Chicago Southland CVB - Things To Do

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.

Due to COVID-19 recommendations, many events in the Chicago Southland are being postponed or cancelled. Please check the event website or call the number listed to get up-to-date information on specific events. For more information on the Restore Illinois plan, please click here. Although events may be postponed or cancelled, virtual events are still taking place.

For a current list of virtual events taking place throughout the Chicago Southland, please click here.

Agricultural / Food / Harvest

Cultural Events

Displays / Arts & Crafts

Below are the next 21 upcoming Workshop events in the Chicago Southland. Use the form above to search for specific events.

Wheelchair Accessible

d Displays/Arts/Crafts

ag Agricultural/Food/Harvest

c Cultural Event

w Workshop/Seminar

$ Admission Fee

h Holiday Celebration

m Music (Live)

o Outdoor Activity

s Sports Event/Recreational

f Fair, Carnival

e Expo/Consumer Show

p Parade

Follow the Flowers with Phenology (Zoom webinar) Apr 14, 2021
Zoom webinar
Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
The forest floor wakes up to transform into blankets of greens, blues, yellows, reds & more. The tricky thing is that most of our blooms only last a small window of time. Learn how to track these flowers with phenology so you know what species to expect and when. Then learn about a few favorite preserves that should be added to your must-hike list. Registration required: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN__7WSbGRfREKB17KWaW8sMA For questions about this program, contact Plum Creek Nature Center: 708.946.2216
7-8PM
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Planting Natives in the Spring (Zoom webinar) Apr 14, 2021
Virtual
Beecher, IL
815-722-9470
In this webinar, learn which plants are best to plant in the spring for a summer of color. Discover why natives are a better fit for your yard & how to incorporate them within your budget. Gain confidence dealing with germination & the different soil & sunlight requirements that make every yard unique. Registration required: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_7Y5DbFm9Ty26d1F-Dj5S7Q For questions about this program, contact Four Rivers Environmental Education Center: 815.722.9470
6PM-7PM
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Living With Wildlife (Zoom webinar) Apr 18, 2021
Virtual
Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Many species of wildlife are welcome visitors to our yards and help us maintain our connection with nature. However, some animals may wear out their welcome, ending up in places that are not safe for them or for people and pets with whom they come into contact. Fortunately, taking a few simple steps can help prevent many of the most common wildlife-related problems around your home. A number of proven methods can be used to solve the problems when they cannot be prevented. In this program, learn how to coexist with wildlife. Registration required: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_XjQhg1vZTZa3XDUlTVBslw For questions about this program, contact Isle a la Cache Museum: 815.886.1467.
2PM-3PM
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Put Your Foot Down on Earth Day! (Zoom webinar) Apr 22, 2021
Virtual
Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
There’s only one Earth, yet humans consume 1.6 planets’ worth of resources every year, according to the Global Footprint Network. Find out how to use the Global Footprint Calculator to adjust your resource consumption so that we can all stay within our planet’s capacity. Practical ideas & discussion will be a part of this Zoom presentation. Ages 16 or older. Registration required: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIudeGgrzMqGNfAYu-U-PodFQaqUTv6Z-nw For questions about this program, contact Plum Creek Nature Center: 708.946.2216.
7-8PM
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World Turtle Day (Zoom Webinar) Apr 23, 2021
Virtual
Beecher, IL
815-886-1467
Discover what species of turtles we have in our area and the special adaptations that make them turtle-y awesome! We will also virtually introduce you to Isle a la Cache Museum’s endangered Blanding’s turtles: H3, Taco & Shirlee. Registration required: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_1aU6ELn0TvGU3XaV3-Oa5A For questions about this program, contact Isle a la Cache Museum: 815.886.1467.
5-5:45PM
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ATTRACTING BEES & BENEFICIAL INSECTS WITH NATIVE PLANTS-VIRTUAL Apr 24, 2021
Forest Preserve District of Will County
VIRTUAL, Joliet, IL
815-727-8700
Please note this program is being offered virtually via Zoom. Using this Facebook Event page to indicate you are going does not mean you are registered for the event. You must register by using the link below. Learn about the positive impact insects have in our landscapes & how native plants can be selected to attract specific bees & beneficial insects with Heather Holm, a biologist, pollinator conservationist & award-winning author. Participants will be able to ask questions at the end of Holm's presentation. Fee: Free! Age: Ages 18 or older. This event is sponsored by The Nature Foundation of Will County. Registration is required: https://www.willcountynature.org/learn--grow.html
10AM-11:15AM
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WonderKids: Bees (Zoom webinar) Apr 25, 2021
Virtual
Beecher, IL
815-886-1467
Join us for a virtual circle time designed for your little one. We will explore bees & why they are so important. This Zoom program is complete with tons of bee facts, singing, a story time & a craft that you can easily do at home. Ages 2-5. Registration required: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_eRzK4oB4TA6qtJffXQwTZA For questions about this program, contact Isle a la Cache Museum: 815.886.1467.
11-11:15AM
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Frogs of Will County (Zoom webinar) Apr 28, 2021
Virtual
Beecher, IL
815-886-1467
In this webinar, you will learn the basics about our amphibious friends, frogs. Find out the differences between a frog & a toad. Meet our local residents. Discover their amazing adaptions, preferred habitats & when & where to hear the males calling. This presentation will be a hopping good time! Registration required: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_WI_EjO6NQRuEiJ8s9RJseA For questions about this program, contact Four Rivers Environmental Education Center: 815.722.9470.
6-7PM
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Companion Planting (Zoom webinar) Apr 28, 2021
Virtual
Beecher, IL
815-886-1467
Planting different vegetables & flowers together is one of the oldest ways to create a healthy, bountiful garden. Many people know companion planting through the three sisters–corn, beans & squash–but there are so many other great companions that benefit from this technique. Naturally fight garden pests! Increase yields! Support biodiversity! We’ll walk you through the ins & outs of starting a companion garden that meets your needs. Ages 13 or older. Registration required: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_X9pL49pjQFaKuQhXanUopA For questions about this program, contact Isle a la Cache Museum: 815.886.1467.
6-7PM
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MEET A BEEKEEPER May 2, 2021
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 & craft of beekeeping. Ask Rusnak questions & meet other beekeeping enthusiasts. 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 takes place in an accessible facility.
12:30-2:30PM
Visit Website ag w

