Neighborhood Tourist Holiday 2019

SHOPPING, EVENTS AND HOLIDAY DESTINATIONS TO GET YOU IN THE SPIRIT

neighborhood

TOURIST Holiday Edition 2019

Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Jane Lynch, Brett Michaels and more!

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The hottest holiday-themed shopping across the region PAGE 28

Day-out excursions to bust the winter break blues PAGE 40

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WHY WAIT — for the —

WEEKEND?

Escape to Starved Rock Lodge dge The ONE and ONLY Hotel & Conference Center in Starved Rock State Park – Located at One Lodge Lane Book a midweek getaway and you’ll enjoy a greater sense of peace and quiet than you would on the weekends. Kick back and unwind in the indoor pool or explore the area on a trolley tour.

Outdoor adventure awaits with a hike to the top of the Rock. It’s the best view in LaSalle County.

Explore beautiful canyons and catch a glimpse of frozen waterfalls or eagles in flight. After your hike, relax by the fireplace in the Great Hall and warm up with a cocktail or hot cocoa from the Back Door Lounge.

From Fr Nashville to Broadway, talented vocalists will take you on a walk down memory lane when you attend a Tribute to the Stars performance in the Great Hall.These lively matinees are paired with a delicious lunch buffet.You can check out the 2020 schedule and purchase tickets online at StarvedRockLodge.com.

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12/6 | 4pm-8pm Book Signing with JB Michaels 12/6 | 6pm-9pm Wine and Glogg Tastings

12/7 | 10am-Noon Tea Forte Pop-Up Tasting 12/7 | 11am-3pm Stonewall Kitchen Gourmet Tasting

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12/7 | 1-4pm Back to the Manger Book Signing 12/14-16 | 11:30am-4pm Kids’ Chance to Shop 12/21 | 10am-1pm Nancy Neill Pop-Up Shop

Featuring the largest, most complete and most creative Christmas boutique in chicagoland with a multitude of themed trees, all dripping with fun and unique ornaments and decorations. Featuring Christmas lines like Department 56, Christopher Radko, Old World Christmas, and Jim Shore. Commemorate any occasion with our enormous selection of personalized ornaments, complimentary personalization included.

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STAFF

Christmas, Christmas time is here!

We’ve just wrapped another Halloween and if you’re like me, you’ve likely got leaves to be raked, pumpkin pies to be baked, and Black Friday shopping lists to make. Because while the scent of autumn may still be hanging in the air, the holiday season is about to ring in with full cheer!

Soon, candlelight and evergreen boughs will deck our halls and dress our storefronts. And in this special edition of Neighborhood Tourist, we fill the pages with all there is to see and do in this most festive of seasons!

We’ve got a roundup of some of the most fun and festive town celebrations, light shows, holiday parades, visits with Santa and arrays of artisan crafts and decorations. You’ll find great holiday gifts, cheerful holiday décor items, and the perfect spot to find the grandest Christmas tree, to grace fill your front room window or the corner next to the fireplace.

Looking for something festive indoors to get you away from the chilly air?

We’ve got a great selection of holiday

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concerts to raise your spirits, from comedy filled revues to electrifying musical performances by the likes of Gavin Cole, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, and more.

And after the presents have been opened and the feast has been eaten, comes a week of wondering what to do with the kids! We’ve got great day out options to fill your holiday break, and a few just for you, the grown-ups to help you unwind from the whirlwind that is the holiday season.

Whatever your holiday pleasure, from music and light shows to shopping and dining, we have everything you need to make the season sparkle, right here in the pages of this special edition.

So make your list, check it twice, and don’t forget the tinsel. The happiest of holidays to you and yours, from all of us at Neighborhood Tourist.

J.TOM SHAW Vice President of Audience & Revenue

LAURA SHAW Publisher Daily Chronicle & Suburban Weekly Group

ALLISON LAPORTA Designer

JACLYN CORNELL Local Sales Manager Niche Products

Thanks for reading.

Sherri Dauskurdas Editor sdauskurdas@shawmedia.com

Additional copies of Neighborhood Tourist are available for $6.99 each.

Email your order to TOURIST@shawmedia.com

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WHAT'S INSIDE 8 THRILL IN THE CHILL Trans-Siberian Orchestra thrills audiences with annual holiday season show.

12 LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION Whether you prefer to wander a trail or drive, holiday light shows are glowing across the region.

16 CAROLS, CARRIAGE RIDES & CHRISTMAS CHEER The holiday season brings festive, joy-filled events all over the region.

34 MORE THAN DÉCOR The search for a Christmas tree – the centerpiece of holiday season – has become an event in and of itself.

40 HOLI-DAYS OUT! We’ve got great daytrip options to bust those post-holiday blues.

48 OUR FEATURED GIFT OF THE YEAR This year, give a gift they will truly relish: a relaxing experience at a delightful day spa.

28 GOOD TIDINGS ocal stores deck their halls to offer dedicated Christmas-themed shopping.

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LIVE THE HARBOR LIFE

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THRILLING local audiences with annual holiday season show

By Alan Sculley

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 TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA’S 2019 SHOW Christmas Eve and Other Stories Monday, December 30 at the Allstate Arena, Rosemont Shows at 2:30 and 8 p.m.

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onsidering how TransSiberian Orchestra has become an annual touring powerhouse that fills arenas nationwide with its annual Christmas tour, it might be surprising to know that there was plenty of uncertainty for those involved in the combination progressive rock band and orchestra when it played its first shows.

“I remember when Jeff (Plate) and I did the first show out in Philly, we look down and I kind of looked at him and I had half a heart attack,” says musical director Al Pitrelli, recalling the first TSO performance during a recent teleconference interview with reporters.

“We didn’t really know who was going to be in the audience,” he elaborated.

“We knew that we sold a couple million records from ‘96 to ‘99, but we did our first show in ‘99. And the lights went down in The Tower Theater in Philadelphia, and when I looked down there was a really attractive older couple in their Sunday goto-meeting clothes and right next to them was this dude in a Slayer hoodie. And we kind of looked at each other and says, ‘This is either going

to go really bad or really great.’ And two hours later, we realized that this was the most amazing thing ever.”

The story of the first show seems appropriate now considering this year’s holiday tour takes TSO back to where it all began by featuring “Christmas Eve & Other Stories,” the first of what became three Christmas-themed rock operas. That 1996 release was the centerpiece of TSO’s holiday show for the first dozen tours.

This year, it will be performed in its entirety in the first set of TSO’s annual holiday show, while a second set will feature material from across the group’s seven-album catalog of rock operas.

“This (performing “Christmas Eve & Other Stories”) is something that Paul had actually been talking about doing before we lost Paul a couple years ago,” says Plate, who joined Pitrelli for the teleconference interview.

Paul is Paul O’Neill, who founded TSO in 1993 and was the ensemble’s main songwriter and producer, and the person who led the development of the group’s spectacular live shows.

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O’Neill passed away in April 2017, and since then O’Neill’s wife, daughter and the circle of musicians (including songwriter Jon Oliva, musical director Pitrelli and drummer/band leader Plate) that have been closely involved with TSO for most, if not all, of its history have been guiding the ensemble. It hasn’t been easy, but the 2017 and 2018 holiday tours went on successfully and now work is resuming on several album projects that were in various stages of completion when O’Neill died.

“His family says, ‘Okay, well you know what, Paul wanted this to live forever.

It’s going to live forever. Let’s continue working on the ideas for that to exist and just move forward,’” Pitrelli says.

“All of the projects that were kind of being talked about and being looked at, and being demoed up and worked toward, over the last six to eight months or so, the family has definitely started the machine back up and running,” Pitrelli says. “We’ve been spending a lot of time back down in Tampa in the studio. And we’re looking at all these things and we’ve been recording a bunch of stuff.”

TSO had already built up a catalog large and diverse enough to sustain the touring well into the future. The first release was “Christmas Eve and Other Stories.”

