Fall Go Guide

The Heartland Spa - This fall refresh yourself at The Heartland Spa. With its 32 acres of rolling pastures, woods, and spring-fed lake The Heartland offers the tranquility of Midwest farm country. This destination spa with 25 years of experience in the wellness industry, is closer than you think-only 90 miles south of Chicago. A two, three, or five night package at The Heartland Spa offers Guests the opportunity to learn, experience, and utilize the most current information available regarding fitness, nutrition, and stress management. We even provide you with workout clothing. Our superb pampering treatments, tasty and nutritious menu complete the Spa’s program to make it the perfect vacation. Come home to The Heartland Spa and learn to live better, feel better and look better. (800) 545-4853 www.heartlandspa.com

Family Hayrides at Danada - September & October. The Danada Equestrian Center offers horse-drawn hayrides through the Danada Forest Preserve. Come and relax and enjoy a 3O-minute, horse-drawn hayride through the fields and woodlands while the teamster relates information about the unique features and history of this preserve. Passengers are encouraged to dress for the weather and bring insect repellent. Horse-drawn hayride passengers load at the main stable. In the event of severe weather such as heavy rain or electrical storms, rides will be canceled. 630-668-6012 or www.danada.info

Dave & Buster’s - Offers 50,000 square feet of food & fun! We are open for lunch and dinner to the public 7 days a week and we are family friendly. We have great food, drinks and the best games in town! If you are planning a special event we have impressive event spaces that accommodate celebrations from 10 to 1,000! Please come on in and be our guest in our grand dining room or call and schedule your next special event with us! Addison, IL 630.543.5151.

Meadowbrook Pumpkin Farm - Enjoy daytime activities, corn maze, creepy cornfield, pumpkin picking, wagon rides, pick your own pumpkins, visit our Animal park, birds and petting zoo! We offer different levels of haunted Halloween fun! The Haunted Night time Adventure On Friday and Saturday Nights is the most intense! Enjoy a bonfire then do the Haunt With Live Actors, Fog, Specialty sound, action creatures and light effects; It is Geared for us Adults. For info, dates, or times www.meadowbrookfun.com  or 262-338-3649, West Bend, WI.

Jonamac Orchard's - Our weekend calendar includes Apple Fest, The Great Pumpkin Harvest, October Fest, Antique Farm Equipment Show, Live music and more. Visit our Country Store and Bakery for apple donuts, pies, caramel apples, soft serve ice cream, fresh baked bread, and fudge. Apples & pumpkin picking. Jonamac Orchard, your family's fall tradition for 25 years! 5 miles west of DeKalb in Malta, IL 815-825-2158. www.JonamacOrchard.com

Von Bergen's Country Farm - September 27 thru October 31. In their 29th year, come check out this family farm with homegrown vegetables on an actual working farm! Farm market, Craft Corner, Pumpkin Train and much more. Open everyday 8:30a.m.-6:00p.m. 9805 IL Route 173, Hebron, IL 60034 (Located 2 miles East of Route 47 or 6 miles West of Richmond/Route 12 on Route 173) 815-648-2332 www.vonbergens.com

Kuipers Family Farm - September 1 - October 31 (Saturdays & Sundays). Pumpkin & apple picking, petting corral, haywagon rides, haunted forest, corn crib cafe, Amazing Maize Maze & more! Maple Park, Illinois. 815-827-5200. www.kuipersfamilyfarm.com

Downers Grove Fine Arts Show - Saturday & Sunday, September 13th & 14th, 20 from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on Main Street. Enjoy a variety of fine arts from artisans from across the country. Spend the day with your family and enjoy and live entertainment, wine tasting, art projects for the children and theatrical performances. While visiting Downtown Downers Grove, take a Sears Home Trolley Tour visit www.downers.us  for more information. For visitor information please visit www.downtowndg.org  or www.visitdownersgrove.com  or call 800-934-0615.

Hinsdale Antiques Show - September 12-14. View exhibitors in period English, continental, American & oriental pieces. Collectors may also find antique, estate & tomorrow’s classic jewelry pieces. Hinsdale. 630-323-7500 or www.HinsdaleAntiquesShow.org

Lombard Park District Fishing Derby - September 13. Enjoy a full morning of fishing with many prizes. Madison Meadow. Registration required. 8 - 11 a.m. www.lombardparks.com

Family Hayrides - September 13 - October 25. Round up the family & enjoy a special harvest-moon hayride. Naperville. 630-848-5000. www.napervilleparks.org

Hogwarts Express - September 14. Ride the train, where the Sorting Hat will sort out students into their appropriate houses to Hogwarts then enjoy brunch with the professors. After that it’s off to magic, fun & things to learn! 8:45 a.m. In partnership with Oakbrook Terrace, Butterfield & Downers Grove Park Districts. 8:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. 630-627-6100 or www.obtpd.org

Norton Hollow - September 15 - October 28. Free hayrides, petting zoo, corn tunnel, straw maze and much more. Norton Farm, St. Charles. 630-377-8118.

