Hometown Holiday KCC 11_22_18-rev

Hometown

Holiday Happenings Shaw Media est. 1851

est. 1851

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An Eclectic Mix of Unique Decor, Custom Furnishings & Architectural Salvage

227 S. Third St., Suite 205 2 floor in the Berry House, Geneva 630-402-0072 • www.littleredbarndoor.com nd

Hours: Tues. - Wed. 10am - 5pm, Thurs. - Sat. 10am - 7pm & Sun. 11am - 5pm Extended Holiday Hours Hometown Holiday KCC 11.22.18.indd 2

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Light up the night at Arboretum’s ‘Illumination’ Returning for its sixth year this November, residents wont want to miss the Chicago area’s one of-a-kind winter experience Illumination: Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum.

Fifty acres of the Arboretum’s majestic trees will glow in electrifying hues of blue, green, purple, and magenta. Along the wooded one-mile path, visitors can wander and enjoy the displays, and a series of unique experiences that highlight the many ways trees are a gift to people and communities.

“Illumination is celebrating a sixth season with dynamic new experiences that draw attention to the gifts trees give us,” said Sue Wagner, vice president of education and information at The Morton Arboretum. “By capturing the beauty and value of trees in radiant light and color and through special effects, Illumination is an unforgettable wintertime event full of fresh surprises and beloved experiences.”

Crown of Light Created exclusively for The Morton Arboretum by a collective of artists previously featured at the Smithson-

ian, the five sculptures in the Crown of Light experience evoke a crown of trees. Each of these giant sculptures— measuring between 9 and 12 feet tall—feature intricate, laser-cut patterns calling to mind nature, harmony and trees. Visitors can look on as vivid light from within the pieces simultaneously beams skyward and spills through the patterns that adorn its sides, creating shadows on the ground below.

Woodland Wonder In the Woodland Wonder experience, visitors will step into a grove of trees while enveloped by thousands of luminous, rotating points of light.

As if that weren’t enough to tempt folks to visit, the event also offers a craft beer event and added entertainment on weekdays.

On opening night, Friday, November 16, the Arboretum will host IllumiBrew, a new beer tasting along the Illumination trail for guests 21 and older. Event attendees will be among the first to see the 2018 season of Illumination as the experience will be open exclusively to those with IllumiBrew tickets. Illumination will open

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to all visitors beginning Saturday, November 17.

Weekdays at Illumination offer visitors a full slate of entertainment options in addition to lower pricing and lighter crowds. Those who visit Tuesday through Thursday will have the opportunity to enjoy live music

ILLUMINATION: TREE LIGHTS AT THE MORTON ARBORETUM From November 17 through January 1 Special ticketed event November 16

from the area’s top bands, visits with Santa, or tastings of beer, wine or spirits.

As in past years, concession tents along the trail will feature snacks and hot beverages, including gourmet hot chocolate, and visitors can stop in the Arboretum’s Ginkgo Restaurant, offering a full dinner menu every night of Illumination. Visitors can also take advantage of cozy fire pits along the Illumination path.

Tickets range from $18 to $23 for adults and $12 to $15 for children. Members of The Morton Arboretum receive discounted ticket. To purchase tickets, visit mortonarb.org/illumination.

Looking for more? Check out these other ongoing holiday Lights displays and festivals around the region: Holiday Lights at Mooseheart Take in the sights of more than 80 holiday lighted displays from the comfort of your own car during the 9th Annual Holiday Lights at Mooseheart. The display will be open from 5-9 p.m. November 23 through December 31. The drive through the lighted route takes about 15-20 minutes. Cost is $10 per car. Proceeds support Mooseheart’s operating budget to provide residential care and academic/vocational training for the children they serve. After viewing the lights, be sure to stop by the fieldhouse from 5:30-8:30 p.m. to see Santa when he visits on December 8-9, 15-16, and 22-23. Hot chocolate, coffee and Christmas cookies will be served. This year, kick things off with an evening run through the lights…at the 3rd annual Holiday Lights 5k on November 15. Visit www.moosecharities.org for details. The Mooseheart campus is located at Route 31

and Mooseheart Road just south of Batavia.

Larsen’s Light Show This light show spectacular is held annually at the private home of Elburn resident Brian Larsen, the owner of County Wide Landscaping. Drawing attendees from far away, the nightly show features more than 1,000,000 LED lights with strobes, lasers, shooting stars, trees, life-sized nutcrackers and more, synchronized to holiday music which is transmitted on 88.5 FM. Santa is often on hand to visit on Saturday nights. Mondays-Thursdays, 5 -10:30 p.m., Fridays-Sundays, 5 p.m.-12:30 a.m.

November 22-January 1. For additional information visit www.LarsensLightShow.com Aurora Festival of Lights at Philips Park The 12th annual event is a drive-through holiday light show, considered to be among the largest and best in the area. The Festival of Lights includes more than one mile of lighted displays, many of which are animated.

