I & M Canal

Woods Walk
2024-09-01 08:00 - 2024-11-30 18:00 (America/Chicago) | Plum Creek Nature Center in Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve, 27064 Dutton Rd., Beecher, IL, 60401, United States
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 Woods Nature Trail at Forked Creek Preserve – Forsythe Woods: 0.5 mile Evans-Judge Nature Trail Loop at Evans-Judge Preserve: 1.5 miles* Spring Creek Greenway Trail at Messenger Marsh: 2.2 miles* Plum Creek Greenway Trail at Goodenow Road Access: 2.2 miles Hickory Creek Bikeway and LaPorte Road Nature Trail at Hickory Creek Preserve – La Porte Road Access: 2.2 miles* Wauponsee Glacial Trail at Sugar Creek Preserve: 2.6 miles* Normantown Trail at Vermont Cemetery Preserve: 2.9 miles Rock Run Greenway Trail at Hammel Woods – DuPage River Access: 3.2 miles* Old Plank Road Trail at Washington Street Access: 3.2 miles* Spring Creek Greenway Trail at Hadley Valley – Bruce Road Access: 4.4 miles* *Starred trails feature routes that are easily extended to lengthen your walk. View details on Goosechase or in the Woods Walk booklet. Don’t forget to log your walks as you go. To participate, pick up a Woods Walk travel log on or after Sept. 1 online or at select Forest Preserve visitor centers, including Four Rivers Environmental Education Center in Channahon, Isle a la Cache Museum in Romeoville, Plum Creek Nature Center in Crete Township and Sugar Creek Administration Center in Joliet. Returning this year is the option to track and log walks easily and conveniently using the Goosechase app. Complete seven of the 10 Woods Walk trails and receive a 2024 Woods Walk hiking medallion. The deadline to submit a completed travel log is Sunday, Dec. 8. Fee: Free! Age: All ages. No registration is required. The trails included in the program are asphalt, limestone or natural surfaces across uneven terrain. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should submit a request online (https://www.reconnectwithnature.org/…/request…/) no later than 48 hours before the program.

Happy Mornings Yoga & Hike
2024-09-01 09:00 - 10:30 | Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 S Walnut Ln., Channahon, IL, 60410, United States
Start the day off right with some self-care, beautiful nature and quiet reflection. This program includes a 35- to 45-minute all-levels yoga session and a 35- to 45-minute hike along our scenic trails. Fee: Free! Age: Ages 14 or older. (Participants younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult.) Registration required by Saturday, Aug. 31, by calling 815-722-9470 or online: https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/…/detail/9217… Yoga will be at the Four Rivers Shelter. Please bring a yoga mat, water and comfortable hiking shoes. The hike may take place on both paved and natural trails over uneven terrain. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should submit a request online (https://www.reconnectwithnature.org.

Fishing for Trash
2024-09-01 10:00 - 2024-09-08 16:00 | Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 419 Trout Farm Road, Bolingbrook, IL, 60440, United States
Pick up some dirty tricks to earn some treats! Help Hidden Lakes Trout Farm look its best by picking up litter in the preserve. Fishing line and other debris pose serious threats to our furry and feathered friends. Animals may become entangled in fishing line or swallow hooks or bits of plastic. Check in with the front desk for a bucket and grabbers. Fill the bucket and return it to earn a treat from the Tackle Box. Fee: Free! Age: All ages. No registration required. Hidden Lakes Trout Farm has paved accessible trails from the parking lot. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should submit a request online (https://www.reconnectwithnature.org/…/request…/) no later than 48 hours before the program.

Hispanic Heritage Month Scavenger Hunt at Hidden Lakes
2024-09-01 10:00 - 2024-09-29 16:00 | Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 419 Trout Farm Road, Bolingbrook, IL, 60440, United States
Stop by the Tackle Box Bait Shop to pick up your guide to una busqueda del tesoro, aka a treasure hunt or scavenger hunt. In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, some of the nature items on the scavenger hunt are listed in Spanish. Travel around the preserve in search of the items while learning a little bit of the Spanish language. Mark them off one by one as you find them. Bring the completed sheet back to the Tackle Box bait shop to receive a well-deserved dulce, or sweet treat. Fee: Free! Age: All ages. No registration required. Hidden Lakes Trout Farm has paved accessible trails leaving from the parking lot. The shoreline fishing area is on natural surfaces over uneven terrain. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should submit a request online (https://www.reconnectwithnature.org/…/request…/) no later than 48 hours before the program.

