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Things to do Dec. 8-14: Seasonal concerts, Nutcrackers, light shows, markets and more

Posted in Entertainment, Fundraisers, Topics Of Interest on December 8, 2023| Leave a Comment »

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.

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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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Report: Bears mulling Soldier Field parking area as new stadium site. Meanwhile, talks resume with schools over Arlington Heights location.

Posted in Cook, County, Entertainment, Politics, Preckwinkle's Rules of Order, Pritzker’s Rules of Order, Taxes, Topics Of Interest, Unions on December 7, 2023| Leave a Comment »

Bears SF

An aerial view shows parking lots near Soldier Field in 2014. (Alex Garcia/Chicago Tribune)

By Robert McCoppin | Chicago Tribune

The Chicago Bears continue to check out a variety of sites in and around Chicago — including the site of Soldier Field — as potential homes for a new stadium, officials said Wednesday.

The Bears are doing due diligence on the viability of the south parking lot at Soldier Field as the location for their next stadium, according to unnamed sources cited by The Parkins & Spiegel Show on WSCR-AM 670 The Score.

The Bears have proposed building a $5 billion enclosed stadium and entertainment and housing complex on the site of the closed Arlington International Racecourse in Arlington Heights. The project has stalled while the team tries to negotiate favorable property taxes for the site.

The Bears reportedly are using the same surveying firm, Compass Surveying Ltd. in Aurora, that they used for Arlington Heights and other potential locations.

In response, the Bears would not confirm the report, but issued the following brief statement:

“As we stated in September earlier this year, we want to appropriately explore all opportunities across Chicagoland for the development of a world-class stadium.”

More here.

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“Our Favorite Things” Winter Concert is Saturday

Posted in Entertainment, Resident Spotlights, Topics Of Interest on December 7, 2023| Leave a Comment »

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We are thrilled to announce our 2023 Winter Concert, Our Favorite Things. The program will feature our five ensembles performing a mix of choral music that celebrates the playful moments of the season and peaceful sounds of winter, along with classical Christmas favorites. There will be one performance on Saturday, December 9 at 4:00 p.m. at Barrington United Methodist Church (98 Il-62, Barrington). The 75-minute concert will be presented without an intermission.

Celebrate the season with BCC – now in our 37th year!  Tickets are $25-purchase at barringtonchildrenschoir.org.

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Good news for Francesca’s devotees for the holidays

Posted in Entertainment, Topics Of Interest on December 6, 2023| Leave a Comment »

Francescas

We received this notice today:

“Throughout Christmas, Francesca’s restaurants are delighted to serve the Barrington community by staying open and serving the regular menu alongside special features:

  • Christmas Hours: Open on Christmas Eve from 11 AM to 9:30 PM and Christmas Day from 3 PM to 9 PM.
  • Christmas Specials (available from December 22-25):
    • Zuppa Crema di Aragosta – A delightful blend of crème fraiche and chives for $9.95.
    • Agnolotti Tartufati – Four-cheese agnolotti served with brown butter, black truffle, and chives at $28.95.
    • Risotto all’ Arlecchino – A savory combination of shrimp, sea scallops, manila clams, garlic, spicy cherry tomato sauce, and herbs for $31.95.
    • Bistecca all Tartufati con Patate – A 14 oz dry-aged NY strip paired with brussels sprouts, smashed fingerling potatoes, black truffle, and barolo demi for $54.95.

Simply make a reservation at your nearest Francesca’s location on OpenTable.

Francesca’s Restaurants has been a cherished neighborhood Trattoria, offering classic Italian favorites and sophisticated comfort for over 30 years.”

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McGonigal’s in downtown Barrington ‘not generating nearly enough business’ to stay afloat and will close month-end

Posted in DARCHED, Entertainment, Topics Of Interest on December 4, 2023| Leave a Comment »

McGonigal’s Pub

By Pioneer Press staff | Pioneer Press

Along with the current year drawing to a close at the end of the month, the owners of a popular pub in Barrington announced Monday that the restaurant and popular town gathering spot will also shut it’s doors — for good.

A message on Facebook states that, “…it comes with an extremely heavy heart to report that McGonigal’s Pub will be closing for business at the end of this month.” The social media post is signed by owner Bryan McGonigal.

McGonigal’s Pub opened its doors in March 2010. It is scheduled to close Dec. 31, according to the social media post. Financial hardship “for quite some time” is cited as the reason for shutting down. McGonigal stated in the Facebook post that a “significant amount of family money” had has been unsuccessfully poured into what he described as a financially overwhelmed business.

He stated that “for quite some time the Pub hasn’t been generating nearly enough business to retain viability. Over the years we’ve worked hard and tried virtually everything we could to guide it in the right direction … to keep it going.”

McGonigal declined to further discuss the announcement of closing, with Pioneer Press referred back to the social media post.

Read more here. A copy of the announcement can be found here.