Fridays and Saturdays, 5-10 p.m., Sundays-Thursdays, 5-9 p.m. November 23-December 26. The show is free and open to the public. Donations are encouraged. For additional information visit www.AuroraFestivalOfLights.com Lehnertz Avenue Christmas Display The annual Aurora neighborhood light festival dates back to 1952. Now, more than 40 homes showcase individual parts of the Christmas story including lights, sounds, biblical characters, Peanuts characters, and more. This is recognized as the oldest, totally free traditional Christmas display in Illinois. 5-10:30 p.m. daily.

December 9-January 4. For additional information visit https://www.facebook.com/LehnertzAveChristmas/.

Naper Lights Take a stroll through 19th Century Naperville while experiencing a magical holiday lights display during Naper Lights at Naper Settlement. Presented with the Sunrise Rotary Club of Naperville, the display features large holiday-themed figures and lighted trees.

The show typically runs Thursday-Sunday, beginning Thanksgiving and running through ChristmasAdmission to Naper Lights is free, but donations are welcome.

Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St. in Naperville. Visit naperlights,com for dates, times and updated information.

Christmas Open House

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Experience the joy of the holiday season at a hometown holiday festival Northern Illinois is filled with quaint walkable downtown communities. Many offer historic highlights, a small and close-knit ambience, and boy oh boy…do they know how to do the holidays up right! So if you are looking for a destination to get you in the spirit of the season, look no further than our great, Kane County hometowns.

Here are a few of our favorite holidays festivals: Geneva Christmas Walk & Holiday House Tour Friday, Dec. 6 for the Christmas Walk Friday, Dec. 7 and Saturday, Dec. 8 for the Holiday House Tour Stroll through this quaint downtown with holiday lights leading the way through the streets to local shops and boutiques while the scent of roasting chestnuts fills the air. The festival starts at 6 p.m. at Courthouse Square with the arrival of

Santa Lucia, the first candy cane of the season and the lighting of the great tree. Enjoy strolling carolers, a live nativity scene, carriage rides and don’t forget to stop and visit with Santa Claus too.

The Holiday House tour features five architecturally-unique homes decorated with holiday décor. Tickets for the home tour are $35 each and includes a traditional holiday tea at the First Congregational Church, 327 Hamilton St. The homes for the tour are open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 7 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 8. Advance ticket purchase recommended. Home tour addresses provided upon ticket purchase. For information, call 630232-6083 or visit www.genevachamber.com St. Charles Holiday Homecoming Holiday Homecoming is one of the Midwest’s most spectacular holiday events and is the official kick-off to the holiday season in St. Charles.

Celebrating Over 70 Years!

Come in and see all of our new products from Sweden, Norway, Denmark & Finland to decorate your home and table for the holidays.

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THE GIFT BOX SCANDINAVIAN I MPORTS 310 W. State St., Geneva • 630-232-4151

Holiday Hours: Monday-Saturday 10-5 • Sunday 11-4

www.genevagiftbox.com Since 1947

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The holidays are coming!

Keep an eye on your inbox to discover our Daily Sparkle throughout the month of December!

This festive event has been making holiday memories for area families for years.The two-day Holiday Homecoming event kicks off Friday at 5:00 pm with Lighting of the Lights on the First Street Plaza. The annual Electric Christmas Parade takes place Saturday at 5:30pm on Main Street in St. Charles.

There also is seasonal music, holiday movies, sleigh rides and visits with Santa. All Holiday Homecoming events and activities are free of charge.​Presented by the Downtown St. Charles Partnership. Visit their website for more information and a complete schedule of events: https://www.downtownstcharles. org/dscp_events/holiday-homecoming/ Celebration of Lights at the Batavia Riverwalk Experience the Magic of Batavia from 5-7 p.m. November 25. Free hayrides with food or $1 cash donation (proceeds directly benefit the Batavia Food Pantry). Free roasted chestnuts, family photo opportunity at the main stage of Peg Bond Center, hot dogs and hot chocolate for sale. There are holiday craft activities inside City Council Chambers, ano ld fashioned ornament making for all ages at the Depot Museum, main level. Enjoy a performance by The Batavia Community Band, a Community sing-a-long, and the best part, the arrival of Santa and the city’s Ceremonial Tree Lighting. While you are there, stroll Christmas tree lane, visit Santa in the Peg Bond Warming house and enjoy story hour at the Depot Museum. The festival is presented by the Batavia Park District in partnership with Batavia MainStreet, the Batavia Chamber of Commerce, the City of Batavia, and the Batavia Police Department. For more information, please contact the Batavia Park District office at 630-879-5235 or check the schedule of events at www.bataviaparks.org.

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Every day will feature a fabulous new deal and another opportunity to finish off that shopping list!

