The Barrington Hills Observer

Woodstock Lighting of the Square | Courtesy Woodstock Chamber of Commerce

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Friday, Nov. 28

“A Christmas Carol”: 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 28, and continuing at 10 a.m. and noon Saturdays, Nov. 29-Dec. 27; 10 a.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays, Dec. 3-18; 10 a.m. and noon Fridays, Dec. 5-26; 10 a.m. Tuesdays, Dec. 9-23; 7 p.m. Wednesdays, Dec. 10 and 17; and 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.

Happy Holiday Railway: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28; Saturdays, Nov. 29 through Dec. 20; Sundays, Nov. 30 through Dec. 21; and Monday, Dec. 22, at Illinois Railway Museum, 7000 Olson Road, Union. Take a 40-minute train ride through the winter countryside with Santa Claus and enjoy 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 with ticket. Trips at 11:30 a.m., 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, 4, 5 and 6 p.m.; arrive 30 minutes early. Opening weekend includes a fireworks display at 5:45 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Nov. 28-30, weather dependent. $25. Tickets: irm.org/event/happy-holiday-railway/.

See 3.5 million twinkling LED lights at Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s Holiday Magic. | Courtesy of Brookfield Zoo Chicago

Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s Holiday Magic: 3-9 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Nov. 28-30, and Dec. 4-7, 11-14, 18-21 and 26-31 and Jan. 1-4, 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. Sensory-friendly Dec. 4. $20.95-$34.95. brookfieldzoo.org/HolidayMagic.

Woodstock Lighting of the Square: 4-8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, in historic Woodstock Square. Holiday carolers, kids’ activities and more. At 7 p.m., see the lighting of tens of thousands of twinkling lights illuminating park trees and Square buildings. Plus, the annual Opera House Christmas Tree Walk opens featuring dozens of trees decorated by area organizations. Santa arrives before the lighting ceremony to greet children and take photos. Free. woodstockil.gov.

Arlington Heights Tree Lighting: 4:30-6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, at North School Park, Arlington Heights Road and Eastman Street, Arlington Heights. Holiday-inspired music, dance performances, hot cocoa and treats. Join the countdown to flip the switch to turn on over 80,000 lights. There will be a countdown at Harmony Park with live reindeer, ice carving and more. Trolleys with Dickensian characters will loop between the two parks. Free. ahpd.org

Schaumburg Tree Lighting Ceremony: 6-8:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg. Visit with Santa, caroling, entertainment and refreshments. Free. prairiecenter.org.

Libertyville’s annual tree-lighting ceremony takes place Friday, Nov. 28, in Cook Memorial Park. | Daily Herald file photo, 2023

Libertyville Tree Lighting: 6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, in Cook Memorial Park, 413 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville. Festivities begin at 6:30 p.m., with the tree lighting at 7 p.m. Free. mainstreetlibertyville.org

Festival of Lights Parade: 7-9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, in downtown Crystal Lake. The parade theme, “Twinkling Lights & Candy Delights,” kicks off the season with Christmas Tree Lane transforming Brink and Grant streets into a winter wonderland with trees decorated by local clubs and organizations. On Luminary Nights from 5-8 p.m. Thursdays, Dec. 5-19, meet Santa, sip cocoa and walk the downtown streets lit by luminary candles. downtowncl.org.

“It’s A Wonderful Christmas Carol”: 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29; and 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock. Theatre 121’s world premiere of this new holiday play, written by local playwrights Joel Bennett and Jeff Cook, blends the charm of “It’s a Wonderful Life” with the spirit of “A Christmas Carol.” $17-$35. theatre121.org.

Saturday, Nov. 29

Run Fox Run 5K: 8-10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at Fox Run, 333 Plum Grove Road, Elk Grove Village. Run or walk. Registration required. $25. elkgroveparks.org.

“Elf — The Musical”: 1:30 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, and 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, at Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center, 150 E. Wood St., Palatine. Musical based on the hit movie. $13-$30. cuttinghall.org

The Vienna Boys Choir performs “Christmas in Vienna” at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at the Chicago Symphony Center. | Courtesy of Lukas Beck

Vienna Boys Choir’s “Christmas in Vienna”: 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at the Chicago Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago. The Vienna Boys Choir performs Austrian folk songs, classical masterpieces, popular songs and holiday favorites. Tickets start at $39. cso.org.

Vernon Hills’ Holiday Light Celebration: 4:30-5:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at Century Park, 1001 Lakeview Parkway, Vernon Hills. See the lighting of the Village Tree, Menorah and Kwanzaa displays. Free. vernonhills.org.

Light Up The Garden: 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at Bridges Beer Garden, 1400 Poplar Creek Drive, Hoffman Estates. Carolers, hot cocoa and more. Free. heparks.org

Guitarra Azul: 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at Bethel United Church of Christ, 315 E. St. Charles Road, Elmhurst. Rumba flamenca and Latin jazz with percussion and fiery Spanish guitars. $28.52-$39.19. Tickets: musicatbethel.com/.

Heartache Tonight: 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at the Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. Eagles tribute. Tickets start at $44. rauecenter.org.

Mayor David Kaptain, left, and Santa Claus get the festivities started during last year’s Tree Lighting Ceremony in Elgin. This year’s event is Saturday, Nov. 29. | Brian Hill/bhill@dailyherald.com

Elgin Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at DuPage Court, Elgin. Holiday Cheers Beverage Crawl from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., photos with Santa from 10-11:30 a.m., Holiday Trolley from noon to 5 p.m., Santa’s Workshop from 1-3 p.m., Storytime with Susie Claus from 2-4 p.m., and carolers from 3-5 p.m. Tree lighting at 5 p.m., when Mayor David Kaptain and Santa Claus will switch on the holiday lights. The tree will remain lit through Jan. 12. elginil.gov/2499/Winter-Holiday-Events.

Sunday, Nov. 30

Bloomingdale Maker’s Market: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, in the parking lot of Old Town, Third and Franklin streets, Bloomingdale. Rain or shine. Features local vendors (home decor, jewelry, blankets, clothes and more), entertainment, food trucks and more. facebook.com/thebloomingdalemakersmarket.