Spurred by the hit single “Christmas Eve Sarajevo 12/24,” it has sold three million copies and set the stage for the other two holiday rock operas that make up TSO’s “Christmas trilogy -- “The Christmas Attic” (1998) and “The Lost Christmas Eve” (2004). In addition, the group has released a Christmas EP, 2012’s “Dreams of Fireflies (On A Christmas Night)” and three full-length non-holiday rock operas – “Beethoven’s Last Night” (2000), “Night Castle” (2009) and “Letters from the Labyrinth” (2015). In all, the group’s CDs and DVDs have sold more than 12 million copies.

The group’s annual Christmas trek is easily the most popular holiday tour going. Since its debut in 1999, the holiday tours have played to more than 15 million fans and grossed $700 million from its tours.

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Looking for more?

“He (O’Neill) realized that this story was probably the most significant one in our catalog,” Plate says. “You know, ‘Christmas Eve and Other Stories’ was released in 1996, and that is really the CD that put us on the map.”

Other great Holiday shows across northern Illinois include:  A VERY RIALTO CHRISTMAS: MAKING MERRY MUSIC! November 25 | 5:30 pm Rialto Square Theatre, Joliet Kick off your holiday season with the Rialto Square Theatre and a special concert from Nick Thomas and guests. Join us starting at 5:20 PM as we light the marquee, officially kicking off the holiday season, with Home for the Holidays sponsor, ComEd. At 5:30 PM they’ll be a pre-show reception with complimentary hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar, followed by a holiday concert for the entire family featuring a 75-member chorus directed by Nick Thomas. Special guest appearances include Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman, Suzy Snowflake and more. www.rialtosquare.com

 GAVIN COYLE: A CELTIC CHRISTMAS December 6 - 8:00 PM The MAC at College of DuPage 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 Kaaren Banaszewski and flautist Joanne Diebold, as they perform traditional holiday favorites from America and Ireland. Tickets are $35 and proceed benefit People’s Resource Center, a local nonprofit serving DuPage County since 1975. www.atthemac.org

 BRET MICHAELS CHRISTMAS PARTY December 6 | 8:00 PM Arcada Theatre, St. Charles The perfect Christmas gift for Rock fans! Michaels first rose to fame as the frontman of Poison. As one of rock’s most iconic and enduring bands, Poison defined the fast, gritty, and glamorous rock ‘n’ roll scene. The band has charted 10 singles in the Top 40 on Billboard’s Hot 100 including the number-one single, “Every Rose Has It’s Thorn.”

Twenty-five years after their debut,

Poison is still recording music and performing together.

Bret Michaels’ solo career has been equally successful: his most recent solo album, “Custom Built,” released in July of 2010, topped the charts, reaching #1 on Billboard’s Hard Rock list. His current solo tour, “Get Your Rock On” is selling out arenas across the country and his forthcoming solo album of the same name will be released this summer. www.arcadalive.com

 A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS LIVE ON STAGE December 13 | 7:30 PM Egyptian Theatre, DeKalb Everyone’s favorite holiday classic comes to life in the all-new touring production. Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, and the whole Peanuts gang as they produce their own Christmas play and ultimately learn the true meaning of the season. A Charlie Brown Christmas Live On Stage is a present the whole family can enjoy! Adapted from Charles M. Schulz’s timeless story of the spirit of Christmas, it features the unforgettable music of Vince Guaraldi, as well as a concert of beloved holiday carols performed by the Peanuts characters. egyptiantheatre.org

 JANE LYNCH: A SWINGIN’ LITTLE CHRISTMAS LIVE IN CONCERT featuring Kate Flannery & Tim Davis with The Tony Guerrero Quintet December 13 & 14 | 8:00 p.m.

Jane Lynch is an Emmy and Golden Globe winner for her portrayal of Sue Sylvester on Glee and she is currently the two-time Emmy Award-winning host of NBC’s Hollywood Game Night. In 2015, Jane embarked on her own live concert tour, See Jane Sing with Kate Flannery, Tim Davis and The Tony Guerrero Quintet. Their holiday album, A Swingin’ Little Christmas is available from iTunes, Amazon and other outlets. www. rauecenter.org

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Shop, Dine, and ‌ VISIT SANTA In Downtown Crystal Lake

Santa Claus spends a lot of time in Downtown Crystal Lake during the holiday season.

Bring your children and grandchildren to visit Santa in his charming little house in Brink Street Market, for a sweet experience that is completely FREE. Santa House hours are available on the website or Facebook page.

Bring your camera and be ready for smiles.

For the big reveal, attend the Festival of Lights Parade on November 29th at 7 pm. Dress warm!

Downtown Crystal Lake Main Street www.DowntownCL.org NT_November 2019.indd 11

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Lights, Camera,

Action!

Whether you prefer to wander a trail or drive, holiday light shows are glowing across the region There’s little like a holiday light display to get you in the mood for the season. So bundle up the family, of simply hop in the car, and head out to enjoy a colorful, brightly lit taste of the holidays, kicking off this month all over northern Illinois. Here are a few favorites:

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 FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS Festival of lights at Phillips Park.

1000 Ray Moses Dr. in Auora is one of the largest free outdoor drivethrough holiday light displays in Northern Illinois, the Aurora Festival of Lights, returns for its thirteenth year in 2019 with even more dazzling displays that will delight both adults and children. Presented in partnership between the Rotary Club of Aurora and the City of Aurora,

this signature winter event is a drive through of more than one mile of spectacular lighted displays, with new displays every year, from dancing arcs and the expanded Ice Rink, to Santa’s Toy Factory, Old Man Winter, elves and reindeer, holiday trains, gigantic snowflakes, beautiful lighted swags on the fence line surrounding the zoo and other seasonal favorites. The festival is free, but the Rotary Club does accept donations that benefit local charities.

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Running from the day after Thanksgiving through Dec. 26, seven days a week from 5 to 9 p.m.  ILLUMINATION Fifty acres of the Morton 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.

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 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. To purchase tickets, visit mortonarb. org/illumination.

Running Nov. 23 through Jan. 5 (closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.)  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 Christmas. Admission 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.  HOLIDAY LIGHTS AT MOOSEHEART Take in the sights of more than 80 holiday lighted displays from the comfort of your own car during the 10th

Annual Holiday Lights at Mooseheart.

The display will be open from 5-9 p.m.

November 29 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.  LINCOLN PARK ZOOLIGHTS ZooLights at Lincoln Park Zoo has been Chicago’s holiday tradition for 24 years. The one of a kind experience offers fun, free, family oriented holiday celebrations that feature luminous displays and incredible seasonal activities... all under the glow of 2.5 million lights!

The show takes place this season from 4:30-9 p.m. on the following dates: November 23, 24, 25 and 30; anad December 1, 2, 7- 31.* January 1-6 *(early closure of 8 PM on the 31st) The zoo is located at 2200 N. Cannon Drive in Chicago.  HOLIDAY MAGIC Brookfield Zoo’s 37th annual Holiday Magic light festival will be held from 4-9 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, November 30-December 1, 7-8, 14-15, 21-22, and Thursday-Tuesday, December 26-31. Take in the over one million twinkling LED lights while singing to the animals and watching ice carving demonstrations. The event also features a 41-foot tall talking tree, a model railroad display and a magic show. Admission is free for members and included as part of the general admission for non-members. Visit www.czs.org/HolidayMagic for details.

Brookfield Zoo is located at 8400 31st St. in Brookfield.

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& s a m t s i Chr Carols, carriage rides

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&s cheer The holiday season brings festive, joy-filled events all over the region

Every year, our beautiful

dowtowns and special places

around our communitites host an array of holiday events to

celebrate the season. Save the date for your favorite, or mark your calendar for a brand new experience, not too far from home!

Here are some to consider this holiday season: ď‚— HOLIDAY EXPRESS AT BLACKBERRY FARM The Holiday Express takes off from Blackberry Farm, among thousands of glittering lights, festive activities and visits from Santa and his elves. The decorated train will run continuously around Lake Gregory. Thursday, Dec. 5, 12 & 19: 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13 & 20: 5 to 8 p.m.

