OCTOBER 2011

August - Thanksgiving weekend
EDWARDS ORCHARD WEST
8218 Cemetery Road, Winnebago
Apple orchard located in rural Winnebago featuring a large variety of apples. Also home grown raspberries, pumpkins, squash, Indian corn and gourds. Family fun in a rural atmosphere. Directions: 6 miles north of US Rte 20 - 10 miles northwest of Rockford.
815-963-2261

Last weekend in September - October 31
GOEBBERT'S PUMPKIN PATCH
42W813 Reinking Road (corner of Route 47 & Reinking Road), Hampshire
Petting farm, Giraffe barn, pumpkin express train, corn stalk maze, haunted mine, goat mountain, pumpkin eating dinosaur, pig races, pony rides, wagon ride to pick your pumpkins, market & craft barn, farmer's wife care & bakery. Fun for everyone.
847-464-5952
www.pumpkinfarms.com

September 24 - End-October
SHADES OF AUTUMN
Stade Dairy Farm, 3709 West Miller Road, McHenry
A wonderful fall tradition for the family. Enjoy nature's bounty during the most beautiful tim of the year. Free hayrides to pick your pumpkin. Petting zoo, pumpkin cannon, live entertainment, etc. Saturdays and Sundays only.
815-675-6396
www.stadedairyfarm.com

October
PUMPKINFEST
Royal Oak Farm Orchard, 15908 Hebron Road, Harvard
Columbus Day weekend to end of October. Featuring giant pumpkins, ornamental pumpkins and gourds plus more.
815-648-4141
www.royaloakfarmorchard.com

October
SPOOKTACULAR FESTIVAL
Lockwood Park, 5201 Safford Road, Rockford
Friday and Saturday Evenings: Spooktacular Hayrides, Glow in the Dark Pony Ring, Goblin Gameyard, Spook 'N Treat Egg Hunt, Live Country Band, Live Remotes by Q98.5 Radio. Saturday and Sunday Afternoons: Wyoming Trail Rides, Pony Ring, Hayrides, Corn Launch, Corn Maze, Boo Barnyard, Arts & Crafts at the Farm, Cowboy Cookouts All programs and activities are weather-dependent and subject to change.
815-987-8809
www.rockfordparkdistrict.org/spooktacular

September 30-October 2

LONG GROVE APPLE FEST

Corner of Old McHenry and Robert Coffin Roads, Long Grove

Live music, carriage rides, hayrides and children's activities. Entertainment on the stage in Fountain Square and at the Covered Bridge and Mill Pond.

www.longgroveonline.com

October 1-2, 8-10, 15-16, 22-23, 29-30

PUMPKIN WEEKENDS

100 South Barnes Road, Auroa

Fall into a month's worth of autumnal celebration at Blackberry Farm each weekend in October. Each weekend at Blackberry Farm will be festively decorated in the spirit of pumpkin season. Park hours are 11am-4pm. Admission is $4 per person.

www.foxvalleyparkdistrict.org

October 1

GALENA OKTOBERFEST

Annual German celebration featuring live music, kids games, wiener dog races and lots of food and beverages.  Enjoy a bean bag tournament, raffle drawings with great prizes, polka dancing and lessons, bear stein endurance contest, and the ceremonial tapping of the keg. Free use of bounce house for the kids. Food will be served by local favorires, Benjamin's Restaurant, Galena Elks, and Extra Batch Bakery.  This event raises money for the Galena Lions Club and it's fun for the whole family.  Admissions is $5.00 for adult and children 12 and under are free.

www.galenalions.com

October 1

FALL WINE FESTIVAL

Pinehill, Oregon

Its time to think about the fall Wine & Beer Festival at Pinhill on October 1st, 2011.

