"Special Delivery" - Celebrate Black History Month
2024-02-09 18:00 - 22:00 (America/Chicago) | Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park and Theatre, 201 W Jefferson Street, Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
“SPECIAL DELIVERY” Concert by TAKE NOTICE Band
Indoor theatre concert. Free admission.
7:00 pm show (6:00 pm lobby & cash bar opens)
Come celebrate February’s Black History Month with “STAMPED INTO HISTORY” – a 3-day celebration featuring music, dance, live theatre a musical praise service! Be moved and inspired by the the rich African American culture and significance to our shared history. Enjoy the entertainment, history, education and inspiration in the relaxed, intimate indoor theatre.
*** FREE admission for all 3 days! ***
(Lobby opens 1 hour before showtime. Beverages will be available for purchase.)
A special “THANK YOU” goes out to Larry Crawford of LWCLEADS PRODUCTION and all the talented people who have donated their time and talent to this wonderful celebration! (A free-will donation will be accepted to help off-set costs.)

Drinkin' With Lincoln - Historic Pub Crawl in Lemont
2024-02-09 18:30 - 22:30 | Village of Lemont
Discover a bit of history and raise a glass with Honest Abe, the tour guide, as you visit 8 historic Lemont downtown hangouts: Tom’s Place, Corner Stone Tavern, 111 Martini Parlour, Hughie McClafferty’s, Canal St. Pub, Matt’s BBQ, Nick’s Tavern and Main Inn.
The $30 donation per person includes a t-shirt, appetizers and a piece of Abe’s birthday cake. Proceeds support the Lemont Quarrymen Vintage Base Ball Club.
MUST BE 21 TO PARTICIPATE!
Call (630) 888-5259 for more info and to sign up, or visit the Lemont Quarrymen Website.

Marvel Movie Trivia
2024-02-09 19:00 - 21:00 | Sable Creek Winery, 14912 S. Eastern Ave., Plainfield, IL, 60544, United States
Join us for some wine while we test your knowledge of Marvel Movies.
Your teams will be quizzed on Marvel Movies, while Sable Creek Winery serves up delicious wines and slushies by the glass. Cheese Plates, Charcuterie Trays, Pretzel Bites, and Smores Charcuterie Trays are available as well.
**Reservations are required.

Health & Wellness Symposium
2024-02-10 08:45 - 13:00 | Lemont High School, 800 Porter St., Lemont, IL, 60439, United States
Wellness event for all ages!
Free Admission
Complimentary Breakfast, Lunch & Childcare
Keynote speaker, breakout sessions and exhibitors hall.
Breakout Session Topics:

Teen-Focused Q&A Panel
Yoga
Internet & Social Media Safety
Healthy Relationships
Stress & Anxiety Management
CPR Training
Comfort Dogs & Equine Therapy
Family Communication
Art Therapy
Lifestyle Medicine

Nell's Woodland Winter Hike
2024-02-10 10:00 - 11:30 | Nell’s Woodland, 2000 Alexis Ave., Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Join us for a guided nature walk by nature enthusiast Joe Jakupcak.
We hope to see you at Nell’s Woodland for our guided winter tour. This guided walk will be about one mile in length and will conclude in about 1 hour. Kids and families are welcome! We encourage people of all ages to join in the experience of this wonderful winter season. Enjoy a walk in the woodland with breaks to listen to Joe’s autumn facts, plant observations, and wildlife. We look forward to seeing you in the woodland. For additional information please contact us via phone at 815-331-1078 or by email at connect@nellswoodland.com. Spaces are limited! To register please use our Eventbrite.
Meet Your Guide
Marseilles native Joe Jakupcak is a hike leader at prominent ecological sites in the Starved Rock region, including Starved Rock Lodge and Dayton Bluffs Preserve. Joe also is a tour guide at Starved Rock Marina and is the narrator of sightseeing tours on the Ste. Genevieve Riverboat. Joe holds a B.S. in Geology from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and an MEd in Science Education from the University of Missouri Columbia. With a career in science education spanning 39 years, Joe is known for infusing his understanding of geology and passion for teaching into his hikes, all of which are excellent educational opportunities for all ages. We are excited to bring Joe’s extensive knowledge, expertise, and devotion to the ecology of the Starved Rock region to Nell’s Woodland this winter.