Johansen Farms - September 15 - October 31. Over 500 animals to pet & feed, hayrides, train rides, pony rides, 2-story air slide, jumping castle, Pooh Park, Noah’s Ark challenge, Corn Maze, hay tunnel. Events are free w/paid zoo admission. Over 25,000 pumpkins, cornstalks, fresh cider, taffy apples, fudge, hand crafted items & Halloween decorations. Souvenir shops, fall decor & specialty foods. 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Daily. Johansen’s Farm, Bolingbrook. 630-759-8711. www.johansenfarms.com  (See our ad on pg. 30 & 31)

A-1 Farm’s Autumn Festivities - September 15 -- October 31. Country store, pumpkins, fall decorations, petting zoo, hayrides, jumping castle, straw maze, small haunted barn for little people and a large haunted house for adults!! Sept. 19 - Oct. 31. A-1 Farms, Aurora. www.A1farmstand.com  630-859-2780.

Ghost Tails Dog Walk & Ghost Tours - September 19 & multiple times in October. Dog owners bring your non-aggressive, leashed pets for a special Fido-friendly walking ghost tour of Naperville’s Historic District. Naperville. Fee. 630-978-7033.

Mt. Prospects Park District’s Fishing Derby - Children ages 4 - 14 will have an opportunity to fish for bluegill and catfish. Bring your own rod, reel and tackle. 8:30 a.m.

Lombard Park District Prairie Days - Sept. 21. Hands on fishing clinic and program on prairie plants, bugs and animals. Crafts, activities, food and music. Free. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. www.lombardparks.com

Harvest Pow Wow - September 27 & 28. American Indian dancing, cultural demos, children’s games & crafts, special presentations & more. Presented by Midwest Soaring Foundation. Naper Settlement, Naperville. 630-420-6010.

Sandwich Antiques Market - Sep. 28. 8 am to 4 p.m. Exhibit booths featuring antiques and collectibles from the 19th & 20th centuries. $5 per person. Parking is free. Sandwich Fairgrounds, Sandwich, IL (815) 786 - 3337.

Fall Family Fun Fiesta - September 28. Families to participate in variety of structured sports, games & activities. Free. 12 - 3 p.m. Sports Center, Schaumburg. 847-891-1266.

Harvest of the Acorn Moon - September 28. Enjoy the fall colors, pumpkin painting, guided hikes, storytelling, games, folk music, fun for the whole family! 1 - 4 p.m. Oakhurst Forest Preserve, Aurora. Kane County Forest Preserve. 847-741-8350.

Camp Fire USA's Land of Oz Corn Maze - Thru 10/26. The maze trail is built in ten fabulous acres of field corn. It was painstakingly marked out and mowed by a local farmer for your amusement. Bring you friends, bring your family and have a blast as you explore all the possibilities of trying to find your way through the corn maze! Pick your own pumpkin patch. Enjoy snacks from Over the Rainbow Cafe. $5 per person; children 5 and under FREE / benefits children's programs of the Camp Fire USA, North Central Illinois Council. Ottawa. 815-488-5000

Cosley Zoo Pumpkins & Scarecrows - October 1 - 31. Visit the animals, cornstalk maze, scarecrows, pumpkin, plus fresh produce, cider, taffy apples & corn stalks. Cosley Zoo, Wheaton. 630-665-5534.

Six Flags Fright Fest - October 4 thru November 2.This fall, Six Flags Great America transforms into a Halloween playground for the 18th annual Fright Fest. Dare to be scared as you experience hair-raising shows, two haunted houses and your favorite rides in the dark. www.sixflags.com

Fall Art & Craft Fair - October 4. Knit & crocheted items, candles, jewelry & seasonal decor & much more! 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Schaumburg High School, Schaumburg.

Pumpkin Days - October 4 & 5. Enjoy autumn in the country & ride trains, get your free pumpkin & more! Illinois Railway Museum, Union. 815-923-4000.

Garfield Farm - October 5. Annual Harvest Days event with demonstrations of historic household and farm skills common to the mid-1800's. Garfield Farm Museum, St. Charles. 630-584-8485.

Fall Caboose Train Ride - October 5 See the fall colors begin to change along the Fox River as you ride aboard a century-old electric freight locomotive, or vintage trolley. South Elgin. For info call 847-697-4676.

Morton Arboretum’s Fall Color Weekends - October 6 - 28. Enjoy pumpkin decorating, a corn maze, hand-dipped taffy apples and much more fun!! 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. The Morton Arboretum, Lisle. 630-719-2465.

The Pumpkin Trolley - October 11, 12, 18 & 19. Ride on old-time electric trolley car to the Pumpkin Patch, & choose a pumpkin to take home. Fox River Trolley Museum, South Elgin. 847-697-4676.

Lisle Park District’s Fall Family Fun Fair - Monster Madness! Pony rides, petting zoo, pumpkin patch, fun house, games & prizes, hayrides, 5801 Westview Lane. www.lisleparkdistrict.org

Native American Cultural Days - October 19 & 20. Experience the Native American Culture through dance, drumming, storytelling, flute playing, crafts & games. Lords Park, Elgin. 847-741-6655.

Starved Rock’s Fall Colors Weekend - October 18 & 19. Enjoy guided hikes to view the spectacular colors of fall. Starved Rock, Utica. 1-800-868-7625x368.

