Birding for Beginners
2026-04-25 08:00 - 09:30 (America/Chicago) | Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 S Walnut Ln., Channahon, IL, 60410, United States
So many beautiful birds, where to begin!? Lets start with the basics and learn to use size, color and shape as tools to identify birds. Test out some new skills in the field as we hike through diverse bird habitats. Ages 12 or older. Participants younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required by Thursday, April 23: 815-722-9470. Previous experience and equipment are not required. Dress for the weather.This is an inclusive program, welcoming individuals of all abilities. This hike will be up to 1.5 miles on paved 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.

Nature Journaling for Adults at Isle a la Cache
2026-04-25 10:00 - 12:00 | Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Road, Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States
Do you like to draw, doodle or document? Do you like to be outside? Join us while we creatively connect to the outdoors! A naturalist will introduce nature journaling, lead guided exercises and answer questions. All skill levels welcome. Each participant will get their own nature journal as part of this program. Registration required by Thursday, April 23: 815-722-9301. We will be hiking about 0.2 miles over paved and natural trails. This program may require sitting on the ground. Mats will be provided. Isle a la Cache Museum is an accessible facility. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should mention their request when registering or submit a request online no later than 48 hours before the program.

Museum Campus Day
2026-04-25 10:00 - 16:00 | Isle a la Cache Museum, 501 E Romeo Road, Romeoville, IL, 60446, United States
Have you ever wondered whats going on in our 18th-century Traders Cabin or wanted to peek inside the Native American longhouse above the pollinator garden? This is your chance to explore all the buildings at Isle a la Cache Museum and learn about the French fur traders and Potawatomi who once called this area home. Drop in for self-guided exploration during normal operating hours.

Spring Repotting Day
2026-04-25 11:00 - 15:00 | Internode – Greenery & Home, 81 N, Chicago St., Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
Do you want to repot your houseplants but feel a little intimidated? Have no fear…bring your plant to Internode and have it repotted by our plant experts starting at just $10! You’ll get to see each step of the process and have your questions answered, so you can tackle even the largest root ball with confidence!

LCHS Antiquin' Weekend
2026-04-25 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-04-26 11:00 - 17:00 | LCHS Canal Market, 210 Clark St., Utica, 61373, United States
Join the LCHS Canal Market at our 6th Annual Antiquin’ Weekend in the quaint Village of North Utica!!
LCHS Canal Market will host Vintage and Antique Vendors with their unique treasures. Don’t forget to check out Starved Rock Country’s other wonderful Antique stores including Clarks Run Antiques!!

These Books Are Made for Walking
2026-04-25 13:00 - 14:00 | Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 S Walnut Ln., Channahon, IL, 60410, United States
Four Rivers Environmental Education Center and Three Rivers Public Library District are collaborating again! Join us to discuss novels inspired by nature while we stroll around Four Rivers. This months book is The Overstory by Richard Powers. Books will be available at Three Rivers Public Library Districts Channahon branch one month prior to the event. Ages 14 or older. Participants younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required by Friday, April 24: 815-722-9470. This walk will be no longer than 1 mile and take place on a paved trail. This is an inclusive program, welcoming individuals of all abilities. 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.

2026 Sweet Stroll: Sweet Escape Carnival
2026-04-25 13:00 - 18:00 | Downtown Utica, Downtown Utica, North Utica, IL, 61373, United States
Step right up and escape into a world of sweets, games, and carnival magic at Utica Sweet Stroll 2026: The Sweet Escape Carnival!
For one unforgettable day, downtown Utica transforms into a sweet-themed carnival filled with classic midway games, exciting attractions, delicious tastings, and family-friendly fun. Test your skills at traditional carnival favorites like Dunk the Baker, ring toss, Down a Clown, fish in a bowl, tic tac toe, Boom Blasters, and more carnival-style games scattered throughout the stroll. Dig for hidden treasures at the exciting Gem Mining experience, where kids and adults alike can sift through sand to discover colorful stones and sparkling surprises. Reach new heights on our rock climbing wall — the main attraction of the carnival — inspired by Utica’s adventurous spirit and its connection to nearby Starved Rock State Park. Get hands-on with friendly alpacas and goats in our petting area, capture the fun at the Sweet Stroll photo booth, and enjoy sweet treats, shopping, and surprises from participating local businesses along the way. With an open-house stroll format, guests can explore the carnival and downtown Utica at their own pace, making it the perfect day for families, friends, and visitors of all ages.
Please note this is a rain or shine event. Tickets are $27.00 per person and are non-refundable.