Frosty Five Mile - 45th Annual
2024-02-10 10:00 - 12:00
Join us Saturday February 10, 2024 for the 45th Annual Frosty 5 Mile! Runners of all ages are invited to brave the cold. The first 200 runners will receive an official Frosty 5 Mile stocking cap and finishers medal.
Runner are invited to stay after the race for pretzels and awards! The overall male and female first place finishers will receive awards, plus the top three in each age group. Awards will also be given to the top overall male and female resident. Registration is available online or in person at Arrowhead Community Center and Heritage Crossing Field House until February 9th. Registration fee is $40.

"Stamped into History"
2024-02-10 13:00 - 16:00 | Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park and Theatre, 201 W Jefferson Street, Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
Live theatrical musical, dance and oratorical look at Black history through United States postage stamps. If you saw last years, you’ll enjoy this new line-up of important figures. There are so many!
Free admission
2:00 pm show (lobby opens at 1:00 pm)
7:00 pm show (lobby opens at 6:00 pm)
Beverages will be available for purchase.

"Let's Jazz Up" - French Heritage Society - Chicago Midwest Chapter
2024-02-10 18:30 - 22:30 | 651 W. Washington Blvd., 651 W. Washington Blvd., Chicago, IL, 60661, United States
The Chicago-Midwest Chapter of French Heritage Society is thrilled to invite you to our upcoming Gala: Let’s Jazz Up, marking our fifth annual celebration! This year, we’re extending the winter festivities with our tradition of costumed fun for a lively jazz soirée on February 10, 2024. Immerse yourself in an ambiance reminiscent of mid-century underground Parisian clubs like the renowned Caveau de la Huchette.
The atmosphere will echo the vibrant nightlife of Paris’ Latin Quarter! Let’s Jazz Up together with treats including appetizers, dinner, dessert, and drinks; live music performed by Ernie Adams; and a silent auction. You can also meet our guest of honor, Tem Horwitz, recently honored as a Knight of France (Chevalier de la Légion d’honneur).Secure your spot at a discounted rate with our Early Bird pricing:
REGISTRATION DETAILS
FHS Member Price: $125
Non-Member Price: $150
Act fast! Prices increase to $200 after February 2.
Don’t keep the excitement to yourself—invite your friends!
Take advantage of our Group Ticket offer: Purchase 9 tickets ($1350) and receive 1 additional ticket for free!
Guests can book special room rate of $129/night for a Superior King room at SOFITEL Chicago Magnificent Mile by contacting Beau Buttacavoli before Feb 2nd.

"Stamped into History" - "Hymns & Gems for Him"
2024-02-11 15:00 - 17:00 | Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park and Theatre, 201 W Jefferson Street, Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
Musical praise worship service open to all denominations.
4:00 pm service (lobby opens at 3:00 pm). Free admission.
Beverages will be available for purchase.

Dream Lover! Vintage Songs of Love - Starved Rock Lodge
2024-02-12 11:30 - 15:00 | Grand Hall at Starved Rock Lodge, One Lodge Lane, Oglesby, IL, 61348, United States
Not your typical, sappy love show full of ballads! With “love” songs ranging from the 1920s-60s, “Dream Lover! Vintage Songs of Love” highlights the flirty, fun, joyful and playful “love” songs! Matt and Cynthia ‘sass it up’ with “Dream Lover,” “Pretty Woman,” “Dizzy,” “Ring of Fire,” “I Saw her Standing There,” “Stuck on You, “I Can’t Help Myself,” “Be My Baby,” and “Hey Baby.” But they also hit the sweet, poignant songs with “Blue Moon,” “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” “Cheek to Cheek,” “The Way You Look Tonight” and “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow.” Come feel the love!

$60 per person – call to register: (815) 220-7386.

Valentine's Day Singles Mixer & Speed Dating
2024-02-12 19:00 - 23:00 | Renaissance Bronzeville, 4641 S. King Drive, Chicago, IL, 60653, United States
Looking for love this Valentine’s Day?
Join us at The Renaissance Bronzeville for an exciting evening of mingling and speed dating! Get ready to meet other fabulous singles in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re searching for your soulmate or just want to make new connections, this event is perfect for you.
Located on South King Drive, Chicago, IL, USA, our venue offers a charming and cozy setting, ideal for fostering connections. With its stylish decor and friendly ambiance, The Renaissance Bronzeville sets the stage for a memorable night.
Our singles mixer will kick off the evening, giving you the chance to socialize with other attendees and break the ice. Enjoy delicious drinks and tasty bites while getting to know potential matches. Then, get ready for the excitement of speed dating! You’ll have the opportunity to meet a series of interesting individuals in short, timed conversations.
Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to find love or simply have a great time with like-minded people. Grab your friends and join us at The Renaissance Bronzeville for our Valentine’s Day Singles Mixer & Speed Dating event. Love is in the air!