Christmas at the Faire - October 24-26. Visit this exceptional holiday marketplace to jump start holiday shopping! DuPage County Fair Grounds, Wheaton. 888-854-5153.

Von Bergen's Country Market Fall Fun - September 27 thru October 31. In their 29th year, come check out this family farm with homegrown vegetables on an actual working farm! Antique Tractor Show, Children's Pedal Pull and Games, Farm Animal Zoo, Corn Maze, Pony Rides, Pumpkin Train and more. Visit our farm market as well as our Craft Corner which has many specialty fall decorations. Open everyday 8:30a.m.-6:00p.m. 9805 IL Route 173, Hebron, IL 60034 (Located 2 miles East of Route 47 or 6 miles West of Richmond/Route 12 on Route 173) 815-648-2332 www.vonbergens.com

Apple Farms
Jonamac Orchard's - Pick your own apples from any of our 5,000 trees, or get lost in our 10 acre corn maze. Visit our Country Store and Bakery for apple donuts, pies, caramel apples, soft serve ice cream, fresh baked bread, and fudge. 5 miles west of DeKalb in Malta, IL 815-825-2158. www.JonamacOrchard.com

Apple Holler - There are over 30 varieties of apples. Also enjoy hay & pony rides, a corn maze, restaurant & a bonfire at 7 p.m. on Fridays & Saturdays. Sturtevant, Wisconsin. 262-884-7100. www.appleholler.com
County Line Orchard - Hunt for the “perfect” apple, get lost in the corn maize or visit the kids farm. Hobart, Indiana. 219-947-4477. www.countylineorchard.com

Gould Cider Mill - Apples, fresh cider, honey & pumpkins, gourds, squash & crafts! Elburn, IL 6360-365-2233.

Pumpkin Farms
A-1 Farm’s - September 119 - October 31. Country store, pumpkins, fall decorations, petting zoo, hayrides, jumping castle, straw maze, small haunted barn for little people and a large haunted house-Chamber of Terror. A-1 Farms, Aurora. www.A1farmstand.com 630-859-2780.

Bengston’s Pumpkin Farm - Experience hayrack ride, pumpkins (of course!) pig races, petting & feeding zoo, giant crazy corn maizey, music, train ride, hot apple cider, funnel cakes & much more! September 27 - October 30. Home Glen, IL. 708-301-3276. www.pumpkinfarm.com

Goebbert’s Pumpkin Patch - Come in October to pick your pumpkins and enjoy the pig races, pony rides, petting zoo & corn maze. Hampshire, Illinois. 847-464-5952. www.pumpkinfarms.com

Johansen Farms - Choose from more than 25,000 pumpkins. Other attractions include pony rides, free hayrides, craft barn & air slides. Concessions. Petting Zoo Birthday Barn party packages available. Open daily 9/15 - 10/31, 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Bolingbrook. 630-759-8711.www.johansenfarms.com

Jonamac Orchard - Bring your family out to our 80-acre site. Pick your own apples & pumpkins. Visit the barn yard & petting zoo, get lost in our 10-acre maze, ride the “apple train”, hayrides, live music festivals & events. 5 miles west of DeKalb in Malta, IL 815-825-2158. www.JonamacOrchard.com

Meadowbrook Pumpkin Farm & Market - Enjoy daytime activities, corn maze, creepy cornfield, pumpkin picking, wagon rides, pick your own pumpkins, visit our Animal park, birds and petting zoo! For info, dates, or times www.meadowbrookfun.com  or 262-338-3649, West Bend, WI.

Sonny Acres Farm - Look for piles of pumpkins, plus squash, roasted corn, apples & more. Mid September - 10/31. West Chicago. 630-231-3859. www.sonnyacres.com

Siegel’s Cottonwood Garden Center & Pumpkin Farm - Enjoy a leisurely hayride to pumpkin growing fields where you can pick thru 1000s of pumpkins, visit petting zoo & haunted barn, cornfield maze & pony rides! Crest Hill. 800-304-FARM or 815-741-2693. www.ourpumpkinfarm.com

Von Bergen's Country Farm - September 27 thru October 31. Pumpkin Train and much more. Open everyday 8:30a.m.-6:00p.m. 9805 IL Route 173, Hebron, IL 60034 (Located 2 miles East of Route 47 or 6 miles West of Richmond/Route 12 on Route 173) 815-648-2332 www.vonbergens.com


Fall Festivals  - SEPTEMBER

Naperville Last Fling - August 29 - Sept. 1. Diaper Derby, Apple pie Bake-Off, Talent Show Competition, United Frisbee Dog Tournament and more. Food vendors, carnival rides, community booths and parade. Free shuttle service. Downtown Naperville along the Riverwalk. 630-961-4143.

Schaumburg Septemberfest - August 30 - September 1. Arts & crafts, carnival, live entertainment , Taste of Schaumburg, bingo, fireworks and great family fun! Free. Schaumburg Rd @ Summit Dr. Schaumburg. 847-923-3636.