Nurtured by Nature: 10-11 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, at Raceway Woods Forest Preserve, 17N702 Western Ave., Carpentersville. Incorporates gentle stretching, deep breathing and a focus on awareness during gentle hikes designed to nurture the mind and body. For ages 18 and older. Free. Registration is required. kaneforest.com

Itasca Winter Wonderland Holiday Lighting and Market: 2-6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, along South Walnut Street, between West Grove Street and West Bloomingdale Road, Itasca. From 2-6 p.m., the Holiday Market will be offering handcrafted gifts and seasonal treats. From 4-6 p.m., watch performances by the Holiday Dickens Carolers and the Inner Prestige Dance Team as Santa, Mrs. Claus and their Holiday Friends arrive. Plus, hot chocolate and cookies and photos with Santa. Thousands of twinkling lights and displays will illuminate the park nightly through Jan. 15. Free admission; donate a new, unwrapped toy for Toys For Tots or a nonperishable food item for Itasca Food Pantry. itascaparkdistrict.com.

Tuesday, Dec. 2

Flute Choir Christmas Mini-Concert: 10:30-11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, at the Armerding Center for Music and the Arts lobby, 520 E. Kenilworth Ave., Wheaton. Hosted by Wheaton College Conservatory of Music. Free. wheaton.edu/calendar-of-events/.

“Elf The Musical”: 7 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, and 1 p.m. Sundays, Dec. 2-14; plus 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, and 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10, at The Auditorium, 50 E. Congress Pkwy., Chicago. Tickets start at $55.35. auditoriumtheatre.org.

MCC Guitar Ensemble and String Ensembles Concert: 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, at McHenry County College, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake. Free. mchenry.edu/events/.

“Home for the Holidays: An Evening With Levi Kreis”: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, and 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. Tony Award-winner Levi Kreis blends jazz, soul and rockabilly Christmas classics and holiday favorites. $40. metropolisarts.com

Pentatonix will bring their “Christmas in the City Tour” to the Allstate Arena in Rosemont Tuesday, | Dec. 2. AP, 2024

Pentatonix: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2, at the Allstate Arena, 6920 Mannheim Road, Rosemont. “Christmas in the City Tour.” Tickets start at $52.50. rosemont.com/allstate

Wednesday, Dec. 3

Luminaria Walk: 4:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, Dec. 3-6, at Veteran Acres, 431 N. Walkup, Crystal Lake. Stroll the lit trail through Veteran Acres. On Saturday, Dec. 6, there will be campfires, hot cocoa, cookies, Candy Cane Forest and Mrs. Claus. $1 per person or $5 per family donation appreciated, which go to future Nature Center education programs. crystallakeparks.org/special-events.

Stargazing Party: 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, at Peck Farm Park Orientation Barn, 4038 Kaneville Road, Geneva. Fox Valley Astronomical Society hosts a short discussion, then heads outside to discover the stars, sky and planets through their giant telescope. If there’s heavy cloud cover, the stargazing will be canceled, but the lecture will be held. Dress for the weather. No registration required. Free. genevaparks.org.

“Christmas Together”: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, at the Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N. River Road, Rosemont. With Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith and CeCe Winans. Tickets start at $64.45. rosemont.com/theatre

ECC Concert Band: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, at ECC Blizzard Theater, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Under the direction of Greg Matushek, the band celebrates tradition with a modern twist. $10-$12. eccartscenter.org

Thursday, Dec. 4

See community-decorated trees in Elmhurst’s Wilder Park during the village’s tree lighting, which takes place Thursday, Dec. 4. | Daily Herald file photo, 2019

Elmhurst Tree Lighting in Wilder Park: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at Wilder Park, 175 S. Prospect Ave., Elmhurst. Elmhurst Park District kicks off the holiday season with the lighting of the community trees surrounding the park. Photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, meet-and-greet with Mickey and Minnie Mouse, holiday carnival games, live reindeer and festive onstage performances. Inside the mansion, cookies, ornament craft and story time. Food trucks include Sugar Mama’s Mini Donuts and Travelin’ Toms Mobile Coffee Truck. Wilder Park’s south parking lot and the Alexander lot at Elmhurst University will be open for parking. epd.org/news/tree-lighting-wilder-park

Rolling Meadows Holiday Celebration: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at the city hall lobby and parking lot, 3600 Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows. Tree lighting, Santa visit, Plum Grove Middle School choir and DJ Jules, free goodies and hot cocoa for kids, while supplies last. Free. cityrm.org.

“A Cripple Creek Christmas Carol”: 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4; 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5; 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6; and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at the Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. A fresh take on Dickens’ classic by Raue Center School for the Arts students and adults. $10.50-$40. rauecenter.org.

Elgin Sing-Along Messiah: 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at Second Baptist Church, 1280 Summit St., Elgin. Annual community sing-along of selections from Handel’s “Messiah.” Showcasing Elgin-area musicians and vocalists from Elgin Symphony Orchestra, Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra, Midwest Opera Theatre and Elgin Master Chorale. Proceeds benefit Well Child Center. No experience necessary; chorus scores available at the door. $7, free for kids 12 and younger. elginsing-alongmessiah.org

MCC Concert Choir and Chamber Ensembles Concert: 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at McHenry County College, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake. Free. mchenry.edu/events.

Schaumburg Dance Ensemble will perform “The Nutcracker” Thursdays through Sundays, Dec. 4-14, at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts in Schaumburg. | Daily Herald file photo, 2021

“The Nutcracker”: 7 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays and 1 and 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 4-14, at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg. The Schaumburg Dance Ensemble’s 30th production of the holiday classic. Tickets: $35-$50. prairiecenter.org.

