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McDonald’s supports 67,000 jobs in Illinois. Why is Chicago making it hard on businesses?

Posted in Chicago Tribune, Cook, County, Dumb and Dumber, Economy, Education, Entertainment, Letters to the Editor, Overhead, Politics, Preckwinkle's Rules of Order, Pritzker’s Rules of Order, Property Taxes, Springfield, Taxes, Unions on October 23, 2025| Leave a Comment »

People walk in Chicago’s downtown on May 2, 2022. Chicago has seen a mass exodus of large companies and now is experiencing a high vacancy rate in office buildings. | Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune

By Jon Banner | Published in the Chicago Tribune

We often hear Illinois leaders speak about making the state a magnet for business, but unfortunately, their policy choices tell a different story. By putting new burdens on the companies that fuel the state’s economy, Illinois policymakers are putting the future of our great state at risk.

It could not come at a worse time. In recent years, Chicago has seen a mass exodus of large companies and now is experiencing a 25% vacancy rate in office buildings. Job growth for 2025 ranks 48th in the nation, and Moody’s reported recently that the state has already slipped into recession.

The way Illinois’ leaders are turning away from its business community is a deeply troubling break from the past. For nearly 70 years, McDonald’s has been proud to call Illinois home. From our roots in Des Plaines to our move downtown in 2018, we’ve invested in this state and this city because we believe in its potential. More importantly, because we believe in its people. Across Illinois, McDonald’s creates tens of thousands of jobs, partners with local organizations, and provides employees with the opportunity to further their educations and careers. McDonald’s supports more than 67,000 jobs in Illinois and contributes more than $5.2 billion to the state’s gross domestic product.

This is a moment to consider new approaches to keep and attract companies, and yet lawmakers are doubling down on the policies and politics that will hamstring our economy. Earlier this year, lawmakers in Springfield passed a $55 billion budget that included a last-minute expansion of corporate taxes aimed squarely at global companies headquartered in Illinois. This measure taxes profits that multinational companies make overseas — profits not earned in Illinois but taxed by the state solely because of the address of a company’s headquarters.

Now, the mayor of Chicago is threatening additional taxes in an attempt to plug a billion-dollar budget deficit, most recently a plan called a “head tax,” which would levy more than $250 per employee per year on companies with at least 100 employees. Some have argued that this plan merely reinstates a prior head tax that was eliminated a decade ago. It’s important to remember, though, that the prior tax was $4 per employee per month, and even at that low level, the tax was reversed because of how much it punished the businesses that were successfully creating jobs for the state.

The stated justification for these proposals is that multinational companies will receive tax breaks from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. That is false. The act changes many things, but it does not change tax rates for multinational companies.

The mayor characterized his tax plan as “pro-business” because the proceeds will purportedly be used for public safety. We strongly support increasing support for law enforcement, which is why our company was a leadership donor behind the Civic Committee’s $100 million investment to fight crime. Between the taxes we pay and the voluntary donations we make, McDonald’s already invests millions each year into public safety for the city of Chicago.

To be clear, this is not about skirting responsibility or asking for special treatment. McDonald’s pays taxes in every state and every country where we operate. But the proposals being made in Springfield and Chicago are making Illinois an outlier — one of the few places choosing to disincentivize growth by targeting its most globally competitive and recognized companies.

Aside from the unprecedented and punitive measures themselves, what’s most concerning is the way leaders are shutting out companies that have long bolstered Illinois’ economy. Rather than include the business community in discussions about solutions, we have been blindsided by backroom political deals. Rather than being engaged as a cherished community asset and a force for economic development, large businesses like ours are too often demonized by local leaders.

By targeting long-standing economic partners as a means of scoring short-term political points, these tax proposals only hurt communities in Illinois. If implemented, they would mean fewer jobs across the state. They would mean fewer investments in the communities in which we live, work and serve.

Gov. JB Pritzker has been a strong ally to the business community, and we’ve applauded his ambitious agenda to foster business growth. However, if implemented, these policies would undermine his plans and reinforce the stubborn external perception that an Illinois address is a business liability. The governor cannot be the sole champion for business; he needs partnership from the state legislature and city of Chicago.

We’ve been part of this state’s legacy of innovation and resilience for decades, and Illinois has been part of McDonald’s story since the beginning. But long-term success requires long-term thinking and genuine collaboration. Ultimately, corporations have a choice of where they are headquartered. I hope state and city lawmakers will rethink their approach to partnership with policies that reward investment in Illinois and Chicago — not drive it away.

Jon Banner serves as McDonald’s Corp.’s executive vice president and global chief impact officer. He oversees the government relations, public policy, communications, sustainability and social impact, global security, inclusion, and the Ronald McDonald House Charities teams.

Source

Related: “Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson proposes $21 per employee corporate ‘head tax’,” “Lawmakers push DoorDash, Uber Eats delivery tax statewide for Chicago transit,” “DoorDash, Uber, Ticketmaster and toll road hikes: $1.5 billion in potential taxes explained,” “Without reforms, pension insolvency will eat Chicago alive,” “Illinois taxpayers each owe $38,800 for state’s unpaid bills”

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Things to do Oct. 17-23: Howl-O-Ween Canine Costume Contest, Pet Costume Parade, Howl-A-Ween Dog Parade and more

Posted in Entertainment, Fundraisers, Topics Of Interest on October 17, 2025| Leave a Comment »

The Long Grove Pet Costume Parade steps off Sunday at noon | AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Friday, Oct. 17

Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns: 6-10:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Oct. 17-19 and 22-26, at the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. See hand-carved, LED-lit jack-o’-lanterns staged along a festive paved pathway where visitors will encounter characters and can watch live pumpkin carving. $22-$27 for adults, $15-$18 for kids 3-12, and free for kids younger than 3. chicagobotanic.org/halloween.

Military Miniature Society of Illinois Show: 3-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Chicago Marriott Schaumburg, 50 Martingale Road, Schaumburg. Exhibition featuring the work of modelers from around the world displaying painted miniature figures and original sculptures from historical to fantasy, armored and other vehicles, airplanes, ships, dioramas and vignettes. Vendor area offers model kits, paints, tools, books and more. $10, free for kids 12 and younger and active military with ID. military-miniature-society-of-illinois.com/about-the-show.

Boo Bash Spectacular: 5:30-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, at Clauss Rec Center Maple Room, 555 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Roselle. Halloween party for kids 3-5 featuring a costume contest, spooky crafts and making a treat. Register by Oct. 14. $18-$23. rparks.org.

Boo Thru: 6-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, at Randall Oaks Park, 750 Randall Road, West Dundee. Drive through the park for candy and surprises in a reverse trunk-or-treat. Fee is $6-$9 per vehicle. Register: dtpd.org/boo-thru

Inflatables, games and a magic show are a part of Boonanza Friday, Oct. 17, at the Community Recreation Center in Wheeling. | Daily Herald file photo

Boonanza: 4-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, at Community Recreation Center, 100 Community Blvd., Wheeling. Magic show, carnival games, a balloonist, inflatables and crafts for kids. Free. wheelingparkdistrict.com.

Hayrides at Hoffman Park: 6, 6:45 and 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, and 5:15, 6, 6:45 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at the dog park at Hoffman Park, West Main Street, Cary. Hayride and campfire under the stars. $10 per person. Register: carypark.com

Zombie Fun Run: 6-8 p.m. Friday Oct. 17, at Volkening Lake, 900 W. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. Run or walk in your Halloween costume for nearly two miles while being chased by zombies. Fee includes a hot dog or brat, chips and a drink. $10-$15. parkfun.com/event/zombie-fun-run

Teen Night “The Nightmare Before Christmas”: 7-9:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, at Arlington Ridge Center, 660 N. Ridge Ave., Arlington Heights. Open swim, open gym, pizza and a movie for sixth to eighth graders. $16 in advance, $18 at the door. Space is limited. ahpd.org.

