Entertainment Calendar
What's happening in the county, the region and Chicago.
ART
Kane County
CAMPBELL HOUSE ART GALLERY, Kane County Events, Cultural and Conference Center, 33W848 Cherry Lane, Geneva, 630-208-9567 or www.co.kane.il.us/kcevents. Hours: 9 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday, closed Saturday, noon to 3 p.m. Sunday. Schedule: through Nov. 1, 10th Annual “Timeless X” senior citizen exhibit.
McHenry County
ART OF THE LAND SHOW, 6 to 10 p.m. Sept. 26, Starline Gallery, 306 W. Front St., Harvard. Featuring artwork of regional artists inspired by the natural features of McHenry County. Hors d’oeuvres and music by Glazz. Portion of proceeds will be donated to benefit “Preserving Land Forever.” Host: The Land Conservancy of McHenry County. Tickets: $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Tickets and information: 815-337-9502 or www.conservemc.org.
CAFFÉ LUNA, 6230 Northwest Highway, Crystal Lake, 815- 444-0444. Hours: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday. Schedule: through September, Rumblings photography exhibit by Colleen Bhagwanai and Matthew Eby.
CONSCIOUS CUP, 625D Cog Circle, Crystal Lake, 815-356-0115. Hours: 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Schedule: through September, Chicago 2009 photographic images by Robin Pendergrast. A portion of the proceeds of images sold will be donated to the Turning Point domestic violence agency.
McHENRY COUNTY COLLEGE ART GALLERIES, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake, 815-455-8785. Schedule: through Sept. 20, Kimberly Strom Photography, in the Epping Gallery; through Sept. 25, Jessica Witte Installation, in Gallery One, Gallery Two and artspace 144.
NORTHLAND AREA ART LEAGUE, Woodstock Opera House, 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock. Meetings at 7 to 9 p.m. second Tuesdays, September through April, at the Opera House. New members welcome.
OLD COURT HOUSE ARTS CENTER, 101 N. Johnson St., Woodstock, 815-338-4525 or www.oldcourthouseartscenter.com. Gallery hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. Schedule: through Sept. 27, Clay Mirth, A Work in Progress; 25th Annual Group Show, and Real People 2009.
RAUE CENTER GALLERIES, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake, 815-356-9010 or www.rauecenter.org. Gallery hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; and one hour prior to theater performances.
VALLEY ART CLUB, Lakeside Legacy Arts Park (Dole Mansion) lower level Gullick Studio, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake. Featuring life drawing workshops 7 to 10 p.m. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of the month. Membership fee: $40 (membership not required to attend). Schedule: Sept. 22; Oct. 13 & 27; Nov. 10 & 24; Dec. 8 & 22. No workshop during the holidays. Information: 847-426-8532.
WOODSTOCK FINE ARTS FESTIVAL, 3 to 7 p.m. Sept. 18 and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 19, on the Square, Woodstock. An outdoor gallery and festival featuring fine art vendors, music, food, artisan exhibitions, poetry readings and children’s activities. Presented by Designs by Maida, Inc. Information: 773-292-9200; 815-337-2046 or Michelle at m.pepke@designsbymaida.com.
WOODSTOCK OPERA HOUSE, 121 Van Buren St., 815-338-4212 or 815-338-5300. Hours: noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and during theater performances. Come and view a new exhibit each month presented by local artists in the Community Room of the Woodstock Opera House.
Regional
THE HOUSE CAFE, 263 E. Lincoln Highway, DeKalb, 815-787-9547 or www.thehousecafe.net. Schedule: through Sept. 16, featuring the works of abstract painter Danny Powell. For information, visit: www.dannypowell.net.
ILLINOIS INSTITUTE OF ART SCHAUMBURG, Ruth Ray Memorial Gallery, 1000 Plaza Drive, Schaumburg, 847-619-3450 or www.artinstitutes.edu/schaumburg. Gallery hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Schedule: through Oct. 23, United States Air Force Art Program exhibition by President David Ray.
NORTHERN ILLINOIS UNIVERSITY ART MUSEUM, Altgeld Galleries, College & Castle drives, DeKalb, 815-753-1936 or www.niu.edu/artmuseum. Gallery hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, noon to 4 p.m. Saturday. Schedule: through Oct. 10, Technology and Art Exhibition Suite.
PRANCING CAROUSELS, through September, downtown Lake Geneva, Wis. Summer-long public art exhibition featuring 26 life-size horses complete with carousel pole and 41 tabletop sculptures. The equine artwork will be displayed throughout the down area and area retailers and lodging establishments. Following the exhibition, the sculptures will be auctioned with proceeds benefiting Special Methods in Learning Equine Skills (SMILES). Information: 800-345-1020; www.lakegenevawi.com or www.prancingcarousels.com.
Chicago
2ND FRIDAYS GALLERY NIGHT, 6 to 10 p.m. second Fridays, featuring a myriad of works shown in 35 galleries in the Chicago Arts District surrounding South Halsted and 18th streets, Chicago. Free. Gallery listing, location map and information: 312-377-4444 or www.chicagoartsdistrict.org.
ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO, 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, 312-443-3600 or visit www.artic.edu. Hours: 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Wednesday and Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday (with free admission 5 to 8 p.m.), 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Target Free Thursdays 5 to 8 p.m. Admission: $12 adults; $7 for students and seniors, free for children younger than 12. Special exhibitions may require extra admission fee.
CHICAGO CULTURAL CENTER, 78 E. Washington St., Chicago, 312-742-1148, www.egov.cityofchicago.org. Viewing hours: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays. Free admission. Schedule: through Sept. 27, The Cartoons of John T. McCutcheon: Chronicles of a Changing World in the Chicago Rooms; through Sept. 27, Tom Torluemke: After-Glow; through Oct. 4, Stateless: New Work by Nicole Gordon; through Oct. 4, Twisted Ambience: An Installation by Nnene Okore; through Jan. 10, 2010, Tim Long: Daniel Burnham’s Enduring Vision for the Phillipines exhibition of photographs; through October 2010, Contemporary Sculptures from China exhibit in Millennium Park.
COLUMBIA COLLEGE CHICAGO, A&D Gallery, 619 S. Wabash Ave., Chicago, 312-369-8687 or www.colum.edu/adgallery. Hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday. Schedule: through Sept. 19, (blank) place Third Annual Art & Design Faculty Exhibition.
GALLERY KH, 311 W. Superior St., Chicago, 312-642-0202 or www.gallerykh.com. Schedule: through Oct. 27, Color! New Abstract Works by Carolyn Cole and the works by Hans Hofmann will be on display.
PILSEN EAST ARTISTS OPEN HOUSE, 39th annual, Sept. 25-27, South Halsted and 18th streets, Chicago. A multi-location event in the format of a self-guided walking tour. More than 50 artists will participate. Schedule: 6 to 10 p.m. Sept. 25 and noon to 7 p.m. Sept. 26-27. Information: 312-738-8000 or ww.chicagoartsdistrict.org.
SCHOOL OF THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO, 37 S. Wabash Ave., Chicago, 312-899-5100 or www.saic.edu. Schedule: through Sept. 25, Faculty Projects, at Rymer Gallery; through Sept. 26, New Approaches: Four Exhibitions of Current Work, at Sullivan Galleries, with a 4:30 to 7 p.m. Sept. 25 reception; through Oct. 2, Katie Waugh: Stutter, Interrupt, at LG Space; through Oct. 3, Liliya Lifanova: Anatomy is Destiny, at Gallery X.