ECC Steel Bands: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at ECC Blizzard Theater, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Under the direction of Scott McConnell, the band performs an eclectic mix of calypso, reggae, rock and more. $10-$12. eccartscenter.org

Kenny G in “The Miracles Holiday & Hits Tour”: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at the Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main St., St. Charles. Holiday hits and fan favorites. $88.75-$138.75. arcadalive.com

Ongoing

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

Dinovember: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily through Nov. 30 at Randall Oaks Zoo, 1180 N. Randall Road, West Dundee. Learn about dinosaurs at 1:30 p.m. daily during the Dino-keeper Chat. Plus, embark on the Dinosaur Scavenger Hunt; complete it and claim a prize at the gift shop. $6; free for kids 1 and younger or U.S. military with ID. dtpd.org/dinovember.

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

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

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, Dec. 3-17. Electric Illumination for 21 and older from 4:30-9:30 p.m. Dec. 5, 12 and 19. The exhibition is closed select Mondays and Tuesdays and on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Tickets start at $20. mortonarb.org.

Harry Potter — A Forbidden Forest Experience: Time slots start at 4:30 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays through Jan. 3 at the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago’s Camp Duncan, 32405 N. U.S. Hwy. 12, Ingleside. Lights transform the landscape into a magical outdoor trail featuring creatures from the “Harry Potter” and “Fantastic Beasts” films. A themed village at the end of the trail offers food and drink (Butterbeer) and a gift shop. Tickets start at $31 for kids 3-12 and $46 for adults. HPForbiddenForestExperience.com.

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

Santa’s Rock N Lights: Time slots vary by day but usually start at 4:45 or 5 p.m. and end at 9 or 10 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Nov. 28-30, and Tuesdays through Sundays, Dec. 3-31, plus Mondays, Dec. 22 and 29, at the Kane County Cougars Stadium, 34W002 Cherry Lane, Geneva, and 3900 N. Rockwell St., Chicago. Drive-through light show featuring a mile of lights that dance in sync with music in larger-than-life displays. $29.99-$49.99 per car. santasrocknlights.com.

“A Christmas Carol”: 7:30 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 28 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, with 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.

McHenry Holiday Scavenger Hunt: Through Dec. 12. Help Santa find his lost reindeer by looking for them at local stores in McHenry. Present your completed card at the McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce by Dec. 12 to pick a treat from the treasure chest and the chance to win a door prize. facebook.com/mchenryareachamber.

“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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The Barrington Area Artists Association hosts a two-day art event featuring 30 artists showcasing and selling diverse fine art pieces. | Barrington White House website

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Starts before Friday

Barrington Area Artists Association Art Sale: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, and 2-6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, at Barrington’s White House, 145 W. Main St., Barrington. Members of the Barrington Area Artists Association, both professional and amateur artists, will showcase and sell hundreds of fine art pieces. Free; registration required at barringtonswhitehouse.com.

Friday, Nov. 21

McHenry Festival of Trees: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays Friday, Nov. 21, through Dec. 28 at McHenry City Hall, 333 S. Green St., McHenry, and 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. weekdays from Friday, Nov. 21, 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

Millennium Park Holiday Market: Noon to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 21-22, and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St., Chicago. Shopping, live entertainment and concessions. Free entry. choosechicago.com.

Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s Holiday Magic kicks off Friday, Nov. 21, and runs through Jan. 4, with over two million twinkling LED lights, live entertainment, roaming carolers, ice carving and more. | Courtesy of the Chicago Zoological Society

Brookfield Zoo Chicago’s Holiday Magic: 3-9 p.m. Fridays through Sundays, Nov. 21-23, 28-30 and Dec. 4-7, 11-14, 18-21 and 26-31 and Jan. 1-4, 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. Sensory-friendly on Dec. 4. $20.95-$34.95. brookfieldzoo.org/HolidayMagic.

Chicago Sports Spectacular: 3:30-8:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21; 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont. Sports memorabilia dealers, autograph signings, grading and authentification and more. Scheduled guests include Anthony Rizzo, Charlie Sheen, Ric Flair, Brian Urlacher, Lexie Hull, Christopher McDonald, Dennis Rodman, Emilio Estevez, Rick Sutcliffe, Reggie Jackson and more. $15 for Friday, $20 Saturday or Sunday; $10 for kids 6-10; and free for kids 5 and younger. chicagosportsspectacular.com

ZooLights: Time slots start at 4:30 p.m. select dates Friday, Nov. 21, 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

Light Up Long Grove: 5-8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, in downtown Long Grove. Kick off Vintage Holidays with tractor-pulled wagon rides, holiday shopping and dining, illuminated photo stations, festive street activities and the annual Bridge Lighting Ceremony at 7:30 p.m. with Village President Bill Jacob, followed by a live performance by the Fred Astaire Dancers and an appearance by Santa Claus. Shops will stay open late. Free. longgrove.org/festival/holiday-season.

City of Chicago’s 112th annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony: 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, in Millennium Park, 201 E. Randolph St., Chicago. Chicago’s official Christmas Tree will be lit and remain illuminated through Sunday, Jan. 11. Free. choosechicago.com

CLC Winter Dance Concert: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, and 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, in the Mainstage Theatre at the College of Lake County, 19351 W. Washington St., Grayslake. $11-$13. jlcenter.clcillinois.edu

ECC Club Cabaret “Make ’Em Laugh”: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 21-22, at ECC SecondSpace Theatre, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Vocalist Tommy Hensel and special guests explore the playful side of Broadway’s musical theater. $35. eccartscenter.org/events/theatre/

Elgin Theater Company’s “Love, Loss and What I Wore”: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 21-22, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at the Elgin Art Showcase, 164 Division St., eighth floor, Elgin. The play, based on Ilene Beckerman’s book, explores women’s lives through the lens of their clothing and the memories they evoke. $23-$25. elgin-theatre.org.

“It’s A Wonderful Christmas Carol”: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, Nov. 22 and 29; 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23; 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28; and 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock. Theatre 121’s world premiere of this new holiday play, written by local playwrights Joel Bennett and Jeff Cook, blends the charm of “It’s a Wonderful Life” with the spirit of “A Christmas Carol.” $17-$35. theatre121.org.