Saturday/Sunday, Dec. 7-8, 14-15 & 21-22: 2 to 7 p.m. Special Needs Night Friday, Dec. 6: 5 to 8 p.m.Located at 100 S. Barnes Rd., Aurora, www.foxvalleyparkdistrict.org.

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 OSWEGO CHRISTMAS WALK Kick off the holiday season at the Oswego Christmas Walk on Friday, Dec. 6. Help Cindy Lou Who usher in the holiday season with a Seussian twist on the traditional tree-lighting ceremony, take a Belgian horse-drawn wagon ride, go skating on the faux ice skating rink, watch an ice sculptor, slide down the giant inflatable sled hill, take a ride on the Toyland train and much more – all for free.

Plus, dozens of local Oswego organizations will offer games, crafts, giveaways and prizes and food for sale all night! Bring your

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wish list and visit Santa at Fox River Academy of Music and Art beginning at 5 p.m. Be in line before 7:45 p.m. to guarantee your visit with the Jolly Old Elf himself -- photos will be taken

by Locked In Photography and made available for download following the event. Join in on the fa-la-la-la-ha-ha-ha with improv comedy at the Little White School Museum, and at 8 p.m., make way for the silent, illuminated fire truck parade featuring all your favorite holiday characters down Main Street. Downtown Oswego, www. oswegoil.org.

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christmas walk & house tour DECEMBER 6 & 7

Let the Festivities begin!

‘Tis the season to be jolly… especially in downtown Geneva! Join us Friday, December 6th at 6pm when Santa lights the great tree and sparks a Christmas to remember. There’ll be chestnuts roasting, carolers strolling, a live nativity and candy cane pulls.

 CHRISTMAS AT THE FARM Enjoy an old-fashioned Christmas on the farm with the Kendall County Historical Society from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sundays, Dec. 8 and 15. Lyon Farm hosts this family-oriented event with crafts for kids, a storyteller, chestnut roasting, cookie icing and a chance to meet Santa.

Admission is $4 cash only.

Children under 2 free. 7935 Illinois Route 71, Yorkville, www. yonfarmkchs.org.  GENEVA CHRISTMAS WALK 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. Friday December 6 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. For information, call 630-232-6083 or visit www. genevachamber.com

On Friday and Saturday you can tour five spectacular houses decked with holly and innovative Christmas ristmas decorations. For House Tour tickets ets and a complete schedule give us a jingle or visit genevachamber.com.

Geneva. Where the spirit of Christmas comes alive.

A picture postcard .

™

630-232-6060 • genevachamber.com

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 HOMETOWN HOLIDAY: THE LA GRANGE HOLIDAY WALK Start off the holiday season with this favorite hometown event SATURDAY, DEC. 7 featuring Santa arriving by fire truck to light the giant Christmas tree in front of Village Hall. Enjoy the holiday atmosphere and join in as carolers sing holiday tunes. Check out the ice sculptures as you visit local businesses with tasty treats and festive decor. When your feet need a break catch a ride on the free trolley ride. The downtown is a glow with festive lights. Many local businesses feature specials and open houses during the evening event. Get a start on your holiday shopping with the quaint boutiques and featured shops in the downtown. Come hungry to

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check out some of the delicious restaurants as well as sweets and treats. Families can stop and visit with Santa Claus. This annual walk is a wonderful tradition and a great way to enjoy this great town. For information, call 708-582-6510 or visit www.lgba. chambermaster.com.  LIGHTING ON THE SQUARE IN WOODSTOCK Join the fun in this quaint town square as thousands of twinkling lights herald in the holiday season the day after Thanksgiving. The lighting ceremony starts at 7 p.m. in the Park in the Square and most activities in the park run from 5 to 9 p.m. FRIDAY, NOV. 29 121 W. VAN BUREN ST., WOODSTOCK. The event

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features Santa and Mrs. Claus in a welcoming parade around the square. After the lighting make time to visit with Santa for photos and enjoy some milk and cookies.

Join in with carol singing and find plenty of activities for children. Make time for the annual Opera House Christmas Tree Walk featuring trees that have been decorated by local organizations. Then stroll through the Gingerbread House Walk at the Old Courthouse and cast your vote for the best gingerbread home.

And of course there will be plenty of boutiques open so you can start your holiday shopping and find something unique for everyone on your list. For information, call 815-338-2436 or visit www. woodstockilchamber. com.  ST CHARLES HOLIDAY HOMECOMING While the tree lighting is held on Friday, the party starts on Saturday, November 30. Enjoy a Free showing of Home Alone & Christmas carol sing-a-long at Arcada Theater – Doors open at 9am/Showtime at 10am Free Horse-drawn sleigh rides will be offered from 1-4:30 pm on 1st Street . Visit St. Nick at Santa’s house on 1st Street Plaza from 1-4pm

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Stroll the shop-lined streets for Live Holiday Window Displays along Main Street and 1st Street from 1-5pm and finish the day with the famous Electric Christmas Parade finishes the day at 5:30pm on Main Street between 6th Street and 4th Avenue. For more information visit www.downtownstcharles.org  HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS in Morris Downtown Morris has no shortage of charming and unique merchants.

More than 30 shops will take part in Small Business Saturday festivities, including clothing boutiques, antiques, home decor shops, children’s boutiques, gift shops, restaurants, and upscale wine and spirit lounges. Many businesses will be offering sales and treats To celebrate the season. Small Business Saturday also coincides with one of the biggest events in downtown Morris – Home For The Holidays. The downtown area will be decked out in it’s holiday best, with strings of lights, horse drawn carriages, decorated trees and more. There’s also plenty of events once you’re done exploring the shops, like the holiday house walk and visits from Santa. Visit from November 29-Dec 1 and experience this quaint dowtown at the holidays.

 CHRISTMAS ON THE FOX ART AND CRAFT SHOW Hosted at the Prairie Events Center on the Kane County Fairgrounds in St. Charles, this year’s event is set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 23 and Sunday, Nov. 24 The show will feature items which are handmade by the exhibiting artist. Attendees will find a variety of jewelry, unique photography, paper crafts, apparel and accessories, folk art with holiday themes, homemade soup and dip mixes, handmade soap, wood signs, and more. www. artoftheheartland.com  SYCAMORE HOLIDAY ARTS & CRAFTS MARKET Old Train Depot 475 DeKalb Ave. Sycamore www.kval-nfp.org/ exhibit- your-artwork.html Featuring unique gifts made by local artisans, this year’s event is set for 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 16. Some of the items available for purchase include handcrafted jewelry and soaps, pottery, woodwork, digital photography, bottle art, glass painting, purses, fine art pieces, note cards and holiday ornaments. The annual market is presented by the Kishwaukee Valley Art League.

Refreshments will be served.

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 MCHENRY AREA JAYCEE’S TOYS FOR TOTS PARADE The popular annual parade sets off on November 24 from the McHenry train station at 2:00 p.m. to Veterans Memorial Park on Pearl St. Toy donations to warm a child’s heart are gladly accepted. Bring toys to the box truck in the park after the parade.  CANDLELIGHT AT THE INN Yearning nostalgia? Visit the Garfield Farm and Museum in Campton Hills for its twoday reception, Candlelight at the Inn, on December 7-8. It’s filled with music and volunteers wearing 19th century period clothing depicting holidays of timesgone-by.  FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS – CRYSTAL LAKE Santa Claus officially comes to Downtown Crystal Lake at 7p.m. on November 29 during the Festival of Lights Parade. This year’s theme, “A Dr. Seuss Christmas”, fills the evening with an abundance of lights, music, pageantry, and the official Christmas

tree. Return the following days as Crystal Lake Brewing will host its Annual Winter Market on Small Business Saturday, November 30. The event brings in local artisans who don’t have a brick-andmortar store. The interior of the brewery becomes a mini- market where shoppers can discover one-of-a-kind products and pieces they might never have found before.

for a great getaway!

