Great Events
Chicago suburban events

May Events | Jun Events | Ongoing Events | Big Times in the Big City | Spot Light Events

May and June 2008 Events
 

Here’s your source for this month’s great events. Event information is subject to change without notice, therefore, we encourage you to call ahead and confirm - and be certain to tell ’em you saw it in Suburban Focus Magazine!
If you have an event of regional interest, we’d love to hear from you. Send to “Great Event” Fax: 630-910-7983, E-mail: suburbanfocus@aol.com  Mail: P.O. Box 2517, Darien, IL 60561. Deadline for the May/June 2008 issue is 4/11/08.

MAY

Thursday, May 1    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
FOOD Crazy for Chocolate - Learn how to buy the right chocolate, how to melt chocolate & more! 7 p.m. Carol Stream Public Library, Carol Stream. 630-653-0755.
HEALTH Heart Healthy Dining - Dietitian gives practical advice on how to incorporate a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet. 6 - 7:30 p.m. Provena Mercy Health Institute, Aurora. 630-859-2222x2946.
LECTURE National Day of Prayer Breakfast - Renowned theologian Rev. Dr. Erwin Lutzer is guest speaker. 7:30 a.m. Benedictine Univ. Lisle. 630-829-6195.
NATURE Birding - Learn the basics of birding & search for feathered friends during a leisurely stroll. Willowbrook Wildlife Ctr, Glen Ellyn. 630-942-6200.
NATURE Senior Strolls - Join naturalist as you’re led through Johnson’s Mound Forest Preserve. 10 a.m. - 12 noon. Elburn. 630-232-1242.

Friday, May 2    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
MUSIC Elgin Symphony Orchestra - Performs two of the best-loved piano concertos of the 20th century. Hemmens Theatre, Elgin. For times 847-888-0404 or www.elginsymphonyorchestra.org
NATURE Marsh Melodies - Experience the symphony of frogs, toads, birds & other wild musicians. 7 - 8:30 p.m. Dick Young Forest Preserve, Batavia. 630-232-1242.

Saturday, May 3    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
FAMILY Derby Day at Danada - Celebrate the Kentucky Derby at an all ages event that will include a variety of activities, food & more! 1 - 2:30 p.m. Blackwell Preserves, Wheaton. 630-933-7248.
FAMILY Lilac Queen Coronation - Join us as the 2008 Lilac Queen is crowned! 1 p.m. Lilac Park, Lombard. 6360-620-7322.
FAMILY Rover Rescue Pet Dog Show - Kids & adults will have lots of fun w/their canine friends, competing in a variety of challenges! 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Aurora. 630-897-7454.
FAMILY Country in the Park - Explore the lifestyle of the area’s early settlers. Sheep herding & shearing. Hummer Park, Downers Grove. 630-963-1309.
FLEA MARKET Kane County - Dealers display & sell antiques, collectibles & fancy junque! Kane County Fairgrounds, St. Charles. 630-377-2252.
HEALTH Health Fair - Features fun-filled activities for the community, free health screenings & meet American marathon record holder, Khalid Khannouchi! 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Palos Heights. www.paloschamber.org.
LECTURE Shining through the Living Light - The Spiritual Journey of Blessed Hildegard of Bingen with Gabriele Ühlein. 10:00 AM – Noon. Wheaton Franciscan Campus. 630-462-4936
LECTURE Peace Day - People of all ages are invited to gain a fresh perspective on responsible & peaceful living. $15. Romeoville. 815-834-4028.
MUSIC Glen Ellyn-Wheaton Chorale - Presents “Broadway Melodies”. 3 & 7:30 p.m. Wheaton Academy Fine Arts Center, West Chicago. 630-415-3066.
MUSIC Elgin Symphony Orchestra - See 5/2.
MUSIC The Allegro!!! Show - Enjoy this intensely theatrical, multimedia presentation. 3 & 7 p.m. Village Players Theatre, Oak Park. 866-764-1010 or www.village-players.org