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How inflation affected suburban sales tax revenues and holiday shopping

Posted in DARCHED, Entertainment, Politics, Taxes, Topics Of Interest on December 4, 2023| Leave a Comment »

Downtown Barrington

According to the Daily Herald report, “Only seven suburbs — Antioch, Barrington, Barrington Hills, Fox River Grove, Hanover Park, Lindenhurst and Volo — saw a decline in sales tax revenue between the state’s 2022 and 2023 fiscal years…”

By Jake Griffin | Daily Herald

Suburban shoppers haven’t let rising costs slow their spending.

That’s according to a Daily Herald analysis of Illinois Department of Revenue figures that show growth of municipal sales tax revenues in 92 suburbs collectively outpaced the inflation rate.

IDOR data shows that sales tax revenues for those suburbs climbed a combined 6.2% during the state’s most recent fiscal year, which ran from July 2022 through June 2023. During that same period, the inflation rate rose by 3%, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. In 28 suburbs, sales tax revenues grew by more than 10%.

Winfield’s sales tax receipts grew by 121.3% last year, but that was largely due to a quarter-cent hike in the village’s sales tax rate and the addition of an Amazon distribution center to town.

“There’s not a shortage of places we could use the additional sales tax dollars,” said Curt Barrett, village manager. “That includes a new village hall. We just had a sewer line burst in the basement, so a lot of people were holding their noses while we worked.”

Winfield is now generating more than $2.8 million in sales taxes, up 427.8% from a decade prior, records show. Barrett said the additional revenue has largely gone to police pensions and road work.

Read more here.

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Where to dine with Santa in the suburbs before the big day

Posted in Entertainment, Topics Of Interest on December 1, 2023| Leave a Comment »

Pinstripes

Santa will be stopping by Pinstripes’ brunch on the weekends in December for photos and to talk to the young ones. – Courtesy of Pinstripes

By Rick West | Daily Herald

Just like the song says, Santa Claus is coming to town. And it turns out he’s hungry, because he’s hitting a bunch of brunches, lunches and dinners around the suburbs in the next few weeks. But you better make your reservations soon because some of the popular holiday brunches have already sold out. Here’s what we found:

Brunch with Santa at Pinstripes

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 2-3, 9-10 and 16-17, at 1150 Willow Road, Northbrook, (847) 480-2323; 7 Oakbrook Center Mall, Oak Brook, (630) 575-8700; 100 W. Higgins Road, South Barrington, (847) 844-9300; and 435 E. Illinois St., Chicago, (312) 527-3010, pinstripes.com/santa-brunch/. Bring the kids, as Santa is joining brunch on the weekends in December for photos. The brunch buffet features a waffle station, made-to-order omelet station, sweets table, shrimp cocktail, maple-glazed ham, herb-roasted chicken, a chocolate fountain and more for $30 for adults, $13 for kids 6-12, and free for kids 5 and younger. Reservations are required.

Lambs Farm Breakfast with Santa

Seatings are at 9 and 10:30 a.m. and noon Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 9-10 and 16-17, at the Magnolia Café & Bakery at Lambs Farm, 14245 W. Rockland Road, Libertyville, lambsfarm.org/events/category/breakfast-with-santa/. Enjoy brunch at Magnolia then head over to Santa’s Workshop, where kids can pick out a gift and a festive temporary tattoo, make a sand art creation and get a goody bag full of crafts to take home. It’s $18.95 and $7.95 for kids younger than 2. Reservations are required.

Algonquin Breakfast with Santa

9 and 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at Cucina Bella, 220 S. Main St., Algonquin, rec.algonquin.org/. Includes breakfast, crafts and a visit with Santa. $27 for residents, $32 for nonresidents 13 and older; $20/$25 for kids 4-12; and free for kids 3 and younger.

Breakfast with Santa at Johnny’s

9:30 a.m. to noon Sunday, Dec. 10, at Johnny’s Supper Club, 1250 Bowes Creek Road, Elgin, johnnyssupperclub.com/. Bring a camera for photos with Santa and dine from their new breakfast menu. For reservations, call (847) 214-5877.

High Tea w Santa

The Graceful Ordinary will host a Holiday High Tea with Santa on Dec. 9. – Courtesy of The Graceful Ordinary

High Tea with Santa at The Graceful Ordinary

11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30-3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9, at The Graceful Ordinary, 3 E. Main St., St. Charles, (331) 235-5803, thegracefulordinary.com/. Enjoy a curated selection of loose leaf teas from The Irie Cup, juices, sweets and savory canapés. Capture the magic with a photo opp alongside Santa and receive a gift from The Graceful Ordinary. Holiday-themed cocktails will be available for purchase. Tickets are $66 for adults, $42 for kids 3-13, and free for kids younger than 2. Reservations at Resy.

Find more opportunities here.

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Numbers show small businesses leading job growth in Illinois

Posted in Entertainment, Resident Spotlights, Topics Of Interest on December 1, 2023| Leave a Comment »

Barrington Shop Local

A Village of Barrington promotion rewarding patrons of local businesses follows this article.