815-732-2100

October 1

BARN QUILT GUIDED TOUR

Kankakee Farmers Market at the corner of Merchant Street and Schuyler Avenue

Join us for a guided tour of Kankakee County's historic countryside. Barn Quilts are historic barns adorned with colorful, hand-painted quilt patterns. Much like traditional fabric quilts, each Barn Quilt tells a unique story of growth, celebration, toil and tradition.

www.visitkankakeecounty.com

October 1

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS AUTUMN HARVEST

Arlington Heights Road and Eastman Street, Arlington Heights

Family event including a hayride, pony rides, a scarecrow builiding contest, balloon twisters and a pet parade. Free admission.

www.ahpd.org

October 1-2

US NATIONAL SKI JUMPING CHAMPIONSHIPS

Norge Ski Club ,Fox River Grove

Gates open at 11:00am, Competition starts at noon. Admission $15 at gate, $10 presale, and $11 online. Kids 12 and under free.

www.norgeskiclub.com

October 1-2

FULTON FALL FESTIVAL

515 North 4th Street, Fulton

Downtown activities, entertianment, arts and crafts show, car show, inflatable rides, kid's crafts, food vendors and more!

www.cityoffulton.us

October 2
23RD ANNUAL FALL ARTSCENE
Various locations in the Rockford Metro area
Fall ArtScene showcases original works of art at 41 different locations Admission is free and it's a great opportunity to purchase artwork! Exhibits and original works of art in varied media of watercolor, acrylic, wood, sculpture, pottery, furniture, jewelry, photography and multi-media.
815-963-6765
www.fallartscene.com

October 1-31
LENA COMMUNITY HAUNTED BARN
Lions Park
609 S. Schuyler, Lena
Friday and Saturday: 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm (Ticket Sales open at 6 pm). Open select Sundays. Multiple levels of thrills and chills in 2 barns connected by a 150' slide, haunted scenes, changing mazes, a haunted trail, and scary encounters. Not recommended for children under 7.
815-369-2642

October 2
HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF BOONE COUNTY 5K WALK/RUN
Belvidere
The 1st annual Habitat for Humanity of Boone County Run/Walk will take place on October 2nd, 2010 . This is a family event in place to promote the meaning behind Habitat for Humanity. There will be prizes given to the top times and additionally, each participant will be provided with refreshments and door prizes provided we receive the necessary donations.
815-871-8937

October 1
GALENA OKTOBERFEST
Galena's Eastside Riverfront
Annual German celebration featuring live music, kids games, wiener dog races and lots of food and beverage.
815-776-9200
www.visitgalena.org

October 1-2
FULTON FALL FESTIVAL
Downtown Fulton and Heritage Canyon
the Fall season in downtown Fulton with bobbin’ for apples, buggy rides, pumpkin painting, gunny sack races, music, food, children’s activities, hay bale maze, and more.  The Early American Crafters portray pioneer living at Heritage Canyon.  Demonstrations include broom stick making, wood stove cooking, weaving, knitting, candle making, wood carving, music, and more.
815-589-4545
www.cityoffulton.us

October 1
FALL BRAWL DEMOLITION DERBY
Ogle County Fairgrounds, Oregon
Held October 2, 2010, our fall show, with plenty of fresh cars and an opportunity for all the derby icons to finish off their cars before winter. Heavy Hitters galore at this show.
262-295-8061
www.derbyicons.com

October 2

AUTUMN HARVEST FESTIVAL

Volkening Heritage Farm, 201 South Plum Grove Road, Schaumburg

Step back in time over 100 years and watch history come alive at Spring Valley's largest and most popular event!

www.parkfun.com

October 2
EGYPTIAN THEATRE HAUNTED TOURS
Egyptian Theatre, DeKalb
Take a tour of the theatre and experience a side of the Egyptian Theatre that most never see. You will be filled in on paranormal activity and ghost sightings that have taken place. You will be split up into groups to investigate the ghosts and sightings to see if you can find your own evidence and hopefully experience paranormal events!
815-758-1215
www.egyptiantheatre.org

October 1-2
THE HOME IMPROVEMENT AND REMODELING EXPO
5050 Sedge Blvd., Hoffman Estates
A fun, unique home improvement and remodeling expo marketplace where homeowners and contractors can unite and discuss projects in a positive and friendly environment. Saturday October 1 from 10:00am-6:00pm and Sunday October 2 from 10:00am-5:00pm with free admission and parking.
www.homeshowevent.com

October 1-2
AUTUMN ON PARADE
Downtown Oregon, Corner of Rt 64 & Rt 2, Oregon
Celebrate the fall season at the Autumn on Parade Festival in downtown Oregon. This event features a craft fair, farmer’s market, top notch strolling entertainment and food provided by local not-for-profit organizations. Fine Arts Show, antique tractors and classic auto show on Saturday and huge Harvest Time Parade on Sunday.
815-732-3465
www.autumnonparade.org

October 1-2

CIDER N' CINNAMON ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR

1639 North Alpine Road, Rockford

A variety of vendors will be selling one-of-a-kind arts, crafts, and food items: packages food items, candles, unique baby gifts, natural homemade skin care, jewerly, mixed media art, garden art, pumpkin art, fresh cinnamon roasted nuts, cider & donuts, plus much more! Inka Prika will perform on Saturday afternoon.

