Events
With over 800 Festivals & Events running year round, concerts that include the top touring musical acts, countless farmers markets and car shows in the Chicago Southland, the hard part isn’t deciding IF you should come but rather which event you ARE going to attend.
Whether it is Snow Day Festival at the Plum Creek Nature Center in January, Irish Fest at Chicago’s Gaelic Park in May, any of our year round farmers markets or Lansing Autumn Fest in October, you won’t have to travel far to find family friendly activities for any age.
Please click here to view our blog and to find out the latest information about what is happening this weekend in the Chicago Southland.
Cultural Events
Fairs / Carnivals
Parades
Below are the next 23 upcoming Workshop events in the Chicago Southland. Use the form above to search for specific events.
Wheelchair Accessibled Displays/Arts/Crafts
ag Agricultural/Food/Harvest
c Cultural Event
w Workshop/Seminar
$ Admission Fee
h Holiday Celebration
o Outdoor Activity
s Sports Event/Recreational
f Fair, Carnival
e Expo/Consumer Show
p Parade
TOT TIME SNEAK PREVIEW
Feb 23, 2019
Tony Bettenhausen Recreation Center Bandshell
8125 West 171st Street, Tinley Park, IL
708-342-4200
Get a sneak preview of the excitement that awaits your child at Tot Time Preschool! Visit our classrooms and meet the staff. We will be there to give you a tour, answer your questions and help you with the forms.
10-11:30AM
Visit Website c w
Tony Bettenhausen Recreation Center Bandshell
8125 West 171st Street, Tinley Park, IL
708-342-4200
Get a sneak preview of the excitement that awaits your child at Tot Time Preschool! Visit our classrooms and meet the staff. We will be there to give you a tour, answer your questions and help you with the forms.
10-11:30AM
Visit Website c w
MOUNTAIN PASSES IN AMERICAN HISTORY
Feb 24, 2019
Palos Heights Public Library
12501 South 71st Avenue, Palos Heights, IL
708-448-1473
This presentation by author Barbara Gregorich presents the story of six mountain passes which played a critical role in the growth of the United States.
2PM
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Palos Heights Public Library
12501 South 71st Avenue, Palos Heights, IL
708-448-1473
This presentation by author Barbara Gregorich presents the story of six mountain passes which played a critical role in the growth of the United States.
2PM
Visit Website w
BEFORE YOU CALL THE PLUMBER
Feb 27, 2019
Crete Public Library District
1177 North Main Street, Crete, IL
708-672-8017
Professional handyman Dan Findley will discuss what you can do yourself to stop leaks and keep the drains running quickly. Pre-registration is requested.
6:30-8PM
Visit Website w
Crete Public Library District
1177 North Main Street, Crete, IL
708-672-8017
Professional handyman Dan Findley will discuss what you can do yourself to stop leaks and keep the drains running quickly. Pre-registration is requested.
6:30-8PM
Visit Website w
PROTECT YOUR OATS
Mar 7, 2019
Palos Park Recreation Center
8901 West 123rd Street, Palos Park, IL
708-671-3760
Forest Preserves of Cook County are making great efforts to make the Palos area healthier place for people and the trees. Learn what you can do as a landowner to help the Oak Ecosystem Recovery Project. 6:30 - 8pm at Palos Park Recreation Center
6:30-8PM
Visit Website w
Palos Park Recreation Center
8901 West 123rd Street, Palos Park, IL
708-671-3760
Forest Preserves of Cook County are making great efforts to make the Palos area healthier place for people and the trees. Learn what you can do as a landowner to help the Oak Ecosystem Recovery Project. 6:30 - 8pm at Palos Park Recreation Center
6:30-8PM
Visit Website w
H2 WHOA!
Apr 2, 2019 - Apr 30, 2019
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
“H2-WHOA!” is a fun, interactive exhibit that teaches visitors about what lies below the surface of their local water resources. Walk through and around a 10’ fabric dome to learn how flora and fauna, such as fresh water mussels and lichens, serve as indicator species. A hands-on, interactive station demonstrates how pollution and sediment have negative effects on fish and other animals. Learn how to contribute to water conservation efforts and answer a call to action to “Take the Pledge” to protect local water resources. The exhibition was organized by the Purdue Agriculture Exhibit Design Center, Purdue University, and is brought to the Forest Preserve through funding provided by The Nature Foundation of Will County.
