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Archive for the ‘Resident Spotlights’ Category

Living Wright

Posted in Quintessential Barrington, Real Estate, Resident Spotlights on March 15, 2026| Leave a Comment »

Joyce and David McArdle were recognized for their restoration of the Louis B. Fredrick House with the Frank Lloyd Wright Conservancy Spirit Award

Fredrick House south view

Story By Lisa Stamos | Quintessential Barrington
Images By Linda M. Barrett Photography

Barrington Hills is home to one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s final privately-owned home commissions before his death in April 1959, and likely the only site there he visited in person. Affluent interior designer Louis B. Fredrick owned a 10-acre property west of the Village of Barrington for which Wright was hired. There was tension, as Fredrick rejected the first two house designs by Wright. Then America’s foremost architect was dropped, another architect hired, and then Wright was brought back to design and build the house, named after its first owner.

Wright’s organic approach to architectural design shifted to Usonian after his Prairie style and Japanese influences. Usonian principles feature integration into the land, use of natural materials, strong horizontal lines, and long bands of windows to capture changing light. His genius was the ability to study geological contours, vegetation, light, wind, and other elements and perfectly place the building so that it appears to grow from the site, rather than sit upon it.

The Fredrick House completion in 1957 is synonymous with the formation of the Village of Barrington Hills, which happened the same year. Both efforts recognize the importance of preserving natural settings and a reverence for the outdoors. Forward-thinking residents forming the 29-sq. mile Village of Barrington Hills incorporated with zoning that preserved open space and offered room for their equestrian and outdoor sporting lifestyles as the post-war rush to develop suburbs was underway.

A Heart for Preservation

Joyce and David McArdle met one summer while he was painting walls at his father’s Pheasant Run Resort. David grew up watching his father Edward’s vision prosper as the iconic destination in their hometown of St. Charles, Illinois. Joyce was a young teenager visiting the resort from Northwest Chicago. The rest is a family history of envisioning, developing, and preserving properties—both commercial, residential, and of note, Frank Lloyd Wright’s houses.

While dating, the couple often visited Frank Lloyd Wright houses in Oak Park and River Forest. Once married and ready to start a family, they learned that the 1901 Frank (F.B.) Henderson House was for sale in Elmhurst. Both being attorneys working for their property development firm, the two got to work restoring the home while there, from 1988 to 1994.

“In 1994, we commissioned E. Fay Jones to design and build a home for us. [Jones was a Wright protégé.] Since Fay did not design too many homes, we flew out to meet him in Arkansas. He was intrigued by the fact that we wanted to design and build a home with him after we lived in a Wright home. The home in Barrington Hills took two years to build, and we lived there for 20 years,” David said. Daughters Abigail and Amelia were raised there. The equestrian lifestyle influence evolved to developing Old Barrington Estates and successful equestrian professions for both women, who spend time in Wellington, Florida.

View the QB feature here or download a PDF copy here.

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Deferred, not defeated: Wreaths Across America hosted Dec. 15 in Barrington

Posted in Resident Spotlights, Signal Hill NSDAR, The Greatest Generation on December 20, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Photo courtesy Bob Lee

Submitted by Jacqueline Marcus

Snow cover and single-digit temperatures conspired to postpone this year’s Wreaths Across America Day at Evergreen Cemetery in Barrington, but members of the Signal Hill Chapter, NSDAR in Barrington were undaunted in their mission to honor all veterans there.

A much smaller, but equally enthusiastic group of volunteers arrived at noon on Monday, Dec. 15, to remember, honor and teach about the veterans interred at Evergreen. As DAR Daughters read 857 veterans’ names aloud, wreaths were secured along the cemetery’s main roadways in a modified wreath laying.

Signal Hill Chapter acknowledges the community members, Barrington firefighters, and especially those veterans who volunteered to ensure that U.S. military service was commemorated.

The chapter thanks to those corporate and group sponsors who contributed to the many wreaths needed: Palatine American Legion Post 690, UBS Financial, Veterans of Lake Barrington Shores, MotorWerks of Barrington, Leopardo Foundation, and Allstate Foundation. The chapter gives acknowledgments to recycling partners Jewel-Osco of Barrington and Groot Waste Management, and thanks the citizens of Barrington and families of Veterans at Evergreen for their personal wreath sponsorships.

Signal Hill Daughters also salute the management and grounds crew of Evergreen Cemetery for their endless patience, flexibility and innovation in staging Wreaths Across America Day for the past seven years.

Wreaths Across America Day will be held at Evergreen Cemetery next year on Dec. 19, 2026.

The Signal Hill Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution was chartered in Barrington in 1972. NSDAR is a volunteer women’s service organization headquartered in Washington, DC. Membership in NSDAR is open to any woman aged 18 and over who can prove lineal descent from a patriot of the American Revolution. For more information, visit Signalhilldar.com.

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Things to do Dec. 19-25: Light shows, ‘The Nutcracker,’ Christmas concerts, holiday events and more

Posted in Entertainment, Fundraisers, Topics Of Interest on December 18, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Long Grove’s Vintage Holidays continues through Wednesday, Dec. 24, in downtown Long Grove. | Courtesy of Historic Downtown Long Grove Business Association

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Starts before Friday

Long Grove Vintage Holidays: Through Wednesday, Dec. 24, in downtown Long Grove. Horse-drawn carriage rides on weekends, Santa in the village, caroling around town and more. Most events are free; reservations for carriage rides are $15 per seat. longgrove.org/festival/holiday-season

The Hawthorn Christmas Experience: Through Wednesday, Dec. 24, on the Lower Level, Macy’s Court, at Hawthorn, 122 Hawthorn Center, Vernon Hills. Visit Santa in a festive holiday setting. Reservations are encouraged; guests who book in advance receive a free personalized phone call from Santa before their visit. Santa photo packages start at $39.99. visithawthorn.com.

Goebbert’s Drive-Thru Light Show: 5-9 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays and 5-9:30 p.m. Fridays through Sundays through Jan. 4 at Goebbert’s Farm, 42W813 Reinking Road, Pingree Grove. Open 5-9:30 p.m. Dec. 22-25. The apple orchard is transformed into a glowing winter wonderland filled with synchronized lights, holiday scenes and festive music. Guests remain in their vehicles for the entire drive-thru, typically lasting 12-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Tickets: goebberts.com.

Larsen’s Light Show: 5-9 p.m. Tuesdays through Thursdays and 5-9:30 p.m. Fridays through Sundays through Jan. 4 at Goebbert’s Farm, 42W813 Reinking Road, Pingree Grove. Open 5-9:30 p.m. Dec. 22-25. A fully programmed, 30-minute show with synchronized lights, strobes, spark machines, fog effects and real fire pyro elements. Every song is choreographed to bring the entire house to life. Guests remain in their vehicles for the entire show. New this year, an outdoor viewing experience where you can watch multiple shows from the new viewing pavilions. This ticket includes character appearances at Candy Cane Lane. Combo tickets for Goebbert’s Drive-Thru Light Show available on select nights. $25-$100 per vehicle. Limited access per time slot. Tickets: goebberts.com/light-show.

Joffrey Ballet presents “The Nutcracker”: 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, Dec. 17-18; 2 and 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 19-20 and 26-27; 1 and 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21; 2 and 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 23; 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24; and 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 28, at the Lyric Opera House, 20 N. Wacker Drive, Chicago. Tony Award-winning Christopher Wheeldon’s kaleidoscopic reimagining of “The Nutcracker” set amid the spectacle of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. Ticket prices vary by day and start at $60. joffrey.org

Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s Holiday Magic: 3-9 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, Dec. 18-21, and Friday, Dec. 26, through Sunday, Jan. 4, at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. Lights festival featuring 3.5 million twinkling LED lights, a giant light-up maze, interactive light displays, light tunnels, a twinkling star walk-through experience, a Holiday Dolphin Show, Santa visits on select nights and a holiday market. $20.95-$34.95. brookfieldzoo.org/HolidayMagic.

“A Christmas Carol”: 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Dec. 18-19; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20; 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21; and 7:30 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, Dec. 23-24, at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. Charles Dickens’ tale of redemption, generosity and hope. $20-$49. metropolisarts.com.