“SpongeBob SquarePants The Broadway Musical”: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 21-22, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at the Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. Children’s Theatre of Elgin and Fox Valley Theatre Co. production. $14-$16. cteelgin.com

“A Cripple Creek Christmas Carol”: 8 p.m. Fridays, Nov. 21 and Dec. 5; 2 and 7 p.m. Saturdays, Nov. 22 and Dec. 6; 2 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 23 and Dec. 7; and 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, at the Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. A fresh take on Dickens’ classic by Raue Center School for the Arts students and adults. $10.50-$40. rauecenter.org.

McHenry Holiday Scavenger Hunt: Friday, Nov. 21, through Dec. 12. Help Santa find his lost reindeer by looking for Dasher, Dancer and the gang at local stores in McHenry. Present your completed card at the McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce by Dec. 12 to pick a treat from the treasure chest and the chance to win a door prize. facebook.com/mchenryareachamber.

Santa’s Rock N Lights: Time slots vary by day but usually start at 4:45 or 5 p.m. and end at 9 or 10 p.m. Fridays through Sundays, Nov. 21-30, and Tuesdays through Sundays, Dec. 3-31, plus Mondays, Dec. 22 and 29, at the Kane County Cougars Stadium, 34W002 Cherry Lane, Geneva, and 3900 N. Rockwell St., Chicago. Drive-through light show featuring a mile of lights that dance in sync with music in larger-than-life displays. $29.99-$49.99 per car. santasrocknlights.com.

Saturday, Nov. 22

Island Lake Holiday Craft Fair: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 22-23, at the village hall, 3720 Greenleaf Ave., Island Lake. Gifts, holiday decor, jewelry, crafts and more. Free entry. villageofislandlake.com.

The Muscle Car & Corvette Nationals return Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 22-23, to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont. | Daily Herald file photo, 2021

Muscle Car & Corvette Nationals: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont. Over 550 muscle cars, dealer-built Supercars and Corvettes, with automotive-related vendors and more. $40 in advance, $45 at the door; free for kids 12 and younger with a paid adult. mcacn.com

Christmas on the Fox arts and crafts show: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 22-23, at the Kane County Fairgrounds Prairie Events Center, 525 S. Randall Road, St. Charles. Handmade items featuring Christmas floral and candies, jewelry, photography, paper crafts, a variety of apparel and accessories, whimsical folk art with holiday themes, homemade soup and dip mixes, handmade soap, wood signs and knitting. Holiday greens for sale from Heinz Brothers Greenhouse. $5. artoftheheartland.com/christmas-on-the-fox.

Holiday Craft Fair: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at The Club at Prairie Stone, 5050 Sedge Blvd., Hoffman Estates. Holiday items from local crafters. Free entry. heparks.org.

International Holiday Market: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at Estonian House of Chicago, 14700 Estonian Lane, Riverwoods. Jewelry, local handicrafts, Scandinavian items, soaps, wellness products, baked goods, wood crafts, Estonian Christmas Sausage and more. Plus, a bonfire, grilled foods, Glogg, hot chocolate, hot cider and sweets. $5, free for kids younger than 16. chicagoeestimaja.com.

Photos With Santa: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, and 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at the historic Nancy Kimball Cobblestone House, 302 W. Chicago St., Elgin. Book a 15-minute time block and take photos with Santa. Pets and props welcome. Craft activity and snacks in the basement. $30. Register: elginhistory.org

The Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival: 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at Pioneer Court, 401 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago. The parade on North Michigan Avenue will feature Grand Marshals Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, floats with friends from Walt Disney World Resort, marching bands from across the country, musical celebrities, Santa Claus, The Wintrust Fireworks Spectacular and more. Free. themagnificentmile.com/lights-festival.

“Elf — The Musical”: 1:30 and 7 p.m. Saturdays, Nov. 22 and 29, and 1:30 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 23 and 30, at Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center, 150 E. Wood St., Palatine. Musical based on the hit movie. $13-$30. cuttinghall.org.

An Almost Winter Day: 2-5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at SEBA Park, 151 S. Water St., South Elgin. S’more station, cookie decorating, balloon animals, craft station, snowball slingshot, letters to Santa, tree-decorating contest, ice sculptor and concessions. Pictures with Santa from 2-4:45 p.m.; bring your camera. Village tree lighting at 5 p.m. at Panton Mill Park. southelgin.com.

Light Up The Park: 2-6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at Parkway Bank Park, 5501 Park Place, Rosemont. Visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, horse-drawn sleigh rides, carolers, skating and ice-sculpting. Rosemont Mayor Brad Stephens will arrive at 5:30 p.m. to illuminate the park with more than 80,000 holiday lights. Free. rosemont.com/thepark/event/light-up-the-park.

Palatine Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony: 4:45-7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at Towne Square, Slade and Greeley streets, Palatine. Santa visits and pictures in the Towne Square gazebo, holiday music performed by the Palatine Children’s Chorus, and Santa will light the holiday tree. Free. palatine.il.us

Hoffman Estates Friendship Tree Lighting: 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22, at the village hall, 1900 Hassell Road, Hoffman Estates. The mayor will be joined by Cub Scout Troop 297 to light the tree and kick off a festive fireworks display. After the fireworks, visits with Santa, entertainment by the Choral-Aires and light refreshments inside village hall. Nonperishable food and personal care item donations accepted for local food pantries. Free. hoffmanestates.org.

Long Grove Vintage Holidays: Saturday, Nov. 22, 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

Sunday, Nov. 23

Handmade Holiday Market: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at Lincolnshire Marriott Resort, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. Shop from over 80 artists, bubbly for the first 100 guests, cocktails, paint ’n’ sip and more. $10; buy three tickets for the price of two. amdurproductions.com.

Fair Winds Woodwind Quintet: 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at First Presbyterian Church of Arlington Heights, 302 N. Dunton Ave., Arlington Heights. The woodwind ensemble of the Navy Band Great Lakes will perform classical, military marches and patriotic compositions. Free. firstpresah.org

Tuesday, Nov. 25

“A Christmas Carol”: 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, Nov. 25-26 and Dec. 23-24, and 7:30 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 28 through Dec. 21, at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. Charles Dickens’ tale of redemption, generosity and hope. $20-$49. metropolisarts.com.