Handcrafted... Jewelry Handbags Scarves Hats Unique Gifts 226 S. Third St. • Geneva • 630-457-5606 falmouthroadjewelry.com

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Oh, Tanenbaum!

Make a day-tripping family tradition with your choice of holiday tree

Whether you want to show up, axe in hand, to cut down your own tree, or prefer to simply sip on hot cocoa while you wander the aisles of those cut daily, you’re bound to enjoy your day out in the crisp late fall air as you find the perfect tree for your home. Here is a list of area farms where you can find a tree and discover the holiday spirit.

Note: many tree farm hours for 2018 were not available at press time. Please check by phone or online before making the drive.

WEST Abbey Farms 2855 Hart Road, Aurora (630) 966-7775 www.abbeyfarms.org Try your hand at cutting down a tree or opt for a precut tree available for purchase. Once you find your tree, step inside the Nagel Emporium for a hot chocolate and apple cider donut or the Pine Tree Café for a bite to eat. Youngsters can share their wish lists with Santa Thanksgiving weekend (starting Friday) and the first two weekends in December.

Kuipers Family Farm 1N318 Watson Road, Maple Park (815) 827-5200 www.kuipersfamilyfarm.com Get your freshly harvested Christmas tree at Kuipers! A huge selection of Precut Fraser Firs are available to select from. Trees are shook to remove the loose needles, baled so they are easier to handle, and an Apple Cider Doughnut is included for everyone in your group. While you’re there, pick up a home baked pie sure to wow your guests. It’s as easy as calling the on-site bakery to order!

Camelot Christmas Tree Farm 16380 Somonauk Road, DeKalb (815) 756-6599 www.camelottrees.com The DeKalb farm boasts a selection of both choose and cut and pre-cut trees from the popular Douglas fir to the bluish-green white pine. Wreaths, roping and swags also are available for purchase. Stop by the heated Christmas tree shed for free cookies, hot chocolate and coffee.

Larson’s Family Farm 4404 Somonauk Road, Sandwich Closed on Mondays.

(815) 786-2249 www.larsonfamilyfarm.com Navigate through 18 acres of cut-your-own Christmas trees in six varieties, including Norway spruce and Scotch pine. Once your tree is selected, step inside the Barn Store to view antiques, vintage holiday decorations and gifts. The farm also uses its own greens to create evergreen wreaths and roping.

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Sinnissippi Farm and Forest 3122 S. Lowden Road, Oregon Closed Mondays and Wednesdays (708) 710-8354 www.sinnissippitrees.com Select from a variety of Christmas trees options ranging from Fraser fir to white pine. Once you find and cut the perfect tree, warm up around the fire pit with a hot cocoa, warm cider or coffee. Santa will be visiting with children from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Nov. 24, then on Saturdays and Sundays.

Oney’s Tree Farm 16608 Route 14, Woodstock (815) 338-4108 www.oneystreefarm.com The farm features 60 acres of harvest-

your-own or pre-cut trees in nine varieties, including Austrian pine. Explore the winter wonderland during a free horse-drawn wagon ride. After the ride, enjoy lunch in the historic barn or pick up some fresh bakery for the ride home.

Richardson Farm 9407 Richardson Road, Spring Grove (815) 675-9729 www.richardsonadventurefarm.com The farm boasts more than 50,000 trees of many varieties and sizes. Once you find your perfect tree, enjoy a free hot chocolate or coffee while staff gets it ready for the car ride home. Partake in a fresh homemade donut as you peruse the selection of wreaths, garland, decorations and bows made on the farm.

List complied by Vicki Petersen Martinka

Fox Valley

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Lee’s Trees 45W002 Lees Road, Lily Lake Saturdays and Sundays.

(630) 365-2116 www.leestreesusa.com The 14-acre farm nestled in western Kane County offers both cut your own trees on-site as well as pre-cut trees harvested weekly from Lee’s two farms in Wisconsin.

The farm also features fresh, hand-crafted wreaths, swags, centerpieces, roping and decorations made daily. Customize your wreath with bows and decorations while you wait.

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Crafting Christmas Discover artisan treasures at the Fine Line’s annual sale If you are an artist, enthusiast or arts and crafts lover, and have never been out to the Fine Line, you’re missing a great experience.

Fine Line Creative Arts Center in St. Charles is one of only a few regional art centers in the Northern Illinois area. Professional artists teach a variety of classes and workshops. The membership and students draws from the region and surrounding states. There are as many as 1,300 students a year, a teaching staff of 40-plus and well over 200 class offerings a year.

Amidst a schedule of gallery shows, classes and demonstrations by local artists, the Fine Line presents several special events that have become staples on the annual calendar. Upcoming is the Fine Line’s annual artisan gift sale, which opens on November 30.