Friday, Dec. 19

“A Holly Jolly Christmas”: 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19, at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg. Zach Stevenson channels the rockabilly spirit of Buddy Holly in a concert featuring classic holiday tunes, golden oldies and The Lovettes. $55-$60. prairiecenter.org.

Santa’s Village Magical Christmas Drive-Thru: 5-9 p.m. Fridays through Tuesdays, Dec. 19-30, at 601 Dundee Ave., East Dundee. See the light displays synchronized to holiday music from your car. Visit with Santa at the end. $29.99 per vehicle, $5 discount for season-pass holders. (847) 426-6751 or santasvillagedundee.com.

Engage Dance Theatre’s “Nutcracker”: 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19 (sensory-friendly) and noon and 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 20-21, at the Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. $20-$32. rauecenter.org

Family Gingerbread House Decorating: 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19, at the Arlington Heights Historical Museum, 110 W. Fremont St., Arlington Heights. Build and decorate a gingerbread house. Materials provided. $36 per family; $26 for historical society members. ahpd.org/event/family-gingerbread-house-decorating

“Let It Snow” Showcase: 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19, and 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, at the McHenry County College Planetarium, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake. Animated show featuring seasonal music by Frank Sinatra, Chuck Berry, Burl Ives, Brenda Lee and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. $17.85, $12.51 for MCC students. Register: mchenry.edu/events

Millennium Park Holiday Sing-Alongs: 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19, at Millennium Park, Wrigley Square, 201 E. Randolph St., Chicago. Free. chicago.gov.

Ballet Chicago’s “The Nutcracker”: 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19; 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20; and 1 and 5 p.m. (sensory-friendly) Sunday, Dec. 21, at Harris Theater, 205 E. Randolph Drive, Chicago. harristheaterchicago.org.

The Chicago Sinfonietta will perform “Holidays of Hope” Friday, Dec. 19, at North Central College’s Wentz Concert Hall in Naperville. | Courtesy of Chicago Sinfonietta

Chicago Sinfonietta’s “Holidays of Hope”: 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19, at Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E. Chicago Ave., Naperville, and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, at Mandel Hall, 1131 E. 57th St., Hyde Park, Chicago. Conducted by Kedrick Armstrong, Chicago Sinfonietta performs Duke Ellington’s swinging take on “The Nutcracker,” transforming Tchaikovsky’s classic into a big-band celebration, along with a global program featuring a Hanukkah symphony, a piece with Latin American flair, favorites like “Sleigh Ride” and a sing-along. Before the concert, sip hot cocoa and craft a luminaria. $20-$70. chicagosinfonietta.org/holidays-of-hope.

Judith Svalander Ballet School’s “The Nutcracker”: 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19; 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20; and 2 and 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock. $25-$51. woodstockoperahouse.com.

“Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol”: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19; 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20; and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, at Lifeline Theater, 6912 N. Glenwood Ave., Chicago. Tom Mula’s production is staged as a one-man show through the eyes of the shackled Jacob Marley, as performed by Phil Timberlake. $30-$55. lifelinetheatre.com.

Saturday, Dec. 20

Breakfast With Santa: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, at the Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main St., St. Charles. Dine on breakfast in Rock ‘N Ravioli in the lobby before entering the theater to visit Santa. Plus, festive music and meet holiday characters. Each child will receive a gift. $40 for 12 and older and $30 for kids 2-11. Register: oshows.com.

Happy Holiday Railway: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 20-21, and 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 22, at Illinois Railway Museum, 7000 Olson Road, Union. Take a 40-minute train ride through the countryside with Santa featuring an animated light show and holiday songs. Treats and hot chocolate will be served. Quiet car #7658 will feature traditional lights and decorations. Also, see the holiday lights throughout the campus, including the animated snowplow display and holiday light tour in Barn 6, available for viewing day or night. Rides on historic Chicago streetcars included. Trips at 11:30 a.m., 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, 4, 5 and 6 p.m. Arrive 30 minutes before. $25. Tickets: irm.org/event/happy-holiday-railway.

“The Christmas Star” Showcase: 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, at the McHenry County College Planetarium, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake. Discussion of potential natural explanations for the Star of Bethlehem and common modern-day misconceptions. $17.85, $12.51 MCC students. Register: mchenry.edu/events

Randall Oaks Zoo Winterfest: Noon to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 20-21, at Randall Oaks Zoo, 1180 N. Randall Road, West Dundee. Holiday lights, community-decorated trees, Santa visits, bonfire and visit the animals in the new World of Wonders heated animal building. $6, free for kids 1 and younger and U.S. military with ID. dtpd.org/winterfest.

Suzuki Ensembles — Chamber Concert: 12:45-1:45 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, at the Armerding Center Recital Hall, 520 E. Kenilworth Ave., Wheaton. Performances by string students in the Community School of the Arts. Free. wheaton.edu.

Elise Flagg Academy of Dance’s “The Nutcracker”: 1 and 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, in the Elgin Community College Blizzard Theater, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. $47. eccartscenter.org

Presto! Holiday Concert: 1 and 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg. Schaumburg’s youth orchestra is joined by the ensembles of the Schaumburg Choral Program in a concert of seasonal music. $25-$35. prairiecenter.org

Skate with Santa: 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, at Northbrook Sports Center, 1730 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook. $7, $4 skate rental. nbparks.org

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas: 3 and 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, at the Nederlander Theatre Chicago, 24 W. Randolph St., Chicago. Grammy Award-winner Chip Davis has created a show that features Mannheim Steamroller Christmas classics along with a selection of compositions from his groundbreaking Fresh Aire series. Tickets start at $55.35. theatreinchicago.com.

Illinois Brass Band’s “Holiday Classics”: 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, at Baker Memorial United Methodist Church, 307 Cedar Ave., St. Charles, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, at First United Methodist Church, 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights. Traditional carols, holiday fanfares, classics and jazzy updates of Christmas favorites. $15; $5 for kids 18 and younger; $35 per family of two adults and up to four kids. illinoisbrassband.org.

A Motown Christmas: 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, at the Des Plaines Theatre, 1476 Miner St., Des Plaines. Salutes to Martha Reeves & the Vandellas, Stevie Wonder, the Temptations, the Four Tops and The Supremes. $46.75-$78.75. desplainestheatre.com.

Sunday, Dec. 21

Home for the Holidays | Courtesy Barrington Shite House

Home for the Holidays: Nancie Tobison, BHS Alumni & Friends: 1 and 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, at Barrington’s White House, 145 W. Main St., Barrington. Hosted by former Barrington High School Choir Director Nancie Tobison, this event brings together BHS alumni and friends to share their journeys and perform seasonal classics. $33.85; free for youths 18 and younger with a paid adult. barringtonswhitehouse.com.

Illinois Brass Band’s “Holiday Classics”: 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, at First United Methodist Church, 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights. A family holiday performance. $15; $5 kids; $35 per family. illinoisbrassband.org.

“Messiah” Sing Along: 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, at First Presbyterian Church of Arlington Heights, 302 N. Dunton Ave., Arlington Heights. Join Northwest Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Tim Semanik, and soloists for Handel’s “Messiah.” Free. firstpresah.org

Bagpipes & Bonfire on the Winter Solstice: 6:30-7:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 21, at Peck Farm Park’s picnic shelter, 4038 Kaneville Road, Geneva. Part of the monthlong Winter Wonder Lights. Bagpipes play traditional music by a winter bonfire. Kids must be accompanied by a registered adult. Kids $5-$7, adults $10-$15. Register: genevaparks.org

Monday, Dec. 22

Greatworks Theatre Company’s “A Christmas Carol”: 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 22, at the Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main St., St. Charles. Ebb Scrooge is a modern American businessman, a cold fish with a cold heart and no great love for Christmas, until one fateful Christmas Eve when his past, present and future come calling. Doors open at 6 p.m. $10 general admission. arcadalive.com.

Tuesday, Dec. 23

Acoustic duo Ryanhood will perform a tribute to the late Ed Hall’s legacy of bringing together guitarists to share joyful arrangements and festive favorites on Tuesday, Dec. 23, at the Woodstock Opera House. | Courtesy of Ryanhood Press

“A Winter’s Eve with Ryanhood”: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 23, at Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock. A holiday tradition returns in honor of Ed Hall with acoustic duo Ryanhood. $30-$40. woodstockoperahouse.com.