Feltmaking with Betty Burian Kirk
2024-02-14 19:00 - 21:00 | Homer Township Public Library, 14320 W. 151st St., Homer Glen, IL, 60491, United States
Multi-talented and award-winning fiber artist Betty Burian Kirk, will share the fine art craft of feltmaking including the history of making felt, how it is made, and its contemporary techniques and uses. A lucky attendee will win one of Betty’s felted hearts! A former teacher, some of her many talents include weaving, spinning, ribbon flowers, tassels, Japanese bookbinding and braiding (Kumihimo).
Meetings are open to all; you do not have to be a Lemont Artists Guild member to attend.
Registration required at https://www.homerlibrary.org/feltmaking

Trolley Trio Progressive Dinner
2024-02-15 17:30 - 21:30 | Grand Hall at Starved Rock Lodge, One Lodge Lane, Oglesby, IL, 61348, United States
Join us for our series of Trolley Trio Progressive Dinners! August Hill Winery, Camp Aramoni and Starved Rock Lodge have teamed up to create a new unforgettable event filled with wine, spirits, beer and food tastings.
Meet at Starved Rock Lodge at 4:45pm, where the Starved Rock Trolley will take you to August Hill Winery for cocktails and appetizers. Next, the trolley will head to Camp Aramoni for dinner and drinks. Lastly, the trolley will take you back to Starved Rock Lodge for dessert and after dinner drinks in the dining room.
Make it an all-nighter with our overnight package.
The Trolley Trio Progressive Dinner Overnight Package includes your dinner for two, overnight stay for two and a $15 breakfast voucher for the next morning. Dinner only: $110 per person, Dinner & Overnight Package: $367.77 (for 2 people).
For more information or to book please call us at 815-220-7386.
Reservations are required for this event. Guests must be 21 or older to attend.

The Navy in Chicago: An Unlikely Story
2024-02-16 19:00 - 20:30 | Chicago Maritime Museum, 1200 W. 35th St., Chicago, IL, 60609, United States
Despite being 800 miles from the Atlantic Ocean Chicago has been a Navy town for more than 130 years. The modern history of the Navy has been influenced by Chicago and Chicagoans to an extent most people are unaware. The Chicago Navy Memorial Foundation is committed to educating the public about the importance of maintaining a strong Navy for the security and prosperity of the nation and telling the story of Chicago’s outsized impact on today’s—and tomorrow’s—Navy.
Jeff Gray is the director of public affairs for the Union League Club of Chicago and a Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve and is the its senior project director of the Chicago Navy Memorial Foundation and a member of the Illinois Secretary of State’s Veteran’s Advisory Council.
Gray’s background includes over 25 years of experience as a public affairs officer in the Navy Reserve where he currently holds the rank of Commander. He has deployed as a public affairs officer to Afghanistan as a member of NATO’s International Security Assistance Force, in Kabul.
Working for Chicago Public Schools, he was a special projects manager and the director of admissions for Chicago’s eight Selective Enrollment High Schools and six Military Academies.
In conjunction with the Bridgeport Art Center’s Third Friday Open House, the Chicago Maritime Museum opens its doors for lively presentations on maritime history and current events each month. Come early and explore the Bridgeport Art Center’s many art galleries. Join us on Friday, February 16 at 7:00 p.m. either in person or virtually.
The presentation is $5.00 for members and $10.00 for non-members. However, you might just consider joining the CMM for an annual membership of just $35, which provides unlimited visits, access to our monthly newsletter and special events such as the Third Friday maritime lecture series. Join us at chicagomaritimemuseum.org or call us (773) 376-1982. We are located on the lower level of the Bridgeport Art Center at 1200 W 35th Street. Parking is free in the north lot.​

American Legion Valentine's Day Party
2024-02-17 17:00 - 21:00 | American Legion Post 235, 571 Rutland St., Marseilles, 61341, United States
Live music, dancing and refreshments! Music by Johnny Gray, sponsored by Jim Hollenbeck.
Tickets $10 per person.