Sunday, May 4    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
ART Stone Sculpting Demo - Learn the tools & techniques a stone sculptor uses & see how a stone creation emerges. 1 - 4 p.m. Lizzadro Museum, Elmhurst. 630-833-1616.
CRAFT Lilac Time Art & Craft Show - Browse many arts & crafts for sale! 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Lilacia Park, Lombard. 630-629-2630.
FLEA MARKET Kane County - See 5/3.
HEALTH Emotional Freedom - Learn the basics of Emotional Freedom Techniques. Free. 11 a.m. Soder World Healing Arts Ctr., Hinsdale. 630-455-5885.
HISTORY Cemetery Walk - Learn about famous people from Naperville’s past & mourning customs of the 19th century. 3:30 - 5 p.m. Naperville Cemetery. 630-420-6010.
MUSIC Elgin Symphony Orchestra - See 5/2.
MUSIC The Allegro!!! Show - See 4/3.
MUSIC The Agape Ringers - Enjoy this exciting, auditioned handbell ensemble. 4 p.m. First United Methodist Church, Lombard. 630-369-9879
NATURE Spillers, Thrillers & Fillers - Demonstration on how to plant a great container. 10:30 a.m. Greenhouse, Cantigny Park, Wheaton. 630-668-5161.
NATURE Backpacking Basics - Learn about backpacking gear, trail etiquette & safety. 1 - 3 p.m. Herrick Lake, Wheaton. 630-933-7248.
NATURE The Magic of Flowers - Learn the enchanting, entrancing secrets of wildflowers w/a short hike & craft. 1 - 3 p.m. Fullersburg Woods, Oak Brook. 630-850-8110.

Tuesday, May 6    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
MUSIC String Recital - Performed by the Trinity Christian College. 7:30 p.m. Recital Hall, Ozinga Chapel, Palos Heights. 708-597-3000.
SPORT Active Adult Fishing - Get reacquainted w/fishing. Includes indoor instruction & hands-on experience. 9 - 11 a.m. Mayslake Peabody Estate, Oak Brook. 6360-206-9566.

Wednesday, May 7    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
HEALTH Cardiac Wellness - Learn what a heart attack is, exercising for your heart, high blood pressure & cholesterol mgmt. Provena Mercy, Aurora. 1-866-776-8362.
LECTURE Battlefield Nursing - Speakers share their experiences as Battlefield Nurses in Iraq. 7:30 p.m. Cantigny Park, Wheaton. 630-668-5161.

Thursday, May 8    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
HEALTH Back Pain - Learn about the latest back pain treatments. 7 p.m. Center for Health, Elmhurst. Free. 630-782-7878.
NATURE Lilac Sale - Lilacia Park plant sale. 3 - 7 p.m. Lombard. 630-620-7322.
SINGLES Delightful Dining - Join single professionals for dinner. El Puente, St. Charles 6:30 p.m. Reservations req. 1 week prior. 630-588-8289.

Friday, May 9    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
ADULTS Hinsdale Cooks! Kitchen Walk - Tour five of Hinsdale’s most dynamic kitchens. Benefiting Immanuel Hall. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Rain or shine! Reservations req. 630-542-1282 or 630-789-2600.
CHARITY Petals for Pets - Purchase your spring flowers beautifying both your yard & the lives of needy animals. Benefits West Suburban Humane Society, Downers Grove. 630-960-9600x25 or www.WSHS-DG.org
EXPO The Big Sleep Show - Features seminars & workshops on all major sleep disorders. Rosemont. 312-565-4623.
FAMILY Father-Son Sports Night - Dads & sons enjoy a real “guys” night that includes ballgame snacks, games, raffles & hanging with the Chicago Rush football players! Center for Health, Elmhurst. 6 - 9 p.m. 630-782-7878.

Saturday, May 10    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
CHARITY Petals for Pets - See 5/9.
EXPO The Big Sleep Show - See 5/9.
FAMILY Cast Iron Cooking - Learn useful tips for cooking w/cast iron. Join in the hands-on preparation of cooking a meal. 12 noon - 2 p.m. Herrick Lake, Wheaton. 630-933-7248.
FAMILY Duck Race - Join the fun for the 19th annual event as plastic ducks race down the DuPage River along the Riverwalk! 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Naperville. 630-848-5000.
MUSIC New Classic Singers - Enjoy Magnificat & The Masters an uplifting concert of beautiful sacred music for chorus & instruments. 8 p.m. McAninch Arts Center, Glen Ellyn. 630-942-4000.
NATURE Blacksmithing Demonstrations - Watch the blacksmith repair equipment & demonstrate the tools & techniques of the trade. 10:30 a.m. - 12 noon. & 1 - 3:30 p.m. Kline Creek Farm, Winfield. 630-876-5000.