Wednesday, Dec. 24

Skate with Santa: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24, at Centennial Ice Rink, 2300 Old Glenview Road, Wilmette. Skate with Santa, plus cocoa and candy canes. $9 for adults, $8 for students, $5 with a nonperishable food donation to Wilmette Food Pantry, $4 for kids 5 and younger or free with donation; $5 skate rental. wilmettepark.org

Mrs. Claus Storytime: Virtually at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24. Mrs. Claus reads one hour of happy stories filled with fun, adventure and light conversation via Zoom. $53 for up to 10 people in one household. sites.google.com/view/mrsclausstorytime/home.

Thursday, Dec. 25

Christmas Day Premier Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan: 6 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 25, City Cruises at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Features a plated meal, seasonal cocktails, views of Chicago’s iconic landmarks, a DJ playing holiday music and more. Tickets start at $119. navypier.org

Ongoing

McHenry Festival of Trees: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays through Dec. 28 at McHenry City Hall, 333 S. Green St., McHenry, and 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays through Dec. 28 at McHenry Rec Center, 3716 Municipal Drive, McHenry. See decorated trees sponsored by local businesses and civic organizations. Vote for a favorite tree with a donation of canned nonperishable food or toiletries for Veteran’s Path to Hope. facebook.com/mchenryareachamber

Cosley Zoo Festival of Lights and Christmas Tree Sale: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily through Dec. 30, except 9 a.m. to noon Dec. 24, at Cosley Zoo, 1356 N. Gary Ave., Wheaton. Closed on Dec. 25. Thousands of twinkling lights and Christmas trees, wreaths, greenery and hot chocolate for sale. Proceeds benefit Cosley Zoo. Free. Lights turn on at 3 p.m. cosleyzoo.org/festival-of-lights-tree-sale.

Christmas Around the World & Holidays of Lights: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through Jan. 5 at The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. The museum’s annual celebration features a four-story, floor-to-dome Grand Tree surrounded by a forest of more than 50 trees and displays decorated to represent the holiday traditions from cultures around the globe. Museum admission: adults $25.95; kids 3-11 $14.95; and free for members. griffinmsi.org

“A Christmas Carol”: 10 a.m. and noon Fridays and Saturdays and 10 a.m. Tuesdays, through Dec. 27; plus 10 a.m. Monday, Dec. 22, at Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace. Set in Victorian-era London, see Charles Dickens’ classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge and the spirited ghosts that visit him one fateful Christmas Eve. Presented by Drury Lane Theatre for Young Audiences. $42-$62. drurylanetheatre.com.

The Morton Arboretum’s Illumination: Tree Lights runs through Jan. 3 in Lisle. | Courtesy of The Morton Arboretum

Illumination: Tree Lights: Time slots between 4:30 and 8 p.m. through Jan. 3 at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. Displays of lights and music that highlight the beauty of trees in winter. Roast marshmallows for s’mores and enjoy a hot seasonal beverage from the concession tents along the trail. Electric Illumination for 21 and older from 4:30-9:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19. The exhibition is closed select Mondays and Tuesdays, and Wednesday and Thursday, Dec. 24-25. Tickets start at $20. mortonarb.org.

Lightscape: 4:30-9:15 p.m. select dates through Jan. 4 at the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. Take a nighttime stroll through illuminated displays. Adults: $26 for members, $29 for nonmembers; kids 3-12: $14 members, $16 nonmembers; free for kids 2 and younger. chicagobotanic.org/lightscape.

ZooLights: Time slots start at 4:30 p.m. select dates through Jan. 4 at Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St., Chicago. Features more than 3 million lights, including hundreds of luminous LED displays and festive experiences. $7-$12; free on select Mondays. lpzoo.org/event/zoolights

Chicago Wolves Ice Rink at Parkway Bank Park: 5-10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 20; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Tuesday, Dec. 21-23; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24; 4-10 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 25; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 26; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 27; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday through Tuesday, Dec. 28-30; 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31; and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 1; plus 4-9 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 11, Monday, Jan. 19, and Sunday, Jan. 25. Free. rosemont.com/thepark/calendar/.

“A Christmas Carol”: Various times and days through Dec. 31 at the Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St., Chicago. Charles Dickens’ classic holiday story. Tickets start at $34. goodmantheatre.org.

“Million Dollar Quartet Christmas”: Various times most Wednesdays through Sundays and some Tuesdays through Jan. 4 at the Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. Christmas musical in which Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley come together to celebrate the holidays at Sun Records studio. Tickets start at $70. marriotttheatre.com

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Things to do Dec. 12-18: ‘Nutcracker’ variations, Handel’s ‘Messiah,’ Santa events and more

Posted in Entertainment, Fundraisers, Topics Of Interest on December 12, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Lambs Farm in Libertyville will host Breakfast with Santa Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 13-14. | Daily Herald File Photo, 2023

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Friday, Dec. 12

Santa Splash: 5-8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, at the Wheeling Community Center Indoor Pool, 100 Community Blvd., Wheeling. Santa, festive photos and treats. $10. Registration required. wheelingparkdistrict.com.

“Let It Snow” Showcase: 6 p.m. Fridays, Dec. 12 and 19, and 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 20, at the McHenry County College Planetarium, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake. Animated show featuring seasonal music by Frank Sinatra, Chuck Berry, Burl Ives, Brenda Lee and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. $17.85, $12.51 for MCC students. Register: mchenry.edu/events

Millennium Park Holiday Sing-Alongs: 6 p.m. Fridays, Dec. 12 and 19, at Millennium Park, Wrigley Square, 201 E. Randolph St., Chicago. Free. chicago.gov.

Gaither Homecoming Christmas Tour 2025: 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, at Willow Creek Community Church, South Barrington Campus, 67 Algonquin Road, South Barrington. Bill Gaither presents a Christmas celebration featuring The Gaither Vocal Band along with Mark Lowry and Jeff’s musical entourage. $47.72 -$93.02. willowcreek.org.

Judith Svalander Ballet School’s “The Nutcracker”: 7 p.m. Fridays; 2 and 7 p.m. Saturdays; and 2 and 6 p.m. Sundays, Dec. 12-21, at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock. $25-$51. woodstockoperahouse.com.

“Nutcracker All Jazzed Up”: 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, and 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at the Bartlett Community Center, 700 S. Bartlett Road, Bartlett. Presented by the Bartlett Park District and Lisa’s School of Dance, the production includes local dancers performing to Tchaikovsky’s musical score reorchestrated into a modern, up-tempo, family-friendly experience. $11. bartlettparkdistrict.com.

“The Christmas Star” Showcase: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, at the McHenry County College Planetarium, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake. Potential natural explanations for the Star of Bethlehem and common modern-day misconceptions will be discussed. $17.85, $12.51 MCC students. Register: mchenry.edu/events

Lake County Symphony Orchestra’s “Timeless Treasures”: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, at the College of Lake County, 19351 W. Washington St., Grayslake. With guest director Jim Stephenson. $11-$32.80. lakecountysymphonyorchestra.com

Under the Streetlamp’s “Hip to the Holidays”: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, at ECC Blizzard Theatre, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Former stars of the Tony Award-winning musical “Jersey Boys” bring a twist to favorite seasonal music. $65, $20 for kids 12 and younger. eccartscenter.org/events/centerstage/.

Elgin Symphony Orchestra’s annual Holiday Spectacular: 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, at the Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake, and 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, at the Hemmens, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. A holiday performance including carols, new spins on modern favorites, and an appearance by Santa. Led by conductor Chad Goodman with the Elgin Master Chorale and Integrity School of Dance. Raue tickets: $41.30-$89; Hemmens tickets: $20-$70; call about free tickets for kids 17 and younger. rauecenter.org or elginsymphony.org

Saturday, Dec. 13

Santa Breakfast: 8:30-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at the American Legion Hall, 122 W. Palatine Road, Palatine. The Sons of the American Legion will hold an all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast with Santa to raise funds for Legion Family Charities. $11 for ages 11 and older, $6 for veterans and kids 5-10, and free for kids 4 and younger. alpost690.us

Grayslake Antiques & Flea Market: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, at the Lake County Fairgrounds & Event Center, 1060 E. Peterson Road, Grayslake. Shop for antiques, jewelry, vintage clothing, collectibles, comics, memorabilia, old toys, coins and more. $8. zurkopromotions.com

Lambs Farm Breakfast with Santa: 9 and 10:30 a.m. and noon Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 13-14, at Lambs Farm, 14245 W. Rockland Road, Libertyville. Dine on brunch at the Magnolia Cafe & Bakery, make crafts and meet Santa. $19.95, $7.95 for kids 2 and younger. For reservations, call (847) 362-5050. lambsfarm.org/.