Experience the fall season in DeKalb County where you can explore fun and festivities of every kind, in a peaceful and relaxed setting your family will enjoy!

Apple Orchards • Pumpkin Patches Wineries • Biking • Fishing • Canoeing Estate Distillery • Microbrews & Hard Cider

 DICKENS IN DUNDEE 2019 marks the 32nd year of the popular Dickens in Dundee holiday weekend celebration in West Dundee on November 30 and December 1. View “Living Windows” on November 30 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.on storefronts in Downtown West Dundee on Route 72.

Enjoy special winter and holiday-themed window displays decorated by local organizations and businesses.

Call or visit our website for a FREE Visitors Guide!

See our online Calendar of Events for more fall activities!

D E K A L B C O U N TYCV B . C O M

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Enjoy the festivities that make the Christmas season so special in Downtown Wheaton Living Wheaton Christmas Parade

November 29 • 6pm Front Street in Downtown Wheaton

Lighting of the Official City of Wheaton Christmas Tree November 30 • 5pm City Hall

Shop Small Saturday

November 30 Downtown Wheaton businesses

Horse-drawn Carriage Rides

Saturdays, November 30 December 21 12pm - 3pm Martin Memorial Plaza

Letters to Santa Mailbox

November 30 - December 21 under the W Tent at Martin Memorial Plaza

Living Wheaton Christmas Festival

Saturdays, November 30 December 21 12pm - 3pm Downtown Wheaton

downtownwheaton.com

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Ice Carving Demonstration

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COLLECTIONS Pixies On Main

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Holiday Open House Sunday, Dec. 1st, 12 - 5pm Specializing in French country/farmhouse furniture & home decor. Retailer of Fusion Mineral Paint, Miss Mustard Seed Milk Paint and Iron Orchid Designs (IOD) products.

Antique & Vintage Treasures in styles ranging from Victorian to Hollywood Regency to Cottage Chic Blue Victorian house located on the corner of Rt. 31 & Wilson St., Batavia Mon-Sat 10am-5pm Sun Noon-5pm

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Miroballi Shoes Miroballi Shoes 124 N. Hale St.

A Baby Naturally A130 Baby Naturally W. Willow St. 130 W. Willow St. 331-222-9588 331-222-9588 ababynaturally.com ababynaturally.com

Andrew’s Garden Andrew’s Garden 131 W. Wesley St

124630-690-6880 N. Hale St. 630-690-6880 miroballishoes.com miroballishoes.com

Jeans & A Cute Top Shop Jeans 123 & AW.Cute Top Shop WesleySt 123630-690-5287 W. WesleySt 630-690-5287 jeansandacutetopshop.com jeansandacutetopshop.com

131 W. Wesley St 630-456-4689 630-456-4689 andrewsgarden.com andrewsgarden.com

StonesJewlery Jewlery Stones Art Art&&Glass GlassStudio Studio 124 124N. N.Main MainSt St 708-482-0037 708-482-0037 art-glass-studio. art-glass-studio.

MOORE Toys Toys && Gadgets Gadgets 107 E.Front E.FrontStSt 107 630-480-4285 630-480-4285 mooretoys.com mooretoys.com

104W.W.Front Front 104 St.St. 630-668-0163 630-668-0163 stonesjewelry.com stonesjewelry.com

MidwestCyclery Cyclery Midwest E. Front 117117 E. Front St.St. 630-668-2424 630-668-2424 midwestcyclery.com midwestcyclery.com

DowntownWheaton Wheatongift giftcertificates certificates Downtown makethe theperfect perfectholiday holidaygift giftand andare are make acceptedbybyallallthe thedowntown downtownshops shops accepted andrestaurants. restaurants.They Theyare areavailable available and purchaseatatselected selectedshops shopsand andat at forforpurchase DowntownWheaton WheatonAssociation Associationat at thetheDowntown 108East EastWesley WesleyStreet.

Street. For Fordetails details 108 visit downtownwheaton.com visit downtownwheaton.com

Frocks and and Frills Frills Vintage Frocks Vintage 203 S. Hale St. 203 S. Hale St. 630-221-9400 630-221-9400 frocksandfrillsvintage.com frocksandfrillsvintage.com

Suburban SuburbanMusic Music

210 W. Front St. 210 W. Front St. 630-682-4291 630-682-4291 suburbanmusicwheaton.com suburbanmusicwheaton.com

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Shop Local for the Holidays! It’s Home to Us!

Miroballi Shoes Merle Norman 124 N. Hale St.

A Baby Naturally Larc Jewelers

123630-690-6880 N. Main St. 630-668-6685 miroballishoes.com merlenorman.com

130127 W.N.Willow St. Hale St. 331-222-9588 630-221-9100 ababynaturally.com www.larcjewelers.com

Jeans & A and CuteShare Top Shop Wear

Andrew’s Garden Naperville 131 W. Wesley St Running Company

123 WesleySt 139 W. N. Hale St. 630-690-5287 630-456-414 jeansandacutetopshop.com www.wear-share.com

630-456-4689 102 W. Front St. andrewsgarden.com 630-668-7867 runningcompany.com

Mile Long Jewlery Records Stones The&Perfect Thing Art Glass Studio 204 W. Liberty St. 124 N. Main St 630-665-5200 708-482-0037 theperfectthing.net art-glass-studio.

The Cardinal Gift Shop MOORE & St. Gadgets 117 Toys N. Main

107 E.Front St 630-289-4221 630-480-4285 blcinc.org/visit-the-cardinal-giftmooretoys.com shop/ cardinal-gift-shop

350 St.St. 104W.W.Front Front 630-474-4954 630-668-0163 milelongrecords.com stonesjewelry.com

Second Hand Rose Midwest Cyclery 125E.N. MainSt.St. 117 Front 630-668-2424 midwestcyclery.com

Downtown Wheaton gift certificates Your Downtown Wheaton shops are make the perfect holiday gift andand are locally owned by your friends accepted all the downtown shops neighbors;by extending a warm invitation and restaurants. available to you to shopThey andare celebrate for purchase at selected the holidays withshops them! and at the Downtown Wheaton Association at www.downtownwheaton.com 108 East Wesley Street. For details visit downtownwheaton.com

Rumpel Shirt Skin Frocks Frills St. Vintage 110and W. Willow 203 S. Hale St. 630-682-4495 630-221-9400 rumpelshirtskin.com frocksandfrillsvintage.com

Wheaton Religious Gifts Music & Suburban Church Supply

210 Front 113 W.W. Front St.St. 630-682-4291 630-668-3971 suburbanmusicwheaton.com www.religiousgiftwarehouse.com

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tidings!

Good Local stores deck their halls to offer dedicated Christmas-themed shopping

By Vicki Martinka Petersen | Photos by Jennifer Kaye

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 AMBROSE CHRISTMAS STORE 6715 N. 2nd St., Loves Park (815) 654-3111 ambrosechristmas.com Ambrose is the Christmas destination in the Rock River Valley for holiday home décor.

Walk the streets of yesteryear while taking in the stunning Christmas displays.

Ambrose offers a wide variety of ornaments and decorations

that fit the decorating styles of your friends and family.

For a traditional style, check out the Victorian or blown glass ornaments. Looking for a contemporary theme?

Ornaments range from fairies and circus to fishing and ocean life.

If your shopping list includes fans of Department 56, German Nutcracker or other holiday collections, you are sure to find

EGYPTIAN THEATRE • 90th Anniversary season HIGHLIGHTS

!

o you start counting the days until Christmas around the time the kids head back to school? If you’re a holiday season superstar, and want to surround yourself in the tidings of the season, there are shops across the region to envelope you in holiday glee.