Wednesday, Nov. 26

Turkey Testicle Festival: 11 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 26, at Parkside Pub & Grill, 11721 E. Main St., Huntley. 43rd annual festival for ages 21 and older. Music starts at 11 a.m. with Polly Says, followed by 7th heaven, Modern Day Romeos and Pino Farina Band. Four bus routes to the pub, starting at 3 p.m. Advance VIP pass: $75 or Jump the Line pass $30. $20 at the gate. parksidepub.com/ttf.

Mount Prospect Holiday Tree Lighting and Christkindlmarket: 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 26, at Busse Pocket Park, Emerson and Busse, Mount Prospect. Christkindlmarket from 4-7 p.m. inside village hall and tree lighting at 5 p.m. The Prospect High School Madrigals will sing holiday songs, and there will be cookies and hot chocolate provided by the Mount Prospect Lions Club. Free. experiencemountprospect.org

Thursday, Nov. 27

Turkey Trot and Sammy Scurry: 8-11 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 27, at Harper College, 1200 W. Algonquin Road, Palatine. Choose a 2- or 5-mile distance or, for the young ones, the Sammy Scurry. Free snacks and beverages. Registration required. $30; $10 for the Sammy Scurry. palatineparks.org.

Wauconda Turkey Trot: 9 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 27, at 118 S. Main St., Wauconda. 4-mile, chip-timed run around Bangs Lake or 2-mile fun run/walk down Main Street. Participants will receive a T-shirt and medal. Proceeds benefit the Wauconda/Island Lake Food Pantry. $44.79 for the 2-mile, $55.49 for the 4-mile, $23.39 for kids younger than 10. raceroster.com/events/2024/95094/2024-wauconda-turkey-trot.

Eaglewood Thanksgiving Jazz Brunch 2025: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 27, at Eaglewood Resort & Spa, 1401 Nordic Road, Itasca. Thanksgiving Jazz Brunch with live jazz, bottomless mimosas, holiday buffet with all the fixings, carving station and dessert. Adults: $65; kids: $20; $28.52 deposit per person. eventbrite.com.

Ongoing

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

Dinovember: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily through Nov. 30 at Randall Oaks Zoo, 1180 N. Randall Road, West Dundee. Learn about dinosaurs at 1:30 p.m. daily during the Dino-keeper Chat. Plus, embark on the Dinosaur Scavenger Hunt; complete it and claim a prize at the gift shop. $6; free for kids 1 and younger or U.S. military with ID. dtpd.org/dinovember.

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, Dec. 3-17. Electric Illumination for 21 and older from 4:30-9:30 p.m. Dec. 5, 12 and 19. The exhibition is closed select Mondays and Tuesdays and on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Tickets start at $20. mortonarb.org.

Harry Potter — A Forbidden Forest Experience: Time slots start at 4:30 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays through Nov. 30 at the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago’s Camp Duncan, 32405 N. U.S. Hwy. 12, Ingleside. Lights transform the landscape into a magical outdoor trail featuring creatures from the “Harry Potter” and “Fantastic Beasts” films. A themed village at the end of the trail offers food and drink (Butterbeer) and a gift shop. Tickets start at $31 for kids 3-12 and $46 for adults. HPForbiddenForestExperience.com.

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.

“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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Stroll through illuminated displays at Lightscape, running Friday, Nov. 14, through Jan. 4 at the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe. | Courtesy of Rikard Osterlund

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Friday, Nov. 14

Palatine Township Senior Center’s Winter Wonderland: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 14-15, at the Palatine Township Senior Center, 505 S. Quentin Road, Palatine. Holiday market featuring handmade crafts, holiday items, baked goods, premade gift baskets and more. Free entry. ptscc.org.

Lightscape: 4:30-9:15 p.m. select dates Friday, Nov. 14, 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.

IllumiBrew: 5:30-10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14, at Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. Sample seasonal beers, ciders and meads from Chicago-area breweries stationed along the Illumination trail. Also, warming areas along the trail and snacks and hot beverages for purchase at the concession tent until 9:30 p.m. $95, includes 18, 3-ounce tastings and a tasting glass; $50 designated driver. Tickets: mortonarb.org

“Ordinary Days” cabaret: 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14, at First Congregational United Church of Christ, 235 S. Kenilworth, Elmhurst. An evening of music and storytelling featuring songs from the musical “Ordinary Days” with Fox Country Players cast. Freewill offering to support the church’s music ministry. elmhurstucc.org.

ECC Theatre’s “Our Town”: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 14-15, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 16, at ECC Arts Center, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Thornton Wilder’s Pulitzer Prize-winning classic. $12-$14. eccartscenter.org

Elgin Theater Company’s “Love, Loss and What I Wore”: 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 14-23, at the Elgin Art Showcase, 164 Division St., eighth floor, Elgin. The play, based on Ilene Beckerman’s book, explores women’s lives through the lens of their clothing and the memories they evoke. $23-$25. elgin-theatre.org.

“It’s A Wonderful Christmas Carol”: 7:30 p.m. Fridays, Nov. 14 and 21; 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 15-16; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, Nov. 22 and 29; 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23; 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28; and 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 30, at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock. Theatre 121’s world premiere of this new holiday play, written by local playwrights Joel Bennett and Jeff Cook, blends the charm of “It’s a Wonderful Life” with the spirit of “A Christmas Carol.” $17-$35. theatre121.org.

“Let’s Hang On: A Rock ’N Soul Party”: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 15, at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. Former stars of “Jersey Boys” and PBS television’s vocal-group sensation Under the Streetlamp — Michael Ingersoll, Eric Gutman, John-Mark McGaha and Christopher Kale Jones — perform feel-good anthems of yesteryear. $40. metropolisarts.com.