Now in its 31st year, each event is bigger and brighter than the year before. With an abundance of locally handcrafted items, it is the perfect place to begin holiday shopping.

Give the Gift of Health Purchase the gift of a massage, personal training, swim lessons or membership this holiday season.

Call 630.938.9100 to learn more. TTY for the hearing impaired 630.933.4833.

Christmastime at Fine LineArtisan Gift Sale

Friday, November 30: 6 - 9 pm Saturday, December 1: 10-5 pm Sunday, December 2: 10 - 3 pm Monday - Friday, December 3 -7: 10 - 8 pm Saturday, December 8: 10- 2 pm Fine Line Creative Arts Center is located at 37w570 Bolcum Rd, St. Charles Phone 630-584-9443 Website www.fineline.org

Fine Line is home to a diverse community of highly skilled artists, which is reflected in the full range of items at this sale. Here visitors will find many one-off unusual items not found elsewhere, as well as the more traditional items such as handwoven scarves, pottery, jewelry, seasonal decorations. No commercial items are included, nor are items created from kits. All are original and hand crafted by local artisan members of the Fine Line community.

The entire show is set up in a gallery shop format, with displays throughout the Kavanagh Gallery an open, light-filled space created for the presentation of a wide range of art exhibits. Thirty percent of sales support the Fine Line Creative Arts Center.

Opening Night – Friday, November 30 – is always a party atmosphere, with hot cider and snacks available as attendees browse the plethora of goods. The show is then open daily until Saturday, December 8.

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Holiday events at the ready across the Kane County area November 29-January 7 Farmhouse Museum Tours: Christmas Memories Kline Creek Farm 1N600 County Farm Road, West Chicago, IL The annual event showcases Victorian holiday traditions and the lifestyle of a farm family. Free tours are offered on the hour. For additional information visit www.DuPageForest.org.

November 30-December 16 (Saturdays and Sundays)Blackberry Farms Holiday Express Blackberry Farm 100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora, IL A decorated holiday train travels around Lake Gregory at Blackberry Farm, passing more than 60,000 Christmas lights, shooting stars and holiday dressed characters. Santa and his Elves will be at Blackberry Farm where there will also be a Victorian Christmasdecorated house, a reindeer food bar, crafts and music,

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an adventure play land, shopping and more. The Express runs from 2-7 p.m. All rides and activities are included with Blackberry Farm ticket purchase.

Special needs night (low sensory environment) on December 7 and 14.

For additional information visit www.FoxValleyParkDistrict.org.

December 1 Holiday in the Grove Sugar Grove, IL The annual event begins with a ceremonial tree lighting at the Community House at 7:45 a.m. and will feature breakfast and pictures with Santa, carriage rides, a crafts fair, cookies with Mrs. Claus and children’s crafts. The Sugar Grove Library will host crafts, a family story time, face painting, live musical entertainment and more. The celebrations will be held throughout Sugar Grove. For additional information, visit www.HolidayInTheGrove.org.

The Mail Box is Mightier than the Inbox

Our Annual Christmas Mailbox will be in front of the Paper Merchant from Thanksgiving to Christmas.

Mail your letters to Santa and fill your stockings with our gifts inside.

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See Le Leff Leffy ffy Elf El Selection in store

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328 South Third Street, Geneva • 630-232-1880 www.papermerchant.geneva.com

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Christmas Around the World

December 2 and 9 Christmas on the Farm Lyon Farm 7935 Illinois Route 71, Yorkville, IL The old-fashioned Christmas celebration includes a story teller, arts and crafts, chestnut roasting, a visit from Santa Claus, and more. 1-4 p.m. $4/person, children under 2 free. For additional information visit www.LyonFarmKCHS.org.

December 8 Holiday in the Hills Village of Campton Hills 40 W270 LaFox Road, Campton Hills, IL The Village of Campton Hills will hold its annual Holiday in the Hills event featuring a visit with Santa, a Christmas tree illumination, live musical entertainment, arts and crafts, and refreshments. 6-9 p.m. For additional information visit www.VillageOfCamptonHills.org.

December 8-9 Elgin Symphony Orchestra’s Sounds of the Season Hemmens Cultural Center 45 Symphony Way, Elgin, IL The Elgin Symphony Orchestra concert of holiday music features Midwest Dance Collective, Elgin Master Chorale and soprano Catalina Cuervo. There will be a sing-along and a visit from Santa. December 8, 2:30 and 7:30 p.m., December 9, 2:30 p.m. $35-$55/ticket. For more information call 847-888-4000.

December 9 Geneva Steeple Walk Geneva, IL The annual event showcases live, 20-minute holiday musical performances at four local churches: United Methodist Church featuring Geneva Jazz, Unitarian Universality Society featuring Cynthia Spiegel Trio, Geneva Lutheran Church featuring the Batavia High School Chromatics, and First Church of Christ Scientist featuring Kevin Brown and Colleen Eakley.