Breakfast with Santa at Villa Olivia: 9:30-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at Villa Olivia, 1401 W. Lake St., Bartlett. The special event with Santa includes a plated breakfast, holiday activities and festive music. Registration is required; see bartlettparks.org/event/breakfast-with-santa/ for registration instructions or call (630) 540-4800.

Visit with Santa in Cook Park as part of MainStreet Libertyville’s Dickens of a Holiday festival Saturday, Dec. 13. | Courtesy of MainStreet Libertyville

Dickens of a Holiday: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, in downtown Libertyville. Photos with Santa in Cook Park, Children’s Holiday Shoppe at the Libertyville Civic Center, and Victorian Tea from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at United Methodist Church. Free; donations of nonperishable food items appreciated. mainstreetlibertyville.org.

Frostival: 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at the Arlington Heights Historical Museum, 110 W. Freemont St., Arlington Heights. Strolling carolers, visits with Santa, and story time, crafts, cookies and cocoa. Free. ahpd.org.

Happy Holiday Railway: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 13-14, at Illinois Railway Museum, 7000 Olson Road, Union. Embark on a 40-minute train ride through the winter countryside with Santa and see an animated light show while listening to holiday music. Treats and hot chocolate will be served. Quiet car #7658 will feature traditional lights and decorations. Also, see the holiday lights throughout the campus, including the animated snowplow display and holiday light tour in Barn 6, available for viewing day or night. Rides on historic Chicago streetcars included with the ticket. Trips at 11:30 a.m., 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, 4, 5 and 6 p.m. Arrive 30 minutes beforehand. $25. Tickets: irm.org/event/happy-holiday-railway.

Ice Sculpture Cocoa Crawl: Noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at Huntley Town Square. View custom-carved holiday animation-themed ice sculptures on the sidewalks. Tickets for mugs and s’mores are on sale on the Huntley Area Chamber Facebook page and website. Mugs will not be sold on the day of the event. huntley.il.us.

Lunch With the Grinch: Noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at the Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main St., St. Charles. Dine on lunch in Rock ‘N Ravioli in the lobby. Make an ornament and help decorate the tree before the Grinch swoops in to steal it. Photo ops, raffle prizes, festive mocktails and desserts. $35 for ages 3 and older. Register: oshows.com.

Randall Oaks Zoo Winterfest: Noon to 8 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 13-21, at Randall Oaks Zoo, 1180 N. Randall Road, West Dundee. Holiday lights, community-decorated trees, Santa visits, bonfire and visit the animals in the new World of Wonders heated animal building. $6, free for kids 1 and younger and U.S. military with ID. dtpd.org/winterfest.

A German Holiday Tea: 2-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 13-14, at Colonel Palmer House, 5516 Terra Cotta Road, Crystal Lake. Variety of teas, German-inspired cuisine, exhibits and live storytelling. $35-$46. Register: crystallakeparks.org/colonel-palmer-house.

Lights & Flights Craft Brew Fest: 2-6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at Peck Farm Park, 4038 Kaneville Road, Geneva. Ages 21 and older can join the park district’s winter celebration of holiday lights, craft beer tastings and food. Tickets include 15 sample pours and a commemorative glass. VIP tickets with early access: $70; general admission: $55; designated driver: $15. Tickets: genevaparks.org

Courtesy Palatine Park District

Santa Paws: 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 13, at Clayson House Museum & Library, 224 E. Palatine Road, Palatine. Price includes one souvenir photo of your pet with Santa, a stocking full of treats and a craft activity for your dog. For dogs only, no other animals permitted. Registration required. $15-$20. palatineparks.org.

Arlingtones Christmas Show: 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at the United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights, 1903 E. Euclid, Arlington Heights. $7-$20. arlingtones.net

Hot Cocoa Stroll: 4-7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at Hawthorn Row, 122 Hawthorn Center, Vernon Hills. Live reindeer, an ice-skating rink, cocoa tents, kids’ crafts, live music, a vendor market and more. Includes spiked hot cocoa, mulled wine and festive beverages from Yard House and Nirvana Kitchen & Wine Bar. Free; guests can purchase a $5 keepsake mug and goody bag. visithawthorn.com

Classical Blast’s “Dark Side of Yule”: 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, at the Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. Rock hits from Metallica to Pink Floyd to Moody Blues to Evanescence and more mixed with traditional carols, popular classical songs, holiday standards and more. For 12 and older. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets start at $39. rauecenter.org

Sunday, Dec. 14

Brunch With Santa and Mrs. Claus at The Drake: 9:30 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, at The Drake Oak Brook, 2301 York Road, Oak Brook. Visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus during a lavish brunch. It’s $85 for adults, $40 for kids 4-10, and free for kids 3 and younger. thedrakeoakbrookhotel.com/brunch-with-santa.htm.

Breakfast With Santa: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, at the Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main St., St. Charles. Dine on breakfast in Rock ‘N Ravioli in the lobby before entering the theater for a visit with Santa. Each child will receive a gift. $40 for ages 12 and older and $30 for kids 2-11. Register: oshows.com.

The Elmhurst Choral Union will perform Handel’s “Messiah” Sunday, Dec. 14, at Hammerschmidt Chapel in Elmhurst. | Courtesy of Elmhurst Choral Union

Elmhurst Choral Union performs Handel’s “Messiah”: 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, at Hammerschmidt Chapel, 190 S. Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. Handel’s “Messiah” will be sung by the Elmhurst Choral Union with an organist and soloists. Bring nonperishable food items for a local food charity. $30, $25 for seniors, and $10 for kids 17 and younger. elmhurstchoralunion.org.

A Northwest Christmas: 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, at St. Raymond de Penafort Church, 301 S. I Oka Ave., Mount Prospect. Holiday music, choral gems and sing-alongs. Includes a Christmas bake sale. $15-$20. Tickets: brownpapertickets.com. nwchoralsociety.org/concerts/a-northwest-christmas.

Skate with Santa: 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, at Triphahn Center Ice Arena, 1685 W. Higgins Road, Hoffman Estates. Proceeds benefit the Friends of HEParks Foundation. $7 in advance, $10 at the door, $4 skate rental. heparks.org.

Itasca Pictures With Santa: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, and 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17, at Usher Park gazebo, 203 S. Walnut, Itasca. Bring your camera for free photos with Santa and pick up a holiday token. Donate a new, unwrapped toy for Toys for Tots or a nonperishable food donation for the Itasca Food Pantry. itascaparkdistrict.com

Carriage rides on the historic Woodstock Square: 2-4:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 W. Van Buren St., Woodstock. woodstockilchamber.com.

“Nutcracker Magical Christmas Ballet”: 2 and 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, at the Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N. River Road, Rosemont. Features an international cast that blends world-class ballet with puppets, lavish costumes and acrobatics. Tickets start at $47.75. rosemont.com/theatre

A cappella group Voctave performs “It Feels like Christmas” Sunday, Dec. 14, at the McAninch Arts Center’s Belushi Performance Hall in Glen Ellyn. | Courtesy of Carol Fox and Associates

Voctave’s “It Feels like Christmas”: 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 14, in the Belushi Performance Hall, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn. All-ages a cappella holiday show featuring “O Holy Night,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Carol of the Bells of Notre Dame” and more. $69-$76. AtTheMAC.org.

Monday, Dec. 15

The Lovettes’ “Boogie Woogie Santa Claus”: 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 15, and 1 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16, at the Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. The Lovettes perform hits from The Andrews Sisters, The Ronettes, The Supremes, Darlene Love and more. Tickets start at $65. marriotttheatre.com

The Second City presents “Jack Frost Roasting on an Open Fire”: 7:30 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, Dec. 15-17, and Friday through Wednesday, Dec. 26-31, at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. A fast-paced, interactive comedy revue featuring seasonal songs, sketches and improv comedy. $40. metropolisarts.com

Tuesday, Dec. 16

“White Christmas” sing-along: 7 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, Dec. 16-17, and 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17, at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock. Sing along during the screening of this 1954 Christmas classic. Concessions open one hour before. $12 for evening shows; $5 for matinee. woodstockoperahouse.com

Niles Metropolitan Chorus & Musica Lumina Orchestra perform Handel’s “Messiah”: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16, at the Des Plaines Theatre, 1476 Miner St., Des Plaines. Professional musicians perform the first part of Handel’s “Messiah” with several arias and choruses, including the “Hallelujah Chorus.” $52.75. desplainestheatre.com.