VALE CRAFT GALLERY, 230 W. Superior St., Chicago, 312-337-3525 or www.valecraftgallery.com. Hours: 10:30 to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. Schedule: through Oct. 31, Steve Rebora’s Magic Show painted wood sculpture.
AUDITIONS
Kane County
NOBLE FOOL THEATRICALS PERFORMING ARTS ACADEMY, 5 to 9 p.m. Sept. 20 and 4 to 9 p.m. Sept. 21, Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles. Youth Ensemble open auditions for “It’s A Wonderful Life: Radio Play.” Children ages 13-18 should prepare and memorize a one-minute monologue that best displays their talent. May be asked to do a cold reading from the script. No appointment necessary. Production dates: Dec. 5-27. Information: 630-364-0550 or visit www.noblefool.org/education.
RIVERSIDE CHORUS OF SWEET ADELINES, 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Bethlehem Lutheran Church, 401 W. Main St., West Dundee. Local barbershop singing chorus seeking women who like to sing. Rehearsals are like having voice lessons every week. Information: Lisa, 847-437-3310 or www.riversidechorus.com.
STEEL BEAM THEATRE, 4 to 6 p.m. Sept. 21, 111 W. Main St., St. Charles. Auditions for “A Christmas Carol.” Seeking children ages 7-17 preferably with experience. They will be asked to sing their favorite Christmas carol and read from the script. Adults 18 and older will be seen starting at 7:30 p.m. Adults should prepare two contrasting songs and readings in dialect will be from the script. Callbacks 7 p.m. Sept. 23. Performance dates: Nov. 20 through Dec. 20. Information: 630-587-8521 or www.steelbeamtheatre.com.
McHenry County
TOWNSQUARE PLAYERS, community theatre company of the Woodstock Opera House is seeking a producer, artistic director, vocal director and orchestra conductor for the March 5-21, 2010 production of “1776.” Those interested in these paid positions are invited to e-mail a letter of interest or resume to resume@tspinc.org. Deadline is Sept. 18 for producer and Sept. 25 for the other candidates. Behind-the-scenes positions deadline is Oct. 16. For job descriptions, visit: www.tspinc.org. Information: 815-385-1567.
AUTO EVENTS
McHenry County
CRUISE NIGHT, 5 to 7 p.m. every Wednesday, Joe’s Place, 19716 E. Grant Highway, Marengo. Information: 815-568-2500.
COMEDY
Kane County
COMEDYCOMEDY AT WALTER PAYTON’S ROUNDHOUSE COMPLEX, 205 N. Broadway Ave., Aurora, 630-906-2277 or www.walterpaytonsroundhouse.com. Live stand-up comedy. Showtimes: 8:30 p.m. Thursday & Friday, 8 p.m. Saturday. Doors open at 7 p.m. Admission: $15 for ages 21 and older. Reservations recommended. No drink minimum.
HOWIE MANDEL, tickets on sale for the 8 p.m. Nov. 13 performance, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. Tickets: $45-$85 at 847-931-5900 or www.hemmens.org.
MIDWEST COMEDY SHOWCASE, Clearwater Theater, 96 W. Main St., West Dundee. Show designed to bring local stand-up comics to West Dundee. Hosted by Matt Drufke. Schedule: 8 p.m. every Thursday night (no holidays or on dates of major shows). Doors open 7 p.m.
PAUL RODRIGUEZ, 8 p.m. Sept. 18, Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. Tickets: $39.50, $49.50 at 630-896-6666 or www.paramountaurora.com.
ZANIES-PHEASANT RUN RESORT, on North Avenue, St. Charles, 630-513-1761 or www.zanies.com. Showtimes: 8 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, 7:30 and 9:45 p.m. Saturday. All shows require a two-item food/beverage minimum.
McHenry County
DUKE’S COMEDY NIGHTS, Saturdays in September, Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen, 110 N. Main St., Crystal Lake, 815-356-9980 or www.thedukeabides.com. Featuring stand-up comedians in partnership with The Edge Comedy Club. Free with a two-drink minimum. Schedule: Sept. 19, Robert Hines with Dave Odd and Danny Kallas.
Regional
BILL COSBY, tickets on sale for the 4 and 8 p.m. Nov. 14 performances, Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. Tickets: $39.50 to $75 at 800-982-2787, all Ticketmaster outlets or www.ticketmaster.com.
CHICAGO IMPROV, 5 Woodfield Road, Woodfield Mall Store K120B, Schaumburg, 847-240-2001 or www.symfonee.com/improv/chicago. Showtimes: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, 8 & 10:15 p.m. Friday, 7 & 9:15 p.m. Saturday, 7 p.m. Sunday. Schedule: Sept. 18-20, Gabriel Iglesias (tickets $28); Sept. 24-27, Harland Williams ($22, $24).
GALLAGHER, tickets on sale for the 8 p.m. Oct. 16 performance, Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. Tickets: $25.50, $34.50, $42.50 at 800-982-2787, all Ticketmaster outlets or www.ticketmaster.com.
MIDWEST COMEDY SHOWCASE ROADSHOW, Grillworks, 350 McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove. Produced, booked and hosted by Matt Drufke. Featuring a free show 10 p.m. first Saturdays of the month. Information: 815-762-9749; www.myspace.com/midwestcomedyshowcase or mattdrufke@hotmail.com.
VERKA SERDUCHKA, 7 p.m. Nov. 8, Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. Russia’s number one comedian and pop singer. Tickets: $55-$60 at 800-982-2787, all Ticketmaster outlets or www.ticketmaster.com.
ZANIES-VERNON HILLS, 230 Hawthorn Village Commons, 847-549-6030 or www.zanies.com. Showtimes: 8 p.m. Thursday; 8 and 9:45 p.m. Friday, 7 & 9:30 p.m. Saturday.
Chicago
BLUE MAN GROUP, Briar Street Theatre, 3133 N. Halsted St., Chicago, 773-348-4000. Daily performances. Performance times vary and subject to change. Tickets: $49-$64. Tickets and information: 312-902-1500 or www.ticketmaster.com.
CHICAGO SKETCH COMEDY FESTIVAL, Lukaba Productions accepting applications through Oct. 15 for the ninth annual festival scheduled for Jan. 7-17. The 2010 Chicago SketchFest will showcase 100 sketch comedy groups performing 125 shows in 8 days at the Theatre Building Chicago, on Belmont Avenue just West of Racine. For details and application forms, visit: www.chicagosketchfest.com.
COMEDYSPORTZ, Studio Playhouse at The Chicago Center for the Performing Arts, 777 N. Green St., Chicago, 312-733-6000 or www.comedysportzchicago.com. Improv comedy for all ages. 8 p.m. Friday; 6, 8 & 10 p.m. Saturday; 8 p.m. Sunday. Tickets: $21.
THE SECOND CITY, 1616 N. Wells St., 312-337-3992 or www.secondcity.com. Schedule: 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 8 & 11 p.m. Friday & Saturday, 7 p.m. Sunday, America: All Better! (Mainstage). Tickets: $20 Tuesday through Thursday & Sunday, $25 Friday & Saturday.
ZANIES-CHICAGO, 1548 N. Wells in Old Town, 312-337-4027 or www.zanies.com. Showtimes: 8:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday & Sunday; 8:30 & 10:30 p.m. Friday; 7, 9, & 11:15 p.m. Saturday. All shows require a two-item food/beverage minimum.
DANCE
Kane County
DANCE CONNECTION, ballroom dance club meets 2 to 3:30 p.m. Sundays at St. Charles School of Dance, 1429 W. Main St., St. Charles. Newcomers always welcome ages 18 and older. Cost: $8 a person. Information: 630-202-3222 or e-mail: dupageflute@aol.com or www.chrisburdick.com.