Saturday, Nov. 15

Recycled Christmas Resale Event: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at First United Methodist Church, 1903 E. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights. Gently used Christmas decor, including vintage items, trees, ornaments, housewares and more and a bake sale. All proceeds go to charities supporting women and children. Free entry and parking. facebook.com/recycledchristmasandrummagesales.

Frostmoon Faire at The Dole: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at The Dole Mansion, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake. Creative Arts students’ and instructors’ art display, arts and crafts vendors, art demos, live music by the Crystal Lake Madrigal Singers, costumed characters, art scavenger hunt, food truck, photo booths, and kids’ activities including coloring, scratch art, cookie decorating and games. Fairy or medieval garb encouraged. Donations appreciated. thedole.org

Mini Comic Con: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at the Vernon Area Public Library, 300 Olde Half Day Road, Lincolnshire. Books, comics, movies, games and more. Costumes encouraged. Free. vapld.info

Gobbleology, the Science of Turkeys: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at Hawthorne Hill Nature Center, 28 Brookside Drive, Elgin. Learn turkey facts, create crafts, enjoy a turkey treat and hot cider and a campfire. Hasselmann Family Farm will have a live turkey on-site. Free. Register: elginil.gov/recreation.

Fashion Outlets of Chicago in Rosemont will hold its Holiday Wine Tasting Saturday, Nov. 15, in partnership with Tapville Social. | Courtesy of Carol Fox & Associates

Fashion Outlets of Chicago Holiday Wine Tasting: 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at Fashion Outlets of Chicago, 5220 Fashion Outlets Way, Rosemont. Visit six wine tasting stations located inside participating Fashion Outlets retail stores to receive a one-ounce sample of wine. All attendees will receive a Fashion Outlets of Chicago Savings Pass and can create up to three custom wine charms at the wine charm bar. $25. fashionoutletsofchicago.com

Holiday Tree Lighting at The Arb: 5-7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, on Main Street at The Arboretum of South Barrington, 100 W. Higgins Road, South Barrington. Beginning with a parade down Main Street featuring Santa, stilt walkers, dancing elves and more, ending in Main Street Plaza for the grand finale. Join Tina Bree from Star 105.5 to light The Arb’s holiday tree, followed by a holiday dance party. Features live music from Dave Mikulskis of Hi Infidelity, Pino Farina, Courtney Juric, and Josh Scholl of Radio Gaga, as well as the Wickstrom Lincoln Holiday Tent with balloon artists, face painters, strolling magicians and holiday tunes. Free. shopthearb.com.

Participants in Brookfield Zoo’s 2-mile Reindeer Run Saturday, Nov. 15, can get a sneak peek of the zoo lit up for the holidays. | Courtesy of CZS Brookfield Zoo

Reindeer Run: 5:30-9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. Run a fun run under the lights and be the first to see Holiday Magic on the 2-mile course entirely within the zoo. Registered participants receive a commemorative hat. Pavilions open with music, plus  food and drinks for purchase. $45. Register: brookfieldzoo.org/ReindeerRun.

Holiday Trivia Dinner: 6-9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, at the ARC Center, 201 W. National St., West Chicago. For 21 and older, a festive night of friendly trivia and a buffet dinner. Tickets ($50-$60) include one drink ticket, with a cash bar available. Child care available for kids 3-11 with preregistration. Register: we-goparks.org/special-events.

“Elf — The Musical”: 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15; 1:30 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 16, 23 and 30; and 1:30 and 7 p.m. Saturdays, Nov. 22 and 29, at Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center, 150 E. Wood St., Palatine. Musical based on the hit movie. $13-$30. cuttinghall.org.

“A Christmas Carol”: Various times and days, Nov. 15 through Dec. 31, at the Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St., Chicago. Charles Dickens’ classic holiday story. Tickets start at $34. goodmantheatre.org.

Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum in Lisle runs Saturday, Nov. 15, through Jan. 3. | Courtesy of The Morton Arboretum

Illumination: Tree Lights: Saturday, Nov. 15, 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. Sensory-friendly night on Tuesday, Nov. 18. New this year, Illumination Dog Admission Nights on Wednesdays, Dec. 3-17. The exhibition is closed select Mondays and Tuesdays and on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Tickets start at $20. mortonarb.org.

Sunday, Nov. 16

Homemade for the Holidays: 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 16, at Durant-Peterson House and Sholes School Museums at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve, 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles. Learn how early settlers decorated their schools and homes for Christmas and make decorations. Suggested donation: $3 or $1 for ages 18 and younger. ppfv.org

Thanksgiving Community Feast: 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 16, at Chevy Chase Country Club, 1000 N. Milwaukee Ave., Wheeling. Wheeling Park District residents and their families are invited to a traditional Thanksgiving-style meal with music and crafts. Registration required. Free for residents. wheelingparkdistrict.com.

EYSO’s “It’s All Relative”: 1:30, 4:30 and 7 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 16, in Elgin Community College’s Blizzard Theatre, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. $27, $22 for seniors and $7 for students. eccartscenter.org

Elmhurst Symphony’s “Classical Giants”: 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 16, at Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church, 149 W. Brush Hill Road, Elmhurst. William Welter, principal oboist of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, makes his solo debut with the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra on this all-classical program with Beethoven’s Egmont Overture and Mozart’s Oboe Concerto in C and Symphony No. 39. Pre-concert talk at 1:45 p.m. $12-$45. elmhurstsymphony.org.

Hear the sounds of the 1969 Casavant/Allen Organ at Journey of Hope United Methodist Church in Elgin on the next stop of the Great Elgin Pipe Organ Tour on Sunday, Nov. 16. | Courtesy of Great Elgin Pipe Organ Tour

Great Elgin Pipe Organ Tour: 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 16, at Journey of Hope United Methodist Church, 37W040 Highland Ave., Elgin. Second stop on the annual music tour. Freewill offering. fcc-elgin.org/organ-tour/.