815-398-8957

www.edgebrookshops.com

October 1-2

KANE COUNTY FLEA MARKET

Main Street & Randall Road, St Charles

Up to 1,000 dealers display and sell antiques, collectibles, and Fancy Junque.

www.kanecountyfleamarket.com

October 1-2
OLDE ENGLISH FAIRE
Stronghold Camp & Conference Center, Route 2 North, Oregon
Stronghold Center transforms its property into the site of an Olde English Faire.  Swordfighters will keep alive the tradition of chivalry, merry minstrels will serenade with melodies from near and far, children will reign supreme in the Gremlin's Garden, wandering players will amaze you with feats of magic & zany comedy and merchants & artisans will offer fanciful treasures for sale.  Hearty food, coffee and soft drinks will be available for sale.  Open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.
815-732-6111
www.strongholdcenter.org

October 2 to January 2
GROSSOLOGY EXHIBIT - THE IMPOLITE SCIENCE OF THE HUMAN BODY
Riverfront Museum Park - Woodward Exhibition Hall, 711 North Main Street, Rockford
Grossology explores why your body produces mushy, oozy, crusty, scaly and stinky gunk. Based on the best-selling book "Grossology," the exhibition uses sophisticated animatronics and imaginative exhibits to tell you the good, the bad and the downright ugly about runny noses, body odor and much more. The 5,000-square-foot exhibition has more than 20 interactive displays and games and is touring North America on a five-year commitment, visiting major museums, science centers, theme parks and other similar venues.
815-963-6769 or 815-965-3433
www.discoverycentermuseum.org or www.burpee.org

October 3
ANNUAL HERITAGE CEMETERY WALK
Elmwood Cemetery, Sycamore
Hear the stories of men, women, and children who lived in our community that are buried in Elmwood Cemetery. About five characters are portrayed during the walk, along with general information about the cemetery's history.
815-895-5762
info@sycamorehistory.org

October 2
PRAIRIE RIDERS GRASS DRAGS
Boone County Fairgrounds, 8791 Route 76, Belvidere
Come enjoy the Grass Drags and swap meet where snowmobiles race, not on snow but on grass.  Good fun for the whole family.
815-544-2723

October 2
AUTUMN AT THE ARBORETUM
Klehm Arboretum & Botanic Center, 2715 South Main Street, Rockford
In addition to the trees' beautiful colors, visitors can enjoy family friendly activities throughout the entire 155 acre property. Food available for purchase.
815-965-8146
www.klehm.org

October 2

SWITCHFOOT AND ANBERLIN

1525 West Lincoln Highway, Dekalb

Doors open at 6:30pm with the show starting at 7:30pm. Tickets are $20 for the upper bowl and $30 for lower bowl and floor tickets.

October 6
LEWIS BLACK "IN GOD WE RUST"
Egyptian Theatre; 135 North Second Street, Dekalb
Prolific funny man, actor, author, and stand-up comedian/ranter Lewis Black will be live onstage as part of his In God We Rust tour at 8:00pm in the Egyptian Theatre.

October 7-9
SCARECROW FESTIVAL
Downtown St. Charles
Over 100 whimsical hand-crafted Scarecrows are on display and you can vote for your favorite Scarecrows in seven creative categories. The festival includes an Art & Craft Show, carnival, free live entertainment, Storytelling Tent, Harley Exhibit, Model Railroad Show, riverboat cruises, lots of free children activities including the popular “make your own scarecrow” where families & friends can make a scarecrow to take home.
800-777-4373
www.scarecrowfest.com

October 8-11
LINCOLN IN LASALLE
754 First Street, LaSalle
Enjoy your time at the Lock 16 Visitor Center & LaSalle Canal Boat.
815-223-1851
www.lasallecanalboat.org

October 7-8, 14-15, 21-22, 28-29
TERROR ON THE RAILROAD
Illinois Railway Museum, 7000 Olson Road, Union
Join us for a haunted Halloween Train Experience (visitors must be at least 13 and in good health).
815-923-4000
www.irm.org

October 8

HUSKIE FOOTBALL VS KENT STATE

NIU, Dekalb

Kickoff starts at 2:30pm.