Wednesday, Dec. 17

Critics Classics: 1 and 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17, at Elk Grove Theatre, 1050 Elk Grove Town Center, Elk Grove Village. Hosted by the Chicago Film Critics Association. See “Lethal Weapon,” starring Mel Gibson and Danny Glover. $9 or $7 matinee; $7-$6 for 60 and older, $1.50 booking fee. classiccinemas.com.

Itasca Holiday Trolley Lights Tour: 5, 6 and 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, Dec. 17-18, at Itasca Waterpark, 100 N. Catalpa St., Itasca. Enjoy hot cocoa while traveling around town on the trolley to see the light displays at the Winter Wonderland and other sites. $12. Register: itascaparkdistrict.com.

Thursday, Dec. 18

Gingerbread Barn Raising: 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, at Peck Farm Park’s Orientation Barn, 4038 Kaneville Road, Geneva. Enjoy hot cocoa and holiday music while you decorate a gingerbread barn to take home. Kids 15 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. $72-$92. Register: genevaparks.org

Peanuts Jazz With The Chris White Trio: 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, at the Gorton Center, 400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest. Annual tribute to the music of Vince Guaraldi. $29. gortoncenter.org.

Christmas Wizards — Trans-Siberian Orchestra Tribute: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 18, at the Des Plaines Theatre, 1476 Miner St., Des Plaines. $46.75-$78.75. desplainestheatre.com

Ongoing

Courtesy Historic Downtown Long Grove

Long Grove Vintage Holidays: Through Wednesday, Dec. 24, in downtown Long Grove. Horse-drawn carriage rides on weekends, Santa in the village, caroling around town and more. Most events are free; reservations for carriage rides are $15 per seat. longgrove.org/festival/holiday-season

Santa’s Village Magical Christmas Drive-Thru: 5-9 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Dec. 12-14, and Fridays through Tuesdays, Dec. 19 through 30, at 601 Dundee Ave., East Dundee. See the light displays synchronized to holiday music from your car. Visit with Santa at the end. $29.99 per vehicle, $5 discount for season-pass holders. (847) 426-6751 or santasvillagedundee.com.

Holiday Flower Show: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily in December and 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Jan. 1-17 at Wilder Park Conservatory, 225 S. Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. Free. epd.org.

McHenry Festival of Trees: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays through Dec. 28 at McHenry City Hall, 333 S. Green St., McHenry, and 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays through Dec. 28 at McHenry Rec Center, 3716 Municipal Drive, McHenry. See decorated trees sponsored by local businesses and civic organizations. Vote for a favorite tree with a donation of canned nonperishable food or toiletries for Veteran’s Path to Hope. facebook.com/mchenryareachamber

Cosley Zoo Festival of Lights and Christmas Tree Sale: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily through Dec. 30, except 9 a.m. to noon Dec. 24 and 31, at Cosley Zoo, 1356 N. Gary Ave., Wheaton. Closed on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. Thousands of twinkling lights and Christmas trees, wreaths, greenery and hot chocolate for sale. Proceeds benefit Cosley Zoo. Free. Lights turn on at 3 p.m. cosleyzoo.org/festival-of-lights-tree-sale.

Yuletide Treasures: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays, through Dec. 23, and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Dec. 24, at the DuPage Art League, 218 W. Front St., Wheaton. The DuPage Art League’s annual show features one-of-a-kind gifts, all handmade by local artists, including painting, photography, ornaments, holiday and home decor, jewelry, woodwork, pottery, wearable textiles, greeting cards, candles and more. Free parking on Front Street and in the parking garage across the street. dupageartleague.org

Christmas Around the World & Holidays of Lights: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily through Jan. 5 at The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, 5700 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. The museum’s annual celebration features a four-story, floor-to-dome Grand Tree surrounded by a forest of more than 50 trees and displays decorated to represent the holiday traditions from cultures around the globe. Museum admission: adults $25.95; kids 3-11 $14.95; free for members. griffinmsi.org

“A Christmas Carol”: 10 a.m. and noon Fridays and Saturdays and 10 a.m. Tuesdays, through Dec. 27; plus 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 17; and 10 a.m. Thursday and Monday, Dec. 18 and 22, at Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace. Set in Victorian-era London, see Charles Dickens’ classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge and the spirited ghosts that visit him one fateful Christmas Eve. Presented by Drury Lane Theatre for Young Audiences. $42-$62. Breakfast with Santa includes photos with Santa and Drury Lane’s Christmas tree for $50 for adults and $30 for kids 5-12. Dinner with Santa is $30-$60. drurylanetheatre.com.

Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s Holiday Magic: 3-9 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays through Dec. 21, and Friday, Dec. 26, through Sunday, Jan. 4, at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. Lights festival featuring 3.5 million twinkling LED lights, a giant light-up maze, interactive light displays, light tunnels, a twinkling star walk-through experience, a Holiday Dolphin Show, Santa visits on select nights and a holiday market. $20.95-$34.95. brookfieldzoo.org/HolidayMagic.

Illumination: Tree Lights: Time slots between 4:30 and 8 p.m. through Jan. 3 at The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. Displays of lights and music that highlight the beauty of trees in winter. Roast marshmallows for s’mores and enjoy a hot seasonal beverage from the concession tents along the trail. Illumination Dog Admission Nights on Wednesdays through Dec. 17. Electric Illumination for 21 and older from 4:30-9:30 p.m. Dec. 12 and 19. The exhibition is closed select Mondays and Tuesdays and on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Tickets start at $20. mortonarb.org.

Lightscape: 4:30-9:15 p.m. select dates through Jan. 4 at the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. Take a nighttime stroll through illuminated displays. Adults: $26 for members, $29 for nonmembers; kids 3-12: $14 members, $16 nonmembers; free for kids 2 and younger. chicagobotanic.org/lightscape.

ZooLights: Time slots start at 4:30 p.m. select dates through Jan. 4 at Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St., Chicago. Features more than 3 million lights, including hundreds of luminous LED displays and festive experiences. $7-$12; free on select Mondays. lpzoo.org/event/zoolights

Chicago Wolves Ice Rink at Parkway Bank Park: 5-10 p.m. Fridays, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturdays and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays, through Dec. 21; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturdays and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays, Dec. 22 through Jan. 5 (except for special holiday hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24; 4-10 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 25; 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31; and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 1); plus 4-9 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 11, Monday, Jan. 19, and Sunday, Jan. 25. Free. rosemont.com/thepark

“A Christmas Carol”: 7:30 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Sundays, through Dec. 21; and 7:30 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, Dec. 23-24, at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. Charles Dickens’ tale of redemption, generosity and hope. $20-$49. metropolisarts.com.

“A Christmas Carol”: Various times and days through Dec. 31 at the Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St., Chicago. Charles Dickens’ classic holiday story. Tickets start at $34. goodmantheatre.org.

“A Christmas Carol — A Live Radio Play”: Various times Fridays through Sundays, and select Wednesdays and Thursdays, through Dec. 28 at Oil Lamp Theater, 1723 Glenview Road, Glenview. Return to WBFR Studios on Christmas Eve in 1946 and follow Ebenezer Scrooge on his journey to find the true spirit of the holiday season, complete with live sound effects, radio jingles and more. $55. oillamptheater.org.

The Hawthorn Christmas Experience: Through Dec. 24, Lower Level, Macy’s Court, at Hawthorn, 122 Hawthorn Center, Vernon Hills. Visit Santa in a festive holiday setting. Reservations are encouraged; guests who book in advance receive a free personalized phone call from Santa before their visit. Santa photo packages start at $39.99. visithawthorn.com.