Wednesday, Nov. 19

Critics Classics: 1 and 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, at Elk Grove Theatre, 1050 Elk Grove Town Center, Elk Grove Village. Screening of the 1987 John Hughes’ comedy “Planes, Trains and Automobiles,” starring Steve Martin and John Candy. Hosted by the Chicago Film Critics Association. $9 or $7 matinee; $7-$6 for 60 and older, $1.50 booking fee. classiccinemas.com.

Midweek Matinee: 1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, at Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock. “To Kill a Mockingbird” (1962). $5. woodstockoperahouse.com

Holiday Twilight Shop: 4:30-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, in downtown Arlington Heights. The Arlington Heights Chamber of Commerce’s 10th annual event features specials, local gift card giveaways and more. arlingtonhcc.com.

John Abendshien, the original owner of the Winnetka house used in the movie “Home Alone,” will hold a signing of his book “Home But Alone No More” along with artist Julia Hagen Wednesday, Nov. 19, at the Lake Forest Book Store. | Courtesy of Jennifer Reardon

“Home But Alone No More” book signing: 6-7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, at the Lake Forest Book Store, 662 N. Western Ave., Lake Forest. Book signing event with John Abendshien, the original owner of the iconic Winnetka “Home Alone” house and author of “Home But Alone No More,” and artist Julia Hagen. Free. homebutalonenomore.com

MCC Jazz Ensemble: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, at McHenry County College, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake. Free. mchenry.edu/events.

Thursday, Nov. 20

Bliss Holiday Market: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, at Avante Banquets, 1050 Northwest Hwy., Fox River Grove. Handmade and artisan goods, holiday decor, boutique items, and gourmet food and treats. Free entry. barringtonchamber.com.

Ladies Night Out: 5-9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, at Bartlett Hills Golf Club, 800 W. Oneida Ave., Bartlett. Fashion show by Closet Boutique, raffles, hors d’oeuvres, shopping with local vendors, DJ, wine and cheese tasting and more. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the door. For reservations, call (630) 213-3103 or email Evan@bartletthills.com. bartletthills.com

Zoo After Dark — Holiday Sip & Stroll: 5:30-9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. Explore the zoo’s holiday lights, plus a DJ dance party, seasonal cocktails and more. For 21 and older. $45. brookfieldzoo.org/HolidaySipAndStroll.

Barrington Area Artists Association Art Sale: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, and 2-6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, at Barrington’s White House, 145 W. Main St., Barrington. Members of the Barrington Area Artists Association, both professional and amateur artists, will showcase and sell hundreds of fine art pieces. Free; registration required at barringtonswhitehouse.com.

Ukraine’s Grand Kyiv Ballet brings its rendition of “The Nutcracker” to the Athenaeum Center for Thought and Culture in Chicago on Thursday, Nov. 20. | Courtesy of Grand Kyiv Ballet

Grand Kyiv Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”: 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, at the Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport Ave., Chicago. Featuring dancers from Ukraine’s Grand Kyiv Ballet. Tickets start at $53. athenaeumcenter.org/events/2025/nutcracker.

“A Christmas Carol — A Live Radio Play”: Preview at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20; regular run: various times Fridays through Sundays, with 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.

Ongoing

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 by volunteers 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

Dinovember: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily through Nov. 30 at Randall Oaks Zoo, 1180 N. Randall Road, West Dundee. Learn about dinosaurs at 1:30 p.m. daily during the Dino-keeper Chat. Plus, embark on the Dinosaur Scavenger Hunt; complete it and claim a prize at the gift shop. $6 or free for ages 1 and younger or U.S. military with ID. dtpd.org/dinovember.

Harry Potter — A Forbidden Forest Experience: Time slots start at 4:30 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays through Nov. 30 at the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago’s Camp Duncan, 32405 N. U.S. Hwy. 12, Ingleside. Lights transform the landscape into a magical outdoor trail featuring creatures from the “Harry Potter” and “Fantastic Beasts” films. A themed village at the end of the trail offers food and drink (Butterbeer) and a gift shop. Tickets start at $31 for kids 3-12 and $46 for adults. HPForbiddenForestExperience.com.

“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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By Amanda Mactas | delish

Going out of town anytime soon? You might want to do some meal prepping prior to your next flight.

According to a study conducted by Altezza Travel, Newark Liberty International Airport is the worst airport for food. The study analyzed restaurant ratings, prices, and crowd levels to determine which airports in the United States had the worst food options. Sadly, 70% of Newark’s restaurants averaged below a three-star rating and had the highest average meal price among the poorly rated airports at $23.10 per meal.

Close behind Newark were Chicago O’Hare International Airport (2nd), John F. Kennedy International Airport, Orlando International Airport, and Los Angeles International Airport. On the other hand, the three best airports for food were found to be Denver International Airport, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, and Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport, respectively. Denver clocked in with the highest overall rating, with only 6% of its restaurants receiving a rating lower than three stars.

(Click on image to enlarge)

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The Randall Oaks Fall Festival runs through Sunday | Courtesy Dundee Township Park District

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Friday, Oct. 31

McHenry Stade’s Farm Market: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Friday, Oct. 31, at 3709 Miller Road, McHenry. Free. stadesfarmandmarket.com.

Randall Oaks Fall Festival: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Sunday, 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.

Boo at the Zoo: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31, at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. Family-friendly Halloween celebration with not-so-scary thrills, festive decorations and more. Included with zoo admission. brookfieldzoo.org/BooAtTheZoo.

The Other Art Fair:  5-10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31; 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1; and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 2, at Artifact Events, 4325 N. Ravenswood Ave., Chicago. Buy works directly from over 115 independent artists in a variety of mediums. Includes artist-designed mini golf: five playable holes that double as immersive installations. “Halloween Edition” on Friday night offers spooky vibes, bug pinning workshops, costume contests and more. Tickets are $40 Thursday, $25 Friday, and $18 Saturday and Sunday. theotherartfair.com/chicago

Jack O’Lantern World: Time slots start around 6 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Oct. 31 through Nov. 1, at Paulus Park, 215 S. Rand Road, Lake Zurich, and The Forge, 227 Heritage Quarries Drive, Lemont. Thousands of pumpkins arranged in displays, a pumpkin patch, 30-foot inflatables, food trucks, a beer garden, mini golf and more. Tickets range from $17.99-$27.99. Thejackolanternworld.com.

