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Archive for the ‘Fundraisers’ Category

Marian R. Sanfilippo March 25, 1935 December 3, 2023

Marian R. Sanfilippo | March 25, 1935 ~ December 3, 2023

By Christopher Placek | Daily Herald

Marian Sanfilippo, who with her husband helped nonprofit organizations raise millions of dollars by hosting fundraisers at their famed Barrington Hills estate, has died.

She passed away peacefully at her home Sunday at the age of 88, according to her obituary.

Sanfilippo supported her husband Jasper’s passion for collecting mechanical music machines and vintage steam engines — a collection that grew over the years and led them to construct several additions to showcase it all.

The philanthropists established a family foundation in 2007 to help preserve the artifacts and manage dozens of charitable events held there every year.

Women’s and children’s organizations were among the first recipients of the couple’s generosity, including the Michael Joseph Foundation, Arden Shore, and their parish, Saint Anne Catholic Community in Barrington. Gradually, they expanded their vision to include charities that also benefitted the arts.

“My parents’ passion was supporting women and children, but they came to see the arts as just as important,” their son, Jeffrey Sanfilippo, told the Daily Herald after his father’s death in January 2020. “They realized they could educate people about these beautiful instruments and help them learn more about them.”

Read more here.

A tribute to Mrs. Sanfilippo has been posted to the Sanfilippo Foundation Facebook page, and her obituary can be found here.

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Lynch Christmas

Jane Lynch, center, Kate Flannery and Tim Davis return to the Raue Center for “A Swingin’ Little Christmas.” (Courtesy of The Raue Center)

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Ongoing

Long Grove Vintage Days: Through Dec. 23 in downtown Long Grove, 145 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove. Carriage rides Fridays through Sundays; holiday caroling; merchant open houses and promotions; and Santa visits from noon to 4 p.m. Dec. 9-10. Free. longgrove.org/festival/holiday-season.

Lightscape: 4:30-9:15 p.m. select days through Jan. 7 at the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. Take an after-dark stroll through an array of illuminated displays from new installments to favorites like the Winter Cathedral. In advance: $30-$34 for adults, $17-$19 for kids 3-12; day of: $33-$37 for adults, $19-$21 for kids 3-12. Some dates are sold out. chicagobotanic.org/lightscape.

Santa’s Village Drive-Thru Holiday Attraction: 5-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 5-9 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 23 at Santa’s Village, 601 Dundee Ave., East Dundee. Drive through over 3 million lights synchronized to holiday music and lights displays. Meet-and-greet Santa Claus at the end. Funnel cakes and hot chocolate for purchase. $35 per vehicle; $25 for season pass holders. Reservations required. SantasVillageDundee.com.

Santa House Visits: 6-8 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays, and noon to 3 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 23 at Williams and Brink streets, Crystal Lake. Bring your camera for a visit with Santa in his Santa House. Free. downtowncl.org.

Friday, Dec. 8

Christmas Vocal Jazz with Cheryl Wilson: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8, at Barrington’s White House, 145 W. Main St., Barrington. Jazz vocalist Cheryl Wilson performs holiday music. $30. barringtonswhitehouse.com.

Frozen Flurry Fest: 5-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8, at Lake in the Hills Village Hall, 600 Harvest Gate, Lake in the Hills. Take a self-guided walk through a snow and ice walkway inspired by “Frozen” with lights, character encounters and a visit with Santa. Free for preregistered residents or $2 for nonresidents; at the gate: $2-$4. lith.org/Home/Components/News/News/1253/16.

Elgin Symphony’s Yuletide concert: 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 8, at the Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. Seasonal music led by conductor Chad Goodman. $55-$65. elginsymphony.org.

EP-231209601

Shop for gifts at the Antique Vintage Flea Market and Holiday Market this weekend at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Grayslake. Daily Herald File Photo

Saturday, Dec. 9

Antique Vintage Flea Market and Holiday Market: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10, at the Lake County Fairgrounds, 1060 E. Peterson Road, Grayslake. Antiques, vintage estate jewelry, clothing, collectibles, furniture, decor, old toys, advertising, coins and more. Admission: $8, good for both days; free for kids 12 and younger with an adult. Free parking. zurkopromotions.com.

Fremd Viking Booster Club Holiday Craft Fair: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at William Fremd High School, 1000 S. Quentin Road, Palatine. Art and craft vendors in a variety of media, concessions and more. fremdboosterclub.org/craft-fair.

Santa Paws: 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 9, at Clayson House Museum & Library, 224 E. Palatine Road, Palatine. Snap a photo of your pooch with Santa. $15-$20. Register for a time slot at palatineparks.org.

Winter Fest: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at Bridges of Poplar Creek Country Club, 1400 Poplar Creek Drive, Hoffman Estates. Family photo opportunities, iceless skating, s’mores making, Festival of Fun, Gingerbread House Making contest (preregistration required), sled dogs, carnival games and more. Free entry. heparks.org.

Winter Frostival: 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at the Arlington Heights Historical Museum, 110 W. Fremont St., Arlington Heights. Visit with the Ice Princess, Ice Queen and Santa Claus, plus cookies, cocoa, carolers, story time and more. Free. ahpd.org.