DEC

1

2:00PM

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7:30PM

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7:00PM

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8:00PM

JAN

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135 N. 2ND STREET • DOWNTOWN DEKALB, IL

FOR TICKETS VISIT WWW.EGYPTIANTHEATRE.ORG box office: 815-758-1225 ANNUAL SPONSORS: est. 1851

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Kitchen Outfitters has what you need for all of your Fall cooking. With the temperatures dropping, nothing tastes better than soups and stews and nothing cooks better and retains heat like cast iron. We have beautiful enameled cast iron and pre-seasoned raw cast iron. Come on in and let us show you how easy cast iron is to cook in!

a new piece that will bring them joy. DIY-enthusiasts can sign up for classes to create personal arrangements or decorations, such as wreath design and fresh green arrangements. Check with the store for upcoming classes.

step into the Conservatory to find a variety of artificial Christmas trees for sale. The floral designers in the Conservatory double as holiday helpers who can create festive bows for your wreaths and swags.

Once you find ornaments to trim the tree, choose from Ambrose’s 35 or 100 count traditional light sets. Bubble lights, icicle lights or candle lights can add a creative touch to Christmas trees.

Department 56 enthusiasts will find an entire room dedicated to the fan favorite holiday collections. Each village transports shoppers to a Christmas wonderland at the North Pole, a step back in time at Dickens’ Village, and the hustle and bustle of celebrating Christmas in the City. Every year the village displays are updated at The Little Traveler to include new pieces to each collection.

 THE LITTLE TRAVELER 404 S. 3rd St., Geneva (630) 232-4200 littletraveler.com Tucked within the shops of downtown Geneva, The Little Traveler has transformed from its original Italianate Victorian residence into a 36-room shopping destination. Each room has a different theme filled with treasures related to the theme, including a room designated year-round to Christmas ornaments, decorations and collectibles.

64B N Williams St. Downtown Crystal Lake

779.220.4653

KitchenOutfittersCrystalLake.com

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Get ideas to create your own themed tree in the year-round Christmas rooms. Country Christmas, Pop the Cork and Blast from the Past are just some of the more than 50 themed trees that have popped up through the years. Shoppers can select ornaments directly from these trees for presents or their own trees.

The halls at The Little Traveler are decked with wreaths and swags throughout the store. See one you like? They’re all for sale. Or

 CRACKER BARREL multiple locations www.crackerbarrel.com During the holidays, the shopping area at Cracker Barrel is transformed into a winter wonderland that just might rival Santa’s workshop at the North Pole. The Christmas collections cover a variety of decorating styles. The Elegant Christmas collection features gold and silver decorations, including a light up gold glitter tree and a silver glitter star of Bethlehem ornament.

For a country-themed Christmas tree, check out the Traditional Christmas collection for light up lantern and a snowman shutter ornaments. The country look wouldn’t be complete without red truck décor, which can be found on a hanging Merry

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Christmas sign, stoneware platter and light up greenery holder.

Couple these with owl and Cracker Barrel old country store ornaments from the Woodland Christmas collection.

The Vintage Christmas collection features claydough ornaments and a sheep with jingle bell collar figure. To add a playful touch to the holidays, buy a friend a sloth ornament and get your favorite baby an elf bib from the Whimsical Christmas collection.

 CHRISTKINDLMARKET 50 W. Washington St., Chicago (312) 494-2175 christkindlmarket.com/chicago/ The 24th Annual Christkindlmarket returns to downtown Chicago on Friday, Nov. 15, through Christmas Eve. This free event, inspired by the Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, Germany, blends German and European Christmas traditions in Chicago’s largest

open-air Christmas festival.

The pop up village is comprised of vendor booths that look like miniature cottages. You’ll find truly unique presents here from hand-painted Polish pottery and pewter ornaments made in Bavaria/Germany to hand-crafted animal figurines and cuckoo clocks.

All that shopping is sure to work up an appetite, and the sumptuous treats at Christkindlmarket definitely warrant a cheat day. Enjoy a smorgasbord of sausages, potato pancakes, sauerkraut, strudel and other culinary treats. Warm up with a cup of hot honeycrisp apple cider, hot-spiced wine or a hot chocolate, which comes in a commemorative mug.

Christkindlmarket will be open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. On Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve, the market will be open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Last Minute Hostess Gifts & Baskets Available Come taste 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

See Us for New Vinaigrette Recipes!

Special Tastings of our Products Every Weekend

Store Hours

Mon-Fri 10am-6pm ~ Thurs 10am-8pm ~ Sat 10am-5:30pm ~ Sun 11am-4pm

315 James St. • Geneva, IL • (630) 262-0210 • www.olivemillgeneva.com NEIGHBORHOOD TOURIST

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WHAT OTHER HOME CENTERS CHARGE FOR, AT CARPETLAND YOU ALWAYS GET:

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More

than

décor The search for a Christmas tree – the centerpiece of holiday season – has become an event in and of itself.

Compiled by Jonathan Bilyk

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or many, there is simply no substitute for a tromp through fields overflowing with row upon row of fresh firs, pines and spruces, hacksaw in hand, Jack Frost nipping at their noses, in search of the perfect, super fresh holiday tree.

And throughout the region, a host of local tree farms stand ready to help those families find the tree that will stand at the center of their holiday festivities, conjuring some holiday magic, even as a family member or two are tasked with crawling in the dirt under the lowest branches of the evergreen of choice to cut it down.

Here are some picks to consider for your family’s holiday tree hunting adventure this holiday season:

 RICHARDSON CHRISTMAS TREE FARM 9407 Richardson Road Spring Grove 815-675-9729 richardsonadventurefarm.com Richardson’s, located just south of the Wisconsin state line, was voted Best Christmas Tree Farm in Illinois

by Good Housekeeping in 2018. The farm offers more than 50,000 trees to choose from on 75 acres. In addition to the trees, visitors can visit the heated sales barn, with indoor restrooms, offering an assortment of wreaths, garland, decorations and bows, with most made on the farm. Fresh, homemade donuts are also available for sale. Coffee and hot chocolate are free. On weekends, visitors can take a free wagon ride to and from the fields.

 ONEY’S TREE FARM 16608 Route 14, Woodstock 815-338-4108 www.oneystreefarm.com In business since 1960, Oney’s lays claim to the title of the oldest and largest tree farm in Northern Illinois. Oney’s offers nine varieties, totaling

60,000 trees on 60 acres.

Oney’s barn offers a gift shop with an assortment of wreaths, centerpieces, garlands and bakery items. On weekends, visitors can enjoy free horsedrawn wagon rides with sleigh bells, pony rides and even a visit from Mrs. Claus in the farm’s North Pole House.

 LEE’S TREES 45W002 Lees Road, Lily Lake 630-365-2116 www.leestreesusa.com Lee’s operates a much larger farm in Hayward, Wis., which is where Lee’s assortment of pre-cut trees originate. But the 14 acres in western Kane County is where Fox Valley visitors will be able to harvest their own trees. Lee’s offers seven varieties of trees, along with a sales barn with free hot chocolate, coffee, popcorn and cookies.

 Larson’s Family Farm, 4404 Somonauk Road, Sandwich, 815-786-2249, https:// larsonfamilyfarm.com/ Nestled in southeastern DeKalb County, near the Kendall County line, Larson’s

Family Farm offers a true old-fashioned tradition.

Visitors simply drive out to the trees and park, before walking through the rows of evergreens, looking for “the tree.” Larson’s offers six varieties to choose from, and saws are provided. Larson’s offers hot apple cider and cookies for sale, along with a variety of antique, vintage and unique Christmas decorations and gift items. Larson’s does not accept credit or debit cards.

 KUIPER’S FAMILY FARM 1N318 Watson Rd., Maple Park 815-827-5200 kuipersfamilyfarm.com Already famous for its fall apple- and pumpkin-related festivities, Kuiper’s offers visitors the chance to find and cut their own Christmas tree, before returning to the farm’s store and bakery to stock up on fresh apples, pies, cider donuts and other tasty treats. The gift shop, decked in barn wood, offers antiques and an assortment of other unique items.