The Case of Missing Acorn
2024-09-01 10:00 - 2024-10-31 16:00 | Plum Creek Nature Center in Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve, 27064 Dutton Rd., Beecher, IL, 60401, United States
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 nutty journey around the nature center campus. After you solve the mystery, return to the nature center for a prize. Fee: Free! Age: All ages. No registration required. Activities take place on paved and natural surfaces with uneven terrain. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should submit a request online (https://www.reconnectwithnature.org/…/request…/) no later than 48 hours before the program.

Meet a Beekeeper
2024-09-01 12:30 - 14:30 | Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve, 27064 Dutton Rd., Beecher, 60401, United States
Meet local beekeeper Mike Rusnak to discuss the art of beekeeping.
Ask questions, chat and troubleshoot. Rusnak has more than 18 years of beekeeping experience. Pick up specific beekeeping tips or simply learn more about the world of bees. Fee: Free! Age: All ages. This program will take place in an accessible facility. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should submit a request online (https://www.reconnectwithnature.org/…/request…/) no later than 48 hours before the program.

Waterfowl Cruise
2024-09-01 13:00 - 14:00 | Starved Rock Lodge & Convention Center, 2680 E. 875th Rd., Oglesby, 61348, United States
Board a trolley outside of the Great Hall of the Lodge. The Trolley takes you to the Eagle 1 to enjoy an hour long boat ride where you will get to spy the Waterfowl of the Illinois River. The trolley will return you to the Lodge. Reservations required.

Lemont Keepataw Day Parade & Fun Fest
2024-09-01 13:00 - 23:00 | Keepataw Day Parade, Stephen & Main Sts., Lemont, 60439, United States
The theme of this year’s Lemont Keepataw Day Parade & Fun Fest is Village of Volunteers to honor the many individuals and organizations in our community who provide support and assistance to others. On Sunday, September 1st, 2024, at 1 p.m. (during Labor Day weekend), the parade will begin at Stephen and Main Streets, proceed down Main Street, make a right at Turnabout up to Illinois Street, continue down Illinois Street, and finish at the corner of Illinois Street and Lemont Street.
Directly after the parade, there will be a Fun Fest in downtown Lemont until 11 pm featuring live bands, food vendors, an artisan market, kids corner, and more!

76th Annual Threshermen's Reunion Parade
2024-09-01 13:15 - 14:15 | Lincoln Elementary School, 514 S. Main St., Pontiac, IL, 61764, United States
The 76th Annual Threshermen’s Parade will start at 1:15PM on Sunday, September 1st. It will make its way through Downtown Pontiac, starting at Lincoln Elementary School at 514 S Main Street, and end at the intersection of N Main and N Mill Streets.
Check out their website at www.threshermensreunion.org for the 2024 Threshermen’s Reunion schedule & more details on the events!

Joliet Slammers vs. Lake Erie Crushers - Nine Innings of Winning Fan Appreciation Night
2024-09-01 18:00 - 21:30 | Joliet Slammers Stadium, 1 Mayor Art Schultz Dr., Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
Post Game Fireworks 9 innings of Winning/Fan Appreciation – It’s all about YOU at Fan Appreciation Night! Join us as we roll out the red carpet to thank our incredible fans for their unwavering support with a night of gratitude, surprises, and exciting baseball action!

Labor Day All Class After Party
2024-09-01 19:00 - 2024-09-02 00:00 | Labor Day All Class After Party Site, 11900 S. Loomis, Chicago, 60643, United States
We are the best and the last!!!! Come thru and kick it at the All Class Labor Day AFTERPARTY after the CVS Picnic. Sunday, Sept 1st 7pm -12am @Vision on 11900 S. Loomis Chicago, IL
Hosted by Conita and Thomas
CVS DJ’s
Food available for purchase
Cigar & Hookah friendly
Reserve Sections and tables
Bottles available
$10 til 9pm
Get there early, Don’t say I didn’t tell you!!!!!

