I & M Canal

Wilmington Christmas Parade
2024-11-30 17:00 - 17:30 (America/Chicago) | Downtown Wilmington, N. Water St., Wilmington, IL, 60481, United States
The Wilmington Christmas Parade will start downtown on North. Water Street.

Princeton Home for the Holidays Lightshow
2024-11-30 17:00 - 21:00, 2024-12-01 17:00 - 20:00 | Bureau County Fairgrounds, 811 W. Peru St., Princeton, IL, 61356, United States
The new Home for the Holiday Light Show is a family drive-thru experience featuring light displays and a few special guests to greet you.

Chicago Maritime Museum Holiday Party with Lee Murdock
2024-11-30 17:30 - 21:00 | Chicago Maritime Museum, 1200 W. 35th St., Chicago, IL, 60609, United States
Save Saturday, November 30, for a rousing afternoon and evening of magical music and storytelling by Lee Murdock at the Chicago Maritime Museum, 5:30 to 9:00 p.m.
This is an all-ages performance sure to ring in the season of holiday gatherings.
The party starts with admission to the Chicago Maritime Museum where all ages enjoy the two new interactive exhibits in the South Gallery, Bill Pinkney, Solo Circumnavigatorand the Lady Elgin Disaster. Docents will be on hand to enrich your experience.
A kids activity table will offer maritime-themed learning and amusement, as well as a holiday buffet and beverages, until the two-set concert begins at 7pm. Pre-order your holiday gifts from Lee at Lee Murdock | Musician and Storyteller; take advantage of free delivery at the party.

Polar Express
2024-11-30 19:00 - 21:00 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
Tickets are $5 each, and will be available day-of at the Rialto Square Theatre Box Office. All seating will be General Admission—first come, first serve. Cash and credit will be accepted for payment. Bar and concessions will be available for purchase.
Tom Hanks and director Robert Zemeckis (Forrest Gump; Cast Away) reunite for Polar Express, an inspiring adventure based on the beloved children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg. When a doubting young boy takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe.

Lost & Found: Four Rivers Story Trail
2024-12-01 08:00 - 16:30 | Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 S Walnut Ln., Channahon, IL, 60410, United States
Stroll down the Four Rivers Woodland Loop Trail and follow along with Winter Trees by Carole Gerber. On this forest adventure, you will visit the trees that have lost their leaves to learn their unique shapes and qualities. Illustrator Leslie Evans brings the story of these winter trees to life. Enjoy the story and a wintery stroll in nature. Stop inside the building to explore the hands-on Lost and Found exhibit during open facility hours. This story is appropriate for all ages.
Fee: Free! Age: All ages. No registration required.
The trail covers 0.4 miles of paved trail. 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.

Sauk Trail Gun Collectors Show
2024-12-01 08:30 - 15:00 | Bureau County Fairgrounds, 811 W. Peru St., Princeton, IL, 61356, United States
This Princeton gun show is held at Bureau County Fairgrounds and hosted by Sauk Trail Gun Collectors. All federal and local firearm laws and ordinances must be obeyed.
General Admission: $5.00
15 and Under: Free

Indige-Facts Traveling Exhibit
2024-12-01 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.

Chris Kringle Market - Ottawa
2024-12-01 11:00 - 16:00 | Jordan Block, 123 W. Main St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
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 as you meander through the Chris Kringle Market checking off your gift list with handmade gifts goodies & delectable bites. Snap an Insta-worthy “Elfie” on the way to Santa’s house.
This holiday season experience the Chris Kringle Market in beautiful Ottawa, Illinois, the middle of everywhere!

Old Fashioned Christmas in the Village
2024-12-01 11:00 - 17:00
Utica invites you to celebrate the start of the holiday season at Christmas in the Village!
SATURDAY HIGHLIGHTS
– Horse-drawn carriage rides
– Strolling barbershop quartet
– Free trolley service
– Children’s activities from 2-4:30pm at a NEW LOCATION the
Village Hall 248 W Canal St including cookie decorating, crafts,
games, snacks, a visit from Santa
– Christmas in the Canal vendor show
– Small Business Saturday specials at businesses throughout town
SUNDAY HIGHLIGHTS
– Santa Parade at 4:30 pm
– Horse-drawn carriage rides
– Strolling barbershop quartet
– Free trolley service
– Children’s activities at the Community Building, 2-4:30pm
– Christmas in the Canal vendor show
– Shopping, eating, drinking, and tasting specials at local businesses!

Meet a Beekeeper
2024-12-01 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. No registration required.
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 no later than 48 hours before the program.

