Hoot Hike & Pallet Prowl
2024-11-07 17:00 - 18:30 (America/Chicago) | Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Road, Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States
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 and older. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. Registration required by Tuesday, Nov. 5, by calling 815-722-9301 or online. Please dress for the weather.
This program will begin in accessible facilities followed by a 0.5-mile hike on natural surfaces across 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.

Indige-Facts Traveling Exhibit
2024-11-08 11:00 - 16:00, 2024-11-09 10:00 - 16:00, 2024-11-13 10:00 - 16:00, 2024-11-14 10:00 - 16:00, 2024-11-15 10:00 - 16:00, 2024-11-16 10:00 - 16:00 | Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Road, Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States
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 of Native peoples. Still, knowing where to find answers or who to ask can be challenging. That is why the Mitchell Museum of the American Indian has set out to share information about Native Americans with the public through Indige-Facts, its new traveling exhibit.
Indige-Facts features facts about contemporary Native Americans. The traveling exhibit covers topics ranging from accepted terminology and population size to the sovereign rights of Native people. Indige-Facts is a great way to educate yourself on contemporary Native life in the United States. This exhibition is on loan from the Mitchell Museum of the American Indian in Evanston and is brought to Isle a la Cache Museum through the generous support of The Nature Foundation of Will County.
Fee: Free! Age: All ages. No registration required.
Isle a la Cache Museum is an accessible facility. 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.

Holiday Hustle Open House & Ornament Hunt
2024-11-08 16:00 - 21:00 | Downtown Ottawa, 223 W. Madison, Ottawa, 61350, United States
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 with a glass hook carefully attached to the top. This unique experience is a spin-off of the summer hunt to encourage local shopping. While visiting the downtown area during the Holiday Hustle Open Houses on Friday evening be sure to be on the look-out for these one-of-a-kind treasures inside one of the participating businesses* and throughout (outdoor) downtown. Find one and it is yours to keep! For many people to enjoy these one-of-a-kind creations, we are kindly asking that you only claim one per family. Send us a selfie while you are hunting and once you hunt down an ornament, let us know by posting it on your social media and tagging @VisitOttawaIL and hash-tagging #ottawailmiddleofeverywhere #starvedrockhotglass Happy hunting! * Not to confuse Christmas merchandise the ornament will be displayed in a clear box with an insert noting this is part of the hunt.

Riverview Farmstead by Lantern Light
2024-11-08 16:30 - 18:00, 2024-11-08 18:30 - 20:00 | Riverview Farmstead Preserve, 111th & S. Book Rd., Naperville, IL, 60564, United States
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. A naturalist will share stories of life back then as we examine the inside of the 19th-century buildings and explore the grounds of the preserve.
Two sessions will be offered:
Session 1: 4:30-6 p.m.
Session 2: 6:30-8 p.m.
Fee: Free! Age: Ages 10 and older. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
Registration required by Wednesday, Nov. 6, by calling 815-722-9301 or online.
This program takes place outdoors on crushed limestone trails and indoors with some uneven surfaces. 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.

Morris Cruise Night Thanksgiving Cruise
2024-11-08 17:00 - 19:00 | Downtown Morris, 111 E. Washington St., Morris, IL, 60450, United States
We actively contribute to the community by supporting local charities through generous donations. Every year, we carefully select five charitable organizations to participate in Morris Cruise Night. These organizations are given the opportunity to sell 50/50 raffle tickets and operate concessions during the event. The selection process takes place in January, and detailed information and application forms can be found on our website’s Become a Beneficiary page.
In addition to supporting local charities, we are committed to promoting the local merchants of Morris. We exclusively feature local vendors, ensuring a unique and authentic experience for our visitors. We encourage cruisers and spectators to arrive early and explore the historic downtown area, which offers a wide range of shops and restaurants. Conveniently situated between the Illinois River and Interstate 80 at Exit 112, our location provides easy access for all.
The Morris Cruise Night Committee is comprised entirely of passionate volunteers who work throughout the year to ensure the success of each event. From pre-planning and organization, to setup, registration, parking, and traffic management, our team is dedicated to creating an enjoyable experience for participants and spectators alike. If you would like to join the Morris Cruise Night Committee and contribute to this remarkable organization, please do not hesitate to contact us. We always welcome new volunteers!
Our event proudly showcases a captivating array of cars, trucks, motorcycles, and more. From timeless classics to the latest models, from muscle cars to creatively customized rides, you will find a diverse show that is constantly evolving. Take a leisurely stroll through the streets, immersing yourself in the exciting atmosphere accented by delightful music. Morris Cruise Night is a fun and family-oriented event that guarantees a memorable experience for all.