October 8
CHILI SHOOT OUT
9572 Forest Hills Road, Loves Park
Over 50 cooking teams of the area's best cooks compete for Best Chili and Best Showmanship in the annual Chili Shoot Out. More than 50 teams compete and provide lots of opportunities to taste some of the best (and hottest) chili around. Live mulsic will be provided. Other festival food is also available.
815-399-2233
www.chilishootout.com

October 8
JAZZ N' THE STREET
Downtown LaSalle
Some of the best jazz music from the Midwest-IVCC Jazz Band, and more. Plus wine tasting and a micro brew garden. Fireworks at dusk.
815-488-1350

October 9
ANNUAL TURKEY TESTICLE FESTIVAL
105 N. Union Street, Byron
The annual Turkey Testicle Festival will be held October 9th at the Union Street Station in Byron.  This annual event draws thousands of people each year and during its 30-year run, the event whose tag line is "come have a ball" has transformed from a small gathering to try out a rare snack to one of the city's most popular fundraisers.  The event started in 1979 when Frank Maragi Sr. bought about 25 pounds of frozen turkey testicles and raised $130 for charity. Last year they hosted more than 5,000 attendees and $25,000 was raised for charity .
815-234-9910

October 9

THE DIAMONDS

140 East Railroad Street, Sandwich

Through the years since the release of Little Darlin' The Diamonds have learned one important lesson-- the durability of this classic rock and roll music is as much about the furture as it is about the past. As a result, The Diamonds continue to expand their audience to this day, performing in a variety of venues and settings worldwide.

www.sandwichoperahouse.com

October 9

HOLIDAY ON THE FARM

850 North Wood Dale Road, Wood Dale

Bake sale, craft fair, children's activities and more. Free admission, donations accepted.

630-595-8777

October 9

42ND ANNUAL BURGOO FESTIVAL
Downtown Utica

Stroll the main streets of Utica for a day of crafts, shopping, food & fun! Marching bands and other entertainment will be sure to please. While there be sure to try the Pioneer Stew that has been simmering and stirring all night in giant copper pots over a wood fire!

www.lasallecountymuseum.org

October 8-9
FALL DIDDLEY
Boone Fairgrounds, 8791 Illinois Route 76, Belvidere
Annual craft show featuring over 300 crafters and artists displayed in booths, in building and tents.
815-385-5745
www.mhrl.org and www.boonecountyfair.com

October 8-9
GALENA COUNTRY FAIR
Grant Park, Galena
This has been around for over 30 years - and draws 8-10,000 people. More than 150 vendors offering original, handmade arts, crafts and fine arts. Fair food, live entertainment, children's games, farmers' markets.
815-776-9200
www.galenacountryfair.org

October 8-9
SCARECROW HARVEST FESTIVAL
Midway Village and Musuem Center, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford
Enjoy time-honored harvest activities, free straw for making your own scarecrow and a Midway Marauders old-time baseball game. Museum interpreters will be on hand in the Village.
815-397-9112
www.midwayvillage.com

October 8-9

GALENA COUNTY FAIR

More than 150 vendors offering original, handmade arts, crafts and fine arts.  We also have fair food, live entertainment, children's games, and a farmers market.  $2.00 donation is appreciated.  Hours Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm and Sunday 10:00am-4:00pm

www.galenacountryfair.org

October 10
MENDELSSOHN PERFORMING ARTS CENTER - MUSIC ON MAIN- A LISTZT CELEBRATION
Court Street United Methodist Church, 215 North Court Street, Rockford
Relax and unwind at Music On Main...our series of brief and intimate after-work concerts, held at our historic Emerson House in the heart of downtown Rockford.  Experience beautiful music, mingle with the artists, enjoy complimentary wine and cheese, and relax with your friends.  Make Music On Main an after-work tradition!  This program will celebrate the 200th anniversary year of the birth of composer Franz Liszt, with performances by local and regional musicians.
815-964-9713
www.mendelssohnpac.org