Tu-Sa 10AM-4PM; Su 12-4PM
Visit Website $ o w
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
“H2-WHOA!” is a fun, interactive exhibit that teaches visitors about what lies below the surface of their local water resources. Walk through and around a 10’ fabric dome to learn how flora and fauna, such as fresh water mussels and lichens, serve as indicator species. A hands-on, interactive station demonstrates how pollution and sediment have negative effects on fish and other animals. Learn how to contribute to water conservation efforts and answer a call to action to “Take the Pledge” to protect local water resources. The exhibition was organized by the Purdue Agriculture Exhibit Design Center, Purdue University, and is brought to the Forest Preserve through funding provided by The Nature Foundation of Will County.
Tu-Sa 10AM-4PM; Su 12-4PM
Visit Website $ o w
DISCOVER TINLEY EXPO
Apr 6, 2019
Tinley Park Convention Center
18451 Convention Center Drive, Tinley Park, IL
708-444-5678
The annual expo showcases the community's businesses, non-profit organizations and government services. This event features entertainment, food samples and giveaways at many of the booths.
10AM-3PM
Visit Website ag d e w
Tinley Park Convention Center
18451 Convention Center Drive, Tinley Park, IL
708-444-5678
The annual expo showcases the community's businesses, non-profit organizations and government services. This event features entertainment, food samples and giveaways at many of the booths.
10AM-3PM
Visit Website ag d e w
MEET A BEEKEEPER
Apr 7, 2019
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Meet local beekeeper Mike Rusnak to discuss the art of beekeeping. Rusnak has more than 15 years of beekeeping experience to share. Pick up specific beekeeping tips or simply learn more about the world of beekeeping. For ages 18 or older. No registration required.
12:30-3PM
Visit Website w
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Meet local beekeeper Mike Rusnak to discuss the art of beekeeping. Rusnak has more than 15 years of beekeeping experience to share. Pick up specific beekeeping tips or simply learn more about the world of beekeeping. For ages 18 or older. No registration required.
12:30-3PM
Visit Website w
WORM BIN WORKSHOP
Apr 20, 2019
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Food scraps and old stuff around the house can make rich compost indoors. Learn how to make a worm bin and care for it so that the worms will turn your kitchen scraps into compost. Bring in your own container and receive 250 starter worms. Acceptable containers are a 10-gallon bucket or a 16” x 24”x 8” deep clean bin. A guided tour of the outdoor Compost Trail at Plum Creek Nature Center will be included. For ages 10 or older. Registration required by Wednesday, April 11: 708.946.2216. $3/Person
12-3:30PM
Visit Website $ ag w
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Food scraps and old stuff around the house can make rich compost indoors. Learn how to make a worm bin and care for it so that the worms will turn your kitchen scraps into compost. Bring in your own container and receive 250 starter worms. Acceptable containers are a 10-gallon bucket or a 16” x 24”x 8” deep clean bin. A guided tour of the outdoor Compost Trail at Plum Creek Nature Center will be included. For ages 10 or older. Registration required by Wednesday, April 11: 708.946.2216. $3/Person
12-3:30PM
Visit Website $ ag w
ORLAND WOMEN'S NETWORK, OWN LUNCHEON
Apr 25, 2019
Chicago Gaelic Park
6119 West 147th Street, Oak Forest, IL
708-687-9323
The Orland Park Area Chamber of Commerce, Orland Women Networking (OWN) brings all women together of every community and business to support women’s successes achieved and projected. The OWN Committee works to empower professional women through dynamic speakers, inspiring events and networking opportunities. OWN mission statement: Growing, Empowering, Uplifting $45 before 4/15; $55 after
10AM-1:30PM
Visit Website $ ag c w
Chicago Gaelic Park
6119 West 147th Street, Oak Forest, IL
708-687-9323
The Orland Park Area Chamber of Commerce, Orland Women Networking (OWN) brings all women together of every community and business to support women’s successes achieved and projected. The OWN Committee works to empower professional women through dynamic speakers, inspiring events and networking opportunities. OWN mission statement: Growing, Empowering, Uplifting $45 before 4/15; $55 after
10AM-1:30PM
Visit Website $ ag c w
H2 WHOA!