Valentine Family Dance
2024-02-17 18:30 - 20:30 | Coal City United Methodist Church, 6805 E. McArdle Rd., Coal City, IL, 60416, United States
Come one come all to our first Valentine Family Dance!!
All ages are welcome 0 to 112! Dance the night away with family and friends! Tickets go on sale January 7th, $20 covers all the members in your house and all funds collected go towards the CCUMC Youth Groups. All kids must be accompanied by an adult. Snacks and drinks will also be provided, but donations are welcome.
Tickets can be purchased directly at the church starting January 7th.
Tickets may also be purchased by contacting the following people:
Christin Darin 608-346-2000
Felicia Riggi 815-343-3748
Stephanie Sarff 815-685-1709

Winter Beach Party at Fat Daddy'z
2024-02-17 20:00 | Fat Daddy’z, 176 W. Jackson St., Seneca, 61360, United States
If you’re stuck in the middle of Illinois for the winter and craving the beach, Fat Daddy’z is bringing the beach to you! We’re doing tropical drinks, live music, and you’re guaranteed to get a lei!It’s almost Beach Party Day! This Saturday come see how we transform Fatz into an indoor beach, sand & all! We know everyone is dying to bust out their beach gear & It’s going to be a party not to miss! We’ll have Beachy drink specials running all day! Stop in for lunch on the beach, come back later for live music by Poke the Bear starting at 8pm!

19th Polish Heritage Day
2024-02-18 10:00 - 17:00 | Sts. Cyril & Methodius Church, 607 Sobieski St., Lemont, IL, 60439
The Ulma Family, a model of faith and patriotism will be honored at the 19th Polish Heritage Day.
The program will take place in the gymnasium of Sts. Cyrul & Methodius School.

Full day displays
Polish business fair
Refreshments
Celebratory Mass beginning at 2 pm
Main presentation beginning at 3 pm
Pole of the Year 2024 Aware Ceremony

Flute Lessons for Vets
2024-02-19 13:00 - 14:00 | Coal City Public Library, 85 N. Garfield St., Coal City, IL, 60416, United States
All Veterans are welcome to join us for learning to play the Native American woodwind flute.
The flute is music therapy for veterans dealing with PTSD or other mental health issues. Age, knowing how to play an instrument or being able to read music is not a consideration as to whether a person can learn to play this flute – it is an easy instrument to learn. As they tell their students, you can’t make a mistake with how the flute sounds. Their mission is to help our veterans find a calming for their lives through playing the Native American woodwind flute.
The program provides free flutes and free lessons for each veteran from Kenneth Troyan.
Name: Dana Abraham
Email: Dana@ccpld.org
Phone Number: (815) 634-4552 ext. 113
Presenter: Kenneth Troyan

Teen Canvas Class
2024-02-19 15:00 - 16:00 | Coal City Public Library, 85 N. Garfield St., Coal City, IL, 60416, United States
Teen Canvas Class
6th thru 12th graders can join us for an instructional painting class with the theme Snowy Owl. Teen needs to be a CCPLD library cardholder.

Name: Tricia Meyer
Email: Tricia@ccpld.org
Phone Number: (815) 634-4552 ext. 105

Movie - "The Holdover"
2024-02-20 13:00 - 15:00 | Coal City Public Library, 85 N. Garfield St., Coal City, IL, 60416, United States
Adults can join us to watch the Oscar nominated movie “The Holdovers” and enjoy popcorn.
Name: Dana Abraham
Email: Dana@ccpld.org
Phone Number: (815) 634-4552 ext. 113

Myth Busting in the Illinois & Michigan Canal National Heritage Area
2024-02-20 19:00 - 20:00 | Midewin NTP Conference Room, 30239 S. State Route 53, Wilmington, 60481, United States
Ana Koval, President Canal Corridor Association

The Canal Corridor Association has spent years reading primary sources to uncover information about the I&M Canal. Learn more about the Canal’s history during it’s 175th anniversary year and find the answers to some burning questions like “Were the state boundaries moved because of the canal?”, “Was the canal replaced by the railroad or larger waterways?”, and “Did canal workers really get paid in whiskey?”.

To register:
Call: (815) 423-6370
Email: SM.fs.midewin_rsvp@usda.gov

Party in Pink
2024-02-23 18:30 - 21:00 | Romeoville Recreation Center, 900 W. Romeo Rd., Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States
Help us FUNdraise for breast cancer awareness!
T-Shirt included with your $30 donation – while supplies last. Zumba, prizes, gift baskets!
A portion of the proceeds will support PINK HEALS OF JOLIET.
100% of every single dollar raised stays in our community!
Registration required – Code 3122114-A.
Child care will be available from 6:30 pm – 9:15 pm.