October 8-10
PUMPKIN FILL UP
10258 US Hwy 20, Garden Prairie
Columbus Day weekend.  Free admission and parking. U-Pick pumpkins are $3 each up to 40lbs, U-Pick gourds, indian corn, squash and more. Twisting corn path for the little ones, corn maze for the older. Plus all your Fall decoration needs. Pony rides Saturday and Sunday only. Don't miss out. Come for all your Fall decorations including pumpkins galore!
815-597-3011
www.susiesgardenpatch.com

October 9, 16, 23
TRAIN OF TERROR
Silver Creek and Stephenson Railroad, 2954 S. Walnut, Freeport
6 pm to 9 pm. All aboard the Train of Terror into the world of darkness for a thrilling and chilling 4 mile ride. 815-235-2198

October 11
PUMPKIN PATCH DAY AT LOCKWOOD PARK
Lockwood Park, 5201 Safford Road, Rockford
A variety of free and ticketed activities for all ages will be available at the event. Pumpkins, gourds, and Indian corn will be available for purchase. All programs and activities are weather-dependent and subject to change.
815-987-8809
www.rockfordparkdistrict.org/lockwood

October 12

JEFF DUNHAM: CONTROLLED CHAOS

Metrocentre, 300 Elm Street, Rockford

Jeff Dunham offers his millions of fans brand new laughs and hilarious additions to his famed troupe of sidekicks in his all new "Controlled Chaos" Tours. More hilarity than ever ensues as the never-before seen characters and the old favorites unleashed havoc on stage.

815-968-5222

www.metrocentre.com

October 15
SPOOKTACULAR FUN AT LOCKWOOD PARK
Lockwood Park, 5201 Safford Road, Rockford
For three weeks, on Friday and Saturday evenings, ride through the haunted woods of Lockwood Park. On October 16, entertainment will be provided by the Smokin Gunz band .
815-987-8809
www.rockfordparkdistrict.org

October 14-16
AUTUMN DRIVE
Garden Valley Road, Woodstock
Harvest time in the countryside. Farms along Garden Valley Road open their doors to offer fresh produce, Fall vegetables, pumpkins, crafts, antiques and plenty of good food. Open daily: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
815-923-2415
www.autumndrive.net

October 14-16
TWENTY DIRTY HANDS
238 North Main Street, Elizabeth
Join us the second weekend in October. Tour the beautiful Galena countryside, enjoy the fall colors and visit some of the area's best know pottery and sculpure studios - open just for this weekend with special exhibits and events, allowing visitors a unique view of their kilns, forges and workspaces.
815-858-2327
www.twentydirtyhands.com

October 15-16

FOX VALLEY ANTIQUES SHOW

Randell Road & Main Street, St. Charles

The semi-annual gathering representing 14 states will feature 55 "invintation only" dealers, all well known for offering authentic antiques of the highest quality.

815-838-0606

www.csada.com

October 15
NIU HUSKIE FOOTBALL - HOMECOMING
Huskie Stadium, DeKalb
Huskie football vs Western Michigan, game kicks off at 3pm.
877-DEKALB1

October 15

NIU HOMECOMING PARADE

2nd and Lincoln Highway to 1st Street, Dekalb

Parade beginsat 9am.

October 16
FALL FESTIVAL
1730 North Main Street, Sycamore
Celebrate Fall - make apple cider, learn about the art of blacksmithing, and work with a simple machine to make rope.
815-895-5762
info@sycamorehistory.org

October 15

DEKALB COUNTY TOY RUN

311 South Washington Street, Genoa IL

Registration and first bike out at 10AM last bike out by 11AM. Bike Run breakfast at Spring Grove Restaraunt 682 Park Avenue in Genoa 8:30 till 10:30AM.

www.dekalbcountymarines.com

October 15
2nd ANNUAL FALL GROOVE WALK
Downtown Rockford
Join On the Waterfront, Inc. for this annual music walk celebrating Rockford's downtown River District and music scene! Walk from establishment to establishment or ride the RMTD trolley to visit fabulous establishments each hosting local, award-winning musicians. Country, blues, rock, latino, classic rock, pop, and R&B music are all featured throughout the night. Your attendance supports the future of Rockford's music, as a portion of the proceeds benefits the RAMI's Gary Wilmer Scholarship Fund, a music scholarship fund for high school seniors.
815-964-4388
www.onthewaterfront.com/groovewalk.htm

October 15

SYCAMORE HISTORY MUSEUM FALL FESTIVAL

Sycamore History Museum, Sycamore

Apple cider, stories and crafts. Fun for the whole family!