May 1, 2019 - May 31, 2019
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
“H2-WHOA!” is a fun, interactive exhibit that teaches visitors about what lies below the surface of their local water resources. Walk through and around a 10’ fabric dome to learn how flora and fauna, such as fresh water mussels and lichens, serve as indicator species. A hands-on, interactive station demonstrates how pollution and sediment have negative effects on fish and other animals. Learn how to contribute to water conservation efforts and answer a call to action to “Take the Pledge” to protect local water resources. The exhibition was organized by the Purdue Agriculture Exhibit Design Center, Purdue University, and is brought to the Forest Preserve through funding provided by The Nature Foundation of Will County.
Tu-Sa 10AM-4PM; Su 12-4PM
Visit Website $ o w
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
“H2-WHOA!” is a fun, interactive exhibit that teaches visitors about what lies below the surface of their local water resources. Walk through and around a 10’ fabric dome to learn how flora and fauna, such as fresh water mussels and lichens, serve as indicator species. A hands-on, interactive station demonstrates how pollution and sediment have negative effects on fish and other animals. Learn how to contribute to water conservation efforts and answer a call to action to “Take the Pledge” to protect local water resources. The exhibition was organized by the Purdue Agriculture Exhibit Design Center, Purdue University, and is brought to the Forest Preserve through funding provided by The Nature Foundation of Will County.
Tu-Sa 10AM-4PM; Su 12-4PM
Visit Website $ o w
MEET A BEEKEEPER
May 5, 2019
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Meet local beekeeper Mike Rusnak to discuss the art of beekeeping. Rusnak has more than 15 years of beekeeping experience to share. Pick up specific beekeeping tips or simply learn more about the world of beekeeping. This program will take place indoors in an accessible facility. For ages 18 or older.
12:30-3PM
Visit Website w
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Meet local beekeeper Mike Rusnak to discuss the art of beekeeping. Rusnak has more than 15 years of beekeeping experience to share. Pick up specific beekeeping tips or simply learn more about the world of beekeeping. This program will take place indoors in an accessible facility. For ages 18 or older.
12:30-3PM
Visit Website w
SPRING NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY HIKE
May 11, 2019
Messenger Woods Nature Preserve
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 13800 West Bruce Road, Homer Glen, IL
708-946-2216
Meet at the back shelter of Messenger Woods Nature Preserve to briefly learn what makes this preserve so special. Then, enjoy a hike with a naturalist taking photos along the way. This program is recommended for any camera, smartphones through digital SLRs. The program will focus on technique and composition, not camera operation. Activities may take place on natural surfaces across uneven terrain. The hike will be approximately 1 mile. For ages 16 or older. Registration required by Thursday, May 9: 708.946.2216.
8:30-10:30AM
Visit Website o s w
Messenger Woods Nature Preserve
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 13800 West Bruce Road, Homer Glen, IL
708-946-2216
Meet at the back shelter of Messenger Woods Nature Preserve to briefly learn what makes this preserve so special. Then, enjoy a hike with a naturalist taking photos along the way. This program is recommended for any camera, smartphones through digital SLRs. The program will focus on technique and composition, not camera operation. Activities may take place on natural surfaces across uneven terrain. The hike will be approximately 1 mile. For ages 16 or older. Registration required by Thursday, May 9: 708.946.2216.
8:30-10:30AM
Visit Website o s w
WOMEN THRIVING FEARLESSLY EXPO
Jun 1, 2019
Moraine Valley Community College
9000 College Parkway, Building M, Palos Hills, IL
866-443-6769
An expo features stellar solutions for women in business & entrepreneurs. We have an expert panel, V.I.P. Lounge, amazing breakout sessions along with food, fun and surprises
10:30AM-4PM
Visit Website $ c e w
Moraine Valley Community College
9000 College Parkway, Building M, Palos Hills, IL
866-443-6769
An expo features stellar solutions for women in business & entrepreneurs. We have an expert panel, V.I.P. Lounge, amazing breakout sessions along with food, fun and surprises
10:30AM-4PM
Visit Website $ c e w
H2 WHOA!