SUGAR SQUARES DANCE CLUB, starting Sept. 27, Waubonsee Community College, Route 47 at Waubonsee Drive, Sugar Grove. Featuring modern square dancing lessons 7 p.m. Sundays. Couples, singles and teenagers all invited. Cost: $40 a person for 10 weeks of lessons. Registration and information: 815-286-9702 or 630-377-3695.
McHenry County
B AND B SQUARE DANCE CLUB, Johnsburg Community Club, 2315 W. Church St., Johnsburg. Dances first and third Friday of every month. Rounds begin at 8 p.m., squares at 8:30 p.m. Cost: $4.50 members, $5 visitors. Information: 815-728-1026 or 847-395-1108.
DANCE! with Frank & Jackie Penze, ballroom, Latin and swing dance instructors, 847-639-8699. Cary Park District: 12:45-2:15 p.m. Oct. 11 to Nov. 1, Beginning Swing, Waltz, Cha Cha; 2:30-4 p.m. Intermediate East Coast Swing, waltz, Cha Cha; 4-5:30 p.m. Advanced Waltz, Cha Cha, Argentine Tango, at Cary Park District, 255 Briargate Road, Cary. Cost: $58 resident couple, $64 non-resident, 847-639-6100. Crystal Lake Park District: 7-8:15 p.m. or 8:15 to 9:30 p.m. to Oct. 14, Beginning Salsa, Fox Trot, Swing, Tango; 7 to 8:15 p.m. to Oct. 15, Advanced Fox Trot, Argentine Tango, Samba, Lindy Hop; 8:15 to 9:30 p.m. to Oct. 15, Intermediate Salsa, Fox Trot, Argentine Tango, Samba, at Rotary Building in Veteran Acres Park, 131 N. Walkup, Crystal Lake. Cost: $99 couple resident, $149 couple non-resident. Call 815-459-0680 or www.crystallakeparks.org. Lake in the Hills Parks & Recreation Department: 6:30-7:30 p.m. to Oct. 16, Cha Cha, Fox Trot, Swing, Merengue; 7:30-8:30 p.m. Intermediate Fox Trot, Merengue, Argentine Tango, Intro to Lindy Hop ($70 resident, $80 non-resident); 8:30-10 p.m. Advanced Lindy Hop, Argentine Tango, Fox Trot, Samba ($97 resident, $107 non-resident), at LaBahn-Hain House, 149 Hilltop Drive. Call 847-960-7460. Lake Villa: 7 to 8 p.m. or 8 to 9 p.m. to Oct. 20, Beginning Swing, Waltz, Merengue, Rumba; 9 to 10 p.m. Intermediate East Coast Swing, Waltz, Cha Cha, Argentine Tango, at American Stars of Dance Studio, 133 Cedar Ave. ($90 a couple). Call 847-838-1234. McHenry Parks: 7 to 9 p.m. starting Sept. 26, workshop for Swing, Fox Trot, at Duker School, 73711 W. Kane Ave. Cost: $35 resident, $45 non-resident. Call 815-363-2160.
GREATER FOX VALLEY CHAPTER OF USA DANCE, A non-profit organization, designed to promote and sponsor amateur ballroom dancing for the general public. Information: Walt, 815-337-6860 or ok3wire@joltmail.com; Jackie, 847-639-8699, jackiepenze@aol.com or www.dancefoxvalley.org. Admission: $8 members, $10 seniors, $12 non-members. Dances take place 7:30 to 11 p.m. Saturdays at McHenry VFW Hall (Normandy Room), 3002 W. Route 120, McHenry. Dances include a free dance lesson at 7:30 p.m., cake and snacks. Dance schedule: Sept. 19, Autumn Breeze (American Tango lesson).
McNULTY IRISH DANCE CLASSES, through Nov. 24, Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen, 110 N. Main St., Crystal Lake, 815-356-9980. Featuring various levels of dance 4:45 to 7 p.m. Register for a complimentary class. Fees, schedule, registration and information: 224-639-8644 or www.mcnultyirishdancers.com.
Chicago
DISCO DANCING, Boutique Cafe & Lounge, 1324 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, 773-292-0585. Featuring disco dancing 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. every Friday.
FAMILY EVENTS
Kane County
“THE ADVENTURES OF PINOCCHIO”: through Oct. 17, Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W. Main St., St. Charles. Steel Beam Children’s Theatre presentation. Story of the woodcarver Geppetto whose puppet Pinocchio has many adventures and turns into a real boy. Schedule: 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturdays; 3 p.m. Oct. 3, 10 & 17. Tickets: $12 adults, $10 children 16 and younger at 630-587-8521 or www.steelbeamtheatre.com.
“CHILDREN OF EDEN”: through Sept. 20, Blizzard Theatre at Elgin Community College, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Fox Valley Theatre Company will present the stories of Adam and Eve and Noah through Stephen Schwartz’ acclaimed musical. Schedule: 7:30 p.m. Sept. 18; 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Sept. 19; 3 p.m. Sept. 20. Tickets: $10 adults, $8 seniors, students at 847-622-0300 or www.elgin.edu/community.aspx?id=2220.
“OVER THE RIVER AND THROUGH THE WOODS”: through Sept. 20, Kimball Street Theatre at Elgin Academy’s Harold Rider Center, 350 Park St., Elgin. Elgin Theatre Company presentation. Nick, an Italian-American guy, finds the perfect job but to get it he must leave his grandparents. They try one scheme after another to keep him at home. Schedule: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday. Tickets: $15 adults, $12 seniors and youth at 847-741-0532 or www.elgin-theatre.org.
“WORKING”: through Oct. 18, Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W. Main St., St. Charles. A musical celebration of the extraordinary lives of ordinary Americans based on the book by Chicago’s Studs Terkel. Schedule: 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 3 p.m. Sundays. Tickets: $25 adults, $23 seniors and students, $22 groups of 10 or more at 630-587-8521 or www.steelbeamtheatre.com.
McHenry County
BASEBALL CARD SHOW, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 26, Hampton Inn, 1555 S. Route 31, McHenry. Baseball, basketball, football and hockey cards, memorabilia and collector supplies. Free Admission. Information: 815-675-6017.
McHENRY COUNTY MEMORY WALK, 10 a.m. Sept. 20, Sunset Park, 5200 Miller Road, Lake in the Hills. Fundraiser to benefit research and programs for people with Alzheimer’s disease. Sponsor: Alzheimer’s Association - Greater Illinois Chapter. Registration and information: 815-484-1300 or www.alz.org/illinois.
NATIONAL ALPACA FARM DAYS, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 26-27, True Colors Alpaca Farm, 14718 Route 76 Caledonia. A free educational weekend to learn about alpacas, alpaca care, fiber demonstrations, buy alpaca products and meet the alpacas. Information: 815-765-0280 or www.truecolorsalpacas.com.
PLOW DAY & ANTIQUE TRACTOR SHOW, 11th annual, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 26, Von Bergen Country Market, 9805 Route 173, Hebron. Featuring a 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. tractor show, 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. plowing, 1 p.m. tractor parade, corn maze, farm animal zoo, pony rides, and more. With special guest Max Armstrong of WGN Radio. Food available. Information: 815-648-2332 or www.vonbergens.com.
WISHING U WELL ALPACAS FUNDRAISER, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 26-27, Wishing U Well Alpacas, 4505 McCauley Road, Woodstock. Fundraiser for Farm Days for Animal House Shelter with raffles, spinning demonstrations, Alpaca information and products for sale. Snacks available. Free admission. Donations for shelter appreciated. Information: 815-354-7817 or www.wishinguwellalpacas.com.