HISTORY AT HOME: MONEY, MAIL & PACKAGING (zOOM WEBINAR) May 8, 2021
Virtual
Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Encounter history from the comfort of your own home. Do some virtual time travel via Zoom and explore interesting topics from earlier times. Learn about how 18th-century people wrote and sent letters as well as how they received them. Learn how French voyageurs played an important role in delivering supplies to forts, posts and settlements. Pull up a seat in front of your computer as we learn about early postage. Ages 16 or older. Registration required: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_UkoL1QRXR3CRyVkFxu7AtA For questions about this program, contact Isle a la Cache Museum: 815.886.1467
2-2:45PM
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History at Home: Money, Mail & Packaging (Zoom webinar) May 8, 2021
Virtual
Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Encounter history from the comfort of your own home. Do some virtual time travel via Zoom & explore interesting topics from earlier times. Learn about how 18th-century people wrote & sent letters as well as how they received them. Learn how French voyageurs played an important role in delivering supplies to forts, posts & settlements. Pull up a seat in front of your computer as we learn about early postage. Ages 16 or older. Registration required: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_UkoL1QRXR3CRyVkFxu7AtA For questions about this program, contact Isle a la Cache Museum: 815.886.1467.
2-2:45PM
Visit Website w

PADDLING IN WILL COUNTY (ZOOM WEBINAR) May 12, 2021
Virtual
Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Join certified canoe & kayak instructors for an informational virtual presentation that will discuss safe padding in Will County. This presentation will also share information on local places to paddle for individuals of all experience levels. Ages 16 or older. Registration required: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_kEs3Th-rSpml1k8J-DNxOA For questions about this program, contact Four Rivers Environmental Education Center: 815.722.9470.
7-8PM
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History at Home: French Herb Garden (Zoom Webinar) May 12, 2021
Virtual
Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Parsley, sage, rosemary & thyme. Don’t forget the lavender! That’s because we are talking French herb gardens for this “History at Home.” Potager, or French kitchen gardens, have intermingled vegetables, fruits, flowers & herbs since medieval times. Learn about these gardens’ roots, how they made their way to Illinois Country & tips on starting your own at home. Ages 13 or older. Registration required: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_y-P-eU4aTxyUqQcr8V_OvQ For questions about this program, contact Isle a la Cache Museum: 815.886.1467.
6-7PM
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BIRDING THE PRESERVES (ZOOM WEBINAR) May 13, 2021
Virtual
Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
This virtual hike will highlight a select preserve & get you familiar with some of the birds found there. Learn where to go & what to expect. Get tips & tricks on where to look & how to identify the birds you see. Armed with this new information, you can then go out on your own to find the birds in the preserves. As a bonus, find out how you can contribute to citizen science just by walking a preserve and recording what you observe. Finding & recording birds can add significance to any day outdoors & help you become more aware of wildlife. Registration required by Thursday, May 13: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_MThXH5TLTJCkfbDKSqlLvQ For questions about this program, contact Plum Creek Nature Center: 708.946.2216.
7-8PM
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Virtual Pollinator Crafts: Wax & Honey (Zoom webinar) May 20, 2021
Virtual
Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