Christmas in the Valley: Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 9-10, at Heritage Farm at Spring Valley, 201 S. Plum Grove Road, Schaumburg. Experience an 1880s holiday with traditional treats, kids’ crafts, marshmallows and warm beverages around a bonfire and a visit from Father Christmas. Park at St. Matthew Parish and follow the signs to Spring Valley. $3 per person; $12 per family. Register at parkfun.com.

ESO

Music Director Chad Goodman and the Elgin Symphony Orchestra will present “Holiday Spectacular” that also features the Elgin Master Chorale and Integrity School of Dance on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 9-10, at the Hemmens in Elgin. (Courtesy of Donna Lake)

Elgin Symphony’s Holiday Spectacular: 2:30 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10, at the Hemmens, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. Elgin Symphony Orchestra, led by conductor Chad Goodman, is joined by Integrity School of Dance and Elgin Master Chorale. $20-$65; free for kids 17 and younger with a paid adult. elginsymphony.org.

Boston Brass, “Christmas Bells are Swingin'”: 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at Ravinia Festival, 200 Ravinia Park Road, Highland Park. Christmas concert with the All-Star Brass Big Band. $40. ravinia.org.

Let It Snow planetarium shows: 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at McHenry County College, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake. Festive full-dome video images choreographed to classic Christmas music. $12. mchenry.edu/events/index.html

The Christmas Star planetarium show: 7-8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at McHenry County College, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake. Potential natural explanations for the Star of Bethlehem and learn about common modern-day misconceptions. $12. mchenry.edu/events/index.html.

Jane Lynch’s “A Swingin’ Little Christmas”: 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, and 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10, at the Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. A twist on the Christmas specials of the 1950s and ’60s with Jane Lynch, Kate Flannery, Tim Davis and The Tony Guerrero Quintet. $50-$70. rauecenter.org.

Sunday, Dec. 10

Artisans Market Winter Arts & Crafts Fair: Noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10, at Wild Onion Brewery and Banquets, 22221 N. Pepper Road, Lake Barrington. Handmade works of local juried artists, crafters, bakers and chefs. Free. artisan-markets.com.

Monday, Dec. 11

Schaumburg Youth String Ensemble Winter Concert: 7 p.m. Monday Dec. 11, at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg. Tickets: $9 adults, $5 for kids 18 and younger in advance; $11 adults, $7 for kids 18 and younger at the door. prairiecenter.org.

Wednesday, Dec. 13

Holiday Trolley Express: 4-7:30 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, Dec. 13-14, at Gary Morava Recreation Center, 110 W. Camp McDonald Road, Prospect Heights. The trolley tours past houses decorated for the season, plus hear a story from one of Santa’s helpers, sing Christmas carols, visit with Santa, and enjoy cookies and hot chocolate. $15-$17. Register at phparks.org.

On Stage

“The Nutcracker”: 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Dec. 7 and 8, and 1 and 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 9 and 10, at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg. Tchaikovsky’s timeless ballet follows courageous young Clara on her journey through an enchanted land of dancing snowflakes to the court of the Sugar Plum Fairy. $26-$38. prairiecenter.org.

“The Day Before Christmas”: 7 p.m. Friday Dec. 8, and 3 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at Cutting Hall, 150 E. Wood St., Palatine. It’s the day before Christmas and all the usual characters have been busy at the North Pole getting ready for the big day. That is, until Jack Frost decides to throw in a little chaos and calamity. Proceeds benefit Susannah’s Gift, a cultural arts scholarship fund. $12. cuttinghall.org.

“The Nutcracker Ballet” 2023: 7 p.m. Fridays, Dec. 8 and 15; 2 and 7 p.m. Saturdays, Dec. 9 and 16; and 2 and 6 p.m. Sundays, Dec. 10 and 17, at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock. Judith Svalander School of Ballet transforms the Opera House stage into a realm of fantasy. $20-$45. woodstockoperahouse.com.

Dining with Santa

Breakfast with Santa at Poplar Creek: 8:30 and 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at Bridges of Poplar Creek Country Club, 1400 Poplar Creek Drive, Hoffman Estates. Adults: $23.95; kids 4-12: $14.95; free for kids 3 and younger. Reservations are required. (847) 781-3658 or heparks.org.

Find much more here.

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By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Nutcracker

Barrington Dance Ensemble’s 30th anniversary production of The Nutcracker opens tonight

Barrington Dance Ensemble’s “The Nutcracker”: 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1; 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2; and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 2, at Barrington High School, 616 Main St., Barrington. Guest artists from National and Chicago regional dance companies, including the Milwaukee Ballet and Giordano Dance Chicago, perform lead soloist roles and are joined by more than 100 performers from the Northwest suburbs. $25-$38. (847) 382-6333 or barringtondance.org.

