Around the Block in North Aurora

See living history at the American Heritage trade show

The 4th Annual American Heritage Living History & Trade Show is Jan. 18–19 at the Kane County Fair Grounds in St. Charles. See a sampling of the artisans, craftsmen and merchants and demonstrators from the early 1700’s to the 1890’s who keep our history alive. Jim Fairchild and his wife Rebecca along with some wonderful re-enactor volunteers organize this juried indoor event. Come experience the world of re-enactors, living historians, merchants, silversmiths, pewterers, leather workers, artists, Native Americans, gunsmiths, SASS members, blanket traders, antique and reproduction firearm collectors and demonstrators. The 17th Corp. Field Hospital will be returning to recreate actual procedures from the Civil War. See how to turn wool into yarn and fabric; learn to stitch by hand; see how a telescope from the 1860’s works. Hours are Sat. 9am–5pm and Sun. 9am–4pm. Admission is $7 per adult/day—$5 if in period garb; $10 for a weekend pass. Children under 12 are free. Watch for updates at Facebook.com/AmericanHeritageLivingHistoryShow.

Explore the science of SciTech after hours

Explore a museum after dark at the STEAM Sleepover event at SciTech Hands on Museum, 18 W. Benton St., Aurora, on Jan. 17 at 6pm–9am on Jan. 18. Explore STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) through science and hands on labs. Bring a sleeping bag or air mattress, pillow, flashlight, and warm comfortable clothing to sleep in. Tickets are $45 for adults, and $55 for children. For more information, visit scitechmuseum.org or call 630-859-3434.

The Chicago Home Show in Aurora

Explore trends and tips in home improvement at the Chicago Home Show, on Feb. 22–23, 10am–5pm

each day at Vaughan Athletic Center in Aurora. This is one of the largest and most innovative home show in the Chicago area. See the latest in kitchens, baths, basements, additions, remodeling, landscaping and more. All exhibitors offer skills and services to home and commercial owners. For admission prices and for more information, visit chicaghomeshows.net or call 630-385-4000.

Joanna Conner is live in Aurora with Ivy Ford See the stellar musical performance of Chicago native Joanna Connor live on Feb. 29 at The Venue in Aurora on Feb. 29 from 7–10:30pm. Conner has become widely recognized for her blues-based slide guitar playing style, playing for local crowds at around 200 shows a year. Conner’s viral video expanded her audience, being reposted in Japan, Russia and all over Europe. Opening for Conner is singer, musician, and entertainer Ivy Ford. At 26, Ford is an up and coming artist of the Chicago blues and live music scene. Advanced tickets are $22 for premium seating and $17 for general seating. For tickets and for more information, visit themusicvenue.org.

Enjoy shopping at the Kane County Flea Market

Explore and find some hidden treasures at the Kane County Flea Market on Feb 29, 12–5pm and March 1, 7am–4pm at the Kane County Fairgrounds in St. Charles. The market features a wide range of vintage décor, home, decorative arts, decorating, design, old toys, advertising, coins and more. With 600+ dealers each month, attendees are sure to find what they’ve come for. Admission is $5 per person. For more information, visit kanecountyfleamarket.com.

Thursday night laughs at Two Brothers Roundhouse

Get a dose of laughter with Still Not Friday Stand-Up Comedy Showcase every Thursday night at 8pm at Two Brothers Roundhouse of Aurora. Featuring some of the best comedians from Chicagoland and beyond, this performance night showcases three comedians, each doing a 20-minute set. These are performers who have stood before audiences at some of the biggest clubs and independent shows in the area, and this time it’s free. Doors open at 7pm with a full food and drink menu available in the showroom. For more information, visit twobrothersbrewing.com.

Terry Fator and Puppet Pals live in Aurora Witness the amazing, creative work of Terry Fator and His Hilarious Puppet Pals at Paramount Theatre on Jan. 25, with shows at 3pm & 8pm. America’s Got Talent winner Terry Fator does it all—celebrity impressions, singing, comedy and ventriloquism. And he does it with the help of his hilarious puppet pals Winston the Impersonating Turtle, Maynard Thompkins the Elvis Impersonator and so many others. Fator has been hailed as one of the best entertainers in the world, and he’s become a staple on the Vegas strip. Tickets are $79-$99. For more information, visit ParamountAurora.com or call 630-896-6666.