Fox Valley Folk Music & Storytelling Festival - August 31 - September 1. Annual event with 8 stages of over 30 national acts that represent traditional & modern music & storytelling. Downtown Geneva. 630-897-3655.

Good Old Days Festival - September 4 - 7. The Winfield Chamber of Commerce is celebrating the 40th Anniversary (1968-2008) of Good Old Days with a four-day weekend of events, Thursday to Sunday, September 4th to 7th, in downtown Winfield. Great live entertainment including the Cavern Beat Band on Saturday evening in the expanded Lions Club Beer Garden … food to satisfy virtually every taste … Alpine Amusements carnival with both kiddie & big-time exciting rides … fun, unique games and contests, some in 'Flower Power' Field, for all ages … Arts & Crafts Fair … Expo Row … Sunday Parade with Miss Illinois USA to meet afterwards …and much more. Visit www.winfieldchamber.biz .

Lake Geneva Wine Festival - September 4-7. Enjoy fine wines, fine dinners, guest chefs, & daytime seminars on wine & cuisine! Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, Lake Geneva. 262-245-8635.

DarienFest - September 5-7. Annual festival of good food, carnival rides, and great music. Darien Community Park, Darien. Free admission and shuttle service. Sponsored by the Darien Chamber of Commerce. 630-968-0004.

Windy City Wine Festival - September 5-6. Sample from more than 250 wines on Chicago’s beautiful lakefront. Cooking demos w/top Chicago celebrity chefs. Daley Plaza, Chicago. 847-382-1112.

End of Summer Celebration - September 6. Family concert with music by Hi Infidelity & fireworks display. 7 p.m. Concert & 9 p.m. Fireworks. Terrace View Park, Oakbrook Terrace. 630-627-6100 or www.obtpd.org

Harvest Fest - September 7. Presented by the Wood Dale Historical Society and The City of Wood Dale. Enjoy free admission, craft booths, sheep shearing, felter, spinner, dulcimer player, and much more. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Yesterday’s Farm Museum, Wood Dale. 630-766-4900.

Scandanavian Days - September 7. Food, crafts, gifts & entertainment representing the five Nordic cultures. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Vasa Park, South Elgin. 847-695-6720.

Misericordia’s Family Festival - September 7. Enjoy an exciting day of family fun! Food, games, raffles, live entertainment & more! 11 a.m. - 6 p,m. Chicago. 773-273-2766.

Autumn Fest - September 12 & 13. 36th annual event with entertainment & more family fun! Memorial Park, Wheaton. 630-668-6464.

Downers Grove Fine Arts Festival - The 32nd Annual Fine Arts Festival is on Saturday & Sunday, September 13th & 14th, 2008 from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on Main Street. Enjoy a variety of fine arts from artisans from across the country. Spend the day with your family and enjoy and live entertainment, wine tasting, art projects for the children and theatrical performances. While visiting Downtown Downers Grove, take a Sears Home Trolley Tour visit www.downers.us  for more information. For visitor information please visit www.downtowndg.org  or www.visitdownersgrove.com  or call 800-934-0615.

Oktoberfest in Villa Park - September 11-14. Entertainment, food & beverage booths, pet parade, bags tournament, pie eating contest, carnival rides, arts & crafts. Lions Park, Villa Park. 630-834-8970.

Festival of the Vine - September 12-14. Flower markets, food and wine tastings, carriage rides, and family games. Top-notch musical entertainment and the delightful Faire on the Green Fine Arts and Craft show . Geneva. 630-232-6060.

Naperville Wine Festival - September 12 & 13. Enjoy workshops & seminars, discover new wines from around the world, gourmet food selections. Naper Settlement, Naperville. 847-382-1480.

Corn Fest - September 14. Celebrate the beginning of fall with an old-fashioned family picnic! Entertainment, games, races, fishing tournament for kids. 11:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Graue Mill, Hinsdale. 630-655-2090.

Fall Harvest Festival - September 14. Experience a taste of life on the farm during Harvest Time. Blackberry Farms Pioneer Village, Aurora. 630-892-1550.

Westmont Oktoberfest - September 19 & 20. Westmont Jaycees for their annual Oktoberfest! Authentic polka music, Bavarian beer, German brats, family day, much more! Downtown Westmont. 630-964-5583.

Itasca Oktoberfest - September 19 & 20. Authentic German food, spirits, bands, dancing, kids corner. Downtown Itasca. 630-773-0835.

Winefest Chicago - September 19-21, Elegant cocktail party featuring wines fro around the globe, tastings, presentations & more! Chicago. 847-677-8273.

Lisle Depot Days - September 20 & 21. Music, food, historical demonstrations, children’s activities & more 12 noon - 5 p.m. Lisle. 630-968-0499.

Eli’s Cheesecake Festival - September 20 & 21. 1. Jesse White Tumblers, The Happiness Club, Eli’s pastry chefs, cheesecake demonstrations. Free. Eli’s Cheesecake World, Chicago. 773-205-3800.

Vintage Illinois Wine Festival - September 20 & 21. Food, entertainment & wines featured by different Illinois wineries. 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. Starved Rock, Utica. 1-800-868-7625.