Regional
5K RACE/WALK FUNDRAISER & FAMILY DAY, 10 a.m. Sept. 26, Lambs Farm, 14245 W. Rockland Road, Libertyville. Fundraiser for Advocates for Fibromyalgia Funding, Treatment, Education and Research featuring a race/walk, talent competition, prizes, food, vendors, petting zoo, raffles, train rides, miniature golf and more. Registration and information: 847-362-7807 or www.affter.org.
FILM
Kane County
ELGIN SHORT FILM FESTIVAL, 7 p.m. Sept. 26, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. Screening of “The Visionary,” “Crossing the Line,” “The Erogenous Zone,” “House of Cards,” and “The Booby Trap.” Dean Richards, of WGN-TV, will be master of ceremonies. Tickets: $5 at: 847-931-5900 or www.hemmens.org.
McHenry County
McHENRY COUNTY COLLEGE, 7 to 9:30 p.m. Sept. 18, in the Conference Center, 8900 Route 14, Crystal Lake. Screening of “Duck Season” in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. Discussion will follow. Free. Information: 815-455-8772.
REGAL SHOWPLACE 16,5000 Northwest Highway, Crystal Lake. Schedule: 6:30 p.m. Sept. 21, “The Age of Stupid Live from New York” simulcast event (tickets $12.50; 7 p.m. Sept. 23, “The Wizard of Oz in HD” ($10). Tickets and information: 815-455-1005 or www.fathomevents.com.
Regional
GENESEE THEATRE FILM SERIES, 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. Schedule: 7 p.m. Sept. 18 and 3 p.m. Sept. 19, “Casablanca.” Tickets: $6 adults, $3 seniors, children younger than 12 and military personnel in uniform with ID. Tickets and information: 847-263-6300 or www.geneseetheatre.com.
Chicago
GENE SISKEL FILM CENTER, 164 N. State St., Chicago. Information, movie times and tickets: 312-846-2600, www.siskelfilmcenter.org. Tickets: $9 adults, $7 students with ID, $5 film center members. Schedule: Sept. 18, “The Postman Always Rings Twice,” “What’s the Matter with Kansas?,” The Queen and I;” Sept. 19, “A Woman Under the Influence,” “What’s the Matter with Kansas?,” “The Queen and I;” Sept. 20, “The Prowler,” “What’s the Matter with Kansas?,” “Point of Order!;” Sept. 21, “Point of Order!,” “What’s the Matter with Kansas?,” “The Queen and I;” Sept. 22, “The Postman Always Rings Twice,” “What’s the Matter with Kansas?;” Sept. 23, “Secret Beyond the Door,” “What’s the Matter with Kansas?,” “The Prowler;” Sept. 24,” Chick Strand: Soft Fiction,” “What’s the Matter with Kansas?,” “The Queen and I.”
HENRY CROWN SPACE CENTER OMNIMAX, Museum of Science and Industry, 57th Street at Lake Shore Drive, 773-684-1414, 800-468-6674 or www.msichicago.org for show times and information. Admission: $20 adults, $19 seniors, $14 children ages 3 to 11 (includes museum admission). Tickets for museum and film must be purchased together. Schedule: through Sept. 27, “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince;” through Oct. 8, “Mysteries of the Great Lakes;” through Oct. 22, “Wild Ocean.”
NAVY PIER IMAX THEATRE, 700 E. Grand Ave., Chicago. Information: 312-595-5629 or www.imax.com/chicago. Call for showtimes. Tickets: $15 adults, $14 seniors, $13 children age 3-12; children age 2 and younger free. Schedule: “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince: An IMAX 3-D Experience;” “African Adventure;” starting Sept. 18, “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs.”
MUSEUMS
Kane County
ELGIN AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM, 360 Park St., Elgin, 847-742-4248 or www.elginhistory.org. Hours: noon to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays March through December. Admission: $3 adults, $1 students, free for Society members.
ELGIN PUBLIC MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY AND ANTHROPOLOGY, Lords Park, 225 Grand Blvd., Elgin, 847-741-6655 or visit www.elginpublicmuseum.org. Winter hours: noon to 4 p.m. Saturday & Sunday, September through May. Special interactive exhibits are featured, as well as a children’s discovery room. Educational programs and birthday parties available. Admission: $2 adults, $1.50 seniors, $1 children ages 3-11, free for children younger than 3.
FABYAN VILLA MUSEUM & JAPANESE GARDEN, Fabyan West Forest Preserve, Route 31 just north of Fabyan Parkway, Geneva, 630-377-6424 or www.ppfv.org. Hours: 1 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays, 1 to 4:30 p.m. Saturdays & Sundays through Oct. 15, 2009. Japanese Garden open 1 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays, 1 to 4:30 p.m. Sundays through Oct. 15. Museum admission: $2 adults, $1 children. Garden museum: $1 a person.
FOX RIVER TROLLEY MUSEUM, Route 31, just south of State Street, South Elgin, 847-697-4676, or www.foxtrolley.org. Ride historic “L” and trolley cars on 103-year-old railroad along Fox River. Hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays to Nov. 1. One-ride fares: $3.50 adults, $2 seniors and children ages 3-11, free for children younger than age 3 or $7 all-day ticket.
GARFIELD FARM MUSEUM, 3N016 Garfield Road, 5 miles west of Geneva off Route 38, LaFox, 630-584-8485 or www.garfieldfarm.org. Hours: 1 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays and Sundays from June through September for drop-in tours. All other times by appointment year round. Guided tours: $3 adults, $2 children younger than 13. Schedule: 9 a.m. to noon Sept. 19, Prairie Walk ($6); 2 p.m. Sept. 20, Corn 101 lecture by Chuck Bauer ($6).
GENEVA HISTORY CENTER, 113 S. Third St., Geneva, 630-232-4951 or www.genevahistorycenter.org. Hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday (April through December). Admission: $4 adults, $2 seniors, $1 children ages 3-16. Featuring changing exhibits, museum store and a public meeting room.
McHenry County
AUTO GALLERY MUSEUM, 2807 Route 12, Spring Grove, 815-675-3222 or www.autogallerymuseum.com. Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, closed Sunday. Featuring 35 to 50 antique and specialty vehicles on display for sale. Gift shop offers automotive art, signs, models, posters and other items. Old town yesterday Main Street with a display of a wide array of items from the past and selected craft items. Vendors welcome. Free admission. Donations accepted.
DONLEY’S WILD WEST TOWN, Route 20 & South Union Road, Union, 815-923-9000 or www.wildwesttown.com. Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends April, May, September and October; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily Memorial Day through Labor Day. Featuring a museum, Wild West Town with live action Wild West Show three times daily, pan for gold pyrite, pony rides, train ride, petting zoo, roping lessons, blacksmith, old time movies, shops, restaurant and more. Admission: $15 a person, free for children age 2 and younger when accompanied by a paying adult.
GREATER HARVARD AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY, 308 N. Hart, Harvard, 815-943-6141. Open 1:30 to 4 p.m. every Sunday from May to Oct. 30. Silent movies shown each Sunday. Special tours may be arranged. Call 815-943-6141 or 815-943-3561. Free admission. Donations accepted.