Letters from Home
2024-11-08 19:00 - 21:00 | Central Intermediate School, 711 E. McKinley Road, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
Letters from Home is a USO style show, honoring artists like Frank Sinatra, the Andrews Sisters, Vera Lynn, the Nicholas Brothers, Creedence Clearwater Revival and many others.
High-energy singing by Founder Erinn Dearth and Dan Beckmann, will leave you feeling great about being human.
No two performances are the same, each show will be funny, historical, and inspirational.

1964 - The Tribute
2024-11-08 19:30 - 22:00 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
Since the early eighties, “1964”…The Tribute has been thrilling audiences around the globe by taking them on a journey through a quintessential moment in music history that will live forever.
Over twenty years of researching and performing have made “1964” masters of their craft. They are hailed by critics and fans alike as THE most authentic and endearing Beatles tribute….which has earned them the distinction from Rolling Stone magazine as the “Best Beatles Tribute on Earth”.
“1964” recreates an early ‘60s live Beatle concert with period instruments, clothing, hairstyles, and onstage banter with an accuracy that is unmatched.
Tickets: $59.50, $49.50, $39.50, $29.50 (additional fees may apply).

Rusty Halo Snowman Express 2024
2024-11-09 09:00 - 17:00, 2024-11-10 09:00 - 17:00 | Rusty Halo Snowman Express, 3277 E. 18th Road, Ottawa, IL, 61350, United States
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.
Grab a delicious, fresh-baked treat and stroll through their 1920 inspired town, including some very special Model T Fords.

Let's Talk Turkey
2024-11-09 10:30 - 11:30 | Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 S Walnut Ln., Channahon, IL, 60410, United States
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 makes a wild turkey different from a farm-raised turkey. The program will start indoors and end outdoors with some games and a short hike in search of the perfect wild turkey habitat.
Registration required by Friday, Nov. 8: 815-722-9470.
Four Rivers is an accessible facility. The outdoor activities and hike of less than 1 mile will take place on paved and natural surfaces over uneven terrain. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should submit a request online(Opens in a new window) no later than 48 hours before the program.

Indige-Facts
2024-11-10 10:00 - 16:00 | Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Road, Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States

Fat, Fur, Food & Fight
2024-11-10 10:30 - 12:30 | Thorn Creek Woods Nature Preserve, 247 Monee Rd., Park Forest, IL, 60466, United States
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 per person. Age: All ages.
Registration required by Nov. 4: 708-747-6320. Participants should be prepared to walk more than 1 mile outdoors on natural surface trails across uneven terrain.
Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should call 708-747-6320. (Photo courtesy of Joe Viola).

Living History Encounter: 18th Century Weaponry
2024-11-10 12:00 - 15:00 | Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Road, Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States
Hear history go boom as you learn about weaponry of the 18th century.
Alexander Hamilton’s artillery group will lead live demonstrations of various weapons, including muskets and a cannon.
This is a drop-in program; visit anytime between noon and 3 p.m.
Fee: Free! Age: All ages. No registration required.
Depending on the weather, this program will be offered indoors or outdoors. Isle a la Cache Museum is an accessible facility; outdoor activities may take place on 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.

Lost East Chicago & The Indiana Harbor
2024-11-10 15:00 - 16:30 | Calumet City Historical Society Center, 760 Wentworth, Calumet City, IL, 604009, United States
Explore the city of yesteryear.
East Chicago, Indiana, was a melting pot of several neighborhoods.
The Indiana Harbor neighborhood drew comparisons to Ellis Island as immigrants flocked from all over to work at its steel mills. Once home to more than a hundred nationalities, the “Workshop of America” excelled in metal and many other products. Despite the issues of pollution and political corruption, it earned the nickname “City of Champions,” winning state titles, cultivating high school rivalries, and producing greats like Gregg Popovich and Junior Bridgeman. Join a ward-winning journalist and author Joseph S. Pete as he revisits bygone landmarks like Washington and Roosevelt High Schools. Re-live memories of the local zoo, Inland Steel Christmas parties, Taco Joe’s, the Mademoiselle Shoppe, movie palaces, the iconic gym where Michael Jordan played his first Bulls game, and more. All of Joseph’s books available for sale and signing.

Nurse Blake Shock Advised Tour
2024-11-11 19:00 - 21:30 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
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 entertainer with a career pivot not even he could have expected!
This is a 16 years or older event.