Autumn Country Folk Art Festival - September 26 - 28. The 26th annual event! Dazzling array of unique home furnishings & decorative accessories including seasonal Halloween & Christmas items, Americana, & folk art...for the traditional or contemporary home...handmade in America by award-winning artisans! St. Charles. 630-858-1568. www.folkartfest.com  

Elm Dutch Festival - September 27. Festivities begin with a pancake breakfast, visit the Dutch Village shops with items such as Dutch ceramics,, Christmas collectibles, crafts Dutch groceries and more. Food court to offer traditional Dutch treats, kids carnival, petting zoo & authentic Dutch dancing. 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Elim Christian Services, Palos Hts. 708-389-0555.

Siegels Cottonwood Farms Pumpkin Fest - September 27 - October 31. The whole family can enjoy The Pirates of the Cornibbean Cornfield Maze, pumpkin patch, hayride, Ft. Cottonwood & Veggieland. 10 a..m. - 6 p.m. Daily. Crest Hill. 815-741-2693.

Phillips Park Fall Festival - September 27. Great food, family activities, entertainment and more. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Phillips Park Zoo, Aurora. 630-844-4FUN.

Oktoberfest - September 27. German music & traditional dance, brats & beer! 4 - 8 p.m. Community Rec Center, Schaumburg. 847-490-7015.

Autumn Pioneer Festival - September 27 & 28. Crafts, lifestyles & skills of the pioneers, voyagers, fur trappers, traders & Native Americans of the early 1800’s. Civil War encampment, flint knapping, woodworking. Fee. Belvidere. 630-964-3410 or www.lisleparkdistrict.org

Indian Summer Festival - September 28. Walk or bike ride through Woodridge’s many parks while enjoying family events, build your own scarecrow & more. 12 noon - 5 p.m. Castaldo Park, Woodridge. 630-353-3400.

Harvest of the Acorn Moon - September 28. Enjoy the fall color, pumpkin painting, guided hikes, storytelling, games, folk music, fun for the whole family! 1 - 4 p.m. Oakhurst Forest Preserve, Aurora. Kane County Forest Preserve. 847-741-8350.

DANK Oktoberfest - September 27. Sing, dance, meet your friends and experience the “Stimmung” 6 p.m. Historic DANK Haus, Chicago. 773-561-9181.


OCTOBER

Oktoberfest! - October 3 & 10. Celebrate October German stylewith German buffet, music & beer! Starved Rock, Utica. 800-868-7625x386.

Fall Festival - October 4. Harvest-time activities including hayrides, music, pumpkin decorating and scarecrow making. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Cantigny Gardens, Wheaton. 630-668-5161.

Streamwood Park District’s Pumpkinfest - October 4. Lots to do for every age! Pumpkin decorating, pet show, Kiddie Run, delicious food and sweet warm apple cider, our famous annual pumpkin pie-eating contest, a moonwalk, pumpkin launch, and family entertainment. 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Hoosier Grove Park, Streamwood. 630-372-PARK.

Harvest Days Festival - October 5. Continuous demos of farm & household skills, 19th century music & food. 11:30 - 4:30 p.m. Garfield Farm Museum. St. Charles. 630-584-8485.

Autumn Harvest Fest - October 5. Demonstrations, crafts, games & hayrides. $4 ea. or $16 per family. 12 - 5 p.m. Heritage Farm Schaumburg. 847-985-1200.

St. Charles Scarecrow Festival - October 10-12. Celebrating 23 years of Fall family fun! View over 100 whimsical hand-crafted Scarecrows and vote for your favorites in five categories. Huge juried Art & Craft Show, live entertainment, Harley-Davidson & Corvette Show, Nascar simulator car, riverboat cruises, Model Railroad Show, children's activities including the popular “make your own” scarecrow. Storytelling Tent, “Play Table Station”, Wizard of Oz at the Arcada Theatre, Radio Disney Party Patrol and “Bright Stars on Stage” where area youth perform on the main stage Friday from 10am-4pm. Downtown St. Charles. 630-377-6161. Hours are 9 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday & Saturday and 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday. For more info call 630-377-6161 or www.scarecrowfest.com

Danada Fall Festival - October 12. Enjoy an array of outdoor activities including hayrides, equestrian exhibits of horse breeds, demonstrations of different riding styles and training techniques, and farriers presenting their trade. Guest horses and Danada horses entertain the crowds with choreographed programs Danada Equestrian Center, Wheaton. 630-668-6012 or www.danada.info .

Autumn Harvest Festival - October 18 & 19. Craft fair, farmers market, clowns, scarecrow stuffing, pumpkin decoration, petting zoo, hayrides, apple eating contest, live entertainment & much more. Downtown Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin. For times and info call 800-223-3557.

Warrenville Park District’s Fall Family Fun Fest - October 24. Live Entertainment, games, crafts, costume contest and delicious food. 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Recreation Center. 630-393-7279.


Halloween Haunting Happenings

Lombard Jaycees Haunted House - For over 30 years the Lombard Jaycees have hosted this spectacular event with proceeds being donated to various charitable organizations. For dates, times & VIP tickets go to www.haunted-house.com

Statesville Haunted Prison - Open Thursday - Sunday in October. Voted Chicagoland's Number One Haunted House for the last 4 years! Come on out to Siegel's Cottonwood for one of Chicagoland's best haunted attractions.17250 Weber Road. Crest Hill, IL 815-741-2693.