The Silhouettes: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, at Hemmens Cultural Center Main Stage Theatre, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. “LOVE Happens” is a family-friendly shadow dance story. $20-$39. Tickets: (847) 931-5900 or hemmens.org.

Saturday, Oct. 18

Hampshire Farmers and Outdoor Market: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at Hampshire Commons, 113 W. Oak Knoll Drive, Hampshire. Farm-to-table goods, handmade items, packaged food, sweets, artisanal gifts and more. Free. facebook.com/HampshireFarmersMarket.

Boo Bash: 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Community Center, 255 Briargate Road, Cary. Costume parade, pumpkin painting, snacks and more. $20-$30. Register: carypark.com.

Reenactors fire a cannon during the Civil War Encampment and Battle at the Northbrook Sports Club in Hainesville. This year’s event takes place Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 18-19. | Daily Herald file photo

Civil War Encampment & Battle: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, by the Northbrook Sports Club, off South Hainesville Road, Hainesville. Relive history as period-garbed reenactors re-create battles, bivouacs, battlefield surgeries and historical presentations of the American Civil War. Meet Abraham Lincoln, General Grant and others. Free. hainesville.org/civil-war-event

Haunted Hoffman Family Fest: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at Fabbrini Park, 1704 Glen Lake Road, Hoffman Estates. Live entertainment, Story-Walk Scavenger Hunt, carnival games, bounce house, mini golf, scenic hayride, pumpkin patch food drive, and meet members of the Hoffman Estates Fire and Police Departments. Register for the Trick or Treat Path to collect goodies and meet characters such as Elsa, Anna, Bluey, Chase, Big Bird and more. Free; Trick or Treat Path is $9 in advance, $12 on-site. heparks.org

Howl-O-Ween Canine Costume Contest: 10:45-11:45 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Dan Schimmel Pavilion in Willow Stream Park, 651 Old Checker Road, Buffalo Grove. Canine costume contest and doggy egg hunt. Prizes and awards for the most unique and creative costumes. Free. bgparks.org/howl-o-ween

Frights & Delights: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Sullivan Community Center, 635 N. Aspen Drive, Vernon Hills. Trunk-or-treating, a costume contest, hay rides and more. Dog-friendly event will feature a doggy costume contest and puppy adoptions. $8. vhparkdistrict.org

Harvest Hoot: Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at Oakton College, Parking Lot A, 1600 E. Golf Road, Des Plaines. Live entertainment, an inflatable corn maze, a pumpkin-carving demonstration, family activities, a harvest artisan market, food trucks and more. No alcohol or pets. Free. desplaines.org

Midwest Daffodil Society Bulb Sale | Courtesy Chicago Botanic Garden

Midwest Daffodil Society Bulb Sale, Midwest Fruit Explorers Show & Sale and Wisconsin-Illinois Lily Society Lily Bulb Sale: 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 18-19, at the Chicago Botanic Garden’s Burnstein Hall, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. Hundreds of varieties of daffodil bulbs will be available for purchase. Daffodil enthusiasts will be on hand to offer expert growing tips. Plus, see a display of freshly harvested fruit grown in the area by members of the Midwest Fruit Explorers, featuring apples, pears, paw paws, grapes, kiwis and more. The Wisconsin-Illinois Lily Society will offer a variety of lily bulbs for sale. Free with general admission of $15.95-$25.95. chicagobotanic.org.

Trick-or-Treat Trail: Noon to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at Springbrook Nature Center, 130 Forest Ave., Itasca. Kids and their guardians can walk the trail around the Ray Franzen Bird Sanctuary and receive candy and other goodies. Scare-free. Free. itascaparkdistrict.com.

Haunted Trail: 4:30-9:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at Springbrook Nature Center, 130 Forest Ave., Itasca. Scares along the one-third mile loop. Family hour from 4:30-5:30 p.m., active scaring from 7-9:30 p.m. $10, $5 for a repeat trip. Tickets in advance at the recreation center or at the trail (cash only). itascaparkdistrict.com.

Ghost Story Train: 5, 6:15 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, Oct. 18 and 25, at the Fox River Trolley Museum, off Route 31, South Elgin. Ride a spooky trolley to the haunted forest preserve for family-friendly frights, including stories around the campfire with treats from Margie’s Girls’ Kitchen. A ghostly musician will lead campfire songs. Costumes welcome. $20. Register at foxtrolley.org/Ghost-Story-Train.

The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra: 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, in Elgin Community College’s Blizzard Theatre, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. The 18-piece big band performs a tribute to Tony Bennett. $45, $20 for kids 12 and younger. eccartscenter.org

Southern Avenue: 7:30-9:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts, 201 Schaumburg Court, Schaumburg. Blues, rock and gospel. $45-$53. prairiecenter.org

Sunday, Oct. 19

Calibre Car Show: 8-11 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, at The Arboretum of South Barrington, 100 W. Higgins Road, South Barrington. Themed car show season closer. Free. shopthearb.com/events.

Chicago Railroadiana & Model Train Show and Sale: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, at the Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road, St. Charles. 34th annual show. $6, free for kids younger than 12. rrshows.com.

Crystal Lake Farmers Market+ At The Dole: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, on the front lawn of the Dole Mansion, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake. Live music, kids’ activities, beverages, food trucks and more. Free. farmersmarketatthedole.org.

Pet Costume Parade: Noon Sunday, Oct. 19, at Brothers’ Field, 340 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove. Registration is not required, but recommended. Free. longgrove.org/festival/october-days.

Witches & Wizards of Woodstock features magic-themed activities and entertainment Sunday, Oct. 19. | Courtesy of the city of Woodstock

Witches & Wizards of Woodstock: Noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, at historic Woodstock Square, Woodstock. All-ages event filled with mystical activities and entertainment, including The Magical Talking Hat, a fantasy-themed trivia contest, interactive scavenger hunts, live music and performances, crafts and games, food and more. Free admission; some activities have fees. witchesandwizardsevent.com.

Pumpkin Splash: 1 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 19, at Arlington Ridge Center, 660 N. Ridge Ave., Arlington Heights. Pick a pumpkin in the pool and Halloween treats. For kids 2-7 accompanied by an adult. $13-$15. ahpd.org

Monday, Oct. 20

Adam Sandler: 7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 20, at the United Center, 1901 W. Madison St., Chicago. “You’re My Best Friend Tour.” Tickets start at $50.15. unitedcenter.com

Tuesday, Oct. 21

“Stars for Sara”: 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, at the Des Plaines Theatre, 1476 Miner St., Des Plaines. Music, media and memories to honor the late Sara Janz. $37.75-$159.75. desplainestheatre.com.

Wednesday, Oct. 22

Howl-A-Ween Dog Parade: 5:30-6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22, at Lions Park, 1200 Silver Lake Road, Cary. Costume parade and treats for dogs. $7 per dog. Register: carypark.com.

See a variety of pumpkins on display along with entertainment and activities at the annual Sycamore Pumpkin Festival Wednesday through Sunday, Oct. 22-26. | Daily Herald file photo, 2017

Pumpkin Festival: Various times Wednesday through Sunday, Oct. 22-26, with many activities at Main and State streets and on the courthouse lawn, Sycamore. 64th annual festival with decorated pumpkins, carnivals, nonprofit vendors, craft shows, Saturday entertainment and activities. Autumn Craft and Treasures Market from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26, at Sycamore High School Fieldhouse; $1-$3 entry. The 47th annual Sycamore Chamber 10K Pumpkin Run starts at 8:30 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 26. Pumpkin Festival Parade at 1 p.m. Sunday. Free; some activities have fees. sycamorepumpkinfestival.com.