ILLINOIS RAILWAY MUSEUM, 7000 Olson Road, east of Union. Information: 815-923-4000; 800-BIG-RAIL or www.irm.org. For a brochure, call 815-923-4391. Operating schedule: 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays through October 24; 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Sundays through October 25. A museum in motion. The nation’s largest rail museum operating steam, diesel and electric trains. Featuring nearly 400 historic locomotives and railcars. Fares: $8 adults, $4 children, $25 families weekdays; $10 adults, $7 children, $38 families weekends April and October; $12 adults, $8 children, $45 families weekends May through September.
McHENRY COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM, 6422 Main St., Union, 815-923-2267 or www.mchsonline.org. Hours: 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays and Sundays, May through October. Closed Saturdays. Through October: special programs and museum tours 7 to 9 p.m. on third Wednesday of month. Local history research library open year-round on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. by appointment. Heritage Quilters meet 9:30 a.m. each Wednesday year-round at the museum. Admission: $5 adults, $3 seniors and students, $12 per family (includes two family member adults and two or more children), free for society members. Featuring an exhibit titled “Arrival: the 1890s.” Schedule: 7 p.m. Sept. 23, Joint Council of Historic Groups semi-annual meeting at the former Riley Community Methodist Church, 9316 Riley Road, Marengo (public welcome).
Regional
BARRINGTON AREA HISTORICAL SOCIETY, Old Barrington Centre, 212 W. Main St., Barrington, 847-381-1730 or www.bahsil.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday, closed Sunday. Admission: $5 adults, $3 seniors, $2 students and children. Schedule: through September, A Retrospect on Barrington Blacksmiths 1850 to the Present.
BURPEE MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY, 737 N. Main St., Rockford, 815-965-3433 or www.burpee.org. Hours: noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Housed in two historic mansions. Main exhibits include mammals, birds, insects, reptiles and amphibians, rocks and minerals, fossils and dinosaurs. Featuring the permanent exhibit Jane: Diary of a Dinosaur. Admission: $6 for resident adults ($7 non-resident), $5 for children ages 3-17 ($6 non-resident), free for members and children younger than 3. Donation Day will be on Mondays. Schedule: 3 to 4:30 p.m. second Sundays through April 2010, Critter Camp lecture series about exotic pets.
CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN, 385-acre living museum, 1000 Lake Cook Road (a half mile east of the Edens Expressway), Glencoe. Open daily from 8 a.m. until sunset. Free admission. Parking $20, $7 for seniors on Tuesdays. Information: 847-835-6980 or www.chicagobotanic.org.
CIRCUS WORLD MUSEUM, 426 Water St., Baraboo, Wis., 608-356-0800 or www.circusworldmuseum.com. Museum conserves and exhibits the world’s largest collection of antique circus wagons. Admission: $7 adults, $6 seniors, $3.50 children ages 5-11, free for children 4 and younger in the off-season; $14.95, $12.95 and $7.95 during performance season.
CZECHOSLOVAK HERITAGE MUSEUM, 122 W. 22nd St., Oak Brook, 630-472-0500 or www.csafraternallife.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Highlighting the history and culture of the Czech Republic and Slovakia featuring a wide variety of displays and exhibits including authentic Czech, Moravian, and Slovak costumes, crystals and ceramics, historical exhibits, dolls and puppets, and needlework dating from 1850. Admission: $5 adults, $3 seniors and students, $10 per family, $3 a person in groups (five or more).
DISCOVERY CENTER MUSEUM, 711 N. Main St., Rockford, 815-963-6769 or www.discoverycentermuseum.org. A hands-on, family-oriented museum in Riverfront Museum Park. First outdoor museum park in the U.S., with exhibits about sound, weather, water, cave exploration, and a two-story maze. Also featuring a variety of home and after school classes. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $6 adults, $5 children ages 2 to 17, free for children younger than 2 and museum members.
ERLANDER HOME MUSEUM, 404 South 3rd St., Rockford, 815-963-5559 or www.swedishhistorical.org. The cultural centerpiece of Rockford's Swedish-ancestry community. Hours: 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. Admission: $5 adults, $4 seniors, $3 children ages 3-17, $15 family (two adults with children).
FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT HOME AND STUDIO TOURS, 951 Chicago Ave., Oak Park, 708-848-1976, www.gowright.org. This historic house museum, operated by the Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust, served as Wright’s residence, studio and architectural laboratory during the first twenty years of his career from 1889 to 1909. Oak Park contains the world’s largest concentration of Wright-designed structures, 26 in all. Daily guided tours 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. weekdays, 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. weekends. Interior house tour admission: $15 adults, $12 seniors and youth ages 4-17, free for children ages 3 and younger. Other tour packageks available.
FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT’S ROBIE HOUSE, 5757 S. Woodlawn, Hyde Park, 708-848-1976, www.gowright.org. Tours by the Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust offer both a first-hand experience of its amazingly contemporary spaces and the current restoration work that is returning the house to its original magnificence in preparation of the home’s 100th annivesary in 2010. To accommodate the magnitude of interior restoration construction and maintain a safe guest environment, tour offerings at the Robie House will be limited through Oct. 31, 2009. Public tours will be conducted 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Other tour packages available. New programming for Robie House will offer public access from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Thursday through Monday through December. Interior house tour admission: $15 adults, $12 seniors and youth ages 4-17, free for children ages 3 and younger.
HISTORIC AUTO ATTRACTIONS, 13825 Metric Drive, Roscoe, 815-389-7917 or www.historicautoattractions.com. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Memorial Day to Labor Day, weekends after Labor Day. Admission: $10 adults, $8 seniors, $6 students ages 6-15, free for children younger than 6. Tour rates available. Come take a journey through time and enjoy more than 70 historic vehicles and hundreds of pieces of history that takes you beyond the concept of most auto museums. Visit the John F. Kennedy Display. See the secret service limo from the Kennedy assassination, Richard Petty’s oldest existing car, Batmobiles, Ghostbusters, Elvis’ car & memorabilia, cars of gangsters like Al Capone and Bonnie and Clyde, Grateful Dead tour bus and more.
KLEHM ARBORETUM & BOTANIC GARDEN, 2715 S. Main St., Rockford, 815-965-8146 or www.klehm.org. Explore every season in the heart of the Arboretum district with majestic colors of fall, hundreds of blooming crabapples in spring, butterfly gardens in summer and snow-covered evergreens in winter. Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, April 1 to Oct. 31; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday and closed Sunday, Nov. 1 to March 31. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Day, New Year’s Eve and Day. Admission: $6 adults, $3 seniors and children age 3-18, free for children 2 and younger. Every Monday is Donation Day and entry is free to the public with donations always welcome.
KOHL CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, 2100 Patriot Blvd., Glenview, 847-832-6600 or www.kohlchildrensmuseum.org. Hours: 9:30 a.m. to noon Monday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $7.50 adults and children, $6.50 seniors, free for children younger than 1 and members.
LAKE COUNTY DISCOVERY MUSEUM, Lakewood Forest Preserve, 27277 Forest Preserve Drive (Route 176 and Fairfield Road), Wauconda, 847-968-3400 or www.lakecountydiscoverymuseum.org. Hours: 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $6 adults, $2.50 children ages 4-17, free for children 3 and younger and members.
MIDWAY VILLAGE & MUSEUM CENTER, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford, 815-397-9112 or www.midwayvillage.com. Hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, closed Sunday and Monday. General admission: $6 adults, $4 children ages 3 to 17, free for members. Event admission: $6 adults, $4 children ages 3 to 17. A turn-of-the-century reconstructed village on 134 acres, including a church, school, town hall, blacksmith shop, bank, jail, hospital, farmhouse, hardware store, plumber’s shop and water-powered machine shop.