Land & Water Cruise
2024-09-02 11:00 - 15:00, 2024-09-04 11:00 - 15:00, 2024-09-06 11:30 - 15:00 | Starved Rock Lodge & Convention Center, 2680 E. 875th Rd., Oglesby, 61348, United States
Tour begins with lunch in our restaurant followed by a narrated trolley tour. Learn about Starved Rock’s history and legends of the area. The trolley takes passengers to the Eagle 1 to see the east end of Starved Rock State Park by water. Restrooms are available throughout the tour and minimal walking is involved. Both the trolley and boat are wheelchair accessible. Please inform us when booking if special accommodations are needed.

Historic Trolley Tour
2024-09-02 15:00 - 17:00, 2024-09-04 15:00 - 16:30 | Starved Rock Lodge & Convention Center, 2680 E. 875th Rd., Oglesby, 61348, United States
Learn about the National Historic Landmark known as Starved Rock State Park and Lodge. Travel to the Lock and Dam, through historic downtown Utica and to the Starved Rock Visitor center.

Wonderkids: Leaves
2024-09-05 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. Fee: Free! Age: Ages 2-5. (Children must be accompanied by an adult.) Registration required by Tuesday, Sept. 3, by calling 815-722-9301 or online: https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/…/detail/9222… We have limited space, so please register everyone attending, including all adults. Isle a la Cache Museum is an accessible facility. Outdoor activities will take place on paved paths and natural surfaces across 1 mile of 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.

Mix'd & Mingle - an Onyx Street Event
2024-09-05 17:00 - 20:30 | Jordan Block, 123 W. Main St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Don’t miss the best street fest of the year Mix’d & Mingle down at Jordan block! There will be music, local celebrity bartenders, food trucks and so much more—do not miss your chance to buy your ticket for this amazing event.

Down on Main Street Summer Concerts - World Turning Band: Fleetwood Mac Tribute
2024-09-05 17:00 - 21:00 | Down on Main Street Concert Site, 2 S. Main St., Princeton, IL, 61356, United States
Experience live music right in the heart of Princeton for our Down on Main Summer Street Concerts. Enjoy live music, food trucks, specialty drinks and dance the night away under the stars of Bureau County!

Bureau County Homestead Festival
2024-09-05 17:00 - 21:00 | Down on Main Street Concert Site, 2 S. Main St., Princeton, IL, 61356, United States
History of the Homestead Festival
The annual Homestead Festival honors Reverend Owen Lovejoy and his contributions to our nation’s history. Lovejoy was prominent in the abolition movement and the Underground Railroad, a founder of the Illinois and national Republican Party, and a congressional leader.
2024 Entertainment: Friday, Dylan Schneider; Saturday, Wall of Denial-Stevie Ray Vaughn Tribute; Sunday, Car Show and so much more. Full scheduling coming soon.

Ladies Night Out
2024-09-05 18:00 - 21:00 | Jacob Henry Mansion, 20 S. Eastern, Joliet, IL, 60433, United States
Participate in a Group Reading by Psychic Medium Michael Gourley, one of the Top 10 Chicago Psychics. Michael will explain how he uses his gifts to deliver messages from loved ones in spirit, and will deliver any messages that come through for our guests — there may even be a message for you! This evening event includes a complimentary cocktail, appetizers, and desserts. Tickets are $60 per person.

Sunrise Paddle
2024-09-06 06:30 - 08:30 | Lake Chaminwood Preserve, 24251 W. Shepley Rd., Minooka, IL, 60447, United States
Calling all early birds to start the day on the water!
Enjoy a tour of Lake Chaminwood as the sun rises and the wildlife begin to stir.
Join interpretive naturalists to explore the nooks and crannies of Lake Chaminwood to see what we can find. Fee: $20 per person. Age: Ages 13 and older. Registration required by Thursday, Sept. 5, by calling 815-727-8700 or online: Wear shoes and clothes that can get wet, and don’t forget your sunscreen, sunglasses and a water bottle. Previous kayaking experience is required, as this is a recreational program and not an instructional paddling program. All equipment is provided, including personal flotation devices. The launch area is accessible and can be reached by a paved trail from the parking lot. 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 Paddle
2024-09-06 09:30 - 11:30 | Lake Chaminwood Preserve, 24251 W. Shepley Rd., Minooka, IL, 60447, United States
What better way to start the day than with a morning paddle!
Join interpretive naturalists as we tour Lake Chaminwood to explore the preserve from the water. Fee: $20 per person. Age: Ages 13 and older. Registration required by Thursday, Sept. 5, by calling 815-727-8700 or online Wear shoes and clothes that can get wet, and don’t forget your sunscreen, sunglasses and a water bottle. Previous kayaking experience is required, as this is a recreational program and not an instructional paddling program. All equipment is provided, including personal flotation devices. The launch area is accessible and can be reached by a paved trail from the parking lot. 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.