Sunday, May 11    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

Monday, May 12    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
CHARITY Golf Classic - Chicago Bulls legend Bob Love to host the 26th annual Marklund Golf Classic. 9 a.m. Hilton Chicago-Indian Lakes Resort, Bloomingdale. 773-474-7150 or www.marklund.org/golf
LECTURE Digital Television - Learn about “The digital Television Transition: What You Need to Know”. 7 p.m. Barrington Public Library, Barrington. 847-382-1300.
MUSIC Frankly - Dean’s Way - Frank Sinatra tribute performed by Dean Malsack. 7 p.m. Schaumburg Library, Schaumburg. 847-923-3120.
SENIORS Garden Walk - View slide presentation of Trudy Temple’s Hinsdale garden. 1 p.m. Hosted by Western Springs Seniors Club. 708-246-6276.

Tuesday, May 13    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
HEALTH Heart & Circulation - Learn about heart & circulation problems. 7:15 p.m. Chicago Gaelic Park, Oak Forest. 708-361-6223.
SPORT Active Adult Fishing - See 5/6.

Wednesday, May 14    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
HEALTH Blood Pressure Screening - Blood Pressure & Diabetes Risk Factor Screening to see if you are at risk. 8 - 10 a.m. Provena Mercy, Aurora. 1-866-776-8362.
KIDS PAWs for Reading - Children read to a certified therapy assistance dog. 6:30 p.m. Carol Stream Library, Carol Stream. 630-653-0755.
LECTURE Nutrition: A Talk for Parents & Children - Learn about the new food guide pyramid, how to read labels & select & enjoy nutritious snacks for the entire family. 7 - 8:30 p.m. Naperville. 630-848-5000.
SENIOR Day Trip - Female Legends of Broadway at The Milk Pail; Bus is leaving at 10:30 a.m. To register call 708-784-8966 or 708-246-9267.

Thursday, May 15    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
HISTORY Small Town Heritage - Discussion on Illinois’ small town life in the crucial years between the Civil War & WWI. 1 - 2 p.m. Free. Elmhurst Historical Museum, Elmhurst. 630-833-1457.
NATURE Orienteering for Beginners - Learn basic map & compass skills that will help you navigate in all types of terrain. 6 - 8 p.m. Waterfall Glen, Darien. 630-933-7248.

Friday, May 16    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
FAMILY Spring is in the Air - Family-oriented event features games, activities & more. 6 - 8 p.m. Indian Boundary YMCA, Downers Grove. 630-929-2417.

Saturday, May 17    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
FAMILY Armed Forces Day - Celebrate America’s men & women in uniform & explore the “tools of their trade” with outdoor displays, period re-enactors & special programming. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Cantigny Park, Wheaton. 630-668-5161.
FAMILY Spring Celebration - Enjoy interpretive naturalist perform & visit w/live exotic & ordinary animals w/live music too! 1 - 4 p.m. Lake View Nature Center, Oakbrook Terrace. 6360-941-8747.
KIDS Bike Rodeo - Learn about bicycle safety in the forest preserves & enjoy a fun clinic that features a short obstacle course! 9 - 11 a.m. Kline Creek Farm, Winfield. 6360-876-5900.
KIDS Club Saturday Night - Teens grades 6-8 can hang out w/their friends. Activities include a DJ, dancing, swimming, rock climbing & more. 7 - 10 p.m. Indian Boundary YMCA, Downers Grove. 630-929-2413.
MUSIC New Horizons Band Spring Concert - Enjoy spring concert music. 3 p.m. Benet Academy, Lisle. 630-829-6094
NATURE Blacksmithing Demonstrations - See 5/10.
SINGLES Delightful Dining - Join single professionals for dinner. Valentines & The Parlour. 5:30 p.m. Reservations req. 1 week prior. 630-588-8289.

Sunday, May 18    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
FAMILY Lilac Parade - Enjoy the Lilac Parade! 1:30 p.m. Lombard. For more info call 630-415-2079.
KIDS Fishin’ Kids - Learn to bait a hook, cast, handle fish & rig your pole. Ages 5-11 w/parent. 10 a.m. - 12 noon. May Watts Park, Naperville. 630-848-5000.
MUSIC West Suburban Symphony Orchestra - Enjoy Gershwin’s Porgy & Bess & Kern & Hammerstein’s Show Boat. 4 p.m. Hinsdale Central High School, Hinsdale. 630-887-7464

Wednesday, May 21
ADULT Active Older Adult Day - Enjoy a day of play for active older adults. 10 a.m. - 12 noon. Indian Boundary YMCA, Downers Grove. 630-929-2418.
HEALTH Cardiac Wellness - See 5/7.