MIDWEST MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY, 425 W. State St., Sycamore, 815-895-9777 or www.mmnh.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday and holidays. Admission: $6 adults, $5 seniors and children ages 12 and younger and groups of 20 or more, free for children ages 2 and younger.
MILWAUKEE ART MUSEUM, 700 N. Art Museum Drive, 414-224-3220 or www.mam.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursdays. General Admission: $12 adults, $10 seniors and students, free for children 12 and younger accompanied by an adult, free for members. Feature exhibit tickets: $12 adults, $10 seniors and active duty military, free for children 12 and younger and members. Schedule: through October, Sensory Overload: Light, Motion, Sound and the Optical in Art since 1945.
MILWAUKEE PUBLIC MUSEUM, 800 W. Wells St., Milwaukee, 414-278-2700 or www.mpm.edu. Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Closed July 4, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Admission: $12 adults, $10 seniors age 60 and older, $10 children ages 3-17, $8 children ages 3-12, free for children age 2 and younger and museum members.
MORTON ARBORETUM, 4100 Route 53, Lisle, 630-719-2400, 630-968-0074 or www.mortonarb.org. An outdoor 1,700-acre museum with collections of several thousand varieties of trees, shrubs and other plants from around the world. Open daily. Hours: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. or sunset, whichever is earlier. Admission: $11 adults ($7 on Wednesday), $10 seniors ($6 on Wednesday), $8 ($5 on Wednesday) children ages 2-17, free for children younger than 2 and members. Schedule: 3 p.m. weekends through Sept. 27, “Jackie: An American Life” Theatre-Hike (tickets $10-$25); through Nov. 15, Animal Houses exhibition; through January 2010, “Darwin’s Flowers: Unlocking Natural Selection” at the Sterling Morton Library.
NAPER SETTLEMENT, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville, 630-420-6010 or www.napersettlement.org. A 19th century living history museum. The 13-acre village has 30 historic structures, including a Victorian mansion, homes, businesses, a log house, fort, chapel and one-room schoolhouse. Summer hours April through October: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $8 adults, $7 seniors, $5.50 children ages 4-17, free for members. Schedule: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 18-19 and 1 to 4 p.m. Sept. 20, Weed Ladies Fall Floral Sale (free admission); 4 to 10 p.m. Sept. 18 and 2 to 9 p.m. Sept. 19, Naperville Wine Festival (tickets $25 in advance, $30 at the gate).
VOLO AUTO MUSEUM, 27582 W. Volo Village Road, near intersection of Route 120 & Route 12, Volo, 815-385-3644 or www.volocars.com. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas). Admission: $9 adults, $7 seniors, veterans and active military personnel, $5 children ages 5-12, free for children younger than 5. Group rates. American Classic Shop offers unique auto-related books, clothing, toys and gifts, popcorn and candy. Free parking. Car museum includes more than 300 vintage collector and Hollywood cars.
Chicago
ADLER PLANETARIUM, 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive, 312-922-7827 or www.adlerplanetarium.org. Museum of astronomy and space exploration featuring astronomer gallery talks, exhibits, astronomy artifacts, sky shows and more. Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Memorial Day through Labor Day, 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. first Fridays. General admission (exhibits only): $10 adults, $8 seniors, $6 children 4-17; Galaxy Package: $19 adults, $17 seniors, $15 children 4-17, includes admission and one Sky Show; Universe Package: $23 adults, $21 seniors, $19 children 4-17, includes admission and two sky shows. Schedule: through Dec. 31, Telescopes: Through the Looking Glass.
ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO, 111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, 312-443-3600. (See Art section for exhibits.)
CHICAGO CHILDREN’S MUSEUM, 700 E. Grand Ave. at Navy Pier, 312-527-1000 or www.ChiChildrensMuseum.org. Interactive exhibits for children. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday evenings. Admission: $10 adults and children, $9 seniors, free for children younger than age 1. Permanent exhibitions: Dinosaur Expedition; The Inventing Lab; WaterWays; Allstate Foundation presents Play it Safe; Kovler Family Schooner; Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows for PlayMaze; Treehouse Trails, Artabounds Studio and Gallery; Kids on the Fly (located at O’Hare International Airport). Target Free First Mondays when children ages 15 and younger receive free museum admission first Mondays of every month. Kraft Free Family Night 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday evenings (free admission for everyone).
CHICAGO HISTORY MUSEUM, Clark Street and North Avenue, 312-642-4600 or www.chicagohistory.org. Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, Friday & Saturday; 9:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday; noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission: $14 adults, $12 seniors and students ages 13-22, free for children 12 and younger. Free general admission Mondays. Permanent exhibitions: A House Divided: America in the Age of Lincoln; We the People: Creating a New Nation; Richard H. Needham Chicago History Galleries; Illinois Pioneer Life and Fort Dearborn; On the Paper Trail; Hands-On History Gallery; Voices from History. Featuring courtroom drawings from the 1968 Chicago Seven Conspiracy Trial by Franklin McMahon. Schedule: through Jan. 4, Bertha Honoré Palmer.
THE FIELD MUSEUM, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, 312-922-9410 or www.fieldmuseum.org. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. General admission: $15 for adults; $12 seniors and students with ID; $10 children ages 3-11 (Gold Pass and Platinum Pass ticket options available). Permanent exhibits: What is an Animal? Africa; Sue the Tyrannosaurus rex; Inside Ancient Egypt; Nature Walk; Underground Adventure; Pawnee Earth Lodge; Pacific Spirits; Evolving Planet; The Ancient Americas; Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice DNA Discovery Center and many other exhibits. Schedule: through Sept. 20, Water; through Oct. 25, Real Pirates: The Untold Story of the Whydah from Slave Ship to Pirate Ship; through Feb. 28, 2010, Bunce Island: A British Slave Castle in Sierra Leone; through July 12, 2010, Travels of the Crow: Journey of an Indian Nation.
GARFIELD PARK CONSERVATORY, 300 N. Central Park Ave., Chicago, 312-746-5100 or www.garfield-conservatory.org. Featuring the Sugar from the Sun new permanent exhibit. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, Wednesdays until 8 p.m. Free admission.
HANCOCK OBSERVATORY, 875 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, 888-875-8439 or www.hancock-observatory.com. Hours: 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. General admission tickets: $15 adults, $10 children ages 3-11, free for children age younger than 3.
MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART, 220 E. Chicago Ave., 312-280-2660 or www.mcachicago.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday. Closed Mondays, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. Admission: $12 adults, $7 students and seniors, free for children 12 and younger, members of the military and museum members. MCA Free Tuesdays 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY PHOTOGRAPHY, Columbia College Chicago, 600 S. Michigan Ave., 312-663-5554 or www.mocp.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Free admission. Schedule: Sept. 25 through Dec. 23, Reversed Images: Representations of Shanghai and Its Contemporary Material Culture.
MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY, 57th Street and Lake Shore Drive, 773-684-1414; 800-GO-TO-MSI or www.msichicago.org. Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. General admission: $13 adults, $12 seniors, $9 children ages 3-11, free for children younger than 3. Other packages available. Permanent exhibits: Petroleum Planet; The Great Train Story; Toymaker 3000; U-505 Submarine; Earth Revealed; Fast Forward. Special exhibits: Networld; Ships through the Ages; Reusable City; and more. Schedule: through Sept. 27, Harry Potter: The Exhibition; through Jan. 3, 2010, Smart Home: Green and Wired, Powered by ComEd (tickets $23, adults, $22 seniors, $14 children 3-11 includes museum general admission); through March 15, 2010, Art & Science = Architecture LEGO structure exhibit.