Ongoing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience: Various times through Nov. 2 (except Oct. 20-21 and 27-28) at the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago’s Camp Duncan, 32405 N. U.S. Highway 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, $46 for adults. HPForbiddenForestExperience.com.

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DoorDash, Uber, Ticketmaster and toll road hikes: $1.5 billion in potential taxes explained

Posted in Cost of Living, Economy, Entertainment, Illinois Policy Institute, METRA, Taxes, Unions on October 16, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Prices for DoorDash, Uber, Ticketmaster and Illinois tolls might go up now to cover $1.5 billion for Illinois transit agencies. A real estate transfer tax for homes in the Chicago suburbs is also on the table.

By Ravi Mishra | Illinois Policy Institute

New tax and fee hike proposals on DoorDash, Uber, Ticketmaster and toll roads could hit Illinoisans to cover shortfalls in the Regional Transit Authority budget. The RTA, which oversees the Chicago Transit Authority, Metra and Pace, faces a looming budget crisis as federal pandemic funds run dry.

Revenue options include:

  • A $1 delivery charge for delivery orders over $100, excluding pharmaceuticals and groceries to fund public transit. Revenue estimate: $102 million
  • A 25-cent increase in CTA fares. Revenue estimate: $76 million to $78 million if 2025 CTA fare trends hold steady.
  • A 10% tax on all rideshare trips in the RTA region (Cook and collar counties) to fund public transit. Revenue estimate: $132 million to $291 million
  • A ticket price surcharge of $5-10 would be added to tickets at venues that contain more than 10,000 people. Revenue estimate: $150 million to $250 million
  • A 25% surcharge on tolls, charged once per day, which would increase the average cost of tolls by $0.60 to fund public transit. Revenue estimate: $438.5 million
  • A $1 surcharge on all tolls. Revenue estimate: $1 billion
  • A fee of $0.03 per kw/h tax on electric vehicle charging at public chargers to fund public transit. Revenue estimate: $3.2 million to $14.2 million with increased adoption of electric vehicles
  • An extension of the Chicago Real Estate Transfer Tax to the collar counties, which taxes $1.50 for every $500 during the transfer of a property to fund public transit. Collar County dollars would be used for Metra and Pace transit needs, not for the CTA. Revenue estimate: $82 million
  • A one-time transfer of funds from the Illinois Road Fund to fund public transit.

The Regional Transit Authority has already seen dramatic growth in its budget even as ridership remains well below pre-pandemic levels. Spending was boosted by billions in emergency COVID funds, but with that money gone, the system is facing a $230 million fiscal gap next year.

Read more here.

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Things to do Oct. 10-16: Raptor Sunday, Oddities Night, A Conversation with Kamala Harris and more

Posted in Deception, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), Elections, Entertainment, Fools and their money, Immigration, Politics on October 10, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Walk a path lined with hand-carved jack-o’-lanterns during Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns Wednesdays through Sundays through Oct. 26 at the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe. | Courtesy of Chicago Botanic Garden

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Friday, Oct. 10

Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns: 6-10:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Oct. 10-12, 15-19 and 22-26, at the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. See hand-carved, LED-lit jack-o’-lanterns, characters and live pumpkin carving along a festive paved pathway. $22-$27 for adults, $15-$18 for kids 3-12, and free for kids younger than 3. chicagobotanic.org/halloween.

Glass Pumpkin Patch: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Oct. 10-12, at Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. Shop one-of-a-kind glass creations and watch glassblowing demonstrations by artists every 30 minutes from noon to 5 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Flameworking demonstrations will be held at 12:15, 1:15, 2:15 and 3:15 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Rain or shine. Presale viewing from 10-11 a.m. Friday. Included with arboretum admission. Tickets: mortonarb.org

See handcrafted scarecrows Friday through Sunday, Oct. 10-12, during St. Charles’ Scarecrow Fest. | Daily Herald file photo

Scarecrow Fest: Noon to 6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12, in downtown St. Charles. 40th annual fest features over 110 handcrafted scarecrows on display around town for visitors to view and vote on their favorites. Family Zone with live entertainment in Lincoln Park. Activity Zone with photo ops, Scarecrow-to-Go and family activities on Riverside Avenue. Autumn on the Fox Arts & Crafts Show at Pottawatomie Park. Free. scarecrowfest.com.

Downtown Elgin Market: 3-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10, on South Riverside Drive, Elgin. Farmers, makers, live music, Sip N’ Shop and kids’ activities. Dog-friendly. LINK Matching program. Free. downtownelgin.com/market.

Oktoberfest: 5-10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10, at Bridges Beer Garden, 1400 Poplar Creek Drive, Hoffman Estates. German dancers, live music, and food and beverages for purchase. Free. heparks.org.

Autumn Hayrides: 5:30, 6:30 and 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Oct. 10-11, at Primrose Farm, 5N726 Crane Road, St. Charles. Ticket includes a 30-minute tractor-drawn wagon ride and the supplies to make s’mores over an open fire. Kids 15 and younger must be accompanied by a paid adult. $16. Register: stcparks.org/events.

Hayrides at Hoffman Park: 6, 6:45 and 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10, and 5:15, 6, 6:45 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, at the dog park at Hoffman Park, West Main Street, Cary. Hayride and campfire under the stars. $10. Register: carypark.com

Spooky Scavenger Hunt: 6-8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10, at Heritage Farm at Spring Valley, 201 S. Plum Grove Road, Schaumburg. Family scavenger hunt around the farm. Free. parkfun.com/event/spooky-scavenger-hunt

Oddities Night: 7-9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 10, at the Arlington Heights Historical Museum, 110 W. Fremont St., Arlington Heights. A Victorian Halloween gathering with drinks, bites, oddities, a tarot card reader, a magician and more. 21-and-older event. $40, $30 for Arlington Heights Historical Society members. ahpd.org.

Saturday, Oct. 11

Collect-A-Con: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12, at the Donald E. Stephenson Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont. Trading card, anime and pop culture convention. Tickets start at $49.29 for Saturday, $44.04 for Sunday, $65.04 for both days, and free for kids 7 and younger. collectaconusa.com/chicago-2.

The Illinois Orchid Society Fall Show & Sale comes to the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 11-12. | Daily Herald file photo

Illinois Orchid Society Fall Show & Sale: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 11-12, at the Chicago Botanic Garden Burnstein Hall, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. Featuring artistically arranged tabletop displays from the rarest of species to cultivated hybrids. Orchid plants for sale, as well as repotting services. Photographers’ Hour from 9-10 a.m. Sunday. $17.95-$23.95. chicagobotanic.org

Autumn Harvest: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, at North School Park, 307 N. Evergreen Ave., Arlington Heights. Crafts, games, hayrides, a scarecrow-building contest, live music, entertainment and more. Food for purchase, including Garibaldi’s Pizza, Kori’s Koop and AJz Kettlecorn. Free. ahpd.org.

DIY Scarecrow Day: Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, behind Fred Astaire Dance Studio, 342 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove. Reserve a time to build a custom scarecrow using a variety of clothing and accessories. Register in advance. $10 per scarecrow. longgrove.org/festival/october-days.