Thursday, May 22    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
MUSIC 1st Division Army Band - Bring a blanket or lawn chair to enjoy this free outdoor concert. 7 - 9 p.m. Cantigny Park, Wheaton. 630-668-5161.
NATURE Perennials: Workhorses in the Garden - Learn about low-maintenance, long-blooming plants. 7 p.m. Carol Stream Library, Carol Stream. 630-653-0755.

Friday, May 23    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
NATURE Froggin’ Under the Stars - Identify local frogs by their calls while learning about seasonal stars & constellations. 8 - 10 p.m. James “Pate” Phillips State Park, Bartlett. 630-850-8110.
STAGE Jerry Stiller - Enjoy an Evening with Jerry Stiller as The Hemmens Cultural Center ends their 2007-08 season with a laugh! 8 p.m. 847-931-5900. or www.hemmens.org

Saturday, May 24    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
ART Prairie Arts Festival - Fine art show featuring artists ,food vendors & live entertainment. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Schaumburg. 847-923-3605.
ART St. Charles Fine Art Show - Features artists from across the country to exhibit & sell their artwork. St. Charles. 630-513-5386.
FAMILY Teach Your Dog to Catch a Frisbee - Trainers demonstrate how to train your dog to catch a flying disc. 10 a.m. - 12 noon. Naperville. 630-848-5000.
SPORT Community Cup 3x3 Soccer tournament - Form your own 3-6 member team. Ty Warner Park, Westmont. 630-321-1405.

Sunday, May 25    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
ART Prairie Arts Festival - See 5/24.
MUSIC Chicago Brass Band - Bring a blanket or lawn chair to enjoy this free outdoor concert. 3 p.m. Cantigny Park, Wheaton. 630-668-5161.

Monday, May 26
FAMILY Memorial Day Remembered - Honor America’s soldiers thru the traditional speeches & activities of the 1890s holiday. 1:30 p.m. Kline Creek Farm, Winfield. 630-876-5900.
FAMILY Memorial Day Parade - Annual parade to commemorate Memorial Day. 12 noon. Downtown Aurora. 630-844-4386.

Wednesday, May 28    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
HEALTH Blood Pressure Screening - See 5/14.
HEALTH Managing Joint Pain - Learn about the causes of joint pain & what you can do about it. 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. Provena Mercy, Aurora. 1-866-776-8362.

Thursday, May 29
LECTURE Benedictine Pedagogy Conference - Conference brings together religious & academic reps of Benedictine colleges & universities. Benedictine Univ., Lisle. 630-829-6324 or www.ben.edu/cmi  
NATURE Beginners Guide to Camping - Learn how to sleep in the outdoors w/o spending a fortune on equipment! 6 - 8 p.m. Adults only. Blackwell Forest Preserve, Wheaton. 630-933-7248.
NATURE Think Globally, Act Locally - Program on protecting the environment, saving energy & going green. 7 p.m. Carol Stream Library, Carol Stream. 630-653-0755.

Friday, May 30    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
EXPO Water Gardens - Comprehensive collection of products & services for beginning & advanced water gardeners. Darien Sportsplex, Darien. 312-409-2081 or www.mpks.org

Saturday, May 31    CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS
EXPO Water Gardens - See 5/30.
FLEA MARKET Kane County - Dealers display & sell antiques, collectibles & fancy junque! Kane County Fairgrounds, St. Charles. 630-377-2252.
LECTURE Circle of Compassion and Hope - The Gifts of Grief, Tears and Lamentation that lead to Healing, Transformation and New Life with Alice K. Carroll. 9:00 am – 3:00 pm Wheaton Franciscan Campus. 630-462-4936
LECTURE A Profile of Strength - ABC News’ Good Morning America host Robin Roberts discusses how she is living with breast cancer. Benefits Breast & Ovarian Cancer Research at Evanston Northwestern Healthcare. $65. 10:30 a.m. Michigan Shores Country Club, Wilmette. 847-570-5095 or www.americancraftexpo.org
NATURE Ranger Trek Jr. - Learn about the critters that call the forest preserves home & join a ranger on a hike to explore a variety of habitats. 10 a.m. - 12 noon. Waterfall Glen,
Darien. 630-933-7248.

CALENDAR     ONGOING EVENTS     CITY EVENT     SPOT LIGHT EVENTS


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