2-4:30 p.m. Tickets are $15. For additional information visit www.Geneva.IL.US/1080/Steeple-Walk

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Saturday, December 1st, Germany Saturday, December 8th, Italy Saturday, December 15th, The Old South

Luncheon at 12:00 Noon Oscar Swan Country Inn Opens its Mansion For Christmas Around the World The food & décor each Saturday will represent the featured country.

Live Entertainment It’s a Unique experience to discover the Inn, good food and a trip in time Please Call For Reservations

Enjoy Live Music

Colonial Holiday Dinner

Holiday Christmas Brunches

Special Christmas Day Brunch

Thurs December 13th 7:00 pm

Every Sunday in December 12:00 Noon

December 25th 12:00 Noon

Featuring Colonial Food & Live Music Please Call For Reservations

A Vintage Bed & Breakfast Private Parties • Family Reunions • Birthdays • Girls Day Out • Anniversaries • Memorial Gatherings

Weddings & Receptions

Oscar Swan Country Inn

1800 West State Street, Geneva, IL 60134

(630) 232-0173 • nina@oscarswan.com www.oscarswan.com

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Make a winter trip to the city your own holiday tradition Create a family tradition with one (or maybe a few) of Chicago’s grandest yearly holiday events . You’ll create special memories and annual anticipation for everyone involved.

Here’s a hit list of some not-to-be-missed events across Chicago (and one beyond):

holidays, known for its spectacular holiday décor and special holiday menu. Many people visit the restaurant annually to see and dine alongside the lighted 45-foot Great Tree that graces the restaurant each season. For details and reservations, visit macysrestaurants.com/ walnut-room/

A Christmas Carol at the Goodman Theater

Winter Wonderfest at Navy Pier

Nov. 17 – Dec. 30 Goodman Theatre’s classic A Christmas Carol is the heartwarming story of Ebenezer Scrooge’s discovery of kindness, compassion and redemption—a must-see Chicago holiday tradition enjoyed by 1.5 million theatergoers for over four decades.

Goodman Theatre, Chicago’s oldest and largest notfor-profit theater, has won international renown for the quality of productions, the depth and diversity of artistic leadership, and the excellence of its many community and educational programs.

Established in 1922, it is a recipient of the Special Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre. For tickets and information, visit www.goodmantheatre.org/carol

Lunch in the Walnut Room at Macy’s on State

Mid-November through early January Opened in 1905, The Walnut Room is one of Chicago’s most beloved landmarks.

The world-famous Walnut Room was the first restaurant ever opened in a department store. With Circassian wood paneling imported from Russia and Austrian chandeliers, the 17,000 square foot dining room is both elegant and comfortable. But it really comes alive at the

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Head to Festival Hall at Chicago’s historic Navy Pier, and see it in all its holiday grandeur, a winter wonderland of nearly 500 trees decorated with 25,000 ornaments, festive rides, twinkling lights, and of course, visits with Santa Claus. Kids and parents alike can enjoy the indoor ice skating rink, train ride, inflatables, carousel and more. It’s the perfect winter treat, without the winter weather. Kids under three feet tall are free!

Tickets are $13-28 for the rest of us. Visit navypier.org/ winter-wonderfest/ for dates, times and to order tickets.

The Wonderland Express at the Chicago Botanic Gardens

Nov. 23 – Jan. 6 It’s outside the city, but worth the drive, for certain!

Make a day of this annual holiday extravaganza featuring magnificent model trains, magical and glittering indoor snow, and meticulously crafted Chicago landmarks in miniature. Plus, see intricate ice carvings and hear beautiful music from carolers, and you may even spot Thomas the Tank Engine! For a special family treat, catch a holiday movie in the Botanic Gardens, like Jack Frost or Frosty’s Winter Wonderland. For tickets, a full schedule of events and details, visit www.chicagobotanic.org/wonderland.

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Holiday revues

By Chris Walker When the cold winds start to blow and it’s getting dark before dinner, raise your holiday spirits surrounded by music and theater, at a holiday-themed concert or stage production. There are options for all ages, and scripts that range from serious to silly. So take in a great holiday show this season! Here are some favorites from across northern Illinois – or check out our list of Nutcracker ballet productions, starting on page 38.

A Christmas Carol

Adapted for the College Theater department in a family-friendly 70-minute show by William J. Norris, this is the beloved tale of Ebenezer Scrooge, who learns both that change is always possible, and the great joy of caring for those less fortunate.

The Mac at College of DuPage, Glen Ellyn November 23-25 – Times vary Pre-show discussion with director and designers: Friday, Nov. 23 Post-show discussion with director, actors and crew: Saturday, Nov. 24 www.atthemac.org/events

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Take in the spirit of the season on stages across the region Jane Lynch: A Swingin’ Little Christmas

Emmy and Golden Globe winner Jane Lynch (Glee, Hollywood Game Night), Kate Flannery (The Office, Brooklyn Nine Nine), Tim Davis (Glee, Boy Band) and The Tony Guerrero Quintet, a staple of the Southern California jazz scene, will be performing live in concert.