Jun 1, 2019 - Jun 30, 2019
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
“H2-WHOA!” is a fun, interactive exhibit that teaches visitors about what lies below the surface of their local water resources. Walk through and around a 10’ fabric dome to learn how flora and fauna, such as fresh water mussels and lichens, serve as indicator species. A hands-on, interactive station demonstrates how pollution and sediment have negative effects on fish and other animals. Learn how to contribute to water conservation efforts and answer a call to action to “Take the Pledge” to protect local water resources. The exhibition was organized by the Purdue Agriculture Exhibit Design Center, Purdue University, and is brought to the Forest Preserve through funding provided by The Nature Foundation of Will County.
Tu-Sa 10AM-4PM; Su 12-4PM
Visit Website $ o w
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
“H2-WHOA!” is a fun, interactive exhibit that teaches visitors about what lies below the surface of their local water resources. Walk through and around a 10’ fabric dome to learn how flora and fauna, such as fresh water mussels and lichens, serve as indicator species. A hands-on, interactive station demonstrates how pollution and sediment have negative effects on fish and other animals. Learn how to contribute to water conservation efforts and answer a call to action to “Take the Pledge” to protect local water resources. The exhibition was organized by the Purdue Agriculture Exhibit Design Center, Purdue University, and is brought to the Forest Preserve through funding provided by The Nature Foundation of Will County.
Tu-Sa 10AM-4PM; Su 12-4PM
Visit Website $ o w
MEET A BEEKEEPER
Jun 2, 2019
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Meet local beekeeper Mike Rusnak to discuss the art of beekeeping. Rusnak has more than 15 years of beekeeping experience to share. Pick up specific beekeeping tips or simply learn more about the world of beekeeping. This program will take place indoors in an accessible facility.
12:30-2:30PM
Visit Website w
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Meet local beekeeper Mike Rusnak to discuss the art of beekeeping. Rusnak has more than 15 years of beekeeping experience to share. Pick up specific beekeeping tips or simply learn more about the world of beekeeping. This program will take place indoors in an accessible facility.
12:30-2:30PM
Visit Website w
FAMILY CAMPOUT
Jun 21, 2019 - Jun 22, 2019
Camp Shabbona Woods
Forest Preserves of Cook County, 15810 North Torrence Avenue, South Holland, IL
708-868-0606
These special overnight night events for families are a great intro into camping. Meals and camping gear and outdoor fun for families. Email experience.camping@cookcountyil.gov for more information and to reserve your spot, space is limited. Camperships are available.
5PM
Visit Website o w
Camp Shabbona Woods
Forest Preserves of Cook County, 15810 North Torrence Avenue, South Holland, IL
708-868-0606
These special overnight night events for families are a great intro into camping. Meals and camping gear and outdoor fun for families. Email experience.camping@cookcountyil.gov for more information and to reserve your spot, space is limited. Camperships are available.
5PM
Visit Website o w
HISTORICAL WALK ON RIDGE ROAD
Jun 24, 2019
Meet behind 3306 Ridge Road
3306 Ridge Road, Lansing, IL
708-895-2266
Lansing Historical Society President Paul Schultz will lead a walking tour along Lansing's main street, pointing out sites of historical, geological and architectural interest.
6-7:30PM
Visit Website c o w
Meet behind 3306 Ridge Road
3306 Ridge Road, Lansing, IL
708-895-2266
Lansing Historical Society President Paul Schultz will lead a walking tour along Lansing's main street, pointing out sites of historical, geological and architectural interest.
6-7:30PM
Visit Website c o w
OUTDOOR BLOCK PARTY
Jul 6, 2019
Camp Shabbona Woods
Forest Preserves of Cook County, 15810 North Torrence Avenue, South Holland, IL
708-868-0606
Join us for nature play, pop-up adventure play, creative reuse, primitive skills, games, a hike, and more!
12-4PM
Visit Website o w
Camp Shabbona Woods
Forest Preserves of Cook County, 15810 North Torrence Avenue, South Holland, IL
708-868-0606
Join us for nature play, pop-up adventure play, creative reuse, primitive skills, games, a hike, and more!
12-4PM
Visit Website o w
HUMMINGBIRDS FESTIVAL
Aug 17, 2019
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
This celebration of nature puts the spotlight on hummingbirds and other pollinators. Enjoy presentations, bird viewing, and local artisans and craft vendors. Watch on large screens as the Thorn Creek Audubon Society captures and bands hummingbirds. Celebrate nature with free activities like guided tree climbing, bike rentals to cycle the Plum Creek Greenway Trail, and slacklining. Enjoy live music and many other family-related activities.