By Andrew Hensel | The Center Square

The latest U.S. Census data for the state of Illinois shows small businesses are leading the way in terms of job growth as they added more than 51,000 jobs in 2022.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, unemployment claims in November for Illinois increased by over 1,300 for the week ending Nov. 18. Those claims are the fourth highest in the country during that week.

Despite Illinois historically trailing the national average in terms of total unemployment rate, Illinois Policy Institute Dylan Sharkey said businesses with under 50 employees have been able to grow.

“Small businesses are critical to Illinois’ economy. They are responsible for most of the new jobs created,” Sharkey told The Center Square. “Businesses with 50 employees or fewer created nearly half of the new jobs in Illinois in 2022.”

Sharkey said businesses are growing despite a tax system that works against them.

“They added more than 51,000 jobs to the economy, and operating a business in Illinois is particularly challenging with its tax climate and burdensome regulations,” Sharkey said. “Businesses across the country are dealing with inflation and supply chain issues, but Illinois has the second highest property taxes in the nation, so that is a major hurdle unique to small business owners in our state.”

More here.

Editorial note: The Village of Barrington posted the following promotion recently:

“Shop Local, Get Rewarded This Holiday Season!

The Village of Barrington is rewarding all local shoppers this holiday season. Spend $150 at Village of Barrington retail stores, and receive a $50 gift card to a restaurant of your choice!

Submit your receipts at barrington-il.gov/shoplocal

Dining, grocery, service, and gas purchases are not applicable. Must submit receipt(s) to prove purchase. Total purchase does not have to be at one store, multiple purchases adding up to $150 are eligible. While supplies last. Receipts must be for purchases before 12/25/23 and submitted no later than December 29, 2023.”

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Things to do Dec. 1-7: Tree lightings, holiday parades, Dickens celebrations, light shows, craft fairs & more

Posted in Entertainment, Fundraisers, Resident Spotlights, Topics Of Interest on December 1, 2023| Leave a Comment »

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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Riding Club of Barrington Hills Bridle Path Rules Certification

Posted in Barrington Hills Park District, Barrington Hills Polo Club, BraveHearts, Entertainment, Equestrian Commission, Ethics, Fox River Valley Hunt, FPDCC, FRVPC, Horizon Farm, Intergovernmental agreements (IGA), Land Use, Organizations, Public Safety, Riding Center Advisory Committee, Riding Club of Barrington Hills, Topics Of Interest, Transparency, Unions, Village Code on November 25, 2023| Leave a Comment »

RCBH

“RCBH BRIDLE PATH ETIQUETTE AND RULES

The bridle paths include both public trails on county-owned property and private trails in Barrington Hills. Over 150 miles of these paths are maintained by the Riding Club of Barrington Hills. Everyone with a Forest Preserve of Cook County tag for their horse and license for the rider can take advantage of the public trails maintained by the Riding Club of Barrington Hills in the Cook County Forest Preserves. Trails located outside the Forest Preserve are for the exclusive use of Riding Club of Barrington Hills members and guests by stipulation of the land owners where these trails are located.

RCBH TRAILS ON PRIVATE PROPERTY – When the Riding Club of Barrington Hills (RCBH) was established in 1937, an informal agreement was entered into by neighbors, whereby mounted members of the Riding Club could traverse the landowners’ properties on horseback. Almost 80 years later, that relationship still exists. Our relationship, by its very nature, is a delicate one, we therefore ask you to follow the bridle path rules, to ensure that our system will continue to be viable.

  1. Riders must be current RCBH members in order to ride on the private trails, however RCBH members may bring a guest when they ride. The host club member is responsible for ensuring that their guest has signed the required waiver form before riding. Waiver can be found in the directory and is also available on our website https://ridingclubofbarringtonhills.org/online-waiver/
  2. Follow the RCBH bridle path markers, always stay on marked trail, be respectful of the trails and don’t ride if conditions would cause damage or leave hoof prints on the lawn. Don’t litter and where possible consider picking up manure after you ride.
  3. Current RCBH bridle tags must be displayed at all times when riding on private trails.
  4. Private bridle trails are for mounted riders only, no dogs, motorized vehicles or pedestrians allowed.
  5. If you open a gate, close it.
  6. Private trails are walk only.

RCBH TRAILS ON PUBLIC PROPERTY

The Riding Club of Barrington Hills maintains 65+ miles of trails within the Forest Preserve District of Cook County (FPDCC) properties. These are multi-use trails. Riding on FPDCC trails is by permit only: to obtain these permits, please go to their website at https://fpdcc.com/things-to-do/equestrian/. Rules for riding in the FPDCC are available on their website at https://fpdcc.com/about/rules-regulations/.

IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO CLEAR A PATH YOURSELF, PLEASE REPORT BLOCKED TRAIL TO THE TRAIL REP IN YOUR SECTOR.

TRAIL REPS ARE LISTED IN THE RCBH DIRECTORY AND ON OUR WEBSITE UNDER TRAILS.

The Sponsor certifies that the Applicant has adequate knowledge of the RCBH Bridle Path Rules to join the Club by entering information below and clicking [Submit]“

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