Chicago Festival Ballet's Production of the Nutcracker
2024-12-01 14:00 - 17:00 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
This holiday favorite fairytale ballet is perfect for the entire family. The magical production features lavish costumes, exquisite sets, including a Christmas tree that grows before your eyes, and sensational choreography. Journey through the land of whirling snowflakes and visit the kingdom of the Sugar Plum Fairy. This is one holiday tradition you won’t want to miss.

Serenity Walk Under the New Moon
2024-12-01 17:30 - 19:00 | Little Red Schoolhouse
Take a 2-mile walk in the world’s largest Urban Night Sky Place.
Dependent upon trail conditions.
Ages 14 & up.

Lost & Found: Remnants of Savannas & Old Growth Forests
2024-12-03 09:00 - 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

Sensory Search
2024-12-03 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.

Wet Felting Workshop
2024-12-03 18:00 - 20:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Explore the Art of Creating with Wool!
Dive into the captivating world of wet felting with our hands-on workshop designed for beginners. In this class, you’ll discover the ancient craft of transforming raw wool fibers into beautiful felted creations using water, soap, and agitation. Led by experienced instructor Jacqueline JoAnn, you’ll learn fundamental wet felting techniques, including laying out fibers, adding embellishments, and shaping your piece. Throughout the session, you’ll have the opportunity to experiment with various colors, textures, and design elements to create a unique flat vessel. Whether you’re drawn to the tactile nature of wool or simply eager to explore a new creative outlet, this class offers a welcoming environment for all skill levels. By the end of the workshop, you’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for the versatility of wool and the satisfaction of crafting your own felted masterpiece.
Preregistration required All Ages Welcome BYOB for ages 21+.

A Midcentury Christmas
2024-12-04 10:30 - 14:30 | Jacob Henry Mansion, 20 S. Eastern, Joliet, IL, 60433, United States
Christmas in America in the mid 1900s meant aluminum trees, department store Santas, and iconic toys like slinkies and Easy Bake Ovens. Look back at this optimistic era in a fun lecture by historian Leslie Goddard using nostalgic images to explore its importance for holiday celebrations as we know them today.
Lunch Entree: Turkey served with stuffing and cranberry compote.
Cost: $50

Still Life Painting Workshop
2024-12-04 18:00 - 20:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Explore the timeless beauty of everyday objects in our still life painting class. Learn the fundamentals of composition, lighting, and color theory as you bring inanimate objects to life on canvas. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, discover the artistry in the ordinary and unleash your creativity in this enriching class.
All ages welcome Preregistration required. Limited seating. BYOB permitted to guests over 21.

Merry Little Soiree Featuring Nova Soul Quartet
2024-12-04 18:00 - 22:00 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
Enjoy a swanky Christmas party with a local favorite, Nova Soul!
Start the evening with cocktail hour (Cash Bar) and then be escorted to your table of two in the Esplanade where you will be served a charcuterie board and a bottle of wine from the local winery Bishops Hill while Nova Soul performs holiday music. You will also receive a keepsake Rialto Square Theatre keepsake.
Tickets: $70 (additional fees may apply)
Please enter at 15 E. Van Buren St. Reservations are required. Holiday or Business Casual dress code. Cash bar available.
Tickets are available at the Box Office only.
Reserve red or white wine for your table, ordered with ticket purchase.

Christmas on State Street
2024-12-05 10:30 - 14:30 | Jacob Henry Mansion, 20 S. Eastern, Joliet, IL, 60433, United States
For decades, Christmas in Chicago meant a trip to State Street to see the incredible Christmas displays in the department stores. Photographs, ads, and other memorabilia illustrate many beloved traditions like the animated window displays and the Christmas parade, told by historian Leslie Goddard.
Lunch Entree: Traditional pot roast served with mashed potatoes and gravy.
Cost: $50

Cyanotype Workshop
2024-12-05 18:00 - 20:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Embark on a mesmerizing journey into the world of cyanotype printing in our immersive Cyanotype Workshop!
Discover the magic of this historic photographic process that harnesses the power of light to create stunning blue-hued prints. Our knowledgeable instructor will guide you through each step of the process, from coating paper or fabric with light-sensitive chemicals to arranging and exposing objects or negatives to light. Learn how to create intricate designs or experiment with the spontaneity of found objects to produce unique and captivating compositions. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a mixed-media artist, or simply curious about alternative printing methods, this workshop offers a hands-on experience suitable for all levels.
All materials will be provided, just bring your artistic spirit and a sense of adventure!
Preregistration required 10 seats available BYOB for guests 21 and older.

