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y a d i Hol HAPPENINGS 2023

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Holiday Happenings St. Charles Letters from the North Pole

Gingerbread House Creations

When: Through December 8 Deliver your letter to Santa Claus by December 8 to the St. Charles Park District and they will be mailed after December 12. Visit stcparks. org for more information.

When: Saturday, December 2 Where: Baker Community Center Registration Required A classic holiday pastime, creating gingerbread houses is a must for many. All the components are provided, from the house frame pieces and frosting to graham crackers and colorful candies. All are welcome but kids under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

• Vintage • Antiques • Furniture • Jewelry • Gifts • Curiosities • Books

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TUESDAY-SATURDAY 10 - 5 | SUNDAY 12-5 313 W. State Street in Geneva

847-514-3350

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ST. CHARLES, continued

Woodland Santa’s Holiday Workshop

Where: Hickory Knolls Discovery Center, St. Charles Park District, Campton Hills When: December 3, 11:00 am to 12:30 pm Registration Required Join the spectacle and watch Santa make his debut with his trusty husky sled! Have the kiddos make an ornament, write a letter to Santa and have your picture taken with the Big Man.

Down Home Christmas

When: Saturday, December 9 Where: Primrose Farm Do the holidays the oldfashioned way with Down Home Christmas. Make string garland made of popcorn, nosh on cookies and hot chocolate outside by the fire, learn more about the choring that would take place over the wintertime on the farm and check out the animals! Register in advance.

Trip to the North Pole

When: Sunday, December 10 Registration Required Take in a multitude of holiday decorations and be entranced on the holiday bus with hot cocoa in hand as it journeys to the “enchanted forest of the North Pole.” Listen to a reading of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and try your hand at “creation stations.”

Breakfast with Santa

When: Monday, December 11 Where: Pottawatomie Community Center Registration Required Who doesn’t love pancakes?

Celebrate the cozy holidays with a cozy breakfast prepared by Alxander’s Café.

There will be a visit by Santa to every table, holiday games crafts for everyone to enjoy.

Flashlight Candy Cane Hike

Everything You Need in One Place

Hickory Knolls Discovery Center When: Friday, December 15 Registration Required Follow the candy cane path to piece together a puzzling predicament and receive a prize at the end! Afterwards, visit Hickory Knolls and warm up with drinks while making crafts.

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As a medically integrated fitness center we have a variety of services and offerings: • MyFitRx® medical fitness pathways • Personal training • Group exercise • MOVE virtual programming • Rock Steady Boxing • Swim instruction • Massage therapy • Nutritional counseling • Café, Pro Shop and more

Visit us or call 630.938.9000 for more information about membership.

Dinner with the Grinch

with the Grinch!

When: Tuesday, December 19 Where: Baker Community Center Chow down on pizza, salad, special snacks and more, take your own selfie with the Grinch and decorate your own little Christmas tree!

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ST. CHARLES, continued

Gnome Centerpiece Workshop at Heinz Brothers Greenhouse

When: December 18 Where: Heinz Brothers Greenhouse Registration required, $45 A favorite decoration piece for many, gnomes have taken over Christmas. Make your very own with Heinz Brothers Greenhouse using fresh evergreens. Your home will smell amazing and you’ll have one more gnome to add to the collection.

STEEL BEAM THEATRE

Absurd Person Singular: A Christmas Farce at Steel Beam Theatre

Where: Steel Beam Theatre St. Charles When: Running through December 23 Three couples, three kitchens in three successive years on Christmas Eve. Take in this holiday show at the Steel Beam Theatre, a comedic play with a whole lot of truth. Check out their website for more information on tickets and specific showings through the month of December. Learn more at steelbeamtheatre.com.

Candlelight at Durant House and Sholes School Christmas Wizards…A Night of Trans Siberian Orchestra and More Starring Infinity Where: Arcada Theatre St. Charles When: December 23 at 8:00 p.m.