Darrel Data
2026-04-25 14:00 - 17:00 | Clarks Run Antiques, 215 N. Division St., Utica, IL, 61373, United States
Enjoy an afternoon of entertainment with Darrell Data. Admission is free.

Earth Day Festival
2026-04-25 14:00 - 18:00 | Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 419 Trout Farm Road, Bolingbrook, IL, 60440, United States
Come celebrate Earth Day at Hidden Oaks! Enjoy music, free henna, slacklining and demonstrations from local artisans while discovering fun ways to shrink your carbon footprint by going green. Meet the bees that make our honey, visit our resident animals, shop our green vendors and be sure to make your own hotdog and smores at the campfire. Visitors can explore musical instruments courtesy of Bach to Rock or create a nature craft to take home all while you snag a free giveaway.

MJ Live - Michael Jackson Tribute Concert
2026-04-25 19:30 - 22:00 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
Jalles moved to the United States from Brazil at the age of 16, to fulfill his dreams as a professional dancer in Las Vegas. At the age of 21 he began a seven year residency as a performer, dancer and percussionist at Studio 54 Nightclub at the MGM Hotel & Casino. Jalles Franca is the only Michael Jackson impersonator with a star on the Las Vegas Walk of Fame.
A long time fan of the ‘King Of Pop,’ Michael Jackson, Jalles began imitating the star’s signature dance moves during his routines at Studio 54 and various other venues. Soon after the passing of his idol, Jalles began dedicating his talents to pay tribute to the late Superstar. Jalles has won numerous contests for “Best Michael Jackson Impersonator,” Best overall “look” and “Best Moonwalk.” Billing himself as “MJ THE LEGEND” Jalles has thrilled audiences at private and corporate events, festivals and tribute shows throughout Las Vegas, Hollywood, Dubai and more.

Spring Into Action
2026-04-26 09:00 - 11:00 | Rock Run Rookery Preserve, 23065 S. Youngs Rd., Joliet, 60436, United States
Get outside and make a difference! Join like-minded people in cleaning up the banks of the Des Plaines River. It will be a morning of invigorating work and enthusiasm, and you are sure to leave with a sense of great accomplishment! Ages 14 and older. Participants younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required by Friday, April 24: 815-722-9470. Dress for the weather and for getting dirty. Waterproof footwear and gloves are highly recommended. Cleanup instructions and safety equipment will be provided on the day of the event. Due to the proximity to water and the unpredictable nature of the trash we will be collecting, this cleanup is limited to individuals 14 and older. Cleanup areas are off trail and require walking through rough, uneven terrain. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this workday should mention their request when registering or submit a request online no later than 48 hours before the workday.

Defying Gravi-Tea Party
2026-04-26 11:00 - 13:00 | Prairie Bluff Golf Club, 19433 Renwick Rd., Crest Hill, IL, 60402, United States
Calling all Elphabas and Glindas… You won’t want to miss this spellbinding afternoon inspired by Wicked! Sip tea, enjoy sweet treats, and a performance. Celebrate friendship and fun in true Emerald City style. Costumes are encouraged!
All guests must be registered. Admission $30 – $35. Tables seat up to 8 – list a table mate’s last name to sit together.