www.sycamorehistory.org

October 15
BOONE COUNTY HARVEST FEST
Belvidere Park and Spencer Park, Belvidere
From 9 AM - 5 PM in Belvedere Park along the Kishwaukee Riverfront Path through the Baltic Mill there will be... Scarecrow Walk (contestants must arrive at 7:00 AM to begin decorating their scarecrow, and be finished no later than 8:30 AM to allow time for setup of scarecrows along the walk) . Pumpkin inflatable for children . Pick-a-pumpkin . Guided tours of the historic Baltic Mill . Live music in the stage area adjacent to the Baltic Mill . Open Air Market in the field adjacent to the Baltic Mill, including farm produce, cheeses, meats, and folk art vendors selling various wares . Wine & beer tasting in the Baltic Mill conference area . Food available at the Wienie Wagon. From 5 PM - 9 PM in the Boone County Conservation District by the Spencer Pavillion there will be... Horse-drawn hay rides . Fireside Music . Bonfire . S'mores . Square Dancing . Food available from the Lion's Club.
815-547-4252
www.boonecountyharvestfest.com

October 15-16
19TH ANNUAL BAHAMA BRACKET NATIONALS
Rockford Speedway, 9572 Forest Hills Road, Loves Park
This event is a favorite among true grassroots racers as it groups cars together by their speed, not division, providing some of the most intense racing seen all season long. New for 2010 is a 4 cylinder only division.
815-633-1500
www.rockfordspeedway.com

October 15-16

FALL COLORS WEEKEND

Starved Rock State Park, Utica

Enjoy the colors of fall with a guided tour of spectacular Starved Rock State Park, alive with the vibrant colors of the season. Tours will be given at 9:00am and 1:00pm both days.

www.starvedrockstatepark.org

October 16
PRISCILLA'S PARLOR MINI FLEA MARKET
1126 Lincoln Highway, Rochelle
Priscilla's Parlor hosts a mini flea market the third Saturday of each month from May to October. We carry antiques, vintage and primitives as well as jewelry, candles and gifts. Located on the historic Lincoln Highway just off of Highway 38, US251 and I39.
815-561-1909
www.priscillasparloronline.com/store

October 16
PROPHETSTOWN MENS CLUB FARM TOY SHOW
Prophetstown High School, 310 West Riverside Drive, Prophetstown
Farm toys and collectibles displayed and sold at Prophetstown High School. Food Stand available. Display of antique farm equipment. Admission charged.
815-537-5602
www.prophetstownil.com

October 16

20TH ANNUAL TALE OF THE TOMBSTONE CEMETERY WALK

863 Des Plaines Avenue, Forest Park, IL

The Historical Sociery of Oak Park and River Forest will host its 20th anniversary award-winning program, The Tale of the Tombstones, on Sunday October 16th, 1:00pm. Tours depart every ten minutes between 1:00pm and 2:00pm, tour times approximately 2 hours. Cost: $15/$10 for members.

708-848-6755
www.oprfhistory.org

October 16

CORTLAND FALL FEST

Join us for a parade and fun in the park, the "Mutt Strut", beer garden and live music.

www.dekalbcountyonline.com

October 19-20, 26-27
COMTEMPT OF COURT- WHITE PINES DINNER THEATRE
White Pines Inn, 6712 White Pines Road
It's a typical night at Judge Judy's People's Night Court where audience members become part of the court.
815-946-3817

October 20
SOUNDS OF SILENTS MOVIE EVENTS
164 North Restaurant, Kankakee
Kankakee Valley Symphony Orchestra, Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde, Paramount Theater, Kankakee. Festival of silent films with live orchestral accompaniment along with spooktacular Halloween Party at 164 North Restaurant & special lecture event.
www.silents.gmkwainphoto.com

October 21
FALL DINNER - LECTURE SERIES
754 First Street, LaSalle
David Dolak, Professor of Geology and Environmental Sciences at Columbia College Chicago "Across the Chicago Portage and the Continental Divide: A Story of Glaciers, Geography, and Destiny." Discover how the geology of Northeastern Illinois created the water link used by the Voyageurs and later, the Illinois and Michigan Canal to develop Chicago into the dominant city in the mid-continent of North America.
815-223-1851
www.lasallecanalboat.org