A Conversation with Kamala Harris: 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, at the Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Ida B. Wells Drive, Chicago. Former Vice President Kamala Harris tells the story of her presidential campaign. Tickets start at $115. auditoriumtheatre.org

“Farewell, Mr. Poe”: 4-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 11-12, starting at Morton Arboretum’s Thornhill Shelter, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. In the last four days of his life, Edgar Allan Poe drifted in and out of consciousness before he died. Where did his mind wander? Find out for yourself, as the paths wind through Poe’s life and poetry, until he confronts his earthly departure. Recommended for ages 12 and older. Bring water, portable chairs or blankets for seating, and bug spray. $17-$27. Register: mortonarb.org

Take a ride on the Ghost Story Train Saturdays, Oct. 11, 18 and 25, at the Fox River Trolley Museum in South Elgin. | Daily Herald File Photo, 2023

Ghost Story Train: 5, 6:15 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, Oct. 11, 18 and 25, at the Fox River Trolley Museum, off Route 31, South Elgin. Ride a spooky trolley to the haunted forest preserve for family-friendly frights, including stories around the campfire with treats from Margie’s Girls’ Kitchen. A ghostly musician will lead campfire songs. Costumes welcome. $20. Register at foxtrolley.org/Ghost-Story-Train.

School of Haunt — Haunted House: 5-8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, at School of Rock, 105 N. Maple Ave., Elmhurst. Themed rooms, scare actors and a night of fright for ages 13 and older. Hosted by School of Rock Elmhurst. Free. schoolofrock.com.

“Disenchanted!”: 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, in Elgin Community College’s Blizzard Theatre, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. A musical that gives a new spin to Disney princess classics. Contains adult language and themes and is not appropriate for kids. $50. eccartscenter.org

Elgin Symphony season opener: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, and 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12, at Hemmens, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. Conductor Chad Goodman leads the ESO guest pianist Orion Weiss and the symphony in Carlos Simon’s “Motherboxx Connection,” H. Hanson’s Symphony No. 2 “Romantic” and Gershwin’s Concerto in F. $20-$68; $10 for students. elginsymphony.org

Jeremy Kahn Quartet: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11, at Baker Community Center, 101 S. Second St., St. Charles. Chicago-based jazz pianist Jeremy Kahn returns to “Saturday Night Lights” with a quartet featuring vocalist Petra Van Nuis in her St. Charles debut. $30. norrisculturalarts.com

Sunday, Oct. 12

Buffalo Grove Farmers Market: 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12, in Mike Rylko Park, 951 McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove. Meat, cheese, bakery, coffee, knife sharpening and more from 42 vendors, with weekly entertainment, a kids’ craft tent and Business of the Week vendors and nonprofits. Free. vbg.org/165/Farmers-Market.

Walneck’s Motorcycle Swap Meet: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12, at McHenry County Fairgrounds, 11900 Country Club Road, Woodstock. New and used motorcycle parts of all types and brands, leathers, sewing, jewelry, toys and more. Rain or shine. $10 for ages 15 and older. walneckswap.com.

Crystal Lake Farmers Market+ At The Dole: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12, on the front lawn of the Dole Mansion, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake. Live music, kids’ activities, beverages, food trucks and more. Free. farmersmarketatthedole.org.

Pumpkin Splash: 1-2:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12, at The Club, 5050 Sedge Blvd., Hoffman Estates. Swim in the pumpkin patch pool to find a pumpkin. Includes pumpkin decorations and a treat for kids. $10-$12. heparks.org.

See owls, hawks and other birds of prey at Raptor Sunday at Stillman Nature Center in South Barrington. | Courtesy of Stillman Nature Center

Raptor Sunday: 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12, at Stillman Nature Center, 33 W. Penny Road, South Barrington. Meet the snowy, great horned, barred, barn and screech owls, along with a peregrine falcon, turkey vulture, broad-winged and red-shouldered hawks. $20 per car. stillmannc.org.

Tuesday, Oct. 14

“Hey There: The Music of Rosemary Clooney”: 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14, in Elgin Community College’s Blizzard Theatre, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Kaity Paschetto, backed by a trio, breathes new life into classics like “Mambo Italiano,” “Hey There,” “Tenderly” and “Come On-a My House.” $35. eccartscenter.org

All You Need Is Jazz: 7-8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14, at Gail Borden Public Library Meadows Community Rooms AB, 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin. Favorite Beatles tunes reimagined by a Chicago-area jazz trio on piano, drums and electric bass. Free. Register: gailborden.info

Wednesday, Oct. 15

Midweek Matinee: 1 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 15, at Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock. See “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory” (1971). $8. woodstockoperahouse.com.

Rosaway, consisting of flutist and vocalist Rachel Ombredane and drummer Stéphane “SteF” Avellaneda, will perform Wednesday, Oct. 15, at the Raue Center for the Arts in Crystal Lake. | Courtesy of the Raue Center for the Arts

Rosaway: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 15, at the Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. Paris-based disco-jazz duo. Tickets start at $19. rauecenter.org.

Ongoing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Visitors enter “Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience” in Ingleside during a sneak preview Thursday. | John Starks/jstarks@dailyherald.com

“Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience”: Various times through Nov. 2 (except Oct. 14, 20-21 and 27-28), 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 will offer food and drink (Butterbeer) and a gift shop. Tickets start at $31 for kids 3-12, $46 for adults. HPForbiddenForestExperience.com.

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Things to do Oct. 3-9: Cider and Ale Festival, Oktoberfests and more

Posted in Entertainment, Fundraisers, Topics Of Interest on October 3, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns returns Wednesdays through Sundays, Oct. 8-26, to the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe. | Courtesy of Chicago Botanic Garden

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Friday, Oct. 3

MainStreet Libertyville’s First Fridays: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3, on Main Street in Libertyville. Music, refreshments and more. Free. mainstreetlibertyville.org.

Festival of Arts & Crafts Show: 2-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at the Lake County Fairgrounds, 1060 E. Peterson Road, Grayslake. Shop for handcrafted products exhibited by local and national crafters. $5. stepbysteppromotions.com

Downtown Elgin Market: 3-7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3, on South Riverside Drive, Elgin. Farmers, makers, live music, Sip N’ Shop and kids’ activities. Dog-friendly. LINK Matching program. downtownelgin.com/market.

GT Sports Autograph & Sports Card Show: 5-9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at the Schaumburg Convention Center, 1551 N. Thoreau Drive, Schaumburg. Sports card and autograph vendors, authenticators and more. Scheduled guests include Warren Moon, Colson Montgomery, Noah Schultz, Colston Loveland and others. $5 for Friday, $10 for Saturday or Sunday. gtsportsshows.com.

The Taste of Arlington Heights returns Friday and Saturday, Oct. 3-4. | John Starks/jstarks@dailyherald.com, Sept. 27, 2024

Harmony Fest Featuring the Taste of Arlington Heights: 5-11 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3, and 3-11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at Harmony Park, Campbell Street and Vail Avenue, Arlington Heights. Concerts and food and drinks from local restaurants. Music lineup: Friday: Student Body at 5 p.m. and Mike & Joe at 8:30 p.m.; and Saturday: Fearless: The Taylor Tribute at 3 p.m., The Breakfast Club at 5 p.m., and Hello Weekend at 8:30 p.m. Free. vah.com/harmonyfest.

Lincoln Park Wine Fest: 5-10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4; and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at Jonquil Park, 1001 W. Wrightwood, Chicago. Open-air market featuring wine tastings and food pavilions. Admission starts at $32.50. chicagoevents.com/event/lincoln-park-wine-fest.

Hayrides at Hoffman Park: 6, 6:45 and 7:30 p.m. Fridays and 5:15, 6, 6:45 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, Oct. 3-25, at the dog park at Hoffman Park, West Main Street, Cary. Hayride and campfire under the stars. $10 per person. Register: carypark.com.

“Beetlejuice Jr.”: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4; and 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock. Theatre 121 students perform in this zany afterlife adventure based on the Tim Burton classic. $15-$25. woodstockil.gov

GreenRoom’s First Fridays Improv: 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 3, at Hemmens Theatre in the Round, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. $15-$20. hemmens.org.

