forested areas while you rediscover the many gifts the forest gives us and maybe learn something new. Then spend some time giving back by removing invasive honeysuckle. The program will end with time to reflect while
Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are the right words to describe the people who have always lived here? It is common for people to have questions about the lives and experiences
Calling all those who seek to explore with wide eyes and a sense of wonder. Pause to peer inside a rotting log, try to identify a mushroom, listen to bird songs or even take pictures. This program is for those who hike for discovery over destination. This
Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are the right words to describe the people who have always lived here? It is common for people to have questions about the lives and experiences
Get down and dirty at our Thorn Creek workday. Help repair boardwalks, maintain trails or weed and nurture our Prairie Sampler and butterfly garden. Fee: Free! Age: Ages 12 and older; children 15 or younger must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required by Nov. 20: 708-747-6320.
Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are the right words to describe the people who have always lived here? It is common for people to have questions about the lives and experiences
How will you choose to make discoveries in the preserve? By listening, feeling or using another one of your senses? Choose a search card or two inside the nature center before heading out to explore. After your successful search is complete, return to the nature center for
This traveling exhibition presents the work of landscape photographer Miles Lowry. Through remarkable photographs, Lowry captures the grace and grandeur in what remains of the vast forests and savannas that once covered the eastern half of the United States. Since 2001, he has searched out and documented
Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are the right words to describe the people who have always lived here? It is common for people to have questions about the lives and experiences
How will you choose to make discoveries in the preserve? By listening, feeling or using another one of your senses? Choose a search card or two inside the nature center before heading out to explore. After your successful search is complete, return to the nature center for
This traveling exhibition presents the work of landscape photographer Miles Lowry. Through remarkable photographs, Lowry captures the grace and grandeur in what remains of the vast forests and savannas that once covered the eastern half of the United States. Since 2001, he has searched out and documented
Join us for the 37th annual holiday parade, a time-honored tradition of making cherished memories! The parade will kick off at LaSalle Street and the 200 block of West Jackson Street, with festive floats and performances winding their way south on LaSalle, culminating at Main Street. After
Stroll under the twinkling lights as you immerse yourself amongst sparkling boutique windows filled with soft sweaters, brightly colored ornaments, fresh greens and new novels, all waiting to be wrapped with a bow. Grab a market mug filled with fresh Belgian hot cocoa to warm your hands
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
Dominic Spang (Riverside third-year and St James parishioner) is hosting a Christmas craft fair under the mentorship of his grandfather Mark. Through this event, Dominic is hoping to pay for a good portion of his own Tutorial tuition! Please help make his entrepreneurial endeavor a success by
Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are the right words to describe the people who have always lived here? It is common for people to have questions about the lives and experiences
Join us for the 29th Annual Festival of Trees. The trees, wreaths, centerpieces and other articles will be on display at the Museum on November 1st. The on-line auction site (bidluckyauctions.com) is live now. The Special Raffle is a $500 travel voucher on Southwest Airlines. There are
Are Native Americans U.S. citizens? How many Indigenous people live in this country? Do all American Indians live on reservations? What are the right words to describe the people who have always lived here? It is common for people to have questions about the lives and experiences
Stroll under the twinkling lights as you immerse yourself amongst sparkling boutique windows filled with soft sweaters, brightly colored ornaments, fresh greens and new novels, all waiting to be wrapped with a bow. Grab a market mug filled with fresh Belgian hot cocoa to warm your hands