Joffrey Ballet presents “The Nutcracker”: Various times and dates through Dec. 28 at the Lyric Opera House, 20 N. Wacker Drive, Chicago. Tony Award-winning Christopher Wheeldon’s kaleidoscopic reimagining of “The Nutcracker” set amid the spectacle of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. Ticket prices vary by day and start at $60. joffrey.org

“Million Dollar Quartet Christmas”: Various times most Wednesdays through Sundays and some Tuesdays through Jan. 4 at the Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. Christmas musical in which Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley come together to celebrate the holidays at Sun Records studio. Tickets start at $70. marriotttheatre.com

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World War II veteran and D-Day pilot celebrates 106th birthday with major home renovation in McHenry County

Posted in Fundraisers, Lake & McHenry County Scanner, The Greatest Generation on December 7, 2025| 1 Comment »

Edward “Bud” Berthold, who was a B-24 bomber pilot in World War 2, received a major home renovation at his residence in Fox River Grove to celebrate his 106th birthday. | Provided Photos

By Sam Borcia | Lake & McHenry County Scanner

A 106-year-old veteran of World War II has received an amazing birthday gift after supporters and donors renovated his McHenry County home to assist him with his continued care.

Edward “Bud” Berthold was a B-24 bomber pilot in World War 2 who flew over 35 successful combat missions as the pilot of the famed Fort Worth Maid B-24 Liberator at the age of 24.

The bombing runs included runs on D-Day over Utah Beach.

Edward “Bud” Berthold, who was a B-24 bomber pilot in World War 2, received a major home renovation at his residence in Fox River Grove to celebrate his 106th birthday. | Provided Photos

The goal of the Bud Project was to raise money and labor needed to renovate Berthold’s home in McHenry and to make his house wheelchair accessible, according to Mark Finnegan, the President and Co-Founder of VetsRoll, which is a veteran charity non-profit.

The work included a new heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system and an ADA-compliant ramp to make it easier for Berthold to get around.

The work also included new bathroom fixtures, new doors, new cabinets, updated electrical wiring, a new roof and a new driveway.

A GoFundMe account has raised almost $20,000, not including a $5,000 donation from a local business.

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Family launches fundraiser for woman set on fire on CTA Blue Line

Posted in Chicago Sun*Times, Crime, Fundraisers on November 26, 2025| Leave a Comment »

The family of a 26-year-old woman attacked and set on fire on a CTA Blue Line train Nov. 17 has started a GoFundMe to help with her recovery. | GoFundMe

The 26-year-old woman suffered severe burns after the Nov. 17 attack near the CTA Clark and Lake station. The fundraiser had raised nearly $230,000 as of Wednesday afternoon.

By  Sun-Times Wire

The family of a 26-year-old woman attacked on a Blue Line train this month has launched a fundraiser as she faces “a long road ahead” toward her recovery.

Bethany MaGee is being treated at a hospital for severe burns she suffered when a man poured gasoline on her and set her on fire Nov. 17 near the CTA Clark and Lake station, according to the GoFundMe and prosecutors.

The fundraiser had collected nearly $230,000 as of Wednesday afternoon, more than halfway toward its $330,000 goal.

“Many of her immediate medical expenses are covered by insurance and a victims fund, but with such a long road ahead of her, the freedom from financial worries would be a tremendous blessing,” her family said in the fundraiser post. “No gifts are expected, but any that are given will go directly to Bethany.”

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How a 101-year-old WWII veteran from Barrington Hills brought a daughter closer to her late father

Posted in Resident Spotlights, The Greatest Generation on November 11, 2025| Leave a Comment »

George Hitchcock, a 101-year-old veteran from Barrington Hills, piloted 27 B-17 bombing missions in the European theater during World War II. | Joe Lewnard/ lewnard@dailyherald.com

By Christopher Placek | Daily Herald

Kathy Rennie never got to meet her father, who perished in World War II when her mother was three months pregnant.

But through Rennie’s discovery of a 101-year-old veteran from Barrington Hills — and their friendship that has blossomed in recent years — she feels like she knows her dad a little bit.

Rennie’s mother spent years trying to find any of the five surviving crew members from the fateful Feb. 14, 1945, B-17 bombing mission over the North Sea between England and Germany. It was on that flight that four others — including Rennie’s dad, Sgt. Walter Mayer, a 30-year-old radio operator from a small town in Minnesota — had to bail after one of the plane’s engines caught fire.

Mayer parachuted into the cold waters below, and his body has never been recovered. He is still listed as missing in action.

Only about 15 years ago did Rennie learn of a museum in Tucson, Arizona dedicated to the history of her dad’s unit in the U.S. Army Air Forces: the 390th Bombardment Group. Officials there provided two names and phone numbers of possible survivors in his squadron, the 570th.

One number was disconnected, but Rennie was able to call and leave a message on the other.

“It was like about 10 o’clock, and we were in bed already, and I heard the phone ring out in the kitchen and this long message coming to us,” said Rennie, who lives in Bloomington, Minnesota. “So I ran out there, and it was him calling back — this man. And so then I picked it up, and we had a 20-minute conversation. And he told me that he was the pilot of the plane — the only one left. The pilot of the plane!”

The man on the other end of the line was George Hitchcock.

“She was so elated to find somebody who knew (her father), saw him, touched him, and that sort of thing,” said Hitchcock, who, as a 21-year-old captain, flew 27 missions in the European theater toward the end of the war.

George Hitchcock, left, struck up a friendship with Kathy Rennie decades after he piloted a war plane on which her father was aboard. | Courtesy of George Hitchcock

That phone call led to a visit months later at Hitchcock’s Barrington Hills home, subsequent trips by two of Rennie’s children, a FaceTime with other Minnesota-based family members, and plenty of other phone calls, exchanges of emails and Christmas cards.

Rennie visited Hitchcock again in 2023 just before he turned 100, and now they often talk on the phone twice a week.

“We became very good buddies,” he said. “She felt sort of close to me for some reason.”

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LET IT BE US ANNOUNCES HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE AND GINGERBREAD FUNDRAISER IN SUPPORT OF CHILDREN IN FOSTER CARE AND THOSE AWAITING ADOPTION ACROSS

Posted in Fundraisers, Let It Be Us, Press Release, Resident Spotlights on October 25, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Let It Be Us, a licensed child welfare agency and trusted leader in adoption and foster care innovation, will host two holiday initiatives to benefit children in foster care and those awaiting across Illinois. Already a statewide leader in adoption reform, Let It Be Us continues to enhance the visibility, accessibility, and support systems surrounding the adoption process. As part of its mission, the organization utilizes and manages the Illinois Adoption Listing Service and The Heart Gallery of Illinois, providing caseworkers and prospective families with an interactive, user-friendly platform highlighting children and teens awaiting permanent, loving families. Through this system, families can view profiles, learn about each child’s unique story and interests, and take the first step toward adoption.

The annual Toy Drive for Children in Foster Care including Those Awaiting Adoption, will take place on December 11 and 12 at Let It Be Us headquarters, 145 West Main Street in Barrington. The organization will collect new, unwrapped toys for children in foster care throughout Northern Illinois, in partnership with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) office in Waukegan, CASA of Lake County, and several local group homes. Donations of wrapping paper, ribbon, and tape are also appreciated. Monetary donations are accepted, and Let It Be Us will purchase gifts on behalf of donors through its Donation Page. A full list of requested toys can be found on the Toy Drive Event Page.

On December 4, Let It Be Us will also host Candy Cottage for a Cause: Gingerbread Holiday Fundraiser for Foster Care and Adoption at Butterfield Country Club in Oak Brook. The adults-only event will feature gingerbread house decorating led by a professional pastry artist, seasonal refreshments, and a festive evening supporting Let It Be Us programs that help children and teens in foster care find permanent, loving homes. Tickets can be purchased on their site.

Let It Be Us works in partnership with DCFS to connect licensed foster parents with children who are legally available for adoption, focusing on those with specialized needs, sibling groups, and children who have spent extended time in care. Through statewide programs such as the Adoption Listing Service and the Heart Gallery of Illinois, the organization assists families in navigating the adoption process to support successful placements.

“Our mission has always been to create innovative solutions that improve the futures of waiting children,” said Dr. Susan McConnell, Executive Director of Let It Be Us. “Events like the Toy Drive and Candy Cottage for a Cause not only raise awareness but also directly support our work to ensure every child in Illinois foster care has the opportunity to grow up in a loving, permanent home.” Serving Illinois for more than a decade, Let It Be Us continues to lead adoption and foster care innovation statewide. For more information, to donate, or to get involved, visit www.letitbeus.org or call (847) 764-5428.