Halloween on the Square: 4-5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31, in Woodstock Square, 100 W. Van Buren St., Woodstock. Trick-or-treat at businesses around the square. Costume contest at 4:45 p.m. woodstockil.gov

This is the last weekend for Six Flags Great America Fright Fest in Gurnee. | Courtesy of Six Flags Great America

Six Flags Great America Fright Fest: 5-11 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31; 11 a.m. to midnight Saturday, Nov. 1; and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 2, 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. Tickets start at $45. sixflags.com/greatamerica/events.

Richard O’Brien’s “The Rocky Horror Show — In Concert”: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 31, and 7 and 10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, at Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. Stage production based on the cult classic film. Character costumes welcome. Approved audience participation bags are available for sale by phone and in person, while supplies last. Contains mature themes and language; kids younger than 15 must be accompanied by a guardian 21 or older. $40. metropolisarts.com

Saturday, Nov. 1

Day of the Dead 5K: 9 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, at Sports Center Park, 2004 N. Municipal Way, Round Lake. This certified USATF race will begin and end outside the Sports Center. Registration fee includes a race shirt, bib and virtual goody bag. $35. rlapd.org

Pumpkin Smash: From Ground to Garden: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Nov. 1, at Frontier Park, 1933 N. Kennicott Drive, Arlington Heights. Bring Halloween pumpkins to help the park district’s EnviroGroup smash and pitch them into compostable material. Free. ahpd.org

Randall Oaks Boo at the Zoo: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 1-2, at Randall Oaks Zoo, 1180 N. Randall Road, West Dundee. See creepy crawlers, trick-or-treating all day, and costume parades at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. $6. dtpd.org/boo-at-the-zoo

Fall-A-Palooza: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, at Lions Park, 1200 Silver Lake Road, Cary. Cary Park District event featuring hayrides, pony rides, petting zoo, crafts, pumpkin roll, pumpkin smash, DJ and more. $15 for 3 and older, $10 for kids 1-2, and free for kids younger than 1 and adults. carypark.com.

Sneaker Con Chicago takes place Saturday, Nov. 1, at the Schaumburg Convention Center. | Daily Herald File Photo, 2019

Sneaker Con Chicago: Noon to 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, at the Schaumburg Convention Center, 1551 N. Thoreau Drive, Schaumburg. Vendors and attendees can buy, sell and trade some of the most sought-after footwear. $28.19. sneakercon.com

Volo Paranormal Tours: Noon, 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 1-2, 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.

Owl-O-Ween: 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, at Springbrook Nature Center, 130 Forest Ave., Itasca. Wings and Talons shows how resident owls adapt and thrive in the ecosystem. Free. itasca.com.

Northwest Concert Band’s fall concert: 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, at Community Church of Rolling Meadows, 2720 Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows. Featuring Mussorgsky’s 1874 “Pictures at an Exhibition” in its entirety, as well as John Williams’ “Lincoln,” “Mancini! A Medley for Concert Band” and “Country Road” by James Taylor. $10, payable at the door. Free for 18 and younger. northwestconcertband.org.

The Lovettes will perform Saturday, Nov. 1, at the Hemmens Cultural Center Main Stage Theatre in Elgin. | Courtesy of Artists Lounge Live

The Lovettes: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, at the Hemmens Cultural Center Main Stage Theatre, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. The Chicago-based trio performs music of girl groups from the 1940s-’60s. $10-$29. (847) 931-5900 or hemmens.org.

Sunday, Nov. 2

Fox Valley Concert Band: 3-4:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 2, in the Norris Cultural Arts Center, 1040 Dunham Road, St. Charles. “Green and Pleasant Land.” Free. fvcb.org/wp.

See new and used model trains at the Great Midwest Train Show Sunday, Nov. 2, at the DuPage County Fairgrounds in Wheaton. | Daily Herald File Photo, 2023

Great Midwest Train Show: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 2, at the DuPage County Fairgrounds, 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton. Over 110 exhibitors from across the U.S. with new and used model trains, accessories, parts and more. $7 online or $8 at the gate; cash only. Free for kids 11 and younger with an adult. trainshow.com.

Dinovember: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily Nov. 3-30 at Randall Oaks Zoo, 1180 N. Randall Road, West Dundee. Learn about dinosaurs at 1:30 p.m. daily during the Dino-keeper Chat. Plus, embark on the Dinosaur Scavenger Hunt; complete it and claim a prize at the gift shop. $6 or free for ages 1 and younger or U.S. military with ID. dtpd.org/dinovember.

312 Comedy Festival: Various times Tuesday through Sunday, Nov. 4-9, at locations in Chicago. Comedy from Fortune Feimster, Ralph Barbosa, Pete Holmes, Dusty Slay, Earthquake, Patrick Warburton and more. For ticket info and the schedule, see 312comedyfestival.com.

Wednesday, Nov. 5

Stargazing Party: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 5, at Peck Farm Park Orientation Barn, 4038 Kaneville Road, Geneva. Fox Valley Astronomical Society hosts a short discussion, then heads outside to discover the stars, sky and planets through their giant telescope. If there’s heavy cloud cover, stargazing will be canceled, but the lecture will be held. Dress for the weather. No registration required. Free. genevaparks.org.

“Million Dollar Quartet Christmas”: Various times most Wednesdays through Sundays and some Tuesdays, Nov. 5 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. Ticket start at $70. marriotttheatre.com

Ongoing

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.

Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience: Time slots start at 4:30 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays through Nov. 30 at the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago’s Camp Duncan, 32405 N. U.S. Hwy. 12, Ingleside. Lights transform the landscape into a magical outdoor trail featuring creatures from the “Harry Potter” and “Fantastic Beasts” films. A themed village at the end of the trail offers food and drink (Butterbeer) and a gift shop. Tickets start at $31 for kids 3-12 and $46 for adults. HPForbiddenForestExperience.com.

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