Meadowbrook Haunted Cornfield - October weekends. The Haunted Night time Adventure on Friday and Saturday Nights is the most intense! Enjoy a bonfire then do the Haunt With Live Actors, Fog, Specialty sound, action creatures and light effects; It is Geared for us Adults. Experience the Haunted Cornfield Adventure - a jungle full of haunted scary scenes with action and sound effects, and almost alive like creatures during the day. Creatures come to life, the fog rolls in and eerie sounds fill the air as lights flicker and disorient you. For info, dates, or times www.meadowbrookfun.com  or 262-338-3649, West Bend, WI.

The Frightmare - A visit to Haunted Trails provides more than just a great scary haunted house, but an afternoon or evening at a Halloween themed amusement park. Call for hours. 7759 S. Harlem. Burbank, IL 708 598-8580.

Most Haunted Locations in Illinois - 9/28. Join paranormal researcher & author for Unexplained Research. A ghostly journey to some of the most haunted places in Illinois. Carol stream Public Library, Carol Stream. 630-344-6123.

Ghost Stories in the Park . . . In The Dark - October Weekends. Summer Place Theatre presents hair-raising tales, poems, and songs will shiver your spine and tickle your funny bone! Outdoor event. For times and tickets call Naperville Park District at 630-848-5000 or Diane Ladley at 360-978-7033.

Haunted Mansion & the Asylum of Terror - 10/ 3, 4, 10-12, 16-19, 23-31. Face your fears at Ditka Haunted Mansion & the Asylum of Terror. Bolingbrook. 630-739-7600 or www.ditkasportsdome.com

Six Flags Fright Fest - 10/4-5, 10-12, 17-19, 24-26 31 & Nov 1, 2. Three haunted houses, Masoleum of Terror, Studio 13, parades, shows ghosts & ghouls lurking the park! 847-249-4636 or www.sixflags.com

A Night In Sleepy Hollow - 10/10, 11, 17, 18, 24 & 24. Venture out into the dark of the night a& see the legendary headless horseman! Perry Farm Park, Bourbonnais. 815-933-9905.

Terror on the Railroad - 10/10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, 31 & Nov. 1. Experience a haunted Halloween train, if you dare!! 1-800-BIG-RAIL or www.irm.org .

Haunted Forest Tour - 10/10 & 11. Stories about the magical, haunted woods and guided tours. 7 - 10 p.m. Oak Brook Park District. 630-645-9590 or www.obparks.org

Trail of Terror Haunted House - 10/11, 12, 18, 19, 25 & 26. Ghouls, ghosts & goblins will test your nerves as you walk through our haunted house! Streamwood. 630-372-PARK.

Monster Madness - 10/17. Fiendishly friendly games, ghouls, animals & goodies, prizes, pony ride fun house. Ages 10 & under. 6 - 9 p.m. Meadows Monster Mansion, 5801 Westview Lane, Lisle. 630-964-3410.

Spooktacular! - 10/17. Carve pumpkins, hay maze, crafts & a lot of family fun! 6 -8 p.m. Cosley Zoo, Wheaton. 630-665-5534.

Gallery of Ghoulish Homes - Oct.17 - 31. Drive by the spookiest homes in St. Charles. Best viewed between dusk and 10 p.m. FREE city-wide neighborhood event. St. Charles Park District, 630-513-5117.

Boo Bash - 10/18. Get dressed up & have some spooky fun! Enjoy trick-or-treat town, hayride & storytelling. 10 - 11 a.m. Lake Ellyn, Glen Ellyn. 630-858-2462.

Boo! at the Zoo - 10/18-20 & 25-26. Ghouls and boils will have a frightfully fun time participating in the costume parade and contest, attending keeper talks featuring delightfully scary creatures, watching pumpkin carving demonstrations, taking a haunted hay ride, and other surprises! Brookfield Zoo. 708-485-0263x879.

Halloween Hiawatha Ghost Story Train - 10/18, 19 25 & 26. A spooky, spectacular ride on a “haunted” trolley along the Fox River to a campfire along the shore complete with ghost stories, hot chocolate & s’mores! Fox River Trolley, So. Elgin. For times call 847-694-4676.

Haunted Hayride & Bonfire - 10/18. An evening of scare & ghoulish delight in part of this haunted hayride. Ghosts & ghouls of the neighborhood are invited to haunt the forest behind the Recreation Center. Later, enjoy s’mores by the bonfire. 5 - 8:30 p.m., Walker Park, Burr Ridge. 630-662-6220.

Ghost Stories in the Barn - 10/18. The farmyard will have hidden surprises & a campfire for more stories, hayride & refreshments. 7 - 9 p.m. Yesterday’s Farm, Wood Dale. 630-766-4216.

Grave Reminders Cemetery Walk - 10/21. Fantastic interactive presentation by talented volunteers as they portray past community leaders & share a bit about the life of the St. Charles residents. Held during annual Scarecrow Festival. 1 - 3 p.m. St. Charles. 630-584-6967.