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Things to do Oct. 24-30: Nightmare on Chicago Street, Trick-or-Treating in Downtown Long Grove, Elgin Symphony String Quartet — Spooky Strings and more

Posted in Entertainment, Fundraisers, Topics Of Interest on October 24, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Costumes are welcome at Nightmare on Chicago Street happening Saturday in downtown Elgin. | Courtesy of the City of Elgin, 2024

By Luke Zurawski | Daily herald

Friday, Oct. 24

Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns: 6-10:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Oct. 24-26, at the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. See hand-carved, LED-lit jack-o’-lanterns staged along a festive paved pathway where visitors will encounter characters and can watch live pumpkin carving. $22-$27 for adults, $15-$18 for kids 3-12, and free for kids younger than 3. chicagobotanic.org/halloween.

Richardson Adventure Farm: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25; and noon to 9 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, at Richardson Farm, 909 English Prairie Road, Spring Grove. Corn maze, pumpkin patch, observation tower, zip line, zorbing, pig races and more. $24, $20 for kids 3-12, and free for kids 2 and younger; $30/$24 Saturdays and Sundays in October. richardsonadventurefarm.com.

Chicagoland Antique Advertising, Slot Machine & Jukebox Show: 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at the Schaumburg Convention Center, 1551 N. Thoreau Drive, Schaumburg. Antique slot machines, jukeboxes, advertising memorabilia, gumball and penny arcade machines, music boxes, pinball machines, antique video games, vinyl records and more. Friday early-bird admission: $50, Saturday admission: $10, free for kids younger than 12. chicagolandshow.com.

Trick-or-Treating in Downtown Long Grove: 3-5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, near 145 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove. Kids can trick-or-treat at participating businesses. Costumes encouraged. Free. longgrove.org/festival/october-days

Boo Bash: 5-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, at North Park, 1025 Riverwoods Road, Lincolnshire. Family-friendly event. Free. lincolnshireil.gov.

Pumpkin Splash Spectacular: 5-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, at the Community Center Indoor Pool, 100 Community Blvd., Wheeling. Kids 3-7 can search for pumpkins scattered throughout the pools. Plus, Halloween crafts, inflatables, photo opportunities and treats. Registration required. $10. wheelingparkdistrict.com

Trick-or-Treat Trail: 5-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, at Community Arts Center, 225 McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove. Walk through the no-scare trail, where friendly characters will hand out candy to kids. Plus, games, entertainment and more. Parents must accompany kids 12 and younger during the event. Free. bgparks.org/trick-or-treat-trail

Halloween Movie in the Barn: 5:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, at the village hall barn, 2 Lagoon Drive, Hawthorn Woods. Screening of a seasonal movie at 6:30 p.m. Free. vhw.org.

Hayrides at Hoffman Park: 6, 6:45 and 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, and 5:15, 6, 6:45 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at the dog park at Hoffman Park, West Main Street, Cary. Hayride and campfire under the stars. $10. Register: carypark.com

The Lord Chamberlain’s Men’s “Twelfth Night”: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, in Elgin Community College’s Blizzard Theatre, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Performed by an all-male cast in authentic Elizabethan costume, infused with music, song and spirited dance. $35; free for kids 12 and younger with a paid ticket. eccartscenter.org.

Penn & Teller: 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, at the Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St., Chicago. The magicians are on their 50th Anniversary Tour. Tickets start at $74.55. msg.com

Saturday, Oct. 25

Palatine’s Halloween Hustle 5K and Kids Dash takes place Saturday, Oct. 25. | Courtesy of Adrenaline Special Events

Halloween Hustle 5K and Kids Dash: 8:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at Adrenaline Special Events, 345 N. Eric Drive, Palatine. Kids Dash at 8:30 a.m., 5K at 9 a.m. Immediately following the race, runners and spectators are invited to an after-party at the Tap House Grill. 5K: $40-$60; Kids Dash: $20-$30. halloweenhustle.com

Chicago Women’s Expo: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont. See the latest in shopping, fashion, food, entertainment, cosmetics and travel for women, plus keynote speakers and more. Tickets start at $5 per day. chicagowomensexpo.com

Great Food Expo: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont. Sample food and beverages, shop from vendors and more. Tickets available online starting at $6.24 per day. greatfoodexpo.com/chicago.

Lake County Home Show: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, at the Lake County Fairgrounds, 1060 E. Peterson Road, Grayslake. Over 120 businesses will present the latest in home remodeling, roofing, architecture design services, lawn and tree care and more. Free. lakecountyhomeshow.com.

Great Hawthorne Pumpkin Hunt: 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at Hawthorne Hill Nature Center, 28 Brookside Drive, Elgin. Kids can explore nature while stopping at educational stations, searching for hidden pumpkins, creating a seasonal craft and taking home a mini pumpkin. $10-$12. Register: elginil.gov/recreation.

Elgin Symphony String Quartet — Spooky Strings: 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at Barrington’s White House, 145 W. Main St., Barrington. Halloween-themed concert. Costumes encouraged. $28.52, family pass for $33.85. barringtonswhitehouse.com.

Halloween Walk: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, in Cary and Fox River Grove. In Cary, trick-or-treating, costumes and a parade led by the 2025 Miss Cary-Grove from 11 a.m. to noon starting at Tasty Sushi and ending at Athletico in the Jewel Shopping Center. In Fox River Grove, the parade begins at Leader Ace Hardware in the Stone Hill Shopping Center and ends at Wonderland Kids Academy from 1-2 p.m. Free. carygrovechamber.com.

Tricks & Treats in the Valley: 2-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 25-26, at Heritage Farm at Spring Valley, 201 S. Plum Grove Road, Schaumburg. All-ages trick-or-treat experience, with the trail beginning at Heritage Farm and continuing past the farm’s historic buildings and into the woods and fields. Wear a costume you can walk in for about half a mile. Entry is timed. Trick-or-treaters must register; free for caregivers. $5-$7. parkfun.com/event/tricks-treats-in-the-valley

Ghost Story Train: 5, 6:15 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at the Fox River Trolley Museum, off Route 31, South Elgin. Ride a spooky trolley to the haunted forest preserve for family-friendly frights, including stories around the campfire with treats from Margie’s Girls’ Kitchen. A ghostly musician will lead campfire songs. Costumes welcome. $20. Register at foxtrolley.org/Ghost-Story-Train.

Trick-or-Treating at McHenry Downtown Businesses: 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, near 163 McHenry Ave., Crystal Lake. Trick-or-treat at local businesses. Free. For a map, visit facebook.com/events/1788089675374809.

BOOs & Brews: 6-9:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. This 21-and-older after-hours event features a costume contest, dance party, animal experiences, seasonal brews and cocktails and more. Tickets start at $45 for general admission. brookfieldzoo.org/BoosAndBrews.

Family Wicked Wagon Ride: 6-8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at the Clauss Rec Center fields, 555 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Roselle. After the Zombie Run, take a haunted hayride around the “ball fields of doom” and through the abandoned barn. For kids 12 and younger, accompanied by an adult. $8-$10. Registration required: rparks.org.

Costumes are welcome at Nightmare on Chicago Street happening Saturday in downtown Elgin. | Courtesy of the City of Elgin, 2024

Nightmare on Chicago Street: 6-11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, on East Chicago and North Spring streets, Elgin. Annual Halloween festival with terrifying attractions, live performances, immersive environments, costume contest, photo ops, celebrities, food and apocalyptic-themed drinks. $35, $40 at the gate. Tickets: nightmareonchicagostreet.com.