Saturday, Oct. 4

Family Fall Fest: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 4, at The Depot at Wild Meadows Trace, 511 S. York St., Elmhurst. Safety Town trick-or-treating and fall festivities. Costumes encouraged. Food trucks: Brown’s Chicken, Nick’s Wood Fired Pizza Truck, Tacos El Amigazo, D’s Treats & Ice Cream and Smallcakes. Free. epd.org

The South Elgin Pumpkin Patch & Fall Festival returns to SEBA Park Saturday, Oct. 4. | John Starks/jstarks@dailyherald.com, 2021

Pumpkin Patch Festival: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at SEBA Park, 151 S. Water St., South Elgin. South Elgin Parks & Rec’s annual fall event features a costume pet parade at 10 a.m., craft show, inflatable, face painting, pyramid of hay and painting station with purchase. New: pumpkin decorating contest for local businesses and service organizations. For details, email Jess Day at JDay@southelgin.com. Free. southelgin.com/pumpkin.

Algonquin Harvest Market: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at Main Street in downtown Algonquin. Algonquin Rotary Club’s eighth annual event with fresh produce, artisans, crafters, food, entertainment, giveaways and more. Free. AlgonquinHarvestMarket.com.

Boo at the Zoo: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, Oct. 4-31, at Brookfield Zoo Chicago, 8400 31st St., Brookfield. Annual family-friendly Halloween celebration with not-so-scary thrills, festive decorations and more. On weekends, there’s trick-or-treating, a magician and other activities. Included with zoo admission. brookfieldzoo.org/BooAtTheZoo.

The Pet Costume Parade starts at 10 a.m. Saturday during the South Elgin Pumpkin Patch Festival. | Courtesy of Village of South Elgin

South Elgin Pet Costume Parade: 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at SEBA Park, 151 S. Water St., South Elgin. Parade begins at approximately 10 a.m. along the sidewalk on South Water Street. Categories: scariest, cutest, funniest and best owner/pet costume. Pets must be leashed. Come early for the Pumpkin Patch Festival. On-site registration from 9:30-9:50 a.m. Free. southelgin.com/petparade.

Rolling Meadows Hometown Hoedown: 2-8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at Kimball Hill Park, 3286 Kirchoff Road, Rolling Meadows. Family activities and a performance by Buckle at 6 p.m. Free. cityrm.org.

Roselle Founders Day: 2-7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at Claus Recreation Center, 555 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Roselle. Music from the Jolly Ringwalds and ’90s Pop Nation. Pumpkin patch, pumpkin decorating, pumpkin jump, hayrides, food truck, beer garden, obstacle course, bumper cars, face painting, balloonist, giant slide, Euro bungee, zip line and rock wall. Hosted by the village of Roselle and Roselle Park District. Free. rparks.org.

Special guests, including the World’s Tallest Scarecrow, entertain visitors at Blackberry Farm during Pumpkin Weekends.

Randhurst Village Fall Fest: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at Randhurst Village, off Randhurst Village Drive, Mount Prospect. Pumpkin decorating, tractor rides, face painting, balloon twisters, stilt walkers, bounce house and more. Stillman Nature Preserve will be bringing owls. Free entry and activities. No tickets required. randhurstvillage.com.

Light Up the Sky: 5:30-8:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at James O. Breen Community Park, 3615 Campton Hills Drive, St. Charles. Lighted kite show by professionals from Chicago Kite. DJ entertainment from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Treats for purchase from Sugar Mama’s Mini Donuts and Wild Fries food trucks. Free. stcparks.org/events.

Chicago Beer Fest: 7-11 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at The Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. Sample seasonal beers from over 65 breweries while perusing select museum exhibits. Early admission $70; general admission $55. No tickets will be sold at the door. thechicagobeerfestival.com.

Tasting booths from more than 30 local breweries will be stationed along Meadow Lake Trail, the Conifer Walk and the Frost Hill walking path during the Cider and Ale Festival Saturday at Morton Arboretum. | Courtesy of Morton Arboretum

Cider and Ale Festival: Noon to 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Lisle. Tasting booths offering more than 60 different ciders and ales from more than 30 local breweries will be stationed along Meadow Lake Trail, the Conifer Walk and the Frost Hill walking path. Tasting tickets include 20 3-ounce samples. There will be no general admission to the Arboretum Saturday. $65-$85; designated driver: $25-$35; kids: free for members, $12 for nonmembers. mortonarb.org.

Corridos y Canciones: 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at Elgin Community College’s Blizzard Theatre, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Performance by BFH (formerly known as Ballet Folklorico Huehuecoyotl). $25, $22 for seniors, and $15 for kids 10 and younger. eccartscenter.org

Classic Albums Live: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 4, at the Hemmens Cultural Center Main Stage Theatre, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. Fleetwood Mac’s 1977 multiplatinum album “Rumours” is re-created live on stage. $26-$58. Tickets: (847) 931-5900 or hemmens.org.

Sunday, Oct. 5

Buffalo Grove Farmers Market: 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, in Mike Rylko Park, 951 McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove. Meat, cheese, bakery, coffee, knife sharpening and more from 42 vendors, with weekly entertainment, a kids’ craft tent, and Business of the Week vendors and nonprofits. vbg.org/165/Farmers-Market.

Great Midwest Train Show: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at the DuPage County Fairgrounds, 2015 Manchester Road, Wheaton. Over 110 exhibitors selling 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.

Crystal Lake Farmers Market+ At The Dole: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, on the front lawn of the Dole Mansion, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake. Live music, kids’ activities, beverages, food trucks and more. farmersmarketatthedole.org.

Get a look at 19th-century farm life Sunday, Oct. 5, during the Autumn Harvest Festival at Spring Valley Nature Center Heritage Farm in Schaumburg. | Daily Herald file photo, 2023

Autumn Harvest Festival: Noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at Heritage Farm at Spring Valley, 201 S. Plum Grove Road, Schaumburg. Demonstrations of 19th-century farm life, kids’ crafts and games, pumpkin decorating, live music, food and beverages and more. $5 per person or $20 per family; free for kids 2 and younger. parkfun.com.

Oktoberfest: 1-4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at Twin Lakes Recreational Area, 1200 E. Twin Lakes Drive, Palatine. Games, hayrides, food and drinks, raffles and more. Live music by Die Musikmeisters. Food for purchase includes bratwurst with sauerkraut, German potato salad and Oktoberfest beer. Donate five nonperishable food items to receive a free pumpkin, or buy one for $5. Free. saltcreekpd.com

Authors Fair 2025: 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at Gail Borden Public Library, 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin. Meet with local authors. Books will be available for purchase and signing. Free. gailborden.info.

“John Candy: I Like Me”: An Evening with Ryan Reynolds & Friends: 7 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 5, at the Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St., Chicago. The 2025 documentary presented by producer Ryan Reynolds. Tickets start at $79.05. msg.com

Wednesday, Oct. 8

Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns: 6-10:30 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, Oct. 8-12, 15-19 and 22-26, at the Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe. See hand-carved, LED-lit jack-o’-lanterns staged along a festive paved pathway where visitors will encounter characters and can watch live pumpkin carving. $22-$27 for adults, $15-$18 for kids 3-12, and free for kids younger than 3. chicagobotanic.org/halloween.

Thursday, Oct. 9

During Witches Night Out Thursday, Oct. 9, take advantage of specials, discounts, giveaways and more at participating business in Long Grove. | Courtesy of Grimaldi Public Relations

Witches Night Out: 5-8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, at 145 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove. Downtown businesses will offer specials, discounts, giveaways and more. Check in and registration will take place at the Village Tavern, 135 Old McHenry Road. Free; registration is recommended but not required. longgrove.org/festival/october-days.