Luminaria Walk: 4:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 29, through Saturday, Dec. 2, at Veteran Acres, 431 N. Walkup, Crystal Lake. Stroll along the lit trail through Veteran Acres. On Saturday, there will be campfires, hot cocoa, cookies, Candy Cane Forest and Mrs. Claus. $1 per person or $5 per family donation. crystallakeparks.org/special-events

Hawthorn Woods Hometown Holiday: 4-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, at Community Park, 5 Park View Lane, Hawthorn Woods. Santa arrives at 4:15 p.m. Visits with Santa, photo opportunities, and cookies and cocoa from 4:30-6 p.m. Lighting of the community tree at 6:30 p.m. and caroling from 6:15-6:45 p.m. Free. vhw.org/223/Hometown-Holiday.Fox River Grove Tree Lighting Community Celebration: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, in the Metra parking lot, 315 Northwest Hwy., Fox River Grove. facebook.com/frgliving.

Dickens

Santa waves at kids during the Dickens in Dundee Spirit of Christmas parade. This year’s Dickens in Dundee takes place Friday and Saturday, Dec. 1-2, in East and West Dundee. – Paul Valade | Staff Photographer, 2021

Dickens in Dundee: 5:45 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, and 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, in East and West Dundee. Tree-lighting ceremonies and Santa arrives at 5:45 p.m. Friday at The Depot, 319 N. River St., East Dundee, and at 7 p.m. at West Dundee Village Hall, 102 S. Second. Dundee-Crown Chamber and Varsity Treble Choirs perform at both ceremonies. In East Dundee on Friday, “The Christmas Schooner” cast performances; visits with Santa from 6-9 p.m.; and Living Windows along River and Main streets from 6:30-8 p.m. In West Dundee on Friday, visits with Santa and Living Windows between First and Second streets and along Main Street from 6-8 p.m. On Saturday in West Dundee, Dickens of a Christmas sale; “A Christmas Carol Revisited: Scrooges Reclamation” at 11 a.m.; reading of Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” at 1:30 p.m. Annual Riverside Parade of Lights at 6:30 p.m. Saturday through West Dundee, Carpentersville and East Dundee. dickensindundee.org/

Greater Elgin “Messiah” Singalong: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, at Elgin Community College’s Blizzard Theater, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Annual event featuring performers and musicians from Elgin Symphony Orchestras, Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra, Elgin Master Chorale, Judson University students, Larkin High Concert Choir, Midwest Opera Theater and area choruses. Music score will be provided at the door. $7; free for kids 12 and younger. Register at elginsing-alongmessiah.org.

North Pole Holiday Spectacular: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, and 1 and 3:45 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at Community Recreation Center, 505 N. Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg. Musical show with performances by Expressions Dance Company, games with prizes, cookie decorating and visits with Santa. Registration required. $12. parkfun.com.

Palatine Concert Band Holiday Concert: 7-9:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1, at Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center, 150 E. Wood St. Palatine. The Palatine Concert Band, under the direction of Dr. Frederick Lowe, performs traditional and contemporary works. $3-$9. palatineparks.org.

Winter Circus Spectacular: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 1; 10:30 a.m., 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2; and 11:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3, at NOW Arena, 5333 Prairie Stone Parkway, Hoffman Estates. Performers, athletes and animals from around the world perform together. $11-$48. (847) 649-2270 or nowarena.com.

Saturday, Dec. 2

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Barrington has many holiday activities planned today

Holiday Visit with Santa: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at Barrington’s White House, 145 W. Main St., Barrington. Visits with Santa, cookies and refreshments, family photos and more. Free. barringtonswhitehouse.com/event/holiday-visits-with-santa.

Barrington Holiday Fest and Tree Lighting Ceremony: 2-6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at Park Avenue and Cook Street, Barrington. Hot chocolate, family activities, a performance by the Barrington High School Madrigals at 4:45 p.m. and the tree-lighting ceremony at 5 p.m. Santa will arrive on his firetruck following the ceremony and take photos outside of the Santa Hut on Park Avenue until 6 p.m. Free. barrington-il.gov/events/holiday-fest.

“The Bells of Christmas”: 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at Barrington United Methodist Church, 98 Algonquin Road, Barrington Hills. Chicago Bronze Handbell Ensemble performs sacred, secular, classical, jazz and old favorites. The church’s Exaltation Handbell Choir performs a Christmas composition. chicagobronze.org.

Winter Express Story Time: 8:30 and 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at the Arlington Heights Train Station in downtown Arlington Heights. Take a magical train ride, hear the “Polar Express” story and visit with Santa. All riders must be registered and children must be accompanied by a registered adult. $25-$35. Register at ahpd.org/events/winter-express-story-time.

Breakfast with Santa at Chevy Chase: 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Dec. 2, at Chevy Chase Country Club, 1000 N. Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling. Buffet breakfast, meet with Santa and take photos with him. Adults: $29.95; kids 4-13: $16.95; free for kids 3 and younger. Reservations required. wheelingparkdistrict.com.

Christ Lutheran Church Christmas Fair: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at Christ Lutheran Church, 41 S. Rohlwing Road, Palatine. Handmade crafts for Christmas and beyond, including ornaments, accessories and Grandma’s Attic, plus homemade baked items and food gifts. Free entry. clcpalatine.org.