NATIONAL HELLENIC MUSEUM, 801 W. Adams St., Chicago, 312-655-1234 or www.hellenicmuseum.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. Admission: $5 adults, free for children younger than 12. Schedule: through Jan. 10, 2010, Neolaia/Pathos exhibition.
NATIONAL MUSEUM OF MEXICAN ART, 1852 W. 19th St., Chicago, 312-738-1503 or www.nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, closed Monday. Free admission. Performance festivals are ticketed. Permanent exhibition: Mexicanland: Our Past is Present.
PEGGY NOTEBAERT NATURE MUSEUM, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago, 773-755-5100 or www.naturemuseum.org. Hours: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Admission: $9 adults, $7 seniors and college students with ID, $6 children ages 3-12, free on Thursdays. Featuring permanent exhibits such as The Extreme Green House, Hands-on Habitat as well as a wide variety of ongoing programs. Schedule: through Oct. 25, Fish Tales; Sept. 26 through April 11, 2010, National Geographic Crittercam: The World Through Animal Eyes.
RICHARD H. DRIEHAUS MUSEUM, 40 E. Erie St., Chicago, 312-932-8665 or www.driehausmuseum.org. Housed in the historic Samuel Mayo Nickerson Mansion, built from 1879 to 1883, the museum is a showcase for late 19th and early 20th century art and design. The Marble Palace, as the house became known, was one of the grandest residential buildings of the 19th century Chicago. Museum is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday for tours at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Admission: $25 adults, $17.50 seniors, $12.50 students with valid ID and children ages 12 to 16. Due to the fragile nature of the historic interiors, children younger than age 12 are not admitted and those younger than 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
SHEDD AQUARIUM, 1200 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, 312-939-2438 or www.sheddaquarium.org. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekends. Featuring Caribbean Reef Dives and Wild Reef Dives, Fantasea, Animal Encounters, Camp Shedd and more. The 4-D theater features “Planet Earth: Shallow Seas,” and “SpongeBob SquarePants” shows. Shedd pass admission: $17.95-$24.95. Visit the web site for other admission options.
SWEDISH AMERICAN MUSEUM CENTER, 5211 N. Clark, Chicago, 773-728-8111 or www.samac.org. E-mail: museum@samac.org. Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission: $4 adults, $3 seniors, students and members, free for children younger than 1 year, $10 family rate. Free admission second Tuesday of every month.
UKRAINIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM, 2249 W. Superior St., Chicago, 312-421-8020 or www.ukrainiannationalmuseum.org. Hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, by appointment only Monday through Wednesday. Admission: $5 adults, free for children younger than 12.
SINGLES EVENTS
Kane County
INTRO2SINGLES, western suburbs’ premier event planning company for singles events such as dating parties, social mixers and wine tastings. No membership fee. Information: 630-845-8684. Calendar of events: www.intro2singles.com.
ST. CHARLES SINGLES CLUB, LTD., a social non-profit group welcomes ages 30 and older to dances at Riverside Receptions, 35 N. River Lane, Geneva. Dances are 7 to 11 p.m. on second, fourth and fifth Mondays. Lessons available at 6:30 p.m. Proper attire required. Admission: $6 members, $8 non-members on second and fourth Mondays; $8 members, $10 non-members on fifth Mondays with live band. Information: 630-340-6647 or www.stcharlessinglesclub.com.
Regional
YOUNG AT HEART SINGLES CLUB, 773-777-2210. Hotline: 630-415-3449. Event location information: 847-678-7068. A club for singles who are ballroom dancers of all ages. Ladies to dress semi-dressy to dressy and men to wear sport jackets or suits, ties not required, but no jeans. Members $7, guests $9. All dances from 8:30 to 11:30 p.m. Dance schedule: Sept. 25, Bulger Hall, 1601 W. Hirsch St., Melrose Park, with The Variety Pak.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Kane County
PRAIRIE FEST, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 26, Unitarian Universalist Church of Elgin, 39W830 Highland Ave., Elgin. A festival of information and ideas for sustainable living with sessions on energy, food and water. Free admission. Healthy lunch provided by In The Neighborhood Deli & Cafe of Elgin for $6. Baked treats available for purchase. Information: 847-658-9273 or www.uuce.org.
SHOP SMART LOOK FAB, through Sept. 20, Spring Hill Mall, 1072 Spring Hill Mall, West Dundee. Fall program presented by Spring Hill Mall and The Learning Channel’s television series “What Not to Wear.” Featuring a variety of fashion tips, activities and more during mall hours of 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Information: 847-428-1509 or www.shopsmartlookfab.com.
McHenry County
BASEBALL CARD SHOW, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 26, Hampton Inn, 1555 S. Route 31, McHenry. Baseball, basketball, football and hockey cards, memorabilia and collector supplies. Free Admission. Information: 815-675-6017.
COUNTRY MEADOWS ANTIQUE SHOW, 17th annual, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 20, Petersen Park on McCullom Lake Road, McHenry. Antique “Road Show” Country Meadows style. Attendees may bring two items by 10 a.m. for appraisal by Karl Gates. Country Meadows event includes a farmers market and vendor fair from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission: $2. Sponsor: McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce. Information: 815-385-4300 or www.mchenrychamber.com.
HOLD ’EM POKER CHARITY FUNDRAISER, 1 p.m. Sept. 19, Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake. Affiliates for the Raue to host the event to benefit the Raue Center. Limited to 120 players. Buy-in cost: $125. Registration and information: Mark Davids, 815-459-6800.
HORSES OF A DIFFERENT COLOR, 7 p.m. Sept. 26, Donley’s Wild West Steakhouse & Village Hall Banquets, Route 20 and South Union Road, Union. Benefit for Main Stay Therapeutic Riding in Richmond featuring a live auction of life-size carousel horses, appetizers, dessert bar and cash bar. Doors open 6 p.m. Tickets: $25 at the door. Registration and information: 815-653-9374 or www.mstrp.org.
McHENRY COUNTY MEMORY WALK, 10 a.m. Sept. 20, Sunset Park, 5200 Miller Road, Lake in the Hills. Fundraiser to benefit research and programs for people with Alzheimer’s disease. Sponsor: Alzheimer’s Association - Greater Illinois Chapter. Registration and information: 815-484-1300 or www.alz.org/illinois.
NATIONAL ALPACA FARM DAYS, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 26-27, True Colors Alpaca Farm, 14718 Route 76 Caledonia. A free educational weekend to learn about alpacas, alpaca care, fiber demonstrations, buy alpaca products and meet the alpacas. Information: 815-765-0280 or www.truecolorsalpacas.com.
PLOW DAY & ANTIQUE TRACTOR SHOW, 11th annual, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 26, Von Bergen Country Market, 9805 Route 173, Hebron. Featuring a 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. tractor show, 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. plowing, 1 p.m. tractor parade, corn maze, farm animal zoo, pony rides, and more. With special guest Max Armstrong of WGN Radio. Food available. Information: 815-648-2332 or www.vonbergens.com.
SUMMER SKI JUMP TOURNAMENT, 25th annual, Sept. 19-20, Norge Ski Club, 100 Ski Hill Road, Fox River Grove. Schedule: 6 p.m. Saturday, Super Tour Tournament followed by karaoke and bonfire; noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission buttons: $7 through Sept. 18, available from local merchants in the Fox River Grove area; $10 at the gate; free for children 12 and younger when accompanied by a parent. Gates open 5 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m. Sunday. Bring blankets and lawn chairs. Information: 815-455-6061 or www.norgeskiclub.com.