October 21

HUEY LEWIS AND THE NEWS

23 East Galena Blvd, Aurora

Its still "Hip to be Square." Selling over 20 million albums and earning Grammy Awards along the way, Huey Lewis and the News play a brand of straight-ahead rock and roll that has outlasted countless trends and is still going strong.

www.paramountaurora.com

October 21-22
47TH ANNUAL OKTOBERFEST
Loves Park City Hall, 100 Heart Boulevard, Loves Park
Featuring 6 different German Biers along with domestic, American and German food, children's areas, German bands and dancers, live music and more. Friday from 5pm to 12am, and Saturday from 12pm to 12am.
815-877-4156
www.germanoktoberfest.org

October 21-23, 27-31
"AMENTI" - THE EGYPTIAN THEATRE HAUNTED HOUSE
Egyptian Theatre, 135 North 2nd Street, DeKalb
Amenti is the Egyptian Goddess guarding the world of the dead. Within her gates lie the horrors of the Egyptian underworld. Terror after terror await those who dare to enter. But be careful, Amenti jealously guards her gates and assures that no one escapes. Tthe Egyptian Theatre Haunted House is sure to make you want your mummy. Amenti will run from Friday, October 22 to Sunday, October 24, and Wednesday October 27 to Sunday, October 31, from 7-11pm each night.
815-758-1215
www.amenti.info

October 22
CREEPY CRAWLY HALLOWEEN PARTY
Midwest Museum of Natural History, 425 West State Street, Sycamore
Join us for a night of not-too-scary halloween fun. Meet tarantula experts and their fuzzy friends, check out the grossology lab, have your picture taken with live animals, and trick-or-treat through the musuem.
815-895-9777
www.mmnh.org

October 22-23

PUMPKIN WEEKENDS

100 South Barnes Road, Aurora

Fall into a month's worth of autumnal celebration at Blackberry farm each weekend in October. Carousel rides, hay rides, and tours on the "Pumpkin Train" also are a part of each weekend's festivities. Park hours are 11am-4pm daily. Admission is $4 per person.

www.foxvalleyparkdistrict.org

October 22-23
BOO AT THE ZOO!
3088 Flora Road, Belvidere
Headless Horseman, Kids Costume Contest, El Gato the Dancing Halloween Horse, Trick or Treating, Animal Presentation, Gift Shop, & more! $7 per adult, $5 per child. All proceeds go to the care of the animal. Saturday October 22nd 10am-5pm and Sunday October 23rd 11am-4p.
815-547-4852
www.summerfieldfarmandzoo.com

October 22
ALL HALLOWS EVE
Midway Village Museum, 6799 Guilford Road, Rockford
Midway's recreated 1900's village decorated for the holiday. Activities include children's costume parade, children's Halloween crafts and guided tours of the Haunted Forest (5pm-8pm). Food and snacks available.
815-397-9112
www.midwayvillage.com

October 22

ITASCA HALLOWEEN CELEBRATION

130 Forest Avenue, Itasca

Free games, petting zoom pony rides, pumpkin decorating, and crafts are among some of the fun activities that will be provided. Admission free with donation to the Itasca Food Pantry!

www.itasca.com

October 22
ON THE PATH TO THE PRESIDENCY GALA
Brandywine, 441 Illinois Route 2, Dixon
An elegant evening with a gourmet dinner, live and silent auctions, music and dancing and special speaker. This third annual event will have a 1940s theme with guests encouraged to dress in period clothing.
815-288-5176
www.ronaldreaganhome.com

October 22,23,29-30

TRICK OR TREAT TROLLEY

Illinois Railroad Museum, Union Illinois

Treats for kids in costumes.

www.irm.org

October 23
SANDWICH ANTIQUES MARKET
Sandwich Fairgrounds, 1401 Suydam Road, Sandwich
Monthly antique show from April to October, open from 8am to 4pm. When the gates open at 8AM on April 26th the Sandwich Antiques Market will have a new look on the Westside. Now patrons will be able to see two shows at one fair grounds. The new West Field will open with crafts, flea market items, family garage sales and business booths. The antique and collectible dealers will still be located in the East Field as they have for the past 22 years.
815-786-3337
www.antiquemarkets.com

October 23

BLACK HAT DAY

Geneva

The 3rd annual Black Hat Day on October 23 will find various merchants hosting on-site activities including pumpkin decorating, scarecrow making contest, storytelling, face painting, healthy food demos, Black Hat contests for adults and kids and the super popular History Center Ghost Walk, plus a decorated pet parade. Need a black hat? Stop by Kernel Fabyan's at 511 S. Third Street or Country Naturals at 316 Campbell St. between 10am-2pm the day of the event and recieve a hat for a $5 donation to Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Wear a black hat and recieve special rewards and deals from participating downtown Geneva shops!