A-1 Farms Chamber of Terror Haunted House - Weekends Oct. 10 -31. Bring your family & friends for a terrifying walk through one of the best haunted houses around! 7-11 p.m. Aurora. 630-859-2780 www.A1farmstand.com

Mt. Prospect Park District Howlin’ Halloween Fest - 10/20 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Ages 3-8. Calling al mini-monsters & little creepers! Enjoy a Halloween hayride, face painters, the Hoot! Hoot! Express & live entertainment. Lions Rec Center, Mt. Prospect. For more info call 847-632-9333 or www.mppd.org

Howlin’ Hairy Scarey Halloween Houses - 10/21 & after. Drive by the spookiest homes in Glen Ellyn. Winning addresses posted on website 10/21 at www.gepark.org . 630-858-2462.

Haunted Dungeon - Oct. 23 - 31. Join us for a frightfully fun evening at the scariest dungeon ever! (behind Lisle Sr. High School). Your worst nightmare will come true as you walk through the evil twists and turns of the Haunted Dungeon! See you there ... if you dare! Parental discretion. No refunds. 7 - 10 p.m. Lisle Park District. 630-964-3410 x 33.

All Hallow’s Eve - Oct. 24 & 25. Sinister characters spring to life from the pages of the 19th century gothic horror novels & from the gory headlines of long-ago tabloids during All Hallows’ Eve: A 19th Century Halloween to be held from 6:30 - 1 0p.m. The entire 13 acres of Naper Settlement, a museum village in downtown Naperville, are turned into a “Village of Fear.” In addition, the area’s premiere illusionists will take you on a journey into the unknown. Tickets are $9 for general admission. One dollar off advance tickets are available at Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St., Napervile & at select Naperville retailers. Visit www.napersettlement.museum  or call 630-420-6010

Halloween Spooktacular Family Night - 10/24. Supervised activities include costume parade, face painting, games, haunted house, bounce house, free treats & goodies! 6 - 8 p.m. Indian Boundary YMCA, Downers Grove. 630-968-8400x228.

Haunted Forest Walk - 10/24 & 25 at 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. & 10/30 at 1 - 3 p.m. Enjoy a spooky, decorated hay ride to our Haunted Forest Walk. Fee. Woodridge. 630-353-3300. www.woodridgeparks.org  

Halloween Walks - October 24-26. Halloween tricks and natural history during a nighttime walk through the woods. 6 - 9:30 p.m. Fullersburg Woods, Oak Brook. 630-850-8110.

Spooky Oaks Haunted Woods Walk - 10/25. The ghosts and goblins of Streamwood are moving outdoors this year. Prepare to be scared as you walk through the outdoor trail of Shady Oaks Park on Bartlett Road. Multiple scenes of thrills and terror will be experienced by those who are brave enough to enter our haunted woods. It may only be for one night, but it will be worth coming out for! 6:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m. Shady Oaks Park, Streamwood. 630-372-PARK

Haunted Forest Tour - 10/25. Narrated tour thru the Twin Lakes woods on hay racks where there may be creatures lurking about!! Westmont. 630-969-8080.

Halloween Happening - 10/25. Spend the morning enjoying a free movie, popcorn & a judged costume contest. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Tivoli Theatre, Downers Grove. 630-964-1855.

Creepy Creatures of the Night Hike - 10/25. Strange sounds fill the woods on cool October nights.
6:30 - 8 p.m. Tekakwitha Woods, St. Charles. 847-741-8350.

Halloween Happening - 10/26. Come out & enjoy fun activities, games & goodies! Free. 1-4 p.m. Riverwalk’s Grand Pavilion, Naperville. 630-848-5000.

Boley Family Halloween Festival - 10/28. Annual Halloween Festival & Parade thru the streets of downtown Hinsdale and costume contest w/prizes. 12 noon - 2 p.m. 630-323-3952.

Halloween Tot Time - 10/29. Children (3 & under) w/ parent are invited to dress in costume & attend a special story time. 10 or 11 a.m. Carol Stream Public Library. 630-344-6127.

Stories from the Pumpkin Patch - 10/30. Special Halloween story time includes stories, rhymes & finger plays. Children 5 & under. Carol Stream Library. 630-344-6127.

Halloween Happening - 10/31. Enjoy Circus boy Bobby Hunt as he juggles, rides his unicycle & more! 5:30 - 8:15 p.m. Westmont Community Center, Westmont. 630-963-5252.

Eleventh Hour - Three full size haunted houses, corn hay bales, games, straw maze, & more! Elk Grove Village. Call for dates and times. 708-243-6864.
 

 

On Stage in the Burbs


Hemmens Cultural Center
Located on the banks of the Fox River, The Hemmens Cultural Center is the cornerstone of Elgin's growing arts community.

This intimate, 1,200-seat theatre is a favorite venue for seeing stars up close. In the past few years, audiences have been treated to a wide array of entertainment and have seen the likes of B.B. King, Bob Newhart, Phil Vassar, Garrison Keillor, The Ides of March, Blue Oyster Cult and many more. Attending a performance at The Hemmens is an experience not to be missed; clear sightlines and wide aisles provide an unparalleled concert and theatre-going experience where patrons get the sense of sitting in a luxury suite. Even the balcony's level of comfort and proximity to the stage rivals that of many other venues' 'club level seating'.