Raue Center, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake Nov. 29, 8 p.m. $35-$70. (815) 356-9212

The Second City’s Holiday Revue: Holidazed and Confused

Chicago’s famed sketch and improv comedy theater comes back to Aurora with another hilarious take on the holidays. Break out the eggnog, throw on your Santa hat and get ready to laugh all the way through the holidays. If you like the holidays, you’ll love this show. If you hate them, you’ll love it even more.

Paramount Theater, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora Nov. 29 – Dec. 23. $37. (630) 896-6666

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Holiday Traditions Concert

It’s the time of the season to go on a musical journey around the world while enjoying holiday favorites.

Come on out for an affordable night of Christmas music performed by the Elgin Community College Concert Band.

Blizzard Theatre, 1700 Spartan Dr., Elgin Dec. 6, 7:30 p.m. $7-$9. (847) 622-0300

The Doo Wop Christmas Show

Featuring stars from Broadway’s smash hits Jersey Boys and Motown: The Musical with their hot band, The Doo Wop Project brings unparalleled authenticity of sound and vocal excellence to recreate - and in some cases entirely reimagine - some of the greatest music in American pop and rock history.

The Mac at College of DuPage, Glen Ellyn Dec 7. 7:30 p.m. $50+ www.atthemac.org/events

Elgin Symphony Orchestra Sounds of the Season Bring the entire family and create joyful holiday memories together during this special performance.

The program includes a sing-along and an appearance by a special visitor from the North Pole.

Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin Dec. 8, 2:30 p.m, 7:30 p.m, Dec. 9, 2:30 p.m. $35-$55.

(847) 888-4000

Sweeten Someone’s Day • Custom Gift Baskets • Corporate Gifts • Fresh Fudge • Boxed Chocolates • Sugar Free Chocolates • Large Variety of Caramel Apples

Tony Orlando & Dawn “A Christmas Reunion”

Reuniting for only a few select shows, you won’t want to miss this special live Christmas concert at the Arcada.

Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main St., St. Charles Dec. 11, 7:30 p.m., $59-$125. (630) 962-7000

Holiday Hostess Gifts & Baskets Available Special Tastings of our Products Every Weekend

Olive Oil Tasting Experience Come taste over 60 different extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars from all over the world.

Unique Gift Baskets Available.

Homemade Skincare Products made with Olive Oil: Soaps ~ Lip Balms ~ Moisturizers

Geneva Commons Commons Located between Starbucks & Noodles & Co.

1308 Commons Dr • Geneva • 630.208.1484

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315 James St. • Geneva (630) 262-0210 www.olivemillgeneva.com Holiday Hours: Mon-Wed 10am-6pm Thurs 10am-8pm SM-CL1595551 Fri & Sat 10am-6pm • Sun 11am-4pm

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FOR AMERICA’S

LARGEST Irving Berlin’s White Christmas: The Musical

Based on the beloved, timeless film, this heartwarming musical adaptation features 17 Irving Berlin songs.

Pheasant Run, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles Dec. 14, 8 p.m., Dec. 15, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., Dec. 16, 2 p.m. (800) 474-3272

RAILWAY MUSEUM

Gavin Cole – A Celtic Christmas

Revel in the holiday spirit with award-winning recording artist Gavin Coyle as he brings his annual “A Celtic Christmas” back to the MAC. Sing along with Gavin and his band, pianist Paul Burgess, harpist Karen Banaszewski and flautist Joanne Diebold, as they perform traditional holiday favorites from America and Ireland.

The Mac at College of DuPage, Glen Ellyn Dec. 14, 8 p.m. $35. Proceeds benefit People’s Resource Center, a local nonprofit serving DuPage County since 1975. www.atthemac.org/events

ILLINOIS RAILWAY MUSEUM

Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Pops Concert

The Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra returns for a beloved holiday tradition that you can’t afford to miss. This gifted orchestra of 75 musicians, which is under the guidance of music director and conductor Kirk Muspratt, celebrates the spirit of the season with beautiful orchestral renditions of traditional holiday favorites and new holiday sounds.

Raue Center, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake Dec. 18, 8 p.m. $36.40-$52. (815) 356-9212

Million Dollar Christmas

The music of the four greatest rock ‘n’ rollers on the planet is our Christmas gift! Join the smash hit cast of Presley, Perkins, Lewis and Cash for a rip-roaring holiday show that’ll have you rockin’ around the Christmas tree!

The Mac at College of DuPage, Glen Ellyn Dec. 21 7:30 p.m. $45+ www.atthemac.org/events

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MARK YOUR CALENDARS ......