Sensory Search
2024-11-12 10:00 - 16:00 | Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve, 27064 Dutton Rd., Beecher, 60401, United States
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 a tasty treat.
This is a drop-in program; visit anytime during open hours. Fee: Free! Age: All ages. No registration required.
Plum Creek Nature Center is an accessible facility; outdoor activities may take place on paved paths and natural surfaces across 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.

Lost & Found: Remnants of Savannas & Old Growth Forests
2024-11-12 10:00 - 16:00 | Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 S Walnut Ln., Channahon, IL, 60410, United States
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 restored savannas and pockets of old-growth forests, focusing attention on these now-rare landscapes. His images are often presented as constructed panoramas — several square images combined into one multiple-framed composition.
The Lost and Found exhibition is brought to you through the generous support of The Nature Foundation of Will County.
Fee: Free! Age: All ages. No registration required.
This exhibit is fully inclusive, welcoming individuals of all abilities. Four Rivers is an accessible facility. 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.

Menopause The Musical 2
2024-11-12 19:30 - 22:00 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
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 The Musical 2® continues to empower women dealing with life adjustments after 40 by embracing each other and the road ahead.

The State Ballet Company of Ukraine: The Sleeping Beauty
2024-11-13 19:00 - 21:30 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
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. Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of Classical Arts Entertainment, this production features lavish sets, hand-painted scenery, exquisite costumes designed by the most talented artists of Ukraine, and Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, which promises an unforgettable experience. Led by a cast of world-class dancers, the State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine’s artistry and flawless execution will transport you into a world of wonder and magic. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in a masterpiece of classical ballet. Book your tickets now and be enchanted by Sleeping Beauty!

Think & Drink: Singing Bird & the Importance of Native American Women in Illinois History
2024-11-14 19:00 - 20:00 | Gaylord Building, Lockport, 200 W. 8th Street, Lockport, IL, 60441, United States
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 Hononegah. She will explore their daily lives, including courting, marriage, and child-rearing, and discuss their roles in their husbands’ lives and Illinois history.
Attendees will get the chance handle traditional items, explore Native language and music, and even have the opportunity to play the drum. Kim’s engaging storytelling and cultural insights promise a memorable experience.
About the presenter:
Kim Sigafus McIver, a celebrated author and speaker, has traveled extensively, sharing her knowledge of Native culture and history. Don’t miss this chance to learn from an esteemed member of the Illinois Humanities Road Scholars Speakers Bureau.

Fall 2024 - I&M Canal Area Gathering
2024-11-15 09:30 - 15:30 | Gaylord Building, Lockport, 200 W. 8th Street, Lockport, IL, 60441, United States
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 Destinations Tourists in the Corridor: Who are they? Where are they? What do they like best? – Telling a More Diverse Story
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Lunch Buffet
1:00 PM – 1:45 PM Jeanne Schultz Angel, Associate Vice President, Naper Settlement Organizational Collaboration – How it works, its benefits, and potential pitfalls
1:45 PM – 2:00 PM Break
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM Callie Hawkins, CEO & Executive Director, President Lincoln’s Cottage Creating empathy and compassion in the commemoration of America’s 250th to foster connection and belonging for all Americans

The Photography of Mike Vaughn, David Horst & Jon McCutchan
2024-11-15 18:00 - 20:00 | NCI ARTworks Gallery, 400 5th St., Peru, IL, 61354, United States
Attend the opening reception for the month-long exhibition.

LaSalle's Celebration of Lights
2024-11-16 17:00 - 2025-01-01 21:00 | Rotary Park, 2837 E. 5th Rd., LaSalle, 61301, United States
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!
HOURS:

Weekly: 5PM-9PM
Week of Christmas: December 20-25th 5PM-10PM

The display is free, donations are welcome!

Made in Chicago
2024-11-16 19:00 - 20:30 | Lemont Historical Society
Join the Lemont Area Historical Society for an incredible presentation, “Made in Chicago,” by local historian Barb Barrett!
Discover the fascinating history of iconic Chicago-made products that helped shape not only our city but also the world! From timeless brands to little-known inventions, Barb will dive deep into Chicago’s legacy of innovation, craftsmanship, and cultural impact. You won’t want to miss it!
Date: November 16 Time: 7 pm Location: Lemont Area Historical Society, 306 Lemont St.
Admission is free for members, $5 for non-members.
Tickets available at the door.
Come celebrate the Windy City’s rich industrial past with us!