Watercolor Resist Postcard
2026-04-26 13:30 - 15:30 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Postcards from the Edge, stamps included. Bring your favorite landscape snapshots or use ours for inspiration. Create postcardsize scenic watercolors using homemade inks and a number of resist processes to make them really pop! Take home as many postcards as you can create! Mail them to friends!
$50 all materials included. Pre-registration required. BYOB friendly for guests 21 plus.

Lemont Authors' Panel
2026-04-26 14:00 - 16:00 | The Old Stone Church, 306 Lemont Street, Lemont, IL, 60439, United States
Don’t forget to join us for the Lemont Five Author History Panel at the Lemont Historical Society! Weve gathered a fantastic panel of local writers to discuss how the rich history of Lemont has shaped their stories and their writing process. Whether you’re into historical mysteries, middle-grade adventures, or contemporary fiction, theres something for everyone. Stay after the discussion to meet the authors and grab signed copies of their books! $5 for non-members and free for members. Tickets available on Eventbrite or at the door.
The Panel will take questions from the audience and books will be available for sale. Plan to come early and stay late to chat with the writers in person.

Live From Laurel Canyon
2026-04-27 19:00 - 22:00 | Pontiac Township High School, 1100 Indiana Ave, Pontiac, 61764, United States
Mark your calendars and join the Livingston County Concert Association for the final concert of the season! They will be featuring the folk-rock band, Live from Laurel Canyon.

Wet Felt Light
2026-04-28 18:00 - 20:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Create your own cozy, one-of-a-kind hanging light in this hands-on wet felting class! Perfect for both beginners and experienced makers, this workshop will guide you through the process of transforming soft wool fibers into a beautiful, durable felted lampshade.
You’ll learn the fundamentals of wet felting, including fiber layout, layering, and shaping, while exploring texture, color blending, and design techniques to make your piece uniquely yours. By the end of the class, you’ll have a finished felted lampshade ready to pair with the included hanging light fixture bringing warmth and handmade charm into your space.
All materials are provided, and no prior experience is necessary. Whether you’re trying felting for the first time or looking to expand your skills, this class offers a fun, creative environment to experiment and create something truly special.
$65 per person. Pre-registration required. BYOB for guests 21 plus.

Last & First: Mid-1800s Currency Issued by a Grundy County Bank in Morris, Illinois
2026-04-28 19:00 - 20:30 | Wesley Center, 111 W. North St., Morris, IL, United States
Morris Illinois was a prime spot for commerce in the mid 1800s. The Illinois & Michigan Canal was located to the south of town, and new railroad tracks to the north. In the early 1860s the country and economy were going through major changes due to the Civil War. The federal governments banking system collapsed in 1836 leaving citizens wondering what was on the economic horizon. Gold, silver, and copper coinage were in short supply. The federal paper currency was not much better. Grundy County in general, and Morris in particular, was feeling the same pinch. A local Morris bank issued state backed paper currency for a short time until Abraham Lincoln and the Secretary of the Treasury came up with a plan for the country – The National Bank Act of 1863. Now a new bank in Morris could issue National Bank notes backed by bonds to keep the Grundy County economy moving. See and hear the stories surrounding the last of the obsolete currency, and the first of the National Bank currency issued in Grundy County. Presented by Dale Lukanich. Admission is free.

Open Mic Poetry Night Hosted by Jamie Neely
2026-04-29 19:00 - 20:30 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Join us for this free event every last Wednesday of the month! All types of writing welcome. Hosted By Jamie Neely. BYOB welcome.

First Time Fishing
2026-04-30 17:30 - 19:30 | Hidden Lakes Historic Trout Farm, 475 Trout Farm Road, Bolingbrook, IL, 60440, United States
Theres no time like the present to learn a new skill! Learn fishing basics, such as putting tackle on the pole and baiting the hook. Practice casting and gain hands-on experience while fishing along the shoreline with the guidance of an instructor. All materials are provided, including pole, tackle and bait. Just bring yourself! $5 per learner. Registration required by Wednesday, April 29: 815-722-4121. Hidden Lakes Trout Farm has paved accessible trails from the parking lot. Shoreline fishing takes place on natural surfaces over uneven terrain. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should mention their request when registering or submit a request online no later than 48 hours before the program.