Let It Snow planetarium shows: 10 a.m. and noon Saturday, Dec. 2, at McHenry County College, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake. Festive full-dome video images choreographed to classic Christmas music by Frank Sinatra, Chuck Berry, Burl Ives and Brenda Lee, and a finale by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. $12. mchenry.edu/events/index.html.

Santa House Visits: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays, noon to 3 p.m. Sundays and 6-8 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays through Dec. 23 at Williams and Brink streets, Crystal Lake. Bring your camera for a visit with Santa in his Santa House. Free. downtowncl.org.

Algonquin Miracle on Main: 3-7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, on Main Street, Algonquin. Annual event includes live holiday performances, ice-sculpting displays, hot chocolate and more. Free. algonquin.org/recreation.

Holiday in the Hollow: 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, in Sabatino Park, 1 Thorobred Lane, Sleepy Hollow. Music by Sleepy Hollow Elementary School, Circle-of-Cheer Christmas trees, Santa visits, and lighting of the trees and flagpole. Free. sleepyhollowil.org.

Winterville in the Park: 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, Triangle Park, 39 E. Main St., Carpentersville. Meet Santa, and enjoy hot cocoa and doughnuts while supplies last. Tree lighting at 5:30 p.m. Second annual Riverside Parade of Lights starts at 6:30 p.m. in West Dundee, travels to Carpentersville at 6:30 p.m. and arrives in East Dundee at 7 p.m. cville.org.

Wauconda Holiday Lights Parade and Tree Lighting: 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at the Wauconda Park District, 600 N. Main St., Wauconda. Holiday parade and tree lighting. Free. waucondachamber.org.

Riverside Parade of Lights: 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2. Second annual event by the Villages of East Dundee, West Dundee, and Carpentersville and Northern Kane County Chamber of Commerce. Parade steps off in West Dundee on South Lincoln Avenue, just south of North Sixth Street, travels north to and across the Main Street bridge in Carpentersville, then south on Washington/Water Street to East Dundee, ending at Railroad Street. nkcchamber.com.

Cor Corps Horn Ensemble Concert: 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at McHenry County College Leucht Auditorium, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake. Local horn players perform a variety of classical and popular music. Free. mchenry.edu/events.

“Glow — Celebrating Songs of the Season”: 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, in First Congregational Church sanctuary, 256 E. Chicago St., Elgin. Nothing But Treble performs music ranging from German and English Renaissance to contemporary settings of ancient texts, from folk music to “Glow” by Eric Whitacre, and “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and holiday favorites. Suggested donation $15 or $5 for kids. nbtchorus.com.

Lisa Rock’s “A Carpenters Christmas”: 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 2, at ECC Arts Center, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Singer Lisa Rock and her six-piece backing band perform holiday music of The Carpenters. $42. eccartscenter.org/events/centerstage.

Sunday, Dec. 3

ESO Holiday Brass and Percussion: 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3, at St. Anne Catholic Community, 120 Ela St., Barrington. Festive holiday music featuring ESO Brass and Percussion sections, with conductor Chad Goodman. Free. RSVPs welcome at elginsymphony.org.

Santa’s Flight to Schaumburg: 9-11 a.m. or 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3, at Schaumburg Regional Airport, 905 W. Irving Park Road, Schaumburg. Santa’s flying, via helicopter, to Schaumburg. Wait for Santa in the airport’s hangar. Includes a buffet breakfast, holiday music and crafts. All kids must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required. $20-$25; free for kids 2 and younger, but must be registered. parkfun.com.

Merry Cary Holiday Parade and Festival: 12:30-3:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3, along Main Street and Jandus Road, Cary. Parade steps off at 1 p.m. on Main Street. Caroling by Caring Hearts & Voices, horse-drawn sleigh rides, pony rides and petting zoo. From 2-3:30 p.m., visits with Santa or the Holiday Grouch and cookie decorating. Free. carygrovechamber.com.

“The Bells of Christmas”: 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3, at Ela Public Library, 275 Mohawk Trail, Lake Zurich. Chicago Bronze Handbell Ensemble performs sacred, secular, classical, jazz and more. chicagobronze.org.

Voices Unlimited Chorus’ “Let the Season Begin”: 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3, at Immanuel Lutheran Church sanctuary, 310 E. Main St., East Dundee. Led by founder and director David Barth, the debut concert features popular Christmas and holiday choral songs. $10; $5 for kids younger than 12. Tickets: Email davidabarth@comcast.net or (630) 707-1221. Also available at the door.

Northwest Symphony Orchestra “Messiah” Sing-A-Long: 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 3, at First Presbyterian Church of Arlington Heights, 302 N. Dunton Ave., Arlington Heights. Join members of the Northwest Symphony Orchestra in the performance of “Part 1 Messiah” and concluding “Hallelujah Chorus.” Free; freewill offering appreciated. northwestsymphony.org.

Tuesday, Dec. 5

Just For Kids Holiday Shop: 4:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday, Dec. 5-6, at Alcott Center, 530 Bernard Drive, Buffalo Grove. Children can do one-stop holiday shopping with a holiday helper. Gifts will range from $3 to $8 and will be wrapped. bgparks.org/just-for-kids-holiday-shop.