1-5PM
Visit Website o w
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
This celebration of nature puts the spotlight on hummingbirds and other pollinators. Enjoy presentations, bird viewing, and local artisans and craft vendors. Watch on large screens as the Thorn Creek Audubon Society captures and bands hummingbirds. Celebrate nature with free activities like guided tree climbing, bike rentals to cycle the Plum Creek Greenway Trail, and slacklining. Enjoy live music and many other family-related activities.
1-5PM
Visit Website o w
WHAT'S BUGGING BELVA?
Sep 1, 2019 - Sep 29, 2019
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
What's Bugging Belva? is an interactive traveling exhibit presented like a book. Belva the bug literally jumps off the pages of a book and into three gardens that include models on the insects being explored and information about their attributes. When Grandpa Belvedere takes her on a tour of the garden, Belva learns insects are beautiful, have cool features, and serve important functions.
Tu-Sa 10AM-4PM; Su 12-4PM
Visit Website d w
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
What's Bugging Belva? is an interactive traveling exhibit presented like a book. Belva the bug literally jumps off the pages of a book and into three gardens that include models on the insects being explored and information about their attributes. When Grandpa Belvedere takes her on a tour of the garden, Belva learns insects are beautiful, have cool features, and serve important functions.
Tu-Sa 10AM-4PM; Su 12-4PM
Visit Website d w
WHAT'S BUGGING BELVA?
Oct 1, 2019 - Oct 31, 2019
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
What's Bugging Belva? is an interactive traveling exhibit presented like a book. Belva the bug literally jumps off the pages of a book and into three gardens that include models on the insects being explored and information about their attributes. When Grandpa Belvedere takes her on a tour of the garden, Belva learns insects are beautiful, have cool features, and serve important functions.
Tu-Sa 10AM-4PM; Su 12-4PM
Visit Website d w
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
What's Bugging Belva? is an interactive traveling exhibit presented like a book. Belva the bug literally jumps off the pages of a book and into three gardens that include models on the insects being explored and information about their attributes. When Grandpa Belvedere takes her on a tour of the garden, Belva learns insects are beautiful, have cool features, and serve important functions.
Tu-Sa 10AM-4PM; Su 12-4PM
Visit Website d w
WHAT'S BUGGING BELVA?
Nov 1, 2019 - Nov 30, 2019
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
What's Bugging Belva? is an interactive traveling exhibit presented like a book. Belva the bug literally jumps off the pages of a book and into three gardens that include models on the insects being explored and information about their attributes. When Grandpa Belvedere takes her on a tour of the garden, Belva learns insects are beautiful, have cool features, and serve important functions.
Tu-Sa 10AM-4PM; Su 12-4PM
Visit Website d w
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
What's Bugging Belva? is an interactive traveling exhibit presented like a book. Belva the bug literally jumps off the pages of a book and into three gardens that include models on the insects being explored and information about their attributes. When Grandpa Belvedere takes her on a tour of the garden, Belva learns insects are beautiful, have cool features, and serve important functions.
Tu-Sa 10AM-4PM; Su 12-4PM
Visit Website d w
NATIONAL BEARD AND MOUSTACHE CHAMPIONSHIPS
Nov 9, 2019
350 Brewery's Insanity Factory
7600 185th Street, Tinley Park, IL
512-779-5179
The 2019 National Beard and Moustache Championships is an event to behold! Featuring 24 categories from Moustache to Full Beard to Ladies (craft), the event is open to anyone who wants to flaunt facial hair. In addition to their famous brews and delicious food, 350 Brewery's Insanity Factory will also be brewing a special Beard-Friendly beer especially for this event.
10AM-8PM
Visit Website $ c d e w
350 Brewery's Insanity Factory
7600 185th Street, Tinley Park, IL
512-779-5179
The 2019 National Beard and Moustache Championships is an event to behold! Featuring 24 categories from Moustache to Full Beard to Ladies (craft), the event is open to anyone who wants to flaunt facial hair. In addition to their famous brews and delicious food, 350 Brewery's Insanity Factory will also be brewing a special Beard-Friendly beer especially for this event.
10AM-8PM
Visit Website $ c d e w
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