John Cleese & The Holy Grail at 50: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 9, at the Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. Celebrate 50 years of “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” with John Cleese. Tickets start at $75.50. geneseetheatre.com.

Ongoing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Barrington Area Conservation Trust Oak-Toberfest is Saturday

Posted in BACT, Entertainment, Fundraisers, Organizations, Resident Spotlights on September 28, 2025| Leave a Comment »

“Neighbors & Friends –

We hope you can join BACT on Saturday, October 4th, 4:00 – 8:00, for the 2025 OAK🍁TOBERFEST! This amazing afternoon will be spent enjoying live music, Biergarten with craft beer tasting, fresh German pretzels & Bavarian inspired fare among BACT’s beautiful Oak Savanah at BACT’s Far Field Nature Preserve.

This is BACT’s largest outreach, raising funds to preserve and safeguard natural habitats in our own community. BACT works in partnership with private landowners, schools, and volunteers to safeguard native habitats, clean water, and preserve the scenic views of the Barrington area. Oak🍁Toberfest allows all of us the opportunity to enjoy one of BACT’s preserves, while enjoying the warmth of community, the delights of good food & beer, and the joyous sounds of Pat McKillen and Wrought Iron Soul.

We appreciate your forwarding this invitation to any who might be interested! Follow this link for more information and to get your tickets https://givebutter.com/qICQLl.”

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“Party for the Preserves” at Crabtree Nature Center Saturday

Posted in Crabtree Nature Center, Entertainment, FPDCC on September 26, 2025| Leave a Comment »

“Get ready to PARTY! This Saturday, Sept 27th is Party for the Preserves. Crabtree has a slough of activities planned from 10:30-2:30. Join a guided prairie walk at 10:30 to see the tall grasses and fall flowers on the Phantom Prairie trail (2 miles). Enjoy family friendly activities, games, and crafts from 11 am – 2 pm.

At 1 pm, learn all about the owls and hawk living at Crabtree during our Meet our Ambassador Animals talk. Then help the preserves growth and thrive by collecting native seeds at 1:30 pm.”

3 Stover Rd, Barrington Hills. 847-381-6592

Source

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Things to do Sept. 26 to Oct. 2: Long Grove Apple Fest, Huntley Fall Fest, Oktoberfests and more

Posted in Entertainment, Fundraisers, Topics Of Interest on September 25, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Apple doughnuts and apple treats will be plentiful Friday through Sunday, Sept. 26-28, during Long Grove’s Apple Fest. | Daily Herald file photo, 2017

By Luke Zurawski | Daily Herald

Friday, Sept. 26

Long Grove Apple Fest: Noon to 11 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27; and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28, at 145 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove. Apple delicacies, from apple wine to apple tempura. Plus, live music, family activities, a carnival and more. Music lineup: Friday: Rok Brigade (Def Leppard Tribute) from 6:30-8:20 p.m. and Hi Infidelity from 9-11 p.m.; Saturday: Rearview (Pearl Jam Tribute) from 5-6:30 p.m., Whatever, Nevermind (Nirvana Tribute) from 7-8:20 p.m. and 7th heaven from 9-11 p.m.; and Sunday: American English from 4-6 p.m. $7 per day, $15 for a three-day pass, and free for kids 12 and younger free. longgrove.org/festival/apple-fest.

Oktoberfest: 5-10 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26, and 2-10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, at The Depot, 319 N. River St., East Dundee. Scarecrow display, touch-a-truck, inflatables, food, drinks and more. Beer Stein Holding Contest at 7 p.m. Saturday. Music lineup: Friday: Polkaholics at 5 p.m. and George Michael Reborn starring Robert Bartko at 8 p.m.; and Saturday: Ed Wagner’s Brass Band at 2 p.m., Jagged Little Pill, Alanis tribute, at 5 p.m. and Jump, The Van Halen Experience at 8 p.m. Free. eastdundee.net.

Elgin Fringe Festival: Through Sunday, Sept. 28, at various locations in downtown Elgin. 12th annual celebration of bold artistic experimentation showcasing artists’ work across a spectrum of forms and genres. Tickets range from free to $12. Festival entry button ($4) required for each performance, including free shows. Festival pass: $95. elginfringefestival.com.

Great American Coin and Collectibles Show: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26; and 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, 5555 N. River Road, Rosemont. Dealers, grading services and well-known names from across the numismatic world. $10. gacc.show.

Joffrey Ballet presents “Carmen”: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27; and 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28, at the Lyric Opera House, 20 N. Wacker Drive, Chicago. With choreography by Liam Scarlett. Tickets start at $46. joffrey.org

Bartlett Oktoberfest: 4-10:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26, and 1-10:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, at Leiseberg Park, 325 E. Devon Ave., Bartlett. Live music, kids’ activities, exhibitor booths, beer, food for purchase and more. Family activities from 1-5 p.m. Saturday. Free. bartlettoktoberfest.com.

Huntley Fall Fest: 5-11 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27; and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28, at Deicke Park, 11419 S. Route 47, Huntley. Live entertainment, beer garden, food vendors, carnival midway, model-train display, scarecrow building/contest and fall activities. All-you-can-eat pancake breakfast from 7-11 a.m. Saturday ($10, free for kids 12 and younger with a paid adult); car show from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday; craft/business show from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday; and a tractor show from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Music lineup: Friday: Yankee Cowboy at 6:15 p.m. and 7th heaven at 9 p.m.; Saturday: Polly Says at 1:45 p.m., Two Beer Tommy at 3:45 p.m., Beyond the Blonde at 6:15 p.m., and LP Vinyl at 9 p.m.; and Sunday: Knievel Daredevil Band at noon, Hillbilly Rockstarz at 2:15 p.m. and Disco Circus at 5 p.m. Fireworks at 8:45 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Free. huntleyfallfest.com

A girl poses atop a giant carved pumpkin at Jack O’Lantern World in Lake Zurich. | Courtesy of All Community EventsJack O’Lantern World: Time slots start around 6:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26, and are available Thursdays through Sundays through Nov. 1 at Paulus Park, 215 S. Rand Road, Lake Zurich. See and explore thousands of pumpkins arranged in displays and more, plus a pumpkin patch, 30-foot inflatables, food trucks, a beer garden, mini golf and more. Tickets range from $17.99-$27.99. Thejackolanternworld.com.

Artrageous: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26, at Elgin Community College’s Blizzard Theatre, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Music, dance and live painting. $40; $20 for kids 12 and younger. eccartscenter.org

Under the Stars: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26, at Pottawatomie Park, 8 North Ave., St. Charles. Take a paddle wheel riverboat cruise along the Fox river. Bring wine or beer. 21 and older. $24. Register in advance at stcriverboats.com.

Saturday, Sept. 27

Tailgate Swap: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, at Fox Valley Aero Club field, 3831 Karl Madsen Drive, St. Charles. Radio-controlled planes and accessories. Vendor fee is $10 per car. foxvalleyaero.com/events.

Des Plaines River Trail Bike Ride: 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 27, at Campground Woods Forest Preserve at the junction of Algonquin and Campground roads, Des Plaines. Riders of all ages and experience levels can join the 8-mile ride that loops back to the starting point. Afterward, there’s a celebration and an option to take a short hike in the woods. Hosted by Bike and Walk Des Plaines. Free. bike-walk-dp.org

Randall Oaks Fall Festival: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, from Saturday, Sept. 27, through Nov. 2, at Randall Oaks Zoo, 1180 N. Randall Road, West Dundee. Pedal tractors, pumpkins and fall treats for sale, and on weekends, hayrides for $3 and animal shows at 1:30 p.m. $6; free for kids 1 and younger and U.S. military with ID. dtpd.org/fall-festival.