Thursday, Dec. 7

One of a Kind Holiday Show: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Dec. 7-9, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 10, at The MART, 222 W. Merchandise Mart Plaza, Chicago. More than 500 artists, makers and designers will be selling accessories, bath and body, ceramics, fashion, fiber art, furniture, glass, gourmet, holiday, jewelry, metal, mixed media, paintings, pet products, photography, sculpture and wood. oneofakindshowchicago.com.

Find many more events here.

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Navy Pier

See fireworks on Saturday nights when Light Up The Lake returns to Chicago’s Navy Pier. (Courtesy of Navy Pier)

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Ongoing

Chicago Christkindlmarket: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, through Dec. 24, at Daley Plaza. 50 W. Washington St., Chicago. German-style outdoor market featuring international and local vendors selling a variety of wares. Free. christkindlmarket.com/daleyplaza.

Lightscape: 4:30-9:15 p.m. select days through Jan. 7 at the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. Take an after-dark stroll through an array of illuminated displays from new installments to favorites like the Winter Cathedral. In advance: $30-$34 for adults, $17-$19 for kids 3-12; day of: $33-$37 for adults, $19-$21 for kids 3-12. chicagobotanic.org/lightscape.

“Beautiful: The Carole King Musical”: 1 and 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays; 7:30 p.m. Thursdays; 8 p.m. Fridays; and 1 and 5 p.m. Sundays, through Dec. 30, at Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. The inspiring true story of Carole King’s journey from teenage songwriter to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Ticket prices start at $55. marriotttheatre.com.

Big & Bright Trail of Lights Festival: 5-9 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, through Dec. 31, at Sonny Acres Farm, 29W310 North Ave., West Chicago. Holiday lights show includes a Christmas Market, photo ops, fire pits, s’mores, hot chocolate, adult specialty drinks and more. $10-$15. sonnyacres.com.

Rosemont’s Chicago Wolves Ice Rink: Noon to 10 p.m. Fridays, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturdays and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays, through Dec. 21. Free admission. Bring your own skates or rent skates on-site for $8. ParkwayBankPark.com.

ZooLights: 4:30-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 4:30-9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, through Jan. 7, at Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St., Chicago. Lighted displays, photo ops and interactive programming. $10 Fridays and Saturdays, $7 most weekdays, free on Mondays. lpzoo.org/event/zoolights.

Long Grove Vintage Days: Through Dec. 23 in downtown Long Grove, 145 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove. Carriage rides Fridays through Sundays; holiday caroling; merchant open houses and promotions; and Santa visits from noon to 4 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Nov. 24-26. Free. longgrove.org/festival/holiday-season.

Friday, Nov. 24

Light Up The Lake: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays, from Nov. 24 through Dec. 31 at Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Outdoor ice skating, ax throwing, outdoor firepits, light displays, live music, a holiday artisan market, fireworks on Saturdays and more. Free, fees for some activities. navypier.org.

Brookfield Zoo

Brookfield Zoo’s Holiday Magic kicks off Friday, Nov. 24, with over two million twinkling LED lights, live entertainment, roaming carolers, ice carving and more. – Courtesy of Brookfield Zoo

Brookfield Zoo’s Holiday Magic: 3-9 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Nov. 24-26, and Thursday, Dec. 1, and other dates through Dec. 31 at Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. See more than two million twinkling LED lights. Entertainment from 5-8 p.m. at North Pole at The Pavilions featuring Those Funny Little People, Juggling Elves, pictures with Santa, roaming carolers and ice carving at the Nature Stage. Advance tickets are not required for North Gate entry, but are required for South Gate entry. $20.95-$29.95. czs.org/HolidayMagic.

Arlington Heights Tree Lighting: 4:30-6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, at North School Park, 307 N. Evergreen Ave., and Harmony Park, 7 S. Vail Ave., Arlington Heights. The countdown to the lighting of the tree and park will take place at 5 p.m. in North School Park. Hop a trolley and enjoy holiday fun at Harmony Park from 4:30-6:30 p.m., including an ice carver, a reindeer, a giant ornament of lights, photo stations and a free professional photo. Trolleys will be looping between Harmony Park and North School Park from 3:45-6:45 p.m. Free. vah.com/treelighting.

Schaumburg Tree Lighting Ceremony: 6-8:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg. Holiday caroling begins at 6 p.m. Santa will be escorted by the Schaumburg Fire Department and will arrive at 6:30 p.m. to light the tree at the Jack Siegel Memorial Plaza. Santa will meet with children in the Prairie Center’s Maggie Atcher Theatre, where parents/guardians are encouraged to bring their cameras for photos. Bring nonperishable food items for the Schaumburg Food Pantry. Free. prairiecenter.org.

Festival of Lights Parade: 7-9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, at Williams and Brink streets, Crystal Lake. Santa Claus comes to town for the parade and stays for the lighting of the community Christmas tree in the Brink Street Market courtyard. The parade starts at West Woodstock and North Caroline streets and heads south to West Crystal Lake Avenue, east to Grant Street, northeast to East Woodstock Street, and southeast to North Williams Street. downtowncl.org.