WARRIORS POKER RUN, 10 a.m. Sept. 20, Broken Oar Marina, Bar & Grill, 614 Rawson Bridge Road, Port Barrington. Poker run, food, music and raffles. Sponsored by Transitional Living Services in Woodstock to benefit homeless and disabled veterans. Entry fee: $20, $10 per passenger. Grand prize is $500. Information: 815-334-0540 or www.warriorsgateway.org.
WISHING U WELL ALPACAS FUNDRAISER, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 26-27, Wishing U Well Alpacas, 4505 McCauley Road, Woodstock. Fundraiser for Farm Days for Animal House Shelter with raffles, spinning demonstrations, Alpaca information and products for sale. Snacks available. Free admission. Donations for shelter appreciated. Information: 815-354-7817 or www.wishinguwellalpacas.com.
McHenry County - Ongoing
McHenry COUNTY CONSERVATION DISTRICT, 18410 Route 14, Woodstock, 815-338-6223 or www.mccdistrict.org. Featuring programs at various Conservation District locations. Registration required for all programs. Schedule: through Oct. 31, The Healing Power of Plants special traveling exhibit on display at Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road, Crystal Lake (free, open to the public).
MORAINE HILLS STATE PARK & McHENRY DAM, 1510 S. River Road, between Routes 120 & 176, McHenry, 815-385-1624 (park information); 815-344-1294 (registration); www.dnr.state.il.us/lands/landmgt/parks or e-mail: dnr.volobog@illinois.gov. An Illinois Department of Natural Resources site. Registration required. Schedule: 8 a.m. Sept. 19, Bird Walk at McHenry Dam; 10 a.m. to noon Sept. 26, Moraine Meanders at Moraine Hills State Park.
Regional
5K RACE/WALK FUNDRAISER & FAMILY DAY, 10 a.m. Sept. 26, Lambs Farm, 14245 W. Rockland Road, Libertyville. Fundraiser for Advocates for Fibromyalgia Funding, Treatment, Education and Research featuring a race/walk, talent competition, prizes, food, vendors, petting zoo, raffles, train rides, miniature golf and more. Registration and information: 847-362-7807 or www.affter.org.
CIVIL WAR DAYS, seventh annual, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 19 and 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sept. 20, Lehmann Mansion, 485 N. Milwaukee Ave., Lake Villa. Featuring more than 400 re-enactors participating in infantry and artillery drills, cavalry and medical demonstration and daily battle between Union and confederate troops, pie auction, ladies tea party, fashion show, children’s games, merchandise and food vendors and more. Presented by the Lake Villa Historical Society, Village of Lake Villa, Camp Douglas and Army of the Cumberland. Mansion tours available at $5 a person. Admission: $5 a day or $10 weekend pass (includes a mansion tour). Information: 847-356-6100 or www.lakevillahistory.org.
DEAN TREMONT BENEFIT FOR MICHAEL RIPOLI & FAMILY, 7 p.m. Sept. 19, Rivals Sports, 9001 Waukegan Road, Morton Grove. Fundraiser for Michael Ripoli, guitar teacher for the Village of Island Lake, recovering at Loyola Hospital from a heart transplant. Bands will be The Warning Label, Satellites Over Stalingrad, Mock 5 and a fourth to be announced. All ages show. Donation: $10 at the door. Donations also accepted through paypal.com at MJL2564@yahoo.com. Information: kimripoli@hotmail.com.
GREAT AMERICA 5K & KIDS DASH, 8 a.m. Sept. 19, Six Flags Great America, 1 Great American Parkway (Interstate 94 at Route 132), Gurnee. Family-friendly race with the course running through the park and past some of its most popular attractions. Cost: $30 pass holder for 5K race before Sept. 19, $45 race day; $60 non-pass holders before Sept. 19, $75 race day; $15 pass holders for Kids Dash before Sept. 19, $30 race day; $45 non-pass holders Kids Dash before Sept. 19, $60 race day. Presented by Adrenaline Sports Management. Registration and information: 847-829-4536 or www.greatamerica5K.com.
HISTORIC CIRCUS WAGONS DISPLAY, Sept. 18-20, along the lakefront promenade of Lake Geneva, Wis. Featuring 15 historic wagons from the collection housed at Circus World in Baraboo, Wis. Circus World is home to the largest collection of intricately carved and meticulously restored circus wagons and circus artifacts. Information: 800-345-1020; www.lakegenevawi.com or www.circusworldmuseum.com.
MARCH FOR METROPOLIS, 7 a.m. Sept. 19, starting at Metropolis Performing Arts Centre, 111 W. Campbell St., Arlington Heights. A 5K fundraising walk to support School of the Performing Arts and Outreach Programs. Walk begins at 8 a.m. followed by after walk festivities at 9:15 a.m. Walkers encouraged to raise $100 to support the programs at Metropolis. Registration fee: $25 a person. Registration and information: 847-577-2121 or www.metropolisarts.com.
SKATE FOR THE HEART, 7:30 p.m. Sept. 19, Sears Centre, 5333 Prairie Stone Parkway, Hoffman Estates. Featuring live performances by American Idol winner, Jordin Sparks, and 2010 Olympic contenders and music guests Charice, Honor Society and KSM. Tickets: $30-$187 at 800-745-3000, all Ticketmaster locations; www.searscentre.com or www.ticketmaster.com.
TEAM UP AGAINST PROSTATE CANCER, 12:30 to 2 p.m. Sept. 20, FireFest, Toyota Park, 7000 Harlem Ave., Bridgeview. Free with a Chicago Fire game ticket. To kick off Prostate Cancer Awareness Week, fans at the Chicago Fire soccer game are invited to meet Chicago-born soccer player Marcelo Balboa. Balboa will autograph free copies of the prostate cancer playbook. Information: 866-321-3114 or www.prostateconditions.org.
Regional - Ongoing
VOLO BOG STATE NATURAL AREA, 28478 W. Brandenburg Road, west off Route 12 between Routes 120 & 134, Ingleside, 815-344-1294; www.dnr.state.il.us/lands/landmgt/parks or e-mail: dnr.volobog@illinois.gov. An Illinois Department of Natural Resources site. Site open daily 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. through Labor Day. Visitor Center open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. Guided tours 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. most Saturdays and Sundays. Registration required. Schedule: through Sept. 27, Volo Bog’s Herbarium on display; 8:30 p.m. Sept. 18, Astronomy Night with the Lake County Astronomical Society.
Chicago
BACK TO SCHOOL BASH, 7 p.m. to midnight Sept. 25, River East Arts Center, 435 E. Illinois St., Chicago. Partnership to Educate and Advance Kids (PEAK) Organization benefit to help at-risk teens graduate from high school. Buffet dinner, open bar, music by Lynne Jordan & the Shivers, silent auction and more. Tickets: $95 at 773-235-8003 or www.peakchicago.org/specialevents.html.
ZOOS
Regional
BROOKFIELD ZOO, 31st Street and First Avenue, Brookfield, 708-485-0263 or www.brookfieldzoo.org. Featuring more than 2,000 exotic and familiar animals on 216 acres. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Admission: $12 adults, $8 seniors and children 3-11, free for zoo members and children 2 and younger. Parking: $8.
Chicago
LINCOLN PARK ZOO, 2200 N. Cannon Drive, 312-742-2000 or www.lpzoo.org. General hours: Grounds 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. buildings and farm 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Houses more than 2,000 birds, mammals and reptiles, including the world’s largest collection of gorillas in the great ape house. Also, orangutans, chimpanzees, a children’s petting zoo and Farm-in-the-Zoo. Free admission. There is a charge for parking.