Body Mind Spirit Celebration: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28, at the Schaumburg Convention Center, 1551 N. Thoreau Drive, Schaumburg. Live learning sessions and entertainment, vendors, readings and more. $15 for both days. bmse.net

The Johnny Appleseed Festival comes to downtown Crystal Lake Saturday, Sept. 27. | Courtesy of downtown Crystal Lake

Johnny Appleseed Festival: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, in downtown Crystal Lake. Wagon rides, a pumpkin train, kids’ games, inflatables, inflatable axe-throwing and hoops for teens, a craft fair, pumpkin bowling, storytelling, live music, dancing, food trucks, apple cider doughnuts, a scarecrow on stilts and Johnny Appleseed. At Brink Street Market: Northwest Hwy Band from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Lee’s Martial Arts from 10-10:30 a.m.; Rebecca McCarthy School of Dance from 11-11:30 a.m.; and Engage Dance Academy from noon to 12:30 p.m. At other locations: Corner Boys Band from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Depot Park’s gazebo; chalk artists at Brink and Williams, toward Main, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Birthday Cake Contest from noon to 2 p.m. in the Raue Center lobby; and The Great Ball Race at 3 p.m. at Brink and Williams, toward Main (ball sales end at 2 p.m.). Activity tickets: $1, wristband: $10. downtowncl.org/johnny-festival.

Pet Adoption Event: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, at the Lake County Fairgrounds, 1060 E. Peterson Road, Grayslake. See hundreds of adoptable dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs and birds from animal shelters from the Chicago area and neighboring states. Free entry. chicagolandhumane.org

Rosetoberfest: 5K run/walk at 10 a.m. and Oktoberfest festival from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, at Parkway Bank Park, 5501 Park Place, Rosemont. Music by Paloma, traditional German dance performances by the Society of Danube Swabians Youth Group and the Chicago Donauschwaben Adult Dance Groups, stein-holding and arm-wrestling and food for purchase. Free. $32 for the 5K. rosemont.com/thepark.

Get an up-close look at a variety of automobiles during the Pedal For Paws car show Saturday, Sept. 27, during Huntley Fall Fest in Deicke Park. | John Starks/jstarks@dailyherald.com

Huntley Fall Fest Pedal For Paws car show: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, in Deicke Park, 11419 S. Route 47, Huntley. 16th annual fundraiser open to all vehicles 1989 or older, and 1990 and newer modern American muscle cars. Car clubs welcome. Car registration from 9-11 a.m. for $20 per vehicle. There will be 40 custom trophies; awards at 2 p.m. Food for sale from Boy Scout Troop 153. Benefits Animal Services & Assistance Program Inc. in Marengo. Free. huntleyfallfest.com.

Bull Valley Oktoberfest & Classic Car Show: Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, at the Stickney House Mansion, 1904 Cherry Valley Road, Bull Valley. Music from Forever Young from 12:30-2:30 p.m. and DJ Dave and kids’ activities. Craft beer from Kishwaukee Brewing and food from The Grilled Cheese Experiment and Sandie’s Dogs. $5; free for kids 12 and younger. (815) 459-4833 or thevillageofbullvalley.com.

Rakow Renaissance Family Faire: 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, at the Gail Borden Public Library Rakow Branch, 2751 W. Bowes Road, Elgin. Costume contest, entertainment, games, crafts and take a photo with royalty. Free. gailborden.info.

The 38th annual Bluff City Cemetery Walk in Elgin will feature actors portraying Elgin notables sharing their life stories Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 27-28. | John Starks/jstarks@dailyherald.com

38th annual Bluff City Cemetery Walk: 3 and 5:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, and 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28, at Bluff City Cemetery, off Bluff City Boulevard, Elgin. The 70-minute tour showcases the grave sites of former residents portrayed by actors in period costumes. To honor the centennial celebration of U.S. Route 20, this year’s characters have a connection with roads, trails and local transportation developments. $20-$25. Register: elginhistory.org.

Yappy Hour: 4-7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, at Bridges Beer Garden, 1400 Poplar Creek Drive, Hoffman Estates. Therapy dogs, mini horses, raffles and more. Benefits Soul Harbour. Free. heparks.org/event/yappy-hour

Knight of Champions Band Competition: 4:15 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, at Prospect High School, 801 W. Kensington Road, Mount Prospect. Gates open at 3:30 p.m. More than a dozen high school marching bands from across the Chicago area will compete, and there will be an exhibition performance by the Prospect Marching Knights at 8:30 p.m. $15. gofan.co/event/3936564?schoolId=IL15628_1.

Fan Halen: 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27, at the Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. Van Halen tribute. Tickets start at $63. rauecenter.org

Sunday, Sept. 28

Buffalo Grove Farmers Market: 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28, in Mike Rylko Park, 951 McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove. Meat, cheese, bakery, coffee, knife sharpening and more from 42 vendors, with weekly entertainment, a kids’ craft tent, and Business of the Week vendors and nonprofits. vbg.org/165/Farmers-Market.

Crystal Lake Farmers Market+ At The Dole: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28, on the front lawn of the Dole Mansion, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake. Live music, kids’ activities, beverages, food trucks and more. farmersmarketatthedole.org.

Fall Caboose Days: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28, at the Fox River Trolley Museum, off Route 31, South Elgin. Ride with the conductor in the Big Red Caboose or with the engineer in the locomotive. $5-$8. foxtrolley.org/special-events.

Elgin Symphony Orchestra Trio: 2-3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28, in the Gail Borden Public Library Meadows Community Rooms, 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin. ESO Concertmaster Isabella Lippi will be joined by two ESO colleagues on piano and cello in this chamber music performance to kick off the library’s 20th season of Sunday Afternoon Concerts. Free. Register: gailborden.info

Festival de Cultura, Comida y Vida takes place Sunday, Sept. 28, at Nippersink Forest Preserve in Round Lake. Courtesy of Justine Neslund

Festival de Cultura, Comida y Vida: 2-6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28, at Nippersink Forest Preserve, 900 W. Belvidere Road, Round Lake. Family-friendly festival honoring Hispanic heritage with music and dance performances, cultural showcases, local food vendors, community partners sharing information on resources and support and more. Free. LCFPD.org.

Railroad Street Block Party: 2-5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28, at Duke’s Alehouse parking lot, 110 N. Main St., Crystal Lake. Local bands, food, family activities and games for kids. Free. facebook.com/dukesalehouse.

Elmhurst Symphony’s “An Opera Afternoon”: 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28, at Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church, 149 W. Brush Hill Road, Elmhurst. Season opener with vocalist Jim Cornelison and music by Wagner, Puccini, Rossini, Lehar, Bernstein and Bizet. Pre-concert talk at 1:45 p.m. $35-$45; $32-$42 for seniors; $12 for students with ID. elmhurstsymphony.org

Tuesday, Sept. 30

Trailer Fest: 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 30, at Cinergy Cinemas, 401 W. Dundee Road, Wheeling. Get first looks at the October through January slate of movies along with fast-paced trivia with prizes. $3, includes a small popcorn and a raffle ticket, with an optional sampler tasting for $8.99. cinergy.com.

Hix Bros Ukelele Band Fall Concert: 7-8 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 30, in the Gail Borden Public Library Meadows Community Rooms, 270 N. Grove Ave., Elgin. Free. Register: gailborden.info

Wednesday, Oct. 1

Cosley Zoo’s Pumpkin Fest features a variety of fall activities Oct. 1-31. | Courtesy of Cosley Zoo

Pumpkin Fest: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily Oct. 1-31 at Cosley Zoo, 1356 N. Gary Ave., Wheaton. See the zoo’s animals and thousands of pumpkins lining the zoo’s lawn. Kids’ rides for a fee. Apples, gourds, pumpkins, cider, cornstalks, straw bales and fall merchandise for purchase. Proceeds benefit Cosley Zoo. Admission: Free for Wheaton Park District residents and Cosley Zoo Members; nonresidents: $12 for 12-59, $10 for 60 and older, and free for kids 11 and younger. cosleyzoo.org.

