Intro to Watercolor
2026-05-03 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Looking for a jumping off point to get into watercolor? In this beginner class, we will cover a variety of techniques to help get you started! We will be making multiple small paintings experimenting with masking, layering, wet-on-wet, and dry brushing techniques. All supplies will be provided but feel free to bring any you wish to experiment with. $45 per person. Preregistration required. BYOB friendly for 21 plus.

Painted Planter Workshop
2026-05-04 18:00 - 20:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Get ready to bring some personality to your plants in this playful Funny Face Planter Workshop! In this hands-on class, you’ll design and decorate your own one-of-a-kind planter featuring a quirky, expressive face—goofy, grumpy, glamorous, or anything in between. All materials provided. $40 per person. Pre-registration required. BYOB friendly for $21 plus!

Cyanotype Workshop
2026-05-07 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! $45 per person. Pre-registration required. BYOB friendly for 21 plus!!

Think & Drink: These ARE the Droids You're looking For!!!
2026-05-07 19:00 - 20:00 | Gaylord Building, Lockport, 200 W. 8th Street, Lockport, IL, 60441, United States
A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away… people imagined a future filled with intelligent machines, hovering drones, and robots that could think for themselves. As it turns out, that future may be closer than we think.
Join us for our next Think & Drink as researchers from Argonne National Laboratory explore the real-world science behind robots, drones, and artificial intelligence, and connect it to the futuristic technologies imagined in Star Wars. This engaging presentation will look at how today’s scientists are developing tools that once belonged purely to science fiction, and examine how pop culture continues to inspire real scientific discovery.
Whether you’re a lifelong Star Wars fan, a technology enthusiast, or just curious about the future, this promises to be a fascinating evening of science, storytelling, and big ideas.

Craft Night: Pressed Flower Workshop
2026-05-08 18:30 - 20:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
This laid-back workshop is all about slowing down, enjoying the process, and making something beautiful with your hands. Using delicate pressed flowers you’ll design your own set of dreamy, botanical candles. $45 per person. All materials provided. Pre-registration required. BYOB friendly for 21 plus!

Joliet Slammers Opening Night - Joliet Slammers vs. Washington Wild Things
2026-05-08 18:30 - 22:00 | Joliet Slammers Stadium, 1 Mayor Art Schultz Dr., Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
Joliet Slammers vs. Washington Wild Things Opening Night. Fireworks to follow game!!

My Rustic Roost
2026-05-09 08:00 - 10:00 | Hornbaker Gardens, 22937 County Rd. 1140 N, Princeton, IL, 61356, United States
At My Rustic Roost, we specialize in creating handcrafted birdhouses that combine quality craftsmanship with rustic charm, offering a safe and sturdy home for your backyard birds year after year. Each custom bird house is thoughtfully built to ensure lasting durability while adding warmth and character to any outdoor space. Admission price to be determined.

Thumbprint Treasures: Mother's Day Terracotta Pots
2026-05-09 10:00 - 12:00 | Hornbaker Gardens, 22937 County Rd. 1140 N, Princeton, IL, 61356, United States
Little hands make big memories in this special Mother’s Day kids workshop! Children will decorate terracotta pots using their own thumbprints to create colorful lady bugs and butterflies—each one a unique, handmade gift for Mom or a loved one. Finished pots will be filled with an annual and ready to take home and treasure. $10 per person.

Barn Babies
2026-05-09 10:00 - 16:00, 2026-05-10 10:00 - 16:00 | Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm, 17250 Weber Rd., Crest Hill, IL, 60403, United States
Get ready for an unforgettable day at Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm, where the Barn Babies event is back and better than ever! Bring your friends and family to get up close and personal with the most adorable baby animals you’ve ever seen! From pint-sized chicks to fluffy little lambs, playful baby goats and get ready to bask in farmyard bliss with your crew. Admission is $14.95 – $24.95.

Mother's Day Brunch
2026-05-09 11:00 - 13:00 | Hegeler Carus Mansion, 1307 7th St., LaSalle, 61301, United States
Give your mom an experience she won’t forget! Come to the Hegeler Carus Mansion and enjoy an indoor picnic brunch with your family. Each party will receive a basket full of delightful sandwiches from Bruce and Ollie’s, potato chips, and broccoli salad to share while sipping on tea and coffee inside one of the rooms on the Main Floor of the Mansion. Sugar cookies from Blue Eyed Rascal will be provided for dessert. Tables can be reserved for parties with 2-4 people. Larger parties can call the Mansion at (815)224-5892 to reserve a spot. Sandwich options: Italian Sub-Ham, Salami, provolone cheese and pepperoni with lettuce, tomatoes, onion and pepperoncini. Dressed with Italian dressing, mayo, oregano, salt and pepper. Chicken Salad Sandwich-Housemade chicken salad served on a butter croissant with lettuce and tomato. $65.00 per person.