Ride The Train With Santa! nta!

November 24 & 25 - Happy Holiday Railway December 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, & 23 - Happy Holiday Railway

Go to www.irm.org m or org rg for Tickets and Train Times 7000 Olson Road • Union IL 60180

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Chicago Ballet Conservatory’s Nutcracker welcomes world-renowned performers, backed by ESO

By Aimee Barrows The Chicago Ballet Conservatory’s annual production of “The Nutcracker” is a holiday tradition for families all over the area, and while it’s always a spectacular event, this year’s performance will be a magical and unforgettable performance.

Several world-renowned professional dancers will grace the stage at the Hemmens Cultural Center in Elgin to portray principal roles in the famous ballet. The show also will feature an appearance by veteran stage and screen actor and director Roger Hendricks Simon, who is the founding artistic director of the famed Simon Studio in New York City. About 65 local dancers round out the acclaimed cast.

And for the first time, the Elgin Symphony Orchestra will accompany the performance, which is directed by Linda Cunningham, longtime instructor and founder of State Street Dance in Geneva.

“This is Hollywood coming to Elgin. This is a huge deal,” says Cunningham of Hendricks Simon, who is playing the role of “Drosselmeyer.”

“For the [amateur] cast members, this is a once in a lifetime experience and for others it will catapult them into the world of professional dance. All of the professional dancers in the cast have performed around the world.”

The performance will be memorable for Hendricks Simon, as it is not only the first time he will perform in a ballet, but he will also dance on stage for the first time with his daughter, professional ballerina Abigail Simon, who portrays the “Sugar Plum Fairy.” Cunningham cast Abigail Simon, who has danced with the famed Joffrey Ballet, in the same role last year and it was during a rehearsal that Cunningham met Hendricks Simon, 75,

IF YOU GO:

“The Nutcracker” Sat. Dec. 1 at 7 p.m. & Sun. Dec. 2 at 2 p.m.

Hemmens Cultural Center 45 Symphony Way, Elgin Tickets: www.CBCNutcracker.com (630) 893-1444

who told her that he wanted to be involved in a future performance.

While he’s nervous about the show because it is his ballet debut, Hendricks Simon explains that he’s very much looking forward to it.

“You want to find something that challenges you,” he says. “Movement is a very important part of danc-

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LET US TAKE

WRAPPING

ing and acting. You use your body to express yourself.

I’m dancing with my daughter and that makes it extra special. She’s been coaching me and preparing me for the rehearsals.”

In addition to Hendricks Simon and Abigail Simon, the other professional cast members include Alexandre Hammoudi, who will perform the role of Cavalier. Hammoudi has trained at the Paris Opera Ballet and is a principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre. Playing the “Snow King” is Malachi Squires, an internationallyknown dancer who trained at the Houston Ballet, while Raoni Xavier, who trained at the Bolshoi Ballet in Brazil, will portray the Nutcracker Prince.

As for the coveted role of “Clara,” Crystal Lake resident Anna Lund, 14, will perform on Sun. Dec. 2 while Kera Fernstrom, 11, of Bartlett will dance on Sat. Dec. 1.

Playing “Clara” has always been a dream for Lund, ever since she performed in “The Nutcracker” for the first time at age 3.

“I’m so thankful to [Cunningham] for giving me the role because it’s so fascinating,” Lund says. “There are a lot of expectations to live up to, but it’s very cool working with the professional dancers. I’ve learned so much from watching them work and perform.”

Cunningham, a Batavia resident, is one of the most sought-after directors and instructors in the Chicago area, having spent more than 40 years in the industry.

She’s been dancing as long as she can remember, as both of her parents were ballroom dancers. Her love of dance comes from the “freedom and euphoria” she says that it gives performers, and hopes to inspire the same feeling in others.

“I knew at a very young age that this was going to be my gift,” she explains. “’The Nutcracker’ is a tradition and it reminds us of purity and innocence and family love. It’s a thought-provoking show and a great way to kick off the holidays.”

The theme of this year’s show is “dreaming in color,” and Cunningham hopes that the audience walks away with that sentiment, thanks to the unique touches she adds to the classic story.

“I like to add theatrical elements to make the show more engaging,” she explains. “I like new backgrounds and new costumes every year, just different things that people don’t expect. It’s true to the story and true to the score, but will be unlike anything the audience has ever seen because of the level of talent and production.

They will leave dreaming in color.”

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OFF YOUR “TO DO” LIST

We're re-inventing the lost art of gift wrapping with distinctive papers, bows & embellishments We take pride in each gift we wrap & have the perfect handmade card to complete the "package"!