630-232-1172

www.genevadowntown.org

October 23

ANTIQUE COLLECTIBLE TOY AND DOLL SHOP

Randall Road & Main Street, St Charles

500 exhibitors featuring all categories of fine antique & collectible toys, dolls,playthings, and holiday heirlooms.

www.chicagotoyshow.com

October 23-25

PLANO OKTOBERFEST

Main Street Downtown Plano

Oktoberfest takes place rain or shine under a 60' X 180' circus tent located on Main Street in downtown Planto, IL. Oktoberfest features authenic German bands, a beer wagon with real German beers and wines, authentic traditional German Food-Schnitezel, Roast Pork, Kassler Rippchen, Bratwurst, Potato salad, sauerkraut, sturdel and more!

www.planooktoberfest.com

October 26-30
SYCAMORE PUMPKIN FESTIVAL
Downtown Sycamore
The lawn of the courthouse is filled with hundreds and hundreds of pumpkins that are carved, painted and created by area children. Food, crafts, contests, fun and more culminate in a gigantic parade through town. Last full weekend in October.
888-828-4FUN 
www.sycamorepumpkinfestival.com

October 26

LOCK 16/NATIONAL MULE DAY

754 First Street, LaSalle

www.lasallecanalboat.org

October 26

BROADWAY AT THE CORONADO- MONTY PYTHON'S SPAMALOT

314 North Main Street, Rockford

Winner of the 2005 Tony Award for Best Musical, "Monty Python's Spamlot" is the outrageous musical comedy lovingly ripped off from the film classic "Monty Python's Spamlot."
815-968-0595

www.coronadopac.org

October 28

GALENA HALLOWEEN BALLOON GLOW

See spectacular hot air balloons lit from within at dusk as they are lined up along the Galena River.  Weather permitting.

www.vistitgalena.org

A HAUNTING IN THE VALLEY

1111 East Schaumburg Road, Schamburg

Spring Valley's popular Halloween program will feature mysterious and magical walks through the Log Cabin Woods.

www.parkfun.com

October 28-29

MT CARROLL CEMETERY TOUR

Downtown Mt Carroll

www.mtcarroll.org

October 29

GALENA HALLOWEEN PARADE

The largest and most spectacularly spooky Halloween Parade in the tri-state area floats down Main Stret Galena.  Floats, costumes, prizes and treats for guys and ghouls of all ages.  The parade starts and 6:30pm and the price is free.

www.visitgalnea.org

October 29

HALLOWEEN PARADE THROUGH DOWNTOWN MORRISON

October 29

SHANGRI LA CHINESE ACROBATS

Kirt Road and Pine Street, Batavia

For over 30 years, the amazing performances of the Shangri-La Chinese Acrobats have performed for hundreds of Universities and performing arts centers. This company flawlessly interpets the precision and grace of an art form honed by centuries of training and disciplines of Chinese acrobatics. Tickets $28 aduts and $14 for ages 18 and under.

fnal.gov/culture

October 29
GALENA HALLOWEEN PARADE
Galena River, Galena
The largest and most spectacularly spooky Halloween parade in the tri-state area floats down Main St. Galena. Floats, costumes, prizes and treats for guys and "ghouls" of all ages.
815-776-9200
www.visitgalena.org

October 29

SEDAKA/ ARCADE THEATRE
105 East Main Street, St Charles

www.oshows.com

MOOSE RUN MOTORCROSS RACING AT THE BIKE BARN

13524 Black Road

The Bike Barn is home to nationally known Round 10 of the OMA National Off-Road Racing Series. For more information and other events call (815)778-3641 or visit www.omanationals.com, or www.peatmonster.com.

OCTOBER 2012

October 6-11

GALENA COUNTY FAIR

More than 150 vendors offering original, handmade arts, crafts and fine arts.  We also have fair food, live entertainment, children's games, and a farmers market.  $2.00 donation is appreciated.  Hours Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm and Sunday 10:00am-4:00pm

www.galenacountryfair.org

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