The Oak Ridge Boys American Made Christmas Farewell Tour
2024-12-05 19:30 - 22:30 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
The extended show will feature a mixture of traditional and contemporary songs—religious, romantic, and fun holiday tunes—as well as some of the Grammy Award-winning quartet’s classic country-pop hits like Elvira, Bobbie Sue, and Thank God For Kids. This Oak Ridge Boys’ musical production with its beautiful visuals, falling snow, and Christmas trees is entertaining for adults and children of all ages and includes a visit from Santa Claus and songs from the group’s seven bestselling Christmas CDs. Through the years it has become a fun, family holiday tradition.
Doors open one hour before showtime.
Tickets: $79 | $69 | $59 (additional fees may apply).

Lighted Christmas Parade, Tree Lighting & Candy Cane Hunt
2024-12-06 10:00 - 21:00 | City of Princeton, Princeton, 61356, United States
Experience Christmas in Princeton!!

Oil Painting Workshop
2024-12-06 17:30 - 20:30 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Join Marjorie Myers, a local artist who has learned from Dana Jester, Steve Ross and Kevin Hill as she helps you step by step create a beautiful landscape oil painting.
All materials provided.
We will be painting on a 16×20 canvas.
Ages: All ages welcome | Instructor: Marjorie Myers (Margie Paints)
Location: Open Space Art Gallery and Studios Preregistration required.
https://www.osartstudios.com/classes
Limited seating.
BYOB permitted to guests over 21.

Christmas Candlelight Open House
2024-12-06 18:00 - 20:00 | The Reddick Mansion, 100 W. Lafayette St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Take a step back in time and experience a Victorian Christmas at the Reddick Mansion located at 100 W. Lafayette Street in Ottawa, Illinois.
Come any time between 6pm and 8pm and see the Jewel of Ottawa at her finest. Costumed docents will be scattered throughout the building to answer questions and relate the history of the Reddick Family and their home which once housed the original Reddick Library. After your tour, enjoy the holiday refreshments served on the first floor..
This year, your $10 fee will also include touring the home of Civil War General WHL Wallace, known as The Oaks located at 2101 Caton Road.
This historic home was recently purchased by Mr. and Mrs. Jay McCracken who have lovingly restored The Oaks back to its Victorian splendor.

Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland
2024-12-06 19:30 - 22:00 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
Step into a world of enchantment this holiday season with the all-new Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland, the perfect fusion of circus artistry and beloved holiday melodies.
Celebrating its 15th anniversary, the magical holiday extravaganza filled with music, marvels, and merriment will ignite the festive spirit in all who attend.
Featuring awe-inspiring acrobatics, gravity-defying aerial feats, and talented musicians and singers, Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland takes audiences on a spectacular journey into a world of music, cirque and wonder. With new costumes, music, and storylines, the all-new show blends the spellbinding grace and daredevil athleticism of today’s greatest circus performers with a musical mix of timeless seasonal favorites.

Breakfast with Santa & Santa's Workshop
2024-12-07 08:00 - 10:00 | Bureau County Fairgrounds, 811 W. Peru St., Princeton, IL, 61356, United States
Breakfast with Santa & Mrs. Claus! Enjoy Breakfast! And so much more!

LHS Athletic Boosters Craft Show
2024-12-07 09:00 - 15:00 | Lemont High School, 800 Porter St., Lemont, IL, 60439, United States
Lemont High School Athletic Boosters are excited to host their 2nd annual craft show Dec 7-8.
The show features over 200 vendors which includes holiday crafts, jewelry, woodcrafts, fashion, home decor, art, candles, beauty, and so much more.
Free pictures with Santa on Sunday from 12pm-2pm.
Location: Lemont HS, 800 Porter St, Main Gym & Field House.
Entrance at PAC doors, located on the southwest side of school near the parking garage.
Admission is $5. All proceeds benefit Lemont HS Athletics.

Breakfast with the Grinch
2024-12-07 10:00 - 11:00 | Mendota Elks Club 1212, 707 Indiana Ave., Mendota, IL, 61342, United States
Breakfast with the Grinch will be in the Mendota Elks Basement from 10am-11am.
Breakfast includes one donut, one juice box, and photo with the grinch.

Photos with Sankt Nikolaus
2024-12-07 10:00 - 14:00 | Hegeler Carus Mansion, 1307 7th St., LaSalle, 61301, United States
Sankt Nikolaus has confirmed he will make three special visits to the Mansion.
You and your family will have the opportunity to take a photo with him.
Allow 10-20 minutes for each photo session.
Friday, December 6th, 6pm to 8pm | Cocoa and Cookies with St. Nicholas (sold out)
Saturday, December 7th, 10am to 2pm
Saturday, December 21st, 10am to 2pm
$20 session – 5 digital photos emailed to Guardian (requires an email address).