See Our Unique Selection of Vintage Wares & Gifts 217 S. Third St., Suite 200, Geneva 630-870-7157 www.houndstoothandplaid.com Hours: Mon & Wed..- 10am - 5pm, Tues., by appt, Thur. - Sat. 10am - 7pm, Sun. 11am - 5pm Extended Hours during the holiday season

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Escape for the holidays with a quick trip or a weekend getaway

By Sherri Dauskurdas Has the hectic schedule got you down? Are you looking to get away from home…even just for a couple days, and take a few days’ off from the madness of shopping and planning? While we love northern Illinois we know that sometimes, you want to step away – so we’ve got two escapes (not too far from home) to enjoy this season:

grounds. The nine-day event is a holiday tradition and features more than 300 designed items; a centerpiece and gingerbread structure silent auction; an elaborate hand-crafted Gingerbread Village; the Candy Cane Express Train; the Little Elves’ Workshop craft area; Snapshots with Santa; a boutique full of unique gift items; hand-decorated gingerbread cookies; and entertainment featuring dozens of musical performances.

Springfield, Illinois – for the Bicentennial It’s Illinois 200th birthday this December, and there is no better time to make the trek downstate.

Start your exploration at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, a one-of-a-kind experience with two special effect theaters, state of the art interactive exhibits and a gallery of treasures that tell Lincoln’s story from his birth in a small cabin in Kentucky through his election, presidency and assassination. Don’t miss the bicentennial exhibit “From Illinois to the White House Lincoln, Grant, Reagan, Obama” on display daily through December 31. Visitors will see amazing documents and artifacts, including Ronald Reagan’s yearbook from his high school days in Dixon, the table where Ulysses S. Grant’s accepted Robert E. Lee’s surrender during the Civil War, an original draft of Barack Obama’s speech at the 50th anniversary of the Selma civil rights march, and the briefcase Abraham Lincoln used as president.

From there, you can go out into the city and see the many of the actual historic sites depicted in the museum at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Old State Capitol, Lincoln Depot and Lincoln Tomb and Monument where Lincoln, his wife Mary and three of their four children are laid to rest.

Head to the Illinois State Museum for “Bicentennial and Beyond! The Illinois Legacy Collection” open through January. This major exhibition, in celebration of the State’s 200th birthday, features rare and rarely-seen artifacts from the Museum’s 13.5–million-object Illinois Legacy Collection to highlight the dynamic story of Illinois, including art, anthropology, archaeology, botany, decorative arts, geology, and zoology. Visitors will explore, discover, learn, and share the history, prehistory, and natural history of Illinois through the featured objects and the fascinating stories behind them.

Or enjoy the festivities of the Old Springfield Holiday Walks, offered throughout the season and featuring carriage rides, Christmas parades, menorah lightings, hot cocoa, elves in attendance and of course, Santa Claus. Visit www.downtownspringfield.org for times and details.

Heading down in November? Don’t miss the Memorial Festival of Trees: Holidays Through Our History, offered from November 17 – 25 at the Illinois State Fair-

Milwaukee, Wisconsin for family fun While plenty of Illinoisans make the drive to Milwaukee for Summerfest, we think winter is a great time to go as well.

Kicking off in November, the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival brightens downtown with more than 500,000 lights. But the best spots to see include Cathedral Square and Pere Marquette Park, where the displays are awe-inspiring, This is the 105th year for this annual celebration, which runs daily through January 1.

The famed Christkindlmarket opened in Milwaukee for the first time in 2017, and returns this year the first weekend in December. Evoking Europe’s Christmas markets with German mulled wine, hot chocolate and other drinks, with vendors selling a mix of locally made and imported products to help get your holiday-shopping started. Items for sale range from Underground Meats sausages, Pilcrow Coffee beans and Indulgence Chocolatiers chocolate products. Caroling and other live-music performances will be held, too, creating a festive atmosphere.

Love a stage show? Enjoy a performance of The Christmas Carol at the historic Pabst Theater, by the Milwaukee Repertory Theater or take in the traditional Milwaukee Ballet performance of the Nutcracker, at Uihlein Hall Marcus Center.

And for those with holiday cravings, hop aboard the Christmas Around Milwaukee Bakery Bus, for a special holiday themed food tour of this tasty city. This seasonal food tour takes you to sample holiday-themed baked goods, pastries and other sweet treats from the city’s ethnic bakeries. Or catch a combo of treats and sights aboard the Christmas Lights and Desserts tour. Both are offered by Milwaukee Food and City Tours.

Celebrating the New Year in Milwaukee? Check out the New Year’s Eve Family Celebration at The Domes from 6-9 p.m. on December 31. Experience the beauty and tranquility of the Mitchell Park Conservatory, along with a variety of entertainment, including a DJ dance party, magic show, fire dancers, face painting and balloon sculpting. The evening will come to a close with a light show in the Show Dome, followed by more than 500 balloons dropping from the Annex ceiling at 9 p.m.

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Holiday Hours Starting Dec. 6th.

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