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 ANDERSON TREE FARM 508 W. Route 126 Plainfield 815-436-2140 visitandersontreefarm.com Tucked just inside Kendall County’s eastern boundary, Anderson Tree Farm offers visitors the choice of either cutting down their tree or taking it home alive to decorate and then plant in the spring. According to their website, visitors can select a pre-dug tree, with the roots balled and burlapped. Guests can then place the tree in a stand indoors for the holidays, before taking it back outside to be planted in the yard.

NOVEMBER 22 POINSETTIA DISPLAY & SALE

DECEMBER 7 HOLIDAY FEST & MISTLETOE MARKET

DECEMBER 14-15 LEGO TRAIN SHOW

 TAMMEN TREEBERRY FARM 37131 Essex Road Wilmington 815-458-6264 tammentreeberryfarm.net Choose and cut your own Christmas tree beginning the day after Thanksgiving, seven days a week from 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Tammen has been growing them since 1956, with about 160 acres of Christmas trees, the largest share of are Douglas-fir, Canaan fir, and Fraser fir. Two or three generations of some families have visited Tammen Treeberry Farm and say that it is their family tradition.

DECEMBER 22 BRUNCH WITH SANTA

Happy Holidays from Cantigny!

This was Colonel Robert R. McCormick’s gift to the community and all 500 acres are yours to enjoy.

Plan your visit today at Cantigny.org • Spectacular Gardens • McCormick House • First Division Museum • Banquets/Weddings/Golf Outings • Championship Golf • Special Events

CANTIGNY PARK 1s151 Winfield Rd, Wheaton, IL 60189 630.668.5161 | Cantigny.org CANTIGNY GOLF 27w270 Mack Rd, Wheaton, IL 60189 630.668.8463 | CantignyGolf.com

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2019 St. Charles

Holiday Homecoming Friday, November 29 Lighting of the Lights Ceremony at 5:00pm Saturday, November 30 Holiday activities for the whole family Electric Christmas Parade at 5:30pm www.stcholidayhomecoming.com

St. Charles, Illinois offers an authentic holiday experience that can’t

be missed. From celebrations to preparations, St. Charles is your holiday destination for unique dining, boutique shopping and social gatherings.

Discover Your Festive Side

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DAY OF INDOOR MALL Don’t love the cold? Escape the sofa with a day of indoor fun at a local 'super' mall

BY Melissa Rubalcaba Riske Searching for a little retail therapy to help you beat the winter blues, or a one-stop option to fill the day and use those gift cards? These ‘super’ malls will exceed your need. You’ll find a large variety of stores, plenty of dining options and extras that will entertain the whole family. u WOODFIELD MALL 5 Woodfield Mall, Schaumburg

u GURNEE MILLS 6170 W. Grand Ave., Gurnee

Bring some good walking shoes or even better, buy some! And get ready for family fun as you explore more than 2 million square feet of retail shops, restaurants and family-friendly amenities. With choices including favorite department stories to favorite retailers and smaller boutiques there is a reason this is a favorite shopping destination, and yet that is just the beginning.

Having undergone a major renovation the mall has a fresh look and even more retail and entertainment for all ages.

Families can enjoy an array of entertainment from the indoor play area to venturing into YuKids Island, Blocks to Bricks and even Rainforest Café. The PAC-Man Entertainment center will please multiple generations, and you can cap a perfect day date or girl’s day out with a comedy show at the Improv Comedy Club.

And if you take advantage of guest services including package and coat check, free WiFi, trolley transportation and even valet parking, your holiday stress will simply slip away!

When it’s time to for a food break there are 40 dining options available including the newest addition, Shake Shack. And this only includes what’s on the mall property.

A short ride will lead to even more dining, retail and entertainment choices surrounding this mecca of merchandising, food and entertainment.

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As shopping malls move beyond the retail fun discover a world of entertainment.

Catch a film at the Gurnee Marcus Cinema.

Experience the fun inside the Tilt Studio that features indoor miniature golf, laser tag, an arcade and access to an indoor ice rink where you can catch a local team facing its rivals or lace up your own skates and enjoy some ice time during a public skate.

There are nearly 200 shops including department stores and outlet locations along with smaller favorites and a few more unique finds – like new comer Joe’s Boots with a collection of cowboy boots perfect for work or play. From new furniture to home furnishings and so much more in between shoppers will find plenty of ways to enjoy their visit.

The mall offers great dining options including the family favorite Rainforest Café and the sports fans won’t miss a moment of the game at Buffalo Wild Wings. In total there are 19 dining locations offering places to stop for a snack, refreshing beverage or a full-service dining experience.

u WATER TOWER PLACE 835 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago For the ultimate shopping destination in Chicago a visit to Water Tower Place can check every box of fun, from retail and dining options to entertainment for all ages.

This shopping destination has something for every style. Shop for luxury goods to everyday favorites and of course plenty of merchandise to pay homage to Chicago too.

One of the favorite stops is the American Girl Place featuring the full line of dolls and shop for clothes for your doll and your favorite child. The Girl Salon is the place to pamper dolls. Take your doll to the in-store café for a fun and delicious dining experience. (During the busier times it is best to make a dining or Girl Salon reservation in advance.)

Whether you are looking to nibble and nosh or a full meal there are plenty of dining options including full-service restaurants including Mity Nice Grill and Harry Caray’s 7th Inning Stretch.

Or eat on the go from several dining locations boasting snacks and quick bites to desserts, too. A visit to the location’s dining pavilion, Food Life, is sure to provide healthy and delicious offerings for everyone’s taste palate.

Along with the retail offerings Water Tower Place offers great entertainment including a paint-your-own-pottery shop, the Chicago Sports Museum located inside Harry Caray’s 7th Inning Stretch Restaurant and the Broadway in Chicago’s Broadway Playhouse.

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DAY OF WET & WONDERFUL Break the cold, old, post-holiday routine and dive into some fun at a local indoor waterpark

By Pat Szpekowski Picture this: It’s the middle of winter and you’re swimming, splashing, and sliding like it’s a blazing hot summer.

And you didn’t have to hop a plan somewhere warm to experience it.

That might be just the remedy you need to break away from the postholiday Christmas break boredom blues.

Offering weatherproof fun and a mini vacation from the cold, ice, and snow, local waterpark destinations can serve as a great way to enjoy a day (or several) of safe family fun close to home. So get ready to snap those selfies and start building new lifetime memories.

Explore the amenities and features of these three unique indoor waterpark destinations: u GREAT WOLF LODGE 1700 Nations Drive, Gurnee This fully renovated indoor water park resort is a fun getaway with a host of kidfriendly activities and dining options. Day passes are available and a stay at Great Wolf Lodge also provides access to the 80,000 sq. ft. water park. You’ll stay toasty

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in the warm 84-degree waters!

The water attractions here beckon adventures while enjoying the Double Whirlwind raft ride, the four-story high Alberta Falls tandem tube ride, or Slap Tail Pond wave pool. That’s only a taste of what’s in store for the exhilarating fun of bends, spins, and turns that await.

Hungry? There are a half dozen dining options to please kids of all ages. Have a delicious waffle at the Campfire Kitchen, a classic burger at Timbers, or wine-down with tasty food and wine pairings.

Great Wolf Lodge is a popular birthday party destination, too. It’s open seven days a week and filled with many activities. Howl with joy, no matter what time of the day! u GRAND BEAR FALLS INDOOR WATERPARK 2643 IL Route 178, Utica This magical hotel and resort near Starved Rock State Park has it all. It’s a place to escape and be part of an oasis of relaxation. Make a big splash at the Grand Bear Falls Indoor Waterpark located on the first floor of the Lodge.

There are water slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, a tot pool, and a bubbly 15-person hot tub. If you’re heading here for a fun weekend, kids can take part in the Duck Derby Race on Saturday and Sunday mornings.

The vibrant foodie scene includes Jack’s Place Restaurant & Sports Bar serving classic American cuisine. A place to kickback after a day of active splashdowns.

Checkout the website for Family Sunday Away and Thursday Night Out specials and packages.