Historic Trolley Ride
2024-09-06 15:00 - 16:30 | Starved Rock Lodge & Convention Center, 2680 E. 875th Rd., Oglesby, 61348, United States
Relax and enjoy one of our various trolley tours! Trolley transportation is included with every tour. It’s the perfect way to learn about the rich history of the Starved Rock area. Reservations are required. Book online or call our Activities Office at (815) 220-7386.
*Online bookings subject to additional fees and taxes.*

Jonelle Marie & Terry Carter Show
2024-09-06 18:00 - 20:00 | Star Union Spirits, 300 5th St., Peru, IL, 61354, United States
Singer-songwriters Jonelle Marie and Terry Carter combine smooth harmonies and deep, soul-stirring lyrics and are featured in a rare duo show at Star Union Spirits. Jonelle Marie broke onto the airways in 2004 with her first album Listen receiving over 200,000 downloads of her first single, Not Your Doll and becoming DSN’s top downloaded artist of the year in 2005. Her husband and guitar player/vocalist, Terry Carter adds a unique playing style and incredible vocals. Terry has toured with artists such as country superstar Sammy Kershaw and the Chicago area smash 90’s band The All Night News Boys. Doors open at 11:00 pm. Music starts at 6:00 pm.

Digs on Canal: Live Music
2024-09-06 18:00 - 21:00 | Digs on Canal, 316 Canal St., Lemont, IL, 60439
Kick off the weekend with a performance by Grace & Johnny at Digs. Weather permitting, catch them outside on the patio.

The Rooftop Summer Music Series - The Red Roses
2024-09-06 18:15 - 22:00 | Joliet Area History Museum, 204 Ottawa St., Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
The Red Roses – The Rooftop Summer Music Series 2024
Live music on the Museum’s Outdoor Rooftop!
Register/Info: www.Jolietmuseum.org (815) 723-5201 – Doors Open at 6:15pm. Show starts at 7:00pm.
Admission:
$12 – Museum Members
$14 – General Public

Rockin' the Quarry Concert - Hairbangers Ball
2024-09-06 18:30 - 21:30 | The Forge Adventure Park and Ziplines, 227 Heritage Quarries Drive, Lemont, Illinois, 60439
Get ready to rock out this summer at The Forge’s Rockin’ the Quarries concert series! The Mount at The Forge will be transformed into a concert venue. For more information and tickets, visit the Forge’s event page. Don’t miss out on this summer’s hottest concert!

Fridays in the Park - Class of '68
2024-09-06 18:30 - 22:00 | Lincoln Landing, 200 E. 9th St., Lockport, 60441, United States
Come early, stay late!!! Food starts at 6:30, music at 7:00.
Accepting donations of toiletries for Guardian Angel & Homeless Veterans of Will County.

Night Hike: Bats
2024-09-06 19:00 - 20:30 | Messenger Woods Nature Preserve, 13800 W. Bruce Rd., Homer Glen, IL, 60491, United States
Bats have long been the subject of lore and myth. Separate fact from fiction as evening twilight descends upon the woodland then embark on a guided night hike to discover the diversity of bat species in Will County. Bat sounds undetected by human hearing will be revealed with the help of bat-vocalization-detecting equipment. Fee: Free! Age: Ages 10 and older. Registration required by Wednesday, Sept. 4, by calling 708-946-2216 or online. Meet at the Hawthorn Grove Shelter. The hike will be up to 1 mile long and take place in low light on both paved and natural trails over 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.