Stargazing Parties: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 1, 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.

Thursday, Oct. 2

Metal Threat Fest 2025: Noon to 11:45 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, Oct. 2-5, at 850 N. State St., Elgin. An underground death and black metal festival for 21 and older. $108.45 for a one-day pass, $320.62 for a three-day pass, and $426.70 for four days. metalthreatfest.com.

Vernon Hills Scarecrow Fest: 4-5:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 2, at Century Park Pavilion, 1400 Indianwood Drive, Vernon Hills. Build and decorate a scarecrow; bring clothes and accessories to use as decorations. Snack is included. $18 per group. Register at vhparkdistrict.org/event/scarecrow-fest.

Sensory Cocktail Experience: 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 2, in Cantigny’s Upper Display Garden, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton. Led by Cantigny’s mixologist and executive chef, experiment with fresh ingredients, aromatic herbs and innovative flavor profiles to create signature drinks. The theme will be Scotch & Smoke. $100. Register: cantigny.org.

Ongoing

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

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

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, free for kids 3 and younger. LCFPD.org/planyourvisit.

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

Six Flags Great America Fright Fest: 5-11 p.m. Fridays starting Sept. 26; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27; 11 a.m. to midnight Saturdays in October; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sundays through Nov. 1; plus 6-11 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30; and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. 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. Tickets start at $45. sixflags.com/greatamerica/events.

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

Richardson Adventure Farm: 3-11 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27; and noon to 9 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28; open various hours through Oct. 26 at Richardson Adventure Farm, 909 English Prairie Road, Spring Grove. Corn maze, pumpkin patch, observation tower, zip line, zorbing, pig races and more. $24, $20 for kids 3-12, and free for kids 2 and younger; $30/$24 Saturdays and Sundays in October. richardsonadventurefarm.com.

“Disney’s The Little Mermaid”: 7:30 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays through Oct. 5 at Playhouse 111, 111 N. Hale St., Wheaton. Wheaton Drama production. $25. wheatondrama.org

Find more here.

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Savor the season: Fall fun, tasty treats beckon at Long Grove Apple Fest

Posted in Entertainment on September 25, 2025| Leave a Comment »

Submitted by Jody Grimaldi

If autumn had a flavor, it would taste like apples in Long Grove. The historic village’s oldest and most popular festival will return for its 33rd year, inviting visitors to savor the season.

Festival hours are noon to 11 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 27; and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28, in historic downtown Long Grove, 145 Old McHenry Road. Admission is $7 per person, per day, or $15 for a three-day pass; children 12 and younger are admitted for free. For tickets and details, visit longgrove.org/festivals/apple-fest.

Apple Fest isn’t just about apples — it’s about atmosphere. Nestled around Long Grove’s iconic covered bridge and vintage storefronts, the festival embodies the best of fall’s in-between moment: when summer lingers but crisp autumn breezes arrive, and the whole town feels like a harvest postcard.

The food

Fresh cider doughnuts will be available at Long Grove Apple Fest. | Brian Hill/bhill@dailyherald.com, 2024

Caramel-dipped, chocolate-covered, candied, baked in pies, pressed into cider, swirled into sangria — you name it, Apple Fest has it. Dozens of vendors and local restaurants will showcase apple-inspired treats, both classic and unexpected, from warm apple doughnuts to gourmet twists like apple wine. The village’s tasting rooms, taverns, and eateries join the fun with seasonal specials.

Fall traditions

Shoppers browse the offerings at last year’s Long Grove Apple Fest. | Brian Hill/bhill@dailyherald.com, 2024

Apple Fest highlights include:

  • Classic carnival rides and games for all ages.
  • Apple-themed contests like pie-eating and bobbing.
  • A vendor marketplace with fall favorites, specialty foods, and unique seasonal finds.
  • Pet-friendly atmosphere, where even four-legged family members can join the fun.
  • New for 2025: Giant Pumpkin Weight-Guessing Raffle. Visitors can scan a QR code next to a massive pumpkin to submit their guess for its weight. The closest entry wins $1,000 (ties split the prize). The official weigh-in happens Oct. 18 during October Days in downtown Long Grove.

Live entertainment

Musician Joe Fascetta performs at last year’s Long Grove Apple Fest. Three stages of entertainment will be featured this year. | Brian Hill/bhill@dailyherald.com, 2024

Three stages of entertainment keep the energy flowing, from acoustic sets by the pond to family-friendly action in Fountain Square. The Main Stage music lineup is as follows:

Friday, Sept. 26

  • iPod music, noon-2 p.m.
  • Rememories Band, 2-3:30 p.m.
  • Daniel Cronson Band, 4:30-5:50 p.m.
  • Rok Brigade (Def Leppard Tribute), 6:30-8:20 p.m.
  • Hi Infidelity, 9-11 p.m.

Saturday, Sept. 27

  • Brothers Field — Battle of the Bands winner, noon-1 p.m.
  • Southwater, 1:30-3 p.m.
  • Santeria (Sublime Tribute), 3:30-4:30 p.m.
  • Rearview (Pearl Jam Tribute), 5-6:30 p.m.
  • Whatever, Nevermind (Nirvana Tribute), 7-8:20 p.m.
  • 7th heaven, 9-11 p.m.

Sunday, Sept. 28

  • TBD, noon-1 p.m.
  • Chicken Dolphin Band, 1:30-3:15 p.m.
  • American English, 4-6 p.m.

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Barrington High School Homecoming 2025 is this Saturday September 27

Posted in Barrington High School, Entertainment, Topics Of Interest, Traffic on September 23, 2025| Leave a Comment »

This year the parade will start at St. Matthews Lutheran Church at 720 Dundee Ave., march North on Dundee Ave. and head West on Lake Cook Rd. (Main St.) to march to BHS.

Below are the events and activities for this year’s Miami Nights themed homecoming:

Friday, September 26

• Welcome night for all alumni, with gatherings for reunion classes ending in 5 and 0.

 Saturday, September 27

• 10:15 AM: The BHS Homecoming Parade leaves from St. Matthews Lutheran Church at 720 Dundee Ave and marches to BHS.
• 11:00 AM: Barrington High School Tour led by alum and Principal Steve McWilliams.
• 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM: The annual BHSAA Tailgate Party for all BHS alumni and friends takes place in Chessie’s parking lot, 200 Applebee Street. Busses will be running to the football game and back.
• 12:00 PM: BHS Homecoming Football Game vs. Palatine at BHS Community Stadium. Purchase tickets online at https://gofan.co/event/3919949?schoolId=IL15415
• Evening: Reunion classes ending in 5 and 0 have events in the area to celebrate individually.

Celebrate Bronco pride and reconnect with friends old and new!

Important Notes:

• The time of the football game has been moved up to 12 PM (Noon) to allow BHS students more time after the game to prepare for the Homecoming Dance.

• This year the parade will start at St. Matthews Lutheran Church at 720 Dundee Ave., march North on Dundee Ave. and head West on Lake Cook Rd. (Main St.) to march to BHS.

• Expect slower than normal travel times during the weekend of Homecoming due to the Route 14 underpass project, as Route 14 through Barrington will be temporarily closed during this time, https://www.barrington-il.gov/government/departments/development-services/underpass/

Source: Barrington High School Alumni

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