Theatre 121’s “White Christmas”: 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 24, and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 25-26, at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 W. Van Buren St., Woodstock. Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas.” $10-$26. woodstockoperahouse.com.

Saturday, Nov. 25

Run Fox Run 5K: 8 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at Fox Run Golf Links, 333 Plum Grove Road, Elk Grove Village. $25. Register at elkgroveparks.org.

Holiday Pop-up Shop: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays, Nov. 25 and Dec. 9, at Arts in Bartlett, 215 S. Main St., Bartlett. Local artisans and crafters will be selling unique items. Free. artsinbartlett.org.

Handmade Holiday Craft Fair: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at Elara Convention Center, Holiday Inn Crystal Lake, 800 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake. Handmade works by local artists, crafters, bakers and chefs. Free. artisan-markets.com.

Holiday Cheers Sips of the Season: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, in Elgin. Over 20 downtown businesses offer hot cocoa with festive toppings, warm apple cider, mint mocha, Ponche Navideño, warm tea and more. Order a commemorative Holiday Cheers insulated cup for $25 at downtownelgin.com/hollydays.

Holiday Craft Fair: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at the Village Barn, 2 Lagoon Drive, Hawthorn Woods. Vendors and businesses will be selling unique and handcrafted items. Free. vhw.org.

Holidays at The Haight: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at The Haight, 166 Symphony Way, Elgin. Sip and shop from a curated collection of over 40 local makers and their goods. It is also one of the 20 stops in downtown Elgin’s annual Sip & Stroll from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Free entry. facebook.com/thehaight166.

Santa House Visits: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays, noon to 3 p.m. Sundays, and 6-8 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, from Nov. 25 through Dec. 23, at Williams and Brink streets, Crystal Lake. Bring your camera for a visit with Santa in his Santa House. Free. downtowncl.org.

Spring Valley Holiday Craft Fair: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 25-26, at Spring Valley Nature Center, 1111 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. Handcrafted gift items including jewelry, home decorations and more. The Spring Valley Nature Club will be selling food and beverages. Free. parkfun.com.

Fox Lake Festival of Lights: 3-8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at Millennium Park, 23 Rollins Road, Fox Lake. Kriss Kringle Winter Market located at the Community Garden Green will be open from 3-6 p.m. The parade is at 5 p.m. at Grant Community High School, 285 E. Grand Ave., Fox Lake, followed by the tree lighting at Millennium Park and the opening of the Santa Cottage. foxlake.org.

For King + Country’s “A Drummer Boy Christmas — The 2023 Tour Experience”: 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 25, at NOW Arena, 5333 Prairie Stone Parkway, Hoffman Estates. $29.99-$205. nowarena.com.

“A Christmas Carol”: Various times and dates from Saturday, Nov. 25, through Dec. 24 at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. For ages 5 and older. For tickets, see metropolisarts.com.

Sunday, Nov. 26

Cookies & Churros with Santa: 2:30-4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 26, at Flores Banquets, 240 N. Throop St., Woodstock. After the annual Woodstock Christmas Parade, enjoy Cookies and Churros with Santa. Free. Sponsored by the City of Woodstock, Hispanic Connections, and the Woodstock Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry and other sponsors. woodstockilchamber.com.

Itasca Winter Wonderland: 4-5:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 26, at the Usher Park gazebo, 203 S. Walnut, Itasca. Santa, Mrs. Claus and their North Pole companions will join the holiday tree lighting by the village and park district. Music from the Holiday Dickens Carolers, a holiday performance from the Inner Prestige Dancers, and hot chocolate and cookies. Free. itasca.com.

An Evening with Chevy Chase and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation: 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 26, at the Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St., Chicago. $49.75-$89.75. chicagotheatre.com.

Wednesday, Nov. 29

Luminaria Walk: 4:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 29, through Saturday, Dec. 2, at Veteran Acres, 431 N. Walkup, Crystal Lake. Stroll under the stars along the lit trail through Veteran Acres. $1 per person or $5 per family donation appreciated. Donations go toward future Nature Center education programs. crystallakeparks.org/special-events.

Thursday, Nov. 30

Craft & Vendor Fair: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 30, at McHenry Senior Center, 3519 N. Richmond Road, McHenry. Annual craft and vendor fair. (815) 344-3555 or seniorservicesassoc.org.

Discover many more entertainment opportunities here.

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Evergreen 2023

Families bond at Wreaths Across America event at Evergreen Cemetery. (Courtesy Signal Hill Chapter, NSDAR)

By Jacqueline Marcus

Add one more entry to your gift list this year – an hour to honor those who protected your freedom to celebrate as you wish.

Since 2019, the Signal Hill Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR), has sponsored Wreaths Across America Day at Evergreen Cemetery in Barrington to remember the fallen, honor those who serve, and teach the next generation the value of freedom.

The first Wreaths Across America Day at Evergreen Cemetery used government-issued grave markers to identify U. S. Military Veterans interred there. In the ensuing years, our genealogists have used public records to identify many more veterans there, and in the process, have written and submitted nearly 250 biographies to the Barrington Area Library Local History website for others interested in family history.