2nd Annual Westclox Metaphysical & Wellness Fair
2024-02-24 09:00 - 17:00 | Unwind at Westclox, 304 5th St., Peru, IL, 61354, United States
Come join us for a day of metaphysical and wellness exploration at the historical Westclox building. This in-person event will bring together like-minded individuals who are passionate about alternative healing, sacred practices, and spiritual growth. Immerse yourself in a variety of workshops, classes, and demonstrations led by experienced practitioners. Discover crystal healing, tarot reading, energy work, and much more. Browse through our artisan market featuring unique metaphysical products and handcrafted treasures. Connect with like-minded souls and expand your knowledge in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Don’t miss out on this enlightening and transformative event!
General Admission: $35.00
Virtual Ticket: $15.00

Timber & Talent
2024-02-24 13:00 - 16:00 | Hume Carnegie Museum, 901 Washington St., Mendota, IL, 61342, United States
Be sure to check out the new display at Hume Carnegie “Timber and Talent.”
The museum building was constructed in 1904, one of 2509 libraries built in the U.S in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries with money donated by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. In 1996, after a complete restoration, it was re-opened as the Hume-Carnegie museum. It was made possible by funds donated by Mr. Horace Hume, a local businessman and entrepreneur who also built the replacement library.

The Union Depot Railroad Museum
2024-02-24 13:00 - 16:00 | Union Depot & Railroad Museum, 783 Main St., Mendota, 61342, United States
The Union Depot Railroad Museum building is what remains of the original grand 1888 Mendota Railroad Station. However, when the society acquired the site it was virtually an empty shell. Many volunteers spent countless hours restoring the building to its original state with ticket office and waiting room. The museum has a waiting room for trains that stop in Mendota, a large HO model railroad layout depicting Mendota with its grand railroad station, display rooms with railroad artifacts, and an extensive railroad library.
Union Depot Railroad Museum is an MMHS museum and an Amtrak station stop. The building is a restored part of the original railroad station built in late 1880’s which was torn down in the early 1940’s. The museum houses many railroad artifacts, HO model railroad depicting Mendota in the late 1930’/ early 1940’s, extensive railroad history library, and many displays. Part of the building is a waiting room for Amtrak passengers.

Coldest Night of the Year
2024-02-24 16:00 - 19:00 | Jordan Block Arts & Garden, 101 Main St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Illinois Valley PADS is joining in the homelessness awareness national event.
Register to walk or form a team of walkers for one mile. Everyone is welcome! Coldest Night of the Year is family-friendly where participants range in age from toddlers (with parents of course) to active seniors. By walking in the cold, you’ll feel a hint of the challenge faced by those experiencing homelessness during the winter months.
Event Schedule
4:00pm – Welcome/Check-In
5:00pm – Send Off
6:00pm – Light meal provided
7:00pm – Conclusion

ARGIL - Daniel Stetzinger
2024-03-04 10:00 - 2024-03-25 16:00 | Clayspace Ceramic Arts Center, 740 Front St., Lisle, 60532, United States
Join ClaySpace Ceramic Arts Center for the exhibit ARGIL, a solo exhibition of the work of Daniel Stetzinger.
Art Center Hours:
Monday & Saturday 10 am to 2 pm
Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 10 am to 4 pm

Potential Locations for Passenger Rail Stations Open House - Ottawa
2024-03-06 17:00 - 19:00 | Ottawa City Hall, 301 W. Madison St., Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
The North Central Illinois Council of Governments (NCICG) invites you to attend one of four open house events to learn about potential locations for passenger rail stations.
The purpose of these events is to introduce potential rail station locations for a proposed new passenger rail corridor between Peoria and Chicago. The events will be held in an open house format, meaning you can stop by anytime with no formal presentation. Each event will include the same information and team members will be present to answer any questions.

Dragonflies and Damselflies: The Prairie's Frequent Fliers
2024-03-06 19:00 - 20:00 | Midewin NTP Conference Room, 30239 S. State Route 53, Wilmington, 60481, United States
Cindy Crosby, author of “Chasing Dragonflies: A Natural, Cultural, and Personal History” and “The Tallgrass Prairie: An Introduction”, both from Northwestern University Press

Discover the fascinating and bizarre lives of these prairie fliers—with plenty of group fun and lively interaction during the presentation. From their unusual life cycle of transformation, to their bizarre reproductive life, mystifying migratory habits, and their struggle for survival, there is plenty to discover and marvel about! Hear about the myths and superstitions that surround them. Be amazed at their natural history as you see close-up beautiful photography of some of our dragonflies in Illinois. Find out how dragonflies tell us something about the health of our waterways — and our world.

To register:
Call: (815) 423-6370
Email: SM.fs.midewin_rsvp@usda.gov