Sounds on 66
2026-05-01 16:00 - 19:30 | Joliet City Center, 302 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
Join us in the heart of downtown Joliet to kick off the Route 66 Red Carpet Corridor weekend. We are proud to debut this celebration at the brand-new City Square, transforming our downtown into a vibrant stage for historic sound and cars to commemorate 100 years of Route 66. Free admission.

Talk Derby To Me
2026-05-01 16:00 - 21:00 | Downtown Morris, 111 E. Washington St., Morris, IL, 60450, United States
It’s time to TALK DERBY TO ME! Gallop to Morris for the fun!! Run for the Roses!! Trifecta of Prizes! Winner’s Circle After Party!!
Grab your girls, throw on your cutest hat, and get ready for a night out you don’t want to miss. Shop, dine, and explore downtown Morris! Earn raffle tickets for every $10 you spend (We’re talking LOTS of chances to win). Enter to win amazing prize baskets + MRRA gift card.

Show up in your best Derby look for the Hat Contest! End the night at the After Party at Keg Grove!
Downtown will be decorated, businesses will have specials, and the energy is going to be unmatched!

Cars & Guitars - Sounds on 66
2026-05-01 17:00 - 20:00 | Joliet City Center, 302 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
Join the Illinois Rock & Roll Museum on Route 66 as we kick off the Cars & Guitars Summer Season! We will be at our new location, Downtown Joliet City Square, to kick off the Route 66 Red Carpet Corridor Weekend! Experience the evolution of the automobile up and down Chicago Street for a premier auto show! The first 75 cars receive a Cars & Guitars Dash Plaque.

Wine Glass Painting
2026-05-01 18:00 - 19:30 | Bronkberry Farms, 18061 Bronk Rd., Plainfield, IL, 60586, United States
A BYOB creative night at Handmade Happy Hour!!
Sip, paint, and unwind at our Paint Your Own Wine Glass Workshop, part of our Handmade Happy Hour series. This BYOB, adults-only craft night on the farm invites you to design a custom wine glass that’s as fun, bold, or elegant as you’d like. $40 per person.

Tom Papa: Grateful Bread Tour
2026-05-01 19:00 - 21:30 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
The comedian has had 6 highly rated stand-up specials including his most recent Netflix stand-up special, Home Free, which premiered on October 29th. Filmed at the Warner Theatre in Washington, D.C., Tom holds nothing back, as his kids are finally out of the house and it’s just him, his wife and a bunch of animals ready to return to their glory days. Tom has seen a lot over the years, from close calls with a pachinko ball to late night 7-Eleven runs, and he’s sharing all his thoughts as he parties on into the next stage of life. The special trended in the Top 10 TV Shows the first week of release. Papa’s other specials include What A Day!, You’re Doing Great!, Human Mule, Freaked Out and Tom Papa Live in New York City, two of which were directed by Rob Zombie.

Midwest Morel Fest & Burger Bash
2026-05-02 07:30 - 13:00 | Washington Square Park, 101 E. Lafayette St., Ottawa, Illinois, 61350
It’s all part of a weekend that honors Tom Nauman’s legacy and the Midwest way of life: good people, great food, and plenty of laughter!!
Join us at Washington Park, where you can shop and peruse a large Botanical Market and Morel Market featuring everything… You guessed it… MUSHROOMS! We’ll even host MOREL UNIVERSITY, where you’ll learn to identify morels, so you know exactly what to look for on your guided hunt. (Please note: The educational hunt has limited availability.)
Schedule:

7:30 am: Hunt and Morel Market sign-in

8-8:30 am: Morel University

8:45 am: Busses depart for guided hunt

9 am-3 pm: Morel Market – morel mushrooms only

8 am-3 pm: Vendor Market

9 am-11:30 am: Guided Hunt

Noon: Burger Bash

12:30 pm: Awards

Repot & Refresh: A Houseplant Styling Bar
2026-05-02 10:00 - 14:00 | Hornbaker Gardens, 22937 County Rd. 1140 N, Princeton, IL, 61356, United States
Refresh your indoor plants at our Houseplant Restyling Bar! Browse a curated selection of houseplants, containers, and soil available for purchase and create a freshly styled plant ready for your home. You can also bring your own plant and/or container and we will provide fresh soil based on your plant’s needs. Our team will be on hand to offer tips on pairing plants with pots, proper repotting techniques, and styling ideas to help your houseplants thrive and look their best. Whether you’re upgrading a favorite plant or starting something new, this relaxed, drop-in experience is a fun way to give your indoor space a fresh update. $10 per person.

2026 Swinging Bridges Art Festival & Red Carpet Corridor
2026-05-02 10:00 - 19:00 | Downtown Pontiac, Downtown, Pontiac, 61764, United States
Join us for the 18th Annual Red Carpet Corridor Festival on Saturday, May 2nd and Sunday, May 3rd as we celebrate 100 miles of Route 66 through Illinois! This exciting event spans 14 communities, each hosting their own unique activities and attractions.
Pontiac is packed with exciting events you won’t want to miss! The celebration features the Swinging Bridges Art Festival, hosted by the Pontiac Community Art Center. During the festival, two blocks of Madison Street will be closed to traffic and filled with local artists and vendors creating and showcasing their work, live music performances, and more.
In celebration of the Route 66 Centennial, we’ll also unveil our newly constructed Centennial Plaza this weekend. The plaza is located behind the Historic Museum Complex and next to the iconic Route 66 shield mural.
Be sure to check out the Skoolie Swarm as well – a gathering of 30 to 50 converted vans, buses, and other unique vehicles taking over Downtown Pontiac for the entire weekend. This Route 66 Swarm honors the legacy of Route 66 artist Bob Waldmire and adds a vibrant, one-of-a-kind element to the festivities.

Route 66 Skoolie Swarm
2026-05-02 10:00 - 19:00 | Downtown Pontiac, Downtown, Pontiac, 61764, United States
Join us in Downtown Pontiac for the first-ever Skoolie Swarm during Red Carpet Corridor Weekend. In honor of the beloved Route 66 artist Bob Waldmire and his Road Yacht, what better way to celebrate the Route 66 Centennial than with a gathering of conversion vehicles? Explore 50+ unique rigs displayed throughout downtown Pontiac while enjoying the Red-Carpet Corridor and Swinging Bridges Art Festival, all happening simultaneously. This free, walkable event invites you to take photos, meet the vehicle owners, and tour their one-of-a-kind homes on wheels.

Route 66 Spring Social
2026-05-02 12:00 - 16:00 | Duncan Manor House & Gardens, 1002 Towanda-Barnes Rd., Towanda, IL, 61776, United States
Join us during the annual Red Carpet Corridor Festival as Duncan Manor opens its grounds for a lively spring weekend just steps off historic Route 66. Visitors are invited to wander the property, explore a curated outdoor vendor market, enjoy drinks and food from local vendors, and soak in the energy of one of the most celebrated travel weekends along the Mother Road. Throughout the day we will also be offering small-group guided tours of the historic 1866 Duncan Manor, where guests can step inside the Italianate home and hear the story of its restoration and the generations of life that have unfolded within its walls. Whether you’re traveling the Route 66 corridor or visiting from nearby Bloomington-Normal, we invite you to stop by, explore the grounds, and experience a piece of Towanda’s history. Grounds access is free. Historic house tours are $20 and offered in limited small groups throughout the day. Duncan Manor is a 501c3 Not for Profit Organization. A ll proceeds benefit the restoration and preservation of the house and its grounds.