Signal Hill Chapter members have steadily supported this growing project, now offering more wreath laying opportunities for volunteers than any other northwest suburban cemetery.

Wreaths Across America Day includes veterans groups, families, youth organizations, and local business colleagues who join this patriotic remembrance by attending the brief memorial service and placing wreaths on more than 800 identified Veteran graves.

This year, give the gift of time by spending an hour with your community at noon on Saturday, Dec. 16, for the fifth annual Wreaths Across America Day, Evergreen Cemetery, 610 S. Dundee Ave., Barrington.

For information, or to register as a wreath laying volunteer, please visit WreathsAcrossAmerica.org/IL0113.

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Crools

Barrington Hills residents Bryan and Josie Croll; Josie Croll is a Chicago Zoological Society Women’s Board member.

By Megan McKinney | Classic Chicago Magazine

The Brookfield Zoo moved to the Four Seasons for the evening on October 3, when Chicago Zoological Society’s Board of Trustees and Women’s Board hosted its 20th annual Conservation Leadership Awards Dinner. During the evening, recipients were honored for their collective impact and commitment to conservation and animal welfare. The fundraiser, attended by approximately 250 guests, raised nearly $335,000, with proceeds benefitting the Society’s conservation, education, and animal programs at Brookfield Zoo.

Read more here.

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Wreaths

By Jacqueline Marcus

For the previous four years, the Barrington-based Signal Hill Chapter, NSDAR, has undertaken the task of raising funds to purchase individual wreaths for the community’s Wreaths Across America Day at Evergreen Cemetery, 600 Dundee Avenue, in Barrington, IL. This year’s event will take place on Saturday, December 16th, and the chapter asks for your help.

As with all things, the price of a wreath has increased from $15.00 to $17.00. While local DAR members privately donate toward the event costs, and local businesses and groups will donate, there is a known total of nearly 800 graves to be covered. Unfortunately, that number increases every year.

In addition to community participation, the chapter asks that individuals who could afford to purchase a wreath for general placement please visit WreathsAcrossAmerica.org.

If you would like to purchase a wreath for specific placement for a loved one, but cannot attend, a DAR member will be honored to do the placement on your behalf. Should we reach our goal, any additional monies will be banked for the following year. The chapter also encourages community participation on the day of the event. Following a brief memorial service, citizens of the community will be encouraged to place wreaths on the nearly 800 identified Veterans’ graves at Evergreen.

Signal Hill, NSDAR is a Barrington based chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution. The 501(c)3 organization is dedicated to historical preservation, promotion of education, and encouragement of patriotic endeavors. For more information about membership requirements, the local chapter and its goals and accomplishments, please visit signalhilldar.com.

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St Anne Drive

By Barrington Patch

Saint Anne Parish Catholic Community is hosting a food, coat and gift card drive this weekend that will benefit St. Moses the Parish in the south side of Chicago. This food pantry supports over 500 underserved families heading into the holiday season and beyond.

Donations can be dropped off at 120 N. Ela Street on Saturday between Noon – 6 PM and/or Sunday from 7 AM – 12:30 PM. Read more here.

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Lightscape

Marvel at the Cathedral of Light during Lightscape at the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe starting Friday, Nov. 10, and running through Jan. 7. (Courtesy of the Chicago Botanic Garden)

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Starts before Friday

Fall Flower Show: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Nov. 26 at Wilder Park Conservatory, Church Street and Prospect Avenue, Elmhurst. A seasonal display of fall flowers. epd.org.

“Beautiful: The Carole King Musical”: 1 and 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays; 7:30 p.m. Thursdays; 8 p.m. Fridays; and 1 and 5 p.m. Sundays, through Dec. 30, at Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. The inspiring true story of Carole King’s journey from teenage songwriter to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Ticket prices start at $55. marriotttheatre.com.

Friday, Nov. 10

Lightscape: 4:30-9:15 p.m. Friday, Nov. 10, through Jan. 7 at the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. Take an after-dark stroll through an array of illuminated displays from new installments to favorites like the Winter Cathedral. In advance: $30-$34 for adults, $17-$19 for kids 3-12; day of: $33-$37 for adults, $19-$21 for kids 3-12. chicagobotanic.org/lightscape.

Lake County Film Festival: Friday through Sunday, Nov. 10-12, at the College of Lake County, 19351 W. Washington St., Grayslake, and the Gorton Center, 400 E. Illinois Road, Lake Forest. Screenings of more than three dozen independent features, documentaries and short films. Single showings are $5 for short films, $10 for feature films; day passes $20; weekend passes $35; festival passes $50. 2023.lakecountyfilmfestival.org.

“It’s a Wonderful Life — A Live Radio Play”: 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 10-19, at the Elgin Art Showcase, 164 Division St., eighth floor, Elgin. Elgin Theatre Company’s annual holiday production. Sunday performances are sign acted for the deaf and hard of hearing. $18-$20. elgin-theatre.org/.