A Garden Party to Celebrate the Women Who Raised You
2026-05-09 12:00 - 16:00, 2026-05-10 12:00 - 16:00 | Duncan Manor House & Gardens, 1002 Towanda-Barnes Rd., Towanda, IL, 61776, United States
Celebrate Mothers Day weekend with a relaxed garden gathering at Duncan Manor. A Garden Party for the Women Who Raised Us is a two-day celebration honoring mothers, daughters, grandmothers, and the women who shape our lives. Guests are invited to wander the historic grounds, enjoy live music, sip cocktails, browse a curated selection of local makers, and experience tarot and astrology readings inside The Meadows. Lawn games, croquet, and garden seating will invite guests to slow down and enjoy the beauty of spring at the manor. Throughout the weekend we will offer small-group guided tours of the historic Duncan Manor, allowing visitors to step inside the 1866 Italianate home and experience its story firsthand. Garden attire is encouraged florals, linen, hats, and vintage charm welcome. Bring your mother, your daughter, your best friend, or simply come celebrate the women who raised you. Grounds access is free. Historic house tours are $20 per person in limited small groups. Duncan Manor is a 501c3 Not for Profit Organization; All proceeds benefit the restoration and preservation of the house and its grounds.

Sound Healing in The Gardens
2026-05-09 13:00 - 14:00 | Hornbaker Gardens, 22937 County Rd. 1140 N, Princeton, IL, 61356, United States
Join Abby Zukowski from Unwind@Westclox for a deeply nourishing Sound Healing experience held outdoors, nestled within the serene beauty of Hornbaker Gardens in Princeton, Illinois. Surrounded by open land, blooming gardens, and the quiet wisdom of nature, this gathering invites you to slow down, soften, and return to your natural rhythm. Admission to be determined.

Mother's Day Make & take
2026-05-09 13:00 - 18:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Celebrate the mothers in your life with an afternoon of creativity! Our Mother’s Day Make + Take Market brings together a variety of fun, hands-on crafts guided by local artists. Whether you’re dropping in with mom for a special day together or sneaking away to make her something truly one-of-a-kind, you’ll leave with something beautiful and handmade. $15 – $35.

Brian Neumann
2026-05-09 14:00 - 17:00 | Clarks Run Antiques, 215 N. Division St., Utica, IL, 61373, United States
Enjoy an afternoon of entertainment with Brian Neumann!! Admission is free.

Mother's Day Appreciation at Hidden Lakes Trout Farm
2026-05-10 08:00 - 18:00 | Hidden Lakes Historic Trout Farm, 475 Trout Farm Road, Bolingbrook, IL, 60440, United States
Happy Mother’s Day, Mom! This day is for you. Get out of the house and unwind in the great outdoors by fishing or hiking at Hidden Lakes. Make sure to visit the Tackle Box Bait shop for a free giveaway. Fishing poles are also available to rent for free courtesy of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. State fishing rules and regulations apply.

Breakfast with the Birds
2026-05-10 08:30 - 10:00 | Four Rivers Environmental Education Center, 25055 S Walnut Ln., Channahon, IL, 60410, United States
Celebrate peak migration season with an unparalleled view of the Four Rivers bird feeders! View the resident birds and new spring arrivals indoors from the exhibit room and the Grand Hall. Enjoy provided warm beverages and muffins. Need more than a muffin? Bring your breakfast. A naturalist will give a brief talk about the visitors at the feeders and will be on hand to discuss all the birds that come and go throughout the morning. Registration required by Saturday, May 9: 815-722-9470.

River Road Trio
2026-05-10 14:00 - 17:00 | Clarks Run Antiques, 215 N. Division St., Utica, IL, 61373, United States
Enjoy a Sunday Funday at Clarks with accomplished musicians River Road Trio!! Free admission!

Lithuanian Opera
2026-05-10 15:00 - 18:00 | Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago St., Joliet, 60432, United States
Chicago Lithuanian Opera proudly presents its 70th Anniversary production of Friedrich von Flotow’s Martha (,,Marta) — a celebration of music, heritage, and generations united through song.
Performed by the Chicago Lithuanian Opera Chorus, together with renowned soloists from Lithuania and USA, the Opera Choreographic Group, and accompanied by Orchestra Regalis, this extraordinary production honors seven decades of unwavering dedication to preserving Lithuanian culture in the diaspora.
Tickets are $69 per person.