Stay for additional adventures at nearby Starved Rock State Park for winter hiking and exploring, too. u PIRATE'S CAY 2558 N. 3653rd Road, Sheridan Ahoy, mateys...it’s a day of bountiful treasures filled with splash time adventures while slipping down slides and floating through the lazy river at Pirate’s Cay. If you’ve got small kids looking for a fun day this glass-enclosed and climate controlled 31,000 square foot indoor waterpark is just the right fit.

Climb aboard the Parrot’s Perch Playscape and get surprised with a big splash of the sea that pirates and sailors of all ages will enjoy.

Pirate’s Cay is located on the grounds of Holiday Inn Club Vacations Fox River Resort, which offers spacious two bedroom villas and many more amenities for a fun “let’s stay vacation”.

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DAY OF INDULGENT From a few hours to a full weekend, a spa retreat could be just what the holiday season ordered

By Patricia M. Szpekowski

The holidays we love can leave us feeling spent. Big meals. Bigger desserts. Insanely busy schedules. They all take their toll.

Unwind and rejuvenate the mind, body, and spirit. Enjoy a short respite with a day out at a local spa. Indulge alone, as a couple, or with girlfriends to help reignite. Carve out time for a wide range of spa services that are within driving distance.

As soon as you step into the secluded spa areas, your personal journey of well-being begins. These three top-rated full service spas are worth considering for a day trip and much-needed winter break. Here are a few from the region to consider: u KOHLER WATERS SPA AT BURR RIDGE 775 Village Center Dr., Burr Ridge Enjoy a premier spa, which you’ll never forget, at the Kohler Waters Spa at Burr Ridge. It mirrors the similar amenities and signature treatments as its infamous Forbes five-star flagship spa in Kohler, Wisconsin.

Discover the therapeutic benefits and restorative properties of water through their innovative treatments, including the Kohler Custom Vichy shower. Soak in the large hot tub with relaxing waterfalls.

Choose from a full spectrum of services and restore yourself.

and events featured online. Overnight stays available at Crowne Plaza Burr Ridge. u EAGLEWOOD RESORT & SPA 1401 Nordic Rd., Itasca Serenity is surely found at The SPA at Eaglewood through the healing sounds and aromas that envelope the senses from head to toe. It’s easy to be indulged and pampered through their revitalizing treatments for the face, body, nails, and hair.

Always a trend-setter, five new massage treatments have debuted here: the Thai, Stressless CBD- Infused, Himalayan Salt Stone, Cupping, and Relax-ology.

Each focuses on improved wellness and flexibility.

Guests receiving spa services are invited to enjoy a wide range of amenities, including the relaxation room with water feature, naturally lit indoor pool, steam room and wood sauna to detoxify and purify, and spacious indoor hot tub. Complimentary tea, infused water and healthy snacks lift the experience.

Demand is always high, especially on weekends. Check out the numerous offers

Individual services are available as well as distinctive packages and overnight spa

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getaway packages. Hours vary each day of the week.

The casual Prairie River Restaurant at this special resort provides made-from-scratch Midwest cuisine and local brews to warm the spirit during winter months. u HERRINGTON INN & SPA 15 S. River Lane, Geneva With a backdrop alongside the Fox River, let the soothing experience immerse you at this European style hotel offering awardwinning dining, impeccable rooms, and complete spa services and packages.

Choose a single spa treatment or signature packages. There’s an extensive menu of tempting massage, body soak, and scrub therapies, plus facial, hand, and foot relief treatments.

Indulge in one of the three spa service packages exclusive to this Geneva gem. The Herrington Massage offers a rejuvenating foot soak infused with skin nourishing bath salts, full body relaxation massage and warm steamed towels infused with milk.

Let a highly-trained Esthetician target exact areas of personal concern with The Herrington Signature Facial to provide a luminous glow. Or, choose the two-hour Herrington Delight featuring head-to-toe aromatic indulgences and a rainfall shower.

Day and overnight appointments available on Monday-Saturday from 8am to 8pm and Sunday from 9am to 5pm.

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Join us for our amazing

appening H y a d i l s Ho in Morris, Illinois Friday, Saturday, & Sunday November 29 & 30, December 1

Events

Lighted Holiday Parade Christmas House Walk & Tea Lighting of Chapin Park Children’s Activities And Much More!

Festival of Trees Morris Downtown Development Partnership #homefortheholidaysmorrisil #downtownmorrisil 815-941-0245

Shop Small, Shop Local, Shop Downtown Morris PLEASE JOIN THE FOLLOWING MORRIS RETAIL ASSOCIATION MEMBERS AS WE CELEBRATE SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY!

APPLE BUTTER/SHUGIES • ATHLETIC OUTFITTERS • BETTY’S • BLACKBIRD’S BOWL • BRIANNA LYNN’S BOUTIQUE • CAM & CO. • CLAYTON’S TAP • GIGI • HAPPY DAISY ART STUDIO • JAKINS & SUCH PRETTIES • JUST KIDDING AROUND • MCMANIAC’S • MONTAGE WINE BAR & SPIRITS • OLEANDERS • OUR HOME TO YOURS • POUT BOUTIQUE • ROCK*SOUL*LOVE • ROSIE O’GRADY’S • RUBY BEGONIA’S • RUGGED • STUDIO FERRO THE SHOP • THE FABRIC CENTER • THE FRONT PORCH • THE PAPER CO. • THE THOUGHTFUL SPOT • TRUE NORTH • WHIMSY #morrisretailassociation • Shopmorrisil.com

FESTIVAL OF TREES 2019 Friday, November 29 10am-7pm Saturday, November 30 10am-7pm Sunday, December 1 1pm-3pm SILENT AUCTIONS

Decorated Trees, Centerpieces, Wreaths and more! RAFFLES, too!

Grundy Co. Historical Society • 815-942-4880 510 W. Illinois Ave Morris, IL 60450 • grundycountyhs.org Visit our Website for all Downtown Activities

www.downtownmorris.com

SM-CL1710852 710852

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Day of Bundled-Up Does the holiday break have you bouncing off the walls?

Wrap the family in layers and enjoy a wonderful winter’s day

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske

We may be home to the Chicago Bears but hibernation doesn’t always suit us.

When cabin fever starts to set in these locations can offer relief, a chance to be out in the bright winter sun and enjoy the beautyn of the season. And, let’s not forget there are great spots to warm those mittens with a hot beverage and delicious meal.

T MORTON ARBORETUM 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle Hours: grounds open 7 a.m. to sunset; visitor center open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Admission: Adults $15; seniors age 65 and older $13; children ages 2-17 $10; Children 1 and younger admitted free To walk through a fresh coat of snow on the delicate branches of trees is a winter inspiration. Adding a few layers and enjoying a walk in the crisp air away from the crowds and hustle can recharge one’s battery.

But the arboretum is more than an escape to nature as there are still plenty of wonderful events to explore on the park grounds and indoors as well. Visitors can still take part in the Troll Hunt throughout the arboretum featuring large sculptures (including one that is 60-feet long). A selfie with one of these sculptures is a must.

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From Nov. 23 to Jan. 5 explore trees in a new light at Illumination: Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum exhibit. This event brings together the festive colors of the season with an interactive display along a one-mile paved walking path. Timed tickets are available for visits between 4:30 and 8 p.m. Admission to Illumination is not included with regular admission or membership. Tickets for an adult are $23 and for a child $15, with discounts for members.

From Jan. 17 to Feb. 23 rekindle your love of trains at the Enchanted Railroad exhibit featuring 10 model trains in a two-level display. Timed tickets are included with admission but do acquire them when you arrive at the Visitor Center as they are available first-come, first serve. And don’t forget annual events like Husky Heroes, Jan. 25-26 where visitors can watch Siberian sled dogs pull sleds and learn

about the history of this sport. The sweet Chocolate Weekend is slated for Feb. 8-9.

T BROOKFIELD ZOO 8400 31 st St., Brookfield Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission: $21.95 adult; $15.95 senior age 65 and older; $15.95 children ages 3-11; parking is $14; save by purchasing tickets online; Admission is Free Tuesdays and Thursdays from Oct. 1-Dec. 31, 2019 The winter is one of the best times to visit the zoo when there are less crowds and a chance to get a close up view of the animals.