Dancing Queen: An ABBA Salute: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg. Tribute to the music of ABBA. $45-$50. prairiecenter.org

Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” in Concert: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, at the Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Congress Parkway, Chicago. The full feature film “The Nightmare Before Christmas” will be projected on the big screen with live accompaniment by the Chicago Philharmonic. Costumes encouraged. $96-$122. auditoriumtheatre.org

Sunday, Oct. 26

Day of the Dead 5K: 8 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, at Heritage Park, 100 Community Blvd., Wheeling. 5K run/walk, plus entertainment, awards, music and food after the race. Registration required. Ages 13 and older: $40; kids 12 and younger: $30. runsignup.com

Elgin Coin Club Fall Show: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, at Holiday Inn, 495 Airport Road, Elgin. Buy, sell and trade coins, currency, and assorted numismatic items and collectibles. Kids 6-16 can join the Kids Auction at 12:30 p.m., where they get free bid money to bid on donated lots. Raffle prizes and hourly door prizes. ANACS Coin Grading Service will be on-site. Early bird from 8-9 a.m. for $20 or $2 after. coinzip.com/elgin-coin-club-coin-show.

Crystal Lake Farmers Market+ At The Dole: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, on the front lawn of the Dole Mansion, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake. Live music, kids’ activities, beverages, food trucks and more. farmersmarketatthedole.org.

Spooky Skate: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, at the Triphahn Center Ice Arena, 1685 Higgins Road, Hoffman Estates. Public skate. Halloween costumes encouraged. $7 in advance, $10 at the event; skate rental $3. heparks.org.

Trick-or-Treat on Main Street: 1-5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, on Main Street in downtown Wauconda. Trick-or-treat at local businesses. Free. waucondachamber.org.

Trunk-or-Treat: 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 932 S. McHenry Ave., Crystal Lake. My Father’s World Preschool hosts a fair with a bouncy house, selfie station, cake walk, games in the gym and trunk-or-treat in the parking lot. Free. prince-of-peace.org

Monday, Oct. 27

Halloween Spooktacular: 10-11 a.m. Monday, Oct. 27, at the Geneva Public Library, 227 S. Seventh St., Geneva. Crafts, games and a parade through the library. Costumes encouraged. Free. gpld.org.

Tuesday, Oct. 28

Haunted History Tours at Lincoln Park Zoo: 7 and 8:30 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, Oct. 28-29, at Lincoln Park Zoo, North Cannon Drive at West Fullerton Parkway, Chicago. Join Adam Selzer — author, podcaster and host of Mysterious Chicago Tours — for walks that delve into the zoo’s cemetery roots and locations from throughout its allegedly haunted history. For 16 and older. $35. lpzoo.org.

Wednesday, Oct. 29

Mount Prospect Downtown Trick-or-Treat: 4-6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29, in downtown Mount Prospect. Trick-or-treat at downtown Mount Prospect businesses. Costumes encouraged. Free. mpdowntown.com/events

Wheeling’s Taste of the Town takes place Wednesday, Oct. 29, at Chevy Chase Country Club in Wheeling. | Courtesy of the Greater Wheeling Area Chamber of Commerce

Wheeling’s Taste of the Town: 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29, at Chevy Chase Country Club, 1000 N. Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling. About two dozen vendors offering bite-size tastings from their menus and bars. $35 in advance, $45 at the door. wheelingareachamber.com.

Lake Park Film Appreciation Society: 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29, at Lake Park High School West Campus auditorium, 500 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Roselle. Screening of the 1933 Pre-Code sci-fi horror film “The Invisible Man,” starring Claude Rains. Free popcorn, post-show discussion and trivia with prizes. Free. facebook.com/LPHSDramaProductions/.

Thursday, Oct. 30

Pumpkin Splash: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30, at The Water Works, 505 N. Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg. Swim with pumpkins and pick a pumpkin, DJ entertainment and a goody bag filled with treats. Kids younger than 12 must be accompanied by an adult during the event. $15-$20. parkfun.com/event/pumpkin-splash.

Elgin Symphony Orchestra Dia de los Muertos: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30, at the Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. Commemorate loved ones at a concert featuring vocalist José Carlos Díaz. Face painting, crafts, an ofrenda, food trucks and more at 5:30 p.m. Pre-concert talk on the history of Dia de los Muertos at 6:30 p.m. $25, $5 for students, free tickets for ages 17 and younger. elginsymphony.org.

Ongoing

Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s annual Boo at the Zoo event runs through Oct. 31. | Courtesy of Brookfield Zoo Chicago

Boo at the Zoo: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays through Oct. 31 at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. Family-friendly Halloween celebration with not-so-scary thrills, festive decorations and more. On weekends, there’s trick-or-treating, a magician and other activities. Included with zoo admission. brookfieldzoo.org/BooAtTheZoo.

Goebbert’s Fall Festival: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Thursday, Oct. 30, at Goebbert’s Farm & Garden Center, 40 W. Higgins Road, South Barrington. Animals, corn stalk mazes, wagon rides, pig races, fall food, produce and more. Some attractions are only available on the weekends. $19 weekdays; $23 in advance online and $26 at the door on weekends; free for kids 2 and younger. Extra fees for animal rides ($8) and gem mining ($10-$25). goebbertspumpkinfarm.com/fall-festival.

Randall Oaks Fall Festival: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Nov. 2 at Randall Oaks Zoo, 1180 N. Randall Road, West Dundee. Pedal tractors, pumpkins and fall treats for sale, and on weekends, hayrides for $3 and animal shows at 1:30 p.m. $6; free for kids 1 and younger and U.S. military with ID. dtpd.org/fall-festival.

Alex Ross — Heroes & Villains: 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Fridays through Sundays and Wednesdays and 2-8 p.m. Thursdays through Feb. 16, 2026, at the Bess Bower Dunn Museum of Lake County, 1899 W. Winchester Road, Libertyville. A larger-than-life presentation of the work of legendary comic book artist Alex Ross featuring heroes and villains from the Marvel and DC universes. Museum admission $3-$10, exhibit tickets $5-$10, and free for kids 3 and younger. LCFPD.org/planyourvisit.

Happy Times Pumpkinfest at Didier Farms: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Sunday, Oct. 26, at Didier Farms, 16678 Aptakisic Road, Lincolnshire. Amusement rides, shows, fall merchandise, pumpkin sales, fall treats and more. Free entry; fees for rides and attractions. happytimespumpkinfest.com

Six Flags Great America Fright Fest: 5-11 p.m. Fridays, 11 a.m. to midnight Saturdays, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sundays through Nov. 1 at Six Flags Great America, Six Flags Drive, Gurnee. Thrills by day and frights by night with haunted houses, scare zones, spine-chilling shows and rides. Plus, kids’ Boo Fest and Oktoberfest. Tickets start at $45. sixflags.com/greatamerica/events.

Volo Paranormal Tours: Noon, 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays and 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Wednesdays through Nov. 2 at the Volo Museum, 27582 Volo Village Road, Volo. Tour brings to life stories of paranormal encounters at the Volo museum. $3 with museum admission. Reservations recommended. volofun.com.

See a plethora of pumpkins at Jack O’Lantern World in Lake Zurich and Lemont this weekend. | Courtesy of All Community Events

Jack O’Lantern World: Time slots start around 6 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays through Nov. 1 at Paulus Park, 215 S. Rand Road, Lake Zurich, and The Forge, 227 Heritage Quarries Drive, Lemont. See and explore thousands of pumpkins arranged in displays and more, plus a pumpkin patch, 30-foot inflatables, food trucks, a beer garden, mini golf and more. Tickets range from $17.99-$27.99. Thejackolanternworld.com.

Find much more here.

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Illinois video gambling mogul to seek GOP gubernatorial nomination

Posted in Elections, Politics, Resident Spotlights, Springfield on October 21, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Rick Heidner | Rick for Illinois official photo

A suburban video gambling mogul is putting his chips into a Republican primary bid for Illinois governor.

Rick Heidner, a Barrington Hills real estate developer and the owner of Gold Rush Gaming, formed a gubernatorial campaign committee on Tuesday, according to a filing with the State Board of Elections. It comes less than two weeks before the petition filing deadline for the March primary.

Candidates for governor must attain at least 5,000 signatures to secure a place on the ballot. Heidner’s running mate is Homer Glen Mayor Christina Neitzke-Troike, according to petitions being circulated.

Heidner joins a crowded Republican primary field that includes former state Sen. Darren Bailey — the party’s 2022 gubernatorial nominee; Ted Dabrowski, former president of conservative think tank Wirepoints; and two-term DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick. The winner likely gets a matchup against Democratic Gov. JB Pritzker, a billionaire who is seeking a third term as the state’s chief executive.

Read more here.

Related: “Rick Heidner’s American Dream”

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