For more information about events at The Hemmens Cultural Center, contact the Box Office at 847-931-


Midwest Ballet Theatre's “The Nutcracker”
From the bizarre battle of the mice and soldiers to the mesmerizing snow scene, to the delectable dances in the Kingdom of the Sweets, your family won't want to miss Midwest Ballet Theatre's highly-acclaimed, annual performances of Tchaikovsky's holiday classic, The Nutcracker. Based on the original Petipa production, choreography for this full-length ballet is by MBT artistic director, Mim Eichmann. Guest artists Anne Milewski and Sean Stewart, from New York City's American Ballet Theatre, will dance the roles of the Cavalier and Sugar Plum Fairy for all four performances!

Most performances have sold out every year so be certain to order your tickets early!!

Performances are at 1:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Nov. 15, 16, 22 & 23 at the beautifully restored Tivoli Theatre located at 5021 Highland Ave. in downtown Downers Grove. Ticket prices are $14/$13/$12/$11/$10 and are available thru: Midwest Ballet Theatre, P.O. Box 508, Downers Grove, IL 60515. For more information visit them at www.midwestballet.org  or call: 630.971.9751. Group rates are available for 10 or more - ideal for family get-togethers, birthday parties, Girl Scout fine arts badge requirements, retirement home daytime trips & church group outings!


"Village Players Performing Arts Center 2008 - 2009: A Season of Music!
The season starts with two world premiere musicals, Love in the Middle Ages: A Baby Boomer's Guide to Love and Sex (August 21 - September 21) and The Medium At Large, a 'spirited' new musical comedy (October 17 - November 16). 2009 begins with the Tony-Award winning play about Mozart, Amadeus (Feb. 13 – Mar. 15, 2009), followed by the off-Broadway hit Bat Boy: The Musical (May 29 - June 28, 2009). The season ends with Sondheim's Pulitzer Prize winning masterpiece, Sunday in the Park with George (August 14 to September 20, 2009). Five-show subscriptions are only $96 and are available at www.village-players.org  or 866-764-1010."


Drury Lane Theatre
The Buddy Holly Story and Meet Me in St. Louis will be presented at Drury Lane Theatre Water Tower Place, 175 E. Chestnut Street Chicago, IL 60611.
The Buddy Holly Story, opening September 19 and running through November 2. is considered to be the most successful rock ‘n’ roll musical of all time, chronicles the life of one of America’s biggest music icons.

Meet Me in St. Louis, opening November 19 and running through January 4. Travel back to the turn of the century St. Louis, where the World's Fair is coming soon - and so is a world of changes for the Smith family.

Drury Lane Theatre Water Tower Place features an intimate 549-seat performance space and spacious lobby. Dinner packages are available at various popular Chicago restaurants in close proximity to the theater. Discount parking rates are available at nearby garages. For details visit www.drurylanewatertower.com . For tickets call 312.642.2000 or www.ticketmaster.com .

23rd Annual Chicagoland Fall Home Show

The 23rd Annual Chicagoland Fall Home Show at the Renaissance Convention Center in Schaumburg, IL features a wide variety of the latest home improvement product and services, plus family entertainment & much more!

An Abundant Selection of Distinctive Enhancements To Improve Your Home!
Visualize your next home improvement project at the 2008 Chicagland Fall Home Show, Saturday October 25th & Sunday October 26th, at the Renaissance Convention Center in Schaumburg open to the public all weekend long. FREE Parking and FREE Admission gives you and your family access to all of the attractions and exhibits at the Show. This is Chicagoland's complete, one-stop shopping opportunity for all home improvement needs, inside and out! Enter to win a set of Kitchen Craft Cookware and other exciting prizes courtesy of expo exhibitors and sponsors. No Purchase Necessary.

Practical Exhibits Featuring New More Efficient & Energy Saving Products & Services!
The show floor will be packed with an abundance of quality organizations showcasing the latest in kitchens and bathrooms, remodeling, sunrooms, bedding, home theatre, faux finishing, heating and air conditioning, interior decorating, products to save energy & reduce your utility bills, and much more!

Halloween Fun For Show Visitors Plus Great Children Attractions!
As a special attraction, and since the dates of the show are so close to Halloween, the show will feature a very special guest celebrity, Chicago's own "Svengoolie" of WCIU Channel 26. He will be appearing on Saturday afternoon from 2 pm to 4 pm for some spooky fun. Bring the kids for photo ops and autographs. Don't forget your camera. Plus, children will be treated to a wide range of fun like moonwalks, face painting, balloon twisting and additional family entertainment all FREE.

One Show For All Your Home Improvement Needs!
Show hours are Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 10am-5pm. FREE Admission & FREE Parking. Visit www.MyHomeShow.com  for up to the minute information, driving directions to Renaissance Convention Center, and other useful features. For information on exhibiting call (630) 469-4611 Ext. 215.



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