“Big Fish”: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 10-11, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 12, at Harper College Performing Arts Center, 1200 W. Algonquin Road, Palatine. The Harper College Ensemble Theatre Company performs the musical based on Daniel Wallace’s novel and director Tim Burton’s film. $15 for Harper students (with ID); $20 for Harper employees, other students or seniors (with ID); and $25 for general admission. (847) 925-6100 or harpercollege.edu/boxoffice.

Saturday, Nov. 11

Antique Flea Market: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 12, at the Lake County Fairgrounds, 1060 E. Peterson Road, Grayslake. Antiques, vintage estate jewelry, clothing, collectibles, midcentury modern, furniture, decor, decorative arts, lighting, country furniture, shabby chic, old toys, advertising, coins and more. Admission is $8, good for both days. Free for kids 12 and younger with an adult. Free parking. zurkopromotions.com.

Recycled Christmas Resale Event: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, at the First United Methodist Church of Arlington Heights, 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights. Annual sale features gently used Christmas decor, trees, ornaments, lights, wreaths, linens, clothing, books, Nativity sets, dishes, outdoor decor, Christmas village, Santas, angels, snowmen and more, and a bake sale. Proceeds go to missions supporting women and children. Free entry. fumcah.com/events.

Holiday Craft Fair: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, at the Triphahn Community Center and Ice Arena, 1685 W. Higgins Road, Hoffman Estates. Holiday gifts including decor, treats, accessories and more from local vendors and crafters. Free entry. heparks.org.

Norwegian Heritage

The Norwegian Heritage Fest runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, at All Saints Lutheran Church in Palatine. – Daily Herald file photo

Norwegian Heritage Fest: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, at All Saints Lutheran Church, 630 S. Quentin Road, Palatine. Norwegian dancers and music; crafts, home-baked goods and light lunch items for sale; children’s activities and craft making; and demonstrations of krumkake and lefsa baking. Free entry and free coffee for veterans. skjoldlodge.com.

Sunday, Nov. 12

Northwest Concert Band: 3 p.m. Sunday Nov. 12, at John G. Conyers Learning Academy, 2800 W. Central Road, Rolling Meadows. Northwest Concert Band presents “A Gershwin Fantasy and Beyond!” featuring swing and symphonic specialties under the direction of Randy Steinberg. $10 adults; free for kids 18 and younger. northwestconcertband.org.

Northwest Choral Society Concert: 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 12, at First Presbyterian Church of Arlington Heights, 302 N. Dunton Ave., Arlington Heights. The Northwest Choral Society presents “Voice & Verse,” a choral celebration of music and language. Tickets are $20 for adults; $15 for students and seniors. (224) 585-9127 or nwchoralsociety.org.

Brassworks: 7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 12, in the St. John’s Chapel at Lutheran Home, 800 W. Oakton St., Arlington Heights. The nationally recognized brass brand, including lead trumpet player Mark Olen, will perform jazzy Broadway tunes and American favorites as part of a special tribute for Veterans Day. Free. (847) 368-7400 or lutheranlifecommunities.org/lutheranhome.

Wednesday, Nov. 15

Holiday Twilight Shop: 4:30-8 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 15; check in at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. The Arlington Heights Chamber of Commerce’s ninth annual event features shopping with discounts, holiday carolers, drinks specials, local gift card giveaways and more. $20-$30. eventbrite.com/e/holiday-twilight-shop-tickets-726866275597.

Thursday, Nov. 16

Bliss Holiday Boutique & Luncheon: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 16, at Makray Memorial Golf Club, 1010 S. Northwest Hwy., Barrington. Unique vendors, live holiday entertainment and lunch. Hosted by the Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce’s Women’s Biz Net. $45. BarringtonChamber.com.

“Seussical Jr.”: 6:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Nov. 16-18, and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 19, at Community Recreation Center, 505 N. Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg. A young boy named JoJo conjures up the Cat in the Hat with his powerful imagination and is whisked to the Jungle of Nool for a fantastical adventure. There, JoJo learns of the plight of the tiny citizens of Whoville, who live on a planet the size of a speck of dust. $12-$18. parkfun.com.

“Mean Girls, Jr.”: 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Nov. 16-17, and 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 18-19, at Community Arts Center, 225 McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove. Big Deal Productions presents the fall Children’s Theatre production. $17. bigdealproductions.

More ideas can be found here.

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Zero

From the BraveHearts Facebook page:

“Our Annual Freedom Trail ride is next Thursday, November 9th, welcoming Veterans to participate as we honor your service ahead of Veterans Day weekend. If you are a Veteran and interested in joining the ride, but haven’t registered yet, please contact Ben at 815-943-8226 as soon as possible to review participation requirements. We look forward to another great day in the saddle

If interested in sponsoring our ride, please click this link for sponsorship levels and details. Thank you for considering such an impactful gift.”

Per the Barrington Hills Park District:

“BraveHearts mission is to bring hope, joy and unlimited possibilities through the healing power of the horse.

Every year the Park District hosts the veterans for lunch at the Riding Center and a trail ride on the beautiful trails of Spring Creek Forest Preserves.

The trail ride is on Nov. 9th.”

The District office number is 847-783-677.

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