From the comfort of home, learn about the history & uses of wax and honey. All pollinators are important, but there is a special place in our hearts for honeybees. One tiny insect makes important contributions to our lives. Learn about them & the products they produce while discovering how to create candles & sustainable food wrap out of beeswax. Ages 10 or older. Registration required: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_YMH_CvqFQ_ej_Hqk5KXfsg For questions about this program, call: (815) 886-1467.
5-6PM
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Parents' Guide to Camping with Kids (Zoom webinar) May 26, 2021
Virtual
Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
In this Zoom webinar, learn new ways to safely & confidently set out into the woods overnight with your family. From kid-friendly meals to how to keep children engaged during the whole experience, learn how set yourself up for success. Children of any age can have fun camping & with your newly gained ideas & skills, you will enjoy it as a family. This program is ideal for new campers & for those camping with children for the first time. Registration required.: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_ngf3ls7xSTeftw2Bbanjag For questions about this program, call 815.722.9470.
6-7PM
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Composting 101 (Zoom webinar) May 29, 2021
Virtual
Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
A zero-waste life might not be a reality for you, but composting household scraps is a simple & easy way to help the planet. May 29 is National Learn About Composting Day. In this Zoom webinar, learn about the benefits of composting & how easy it is to do. We’ll discuss the basics of composting & the different options available to start your own compost bin. Ages 16 or older. Registration required: https://fpdwc.zoom.us/ webinar/register/WN_9crwHBeAROW4-t2p8pan-Q For questions about this program, call 815.886.1467.
Visit Website w

MEET A BEEKEEPER Jun 6, 2021
Plum Creek Nature Center
Forest Preserve District of Will County, 27064 South Dutton Road, Beecher, IL
708-946-2216
Please note:Masks are required for all in-person, indoor & outdoor program participants, with the exception of those younger than 2 yrs old & those with a medical condition or disability that prevents them from wearing one, per state guidelines. Meet local beekeeper Mike Rusnak to discuss the art & craft of beekeeping. Ask Rusnak questions & meet other beekeeping enthusiasts. Rusnak has more than 15 yrs of beekeeping experience to share. Pick up specific beekeeping tips or simply learn more about the world of beekeeping. Fee: Free! Age:Ages 18 or older. No registration is required for this program. This program takes place in an accessible facility. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should submit a request online (https://www.reconnectwithnature.org/americans-with...)no later than 48 hrs before the program.
12:30-2:30PM
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COCKTAILS WITH TALES OF OLD ORLAND Aug 14, 2021
Orland Park History Museum
14415 Beacon Avenue, Orland Park, IL
708-403-5000
Join the Museum Curator as she talks about the history of Orland Park & the downtown area. Bizarre stories will be included on this tour! Program will kick off at the museum with a drink & will continue as a walking tour, stopping at various locations. Think walking tour meets pub crawl. Additional beverages will be available for purchase at location stops. Fee: $15 members/$20 non-members
1-3PM
Visit Website $ ag c w

TRINITY HEALTH FREEDOM EXPO Oct 2, 2021 - Oct 3, 2021
Tinley Park Convention Center
18451 Convention Center Drive, Tinley Park, IL
888-658-3976
A highly educational event that leaves you feeling confident to make informed health care decisions for you and your family. Learn from authorities on natural health & health freedom, plus experience the latest products & services to help you reach your wellness goals.
Sa 9AM-6PM; Su 9AM-5PM
Visit Website $ w