Enjoy the long-time favorites like the dolphin show or check out some of the newer exhibits including the Hamill Family Wild Encounters where parakeets flutter past your head. Even when the temps drop below freezing the zoo offers plenty of fun from indoor exhibits like The Swamp and

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Thanksgiving Dinner with all the Trimmings

Thursday, November 28th • 11:30am & 2:00pm

Christmas Around the World Tropical World.

The Hamill Family Play Zoo is a great spot for young children to let their imagination inspire. There’s even a soft play area for those little ones still mastering crawling.

Watch the sun go down over sleeping bison and the zoo light up with the annual holiday lights giving the zoo a twinkle that can seem magical in the crisp cool air.

For added fun visit the zoo’s annual Holiday Magic weekends from Nov. 30 to Dec. 31 including additional days Dec. 26-31. The event features a festive atmosphere, zoo fun along with holiday favorites like caroling to the animals.

T UTICA AREA FEATURING STARVED ROCK Matheissen State Park Considered one of the state’s most beautiful locations Starved Rock State Park is located along Routes 178 and 71 in Utica on the Illinois River Bluff in La Salle County.

Starved Rock features 13 miles of trails and 18 canyons to explore. Visitors will marvel at the tall trees and rock formations and feel a world away from the urban and suburban landscape. In the quieter winter months discover which animals don’t hibernate as you spot footprints in the snow or catch a sighting of a deer, or perhaps a red-tailed hawk soaring overhead.

At Starved Rock Highlights of the winter months include winter hikes and the popular Eagle Watch the last weekend in January.

Nearby Matthiessen Park is another destination to take in nature’s beauty with trails and beautiful rock formations.

During the winter months with snow on the ground it is a great spot for cross country skiing.

Walking and exploring is sure to work up a good appetite and find delicious places for a full-service meal or warm up with a coffee and tea with a short drive to charming downtown Utica, and LaSalle.

Make time to browse the shops including antique shops, boutiques and much more. Be sure to save time for a visit to the August Hill Winery for a tasting and on weekends there is often live music too.

Saturday, December 7th, Germany Saturday, December 14th, Italy Saturday, December 21st, 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 Please Call For Enjoy Reservations Live Music

Williamsburg Holiday Holiday Christmas Dinner Brunches Every Sunday Thurs December 12th in December 12:00 Noon 7:00 pm

Special Christmas Day Brunch December 25th 12:00 Noon

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@oscsarswan.com www.oscarswan.com NEIGHBORHOOD TOURIST

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Powering down post-holiday This year, give a gift they will truly relish: a relaxing experience at a delightful day spa

The holidays can be stressful.

Filling shopping lists, organizing events, traveling to visit family… it all takes its toll. And even at the happiest time of the year, the pace and the expectations can leave you feeling drained.

So this year, give the gift of rejuvenation, with a wellness filled gift from a nearby spa. And watch family and friends rejoice, relishing the idea of a post-holiday break in a truly relaxing place.

Here are a few great spa-centered gifts and packages to consider for your wish list, or someone else’s:

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 THE HERRINGTON DELIGHT Herrington Inn and Spa, Geneva Begin this two hour experience with a chamomile and cornmeal body polish to exfoliate the skin from head-to-toe. After a private rainfall shower, your therapist will use a heated deep lavender rub to target sore muscles to reduce tension and stress. A full body wrap will then intensify the lavender rub, releasing essential oil to penetrate muscle tissue, open sinuses and provide total body relaxation.

120 minutes $200

 MT SIGNATURE MASSAGE Mario Tricoci Salon and Day Spa, various locations Mario Tricoci’s most requested massage includes a full body massage, soothing back treatment, heated aromatherapy neck and back pillow, warm foot wrap, extensive hand and foot massage, and scalp massage for a truly luxurious experience from head to toe. Select organic spa products are available upon request.

100 min - $170 (also available in 50 and 80-minute options.) Check for availability at various Illinois locations. This package easily pairs with other salon and spa services.

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 CBD PEDICURE Paul Hyland Salon and Day Spa, Crystal Lake All of the elements of a Classic Spa Pedicure with the addition of CBD infused soak, scrub, mask, and massage cream. Enjoy a collagen hand treatment (CBD infused or regular) during a pedicure service to deliver an intense dose of moisture and visibly restore youthfulness.

Toward the conclusion of your service, a high quality CBD balm is applied to the feet for an extra boost of therapy! This balm is made from all-natural ingredients grown on Colorado farms.

This artisanal blend includes beeswax, a naturally occurring antibacterial that retains moisture to keep skin hydrated, plus essential oils.

Extracts from eucalyptus, tea tree, peppermint and lavender plants offer this salve a subtly herbaceous scent. $60  HIMALAYAN SALT MASSAGE Hand and Stone Massage, Wheaton Unique from a traditional hot stone massage, Himalayan Salt Stone Massage uses warm salt crystal stones to soothe away stress and tension, and promote an increased sense of well-being. Its grounding properties help to improve sleep and balance the Central Nervous System. Himalayan Salt Stone Massage is said to support electromagnetic overload from electronic devices. Additionally, the stone’s natural salt properties gently exfoliate the skin to promote naturally smooth and silky skin, reducing signs of aging.

One hour - $129.95

 THE PLATINUM PACKAGE SPA DAY Bella Vita Salon and Day Spa, Algonquin

PLUMBING PROBLEMS?

For a truly remarkable day of relaxation for yourself or someone special, consider the Bella Vita Platinum Package A full day of spa treatments includes a specialty facial, 1-1/2 hour massage, body treatment, manicure, pedicure, spa hair treatment and a spa lunch Limo Service Available within a five-mile radius. This spa package can be handdelivered with a rose as a special gesture.

7 ½ hours - $400  INFRARED SAUNA THERAPY Tranquility Spa and Wellness Center, St. Charles Infrared Saunas differ from conventional saunas because they use the same type of “radiant” energy the sun produces. It is not ultraviolet radiation, but the positives of the sun without the dangerous effects of solar radiation. It is the wavelength that allows plants to make energy. The detoxifying benefits help rid your body of accumulated metals such as lead, mercury and nickel as well as alcohol, nicotine and sulfuric acid.

Temperatures also are lower, about 130-140 degrees, versus the traditional saunas, which typically are 180-220 degrees.

Infrared Sauna therapy has many other health benefits including stress reduction and relaxation. Infrared saunas help to enhance the immune system, relieve muscle pain, increase metabolism and can be effective in treatment of sprains, bursitis, joint stiffness and cardiovascular health.

Infrared Sauna plus shower $35

WE CAN HELP. TM

Plumbing • Sewer • Electric • HVAC

There when you need us.

(866) 418-3136 BlackDiamondToday.com License # 058-140555 NEIGHBORHOOD TOURIST

NOVEMBER 2019

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Family Vacations Beyond Your Wildest Dreams Apple Vacations makes getting to your Dreams Resorts & Spas destination easy and affordable with Exclusive Nonstop Vacation Flights from cities coast to coast, and nonstop airport/hotel transfers – An Apple Leisure Group Exclusive! Dreams Resorts & Spas’ Unlimited-Luxury® experience provides everything else, including limitless gourmet meals, snacks and top-shelf spirits.

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NEIGHBORHOOD TOURIST

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EAT DRINK PLAY

Discover Aurora’s Downtown

Aurora Downtown is where you can eat, drink, and play all year long. Distinctive dining, award-winning theater, stunning views of the Fox River, and family-friendly museums are at the heart of it all in Aurora’s downtown. auroradowntown.org NT_November 2019.indd 51

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All That Shimmers Is Bold

230 W. State Street | Geneva, Illinois | 630.232.2085 www.statestreetjewelers.com Open 7 days a week - Holiday Hours starting December 5th Mon-Fri 10am-8pm | Sat 10am-5pm | Sun 11am-4pm

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