The Great Pages Circus
2026-05-11 08:00 - 17:00 | Bureau County Fairgrounds, 811 W. Peru St., Princeton, IL, 61356, United States
Bureau County Fairgrounds will host The Great Pages Circus. A family-friendly, traveling circus that features international acts, liberty animals, aerial, juggling, clown acts, and motorcycle mayhem.

The Great Page Circus
2026-05-12 08:00 - 17:00 | Bureau County Fairgrounds, 811 W. Peru St., Princeton, IL, 61356, United States

Needle Felting Workshop
2026-05-12 18:00 - 20:00 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
All materials are provided, and artist Jacqueline JoAnn will guide you step by step through the entire process, making this workshop approachable for beginners and enjoyable for experienced crafters alike. You’ll leave with charming, handmade felted pieces like mushrooms or cute animals perfect for décor or gifting. $45 per person. Registration required. BYOB friendly for 21 plus!

Still Life Speed Drawing
2026-05-13 19:00 - 20:30 | Open Space Art Gallery & Studios, 223 W. Madison St., Ottawa, 61350, United States
Like speed dating, but you leave with art instead of regrets.
Challenge your creativity and sharpen your observation skills in this dynamic still life speed drawing class! Artists will rotate through five unique still life setups, each offering a range of difficulty levels to keep things engaging. Bring your own supplies. 15 minute drawing intervals. $20 per person.

Sensory Night Hike
2026-05-14 19:45 - 21:00 | Hammel Woods, Black Rd. east of Rte 59, Shorewood, IL, 60404, United States
The moon is nearly new, the night is still and dark. It’s a magical time to explore the forest. Join a naturalist on a hike through the forest, test your senses and enjoy an after-hours evening in the preserve. Ages 7 and older. Registration required by Wednesday, May 13: 815-722-9470.

Ottawa's Third Friday Makers Market
2026-05-15 17:00 - 21:00 | Downtown Ottawa, 223 W. Madison, Ottawa, 61350, United States
Arts, culture, and entertainment come alive every Third Friday in downtown Ottawa! This free lively street festival features 40 handmade and homegrown makers, live music, food, and rotating themed experiences each month that keep every event fresh and exciting. Bring the whole family!
We offer a free kids play zone and a free craft activity each month, making it a fun and creative night for all ages!

Two-Headed Giant Commander
2026-05-15 18:00 - 23:00 | Critical Grind Board Game Cafe, 852 Sharp Dr., Shorewood, IL, 60404, United States
Two-Headed Giant Commander Night is a monthly Commander event in which players can earn promo cards by pairing up to battle other two-player teams. Each player has their own 100-card Commander deck, but they share a 60-point life pool. Play follows the normal Two-Headed Giant rules.
This event is a great way for new players to explore in-store play and for experienced players to introduce their friends to Magic. $30 per team includes 1 cafe beverage per person.

Grosse Point Lighthouse National Landmark
2026-05-15 18:30 - 20:00 | Chicago Maritime Museum, 1200 W. 35th St., Chicago, IL, 60609, United States
The life-saving beacon of Grosse Point Lighthouse in Evanston first sailed over the waters of Lake Michigan on March 1st, 1874, as the leading navigational aid into Chicago’s harbor. In this presentation, keeper Don Terras will discuss the history and adaptive use of Grosse Point Lighthouse operating as both a private aid on Lake Michigan waters and a small but important maritime museum under stewardship of the Lighthouse Park District of Evanston.
The May 15th presentation is $5 for members and $10 for non-members, and includes Bites & Beverages, the museum’s volunteer-operated hospitality service, which begins at 6:30. Seating is limited, so reserve your place today. Virtual seats are also available with a live connection to the Q&A that follows.

Mother's Day Roses Paint Night
2026-05-15 19:00 - 20:30 | SOL Art Solutions, 81 N. Chicago St., Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
Florals, brushes, and Mother’s Day vibes! A soft, elegant floral paint night. No experience is needed – just bring your mom and have a great time. $40 per person.

2026 Rooftop Concert Series - South Side Exiles
2026-05-15 19:00 - 21:00 | Joliet Area History Museum, 204 Ottawa St., Joliet, IL, 60432, United States
The JAHM Summer Music Series returns! Join us for live music and cold drinks at the only rooftop venue in downtown Joliet! Doors open at 6:15 pm.
Admission:
General Public $16
Members $14