This tribute to the cinematic Trans Siberian Orchestra has become a tradition utilizing a ten piece orchestra and choir with a dazzling display of special effects.

Where: Durant House and Sholes School St. Charles When: December 2 and 3 Tickets available online For those with an affinity for history or the very traditional way of celebrating holidays, make sure to check out the Candlelight celebration at Durant House and Sholes School. There will be ginger cakes to enjoy as well as music and a warming fire in the hearth.

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Downtown St. Charles Store 78 S. First St., St. Charles, IL 60174 • 331.901.5152

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Geneva Santa Comes to Downtown Geneva

When: December 1 Where: Downtown Geneva Just after 6 p.m. on December 1, Santa will make his grand entrance and make his way to 10 S. Third Steet to sit down and listen to kids’ Christmas lists. Santa will be present until 9:30 p.m.

Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides Santa’s Winter Wonderland

Where: Geneva When: December 1 @ 6:40 p.m., December 2-3 from 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., December 9, 10, 16, 17 from 10:20 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Reservations required to visit Santa Santa will ride through Third Street at 10 a.m. on his visiting days then sit and listen to children’s wishes throughout the season.

Where: Historic district of Geneva When: Saturdays & Sundays throughout December beginning on December 2, 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Ride a horse-drawn carriage free of charge Saturdays and Sundays throughout the month of December.

Rides will start at the corner of South Third and James streets before traveling down Third Street and back to the starting spot.

Geneva Giving Tree

Where: Throughout downtown Geneva When: Through January 1, 2024 ‘Tis the season of giving so make sure to check out Geneva’s giving trees in the downtown area and vote for your favorite tree by donating. Each tree is decorated by local charities.

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Batavia Holiday House Decorating Contest

Where: Batavia When: December For the Clark Griswolds of the world (well, just Batavia), there is a perfect contest for you in December. Get your house looking as festive as possible and enter in Batavia’s Holiday House Decorating Contest. Entries will be accepted through December 11 and winners will be announced December 15.

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Holiday Gift Tags Batavia Public Library

Where: Batavia Public Library When: December 11 Register the kiddos to make their very own holiday gift tag. Check the website for more information.

Cocoa Crawl

Where: Downtown Aurora When: December 1 First Fridays Cocoa Crawl starts at 6 p.m. on December 1. There will be boundless opportunities to take in music, art and delicious fare from the food trucks. Please note there is a required purchase of a mug.

Santa at the Gazebo

Where: Millenium Plaza Gazebo Aurora When: Saturdays in December through the 9th Visit Santa in the gazebo and get a free download of your portrait together afterward. The event is free as a whole.

Batavia Public Library Sundays in Stage

Where: Batavia Public Library When: December 17 Heather Braoudakis, a wonderful cabaret dinger, will liven up the Founders Room with her musical stylings and performances of classic holiday tunes.

Aurora Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at the Paramount Theatre

Where: Paramount Theatre Aurora When: Several dates through January 14 Join the Paramount for their presentation of the whimsically wonderful “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” Journey through the magical world of Willy Wonka and his golden tickets with Granpa Joe and Charlie Bucket. Don’t miss your chance to witness a generation-spanning classic.

Art and Market Aurora

Where: Downtown Aurora When: December 2 and 16 For anyone desiring artisanal and truly unique creations, be sure to visit Aurora Art and Market this year. The market is completely curated and features dozens of local vendors including artists, bakers and other artisans.

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Check out Heinz Brothers Holiday Services online.

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AURORA, continued

Pet photos with Santa

Where: Town Center at Aurora When: December 10 There will only be one pet photo night in Aurora this year and this is it! Pets must be in a carrier or on a leash and no exotic pets will be accepted.

Photos will take place at the Santa Set which in the lower level by Dillard’s.

What the Elf at the Copley Theatre

The Holiday Express

Where: Blackberry Farm Aurora When: December 2, 3, 7, 8, 9, 10, 14, 15, 16 and 17 This ticketed event is a crowd favorite with plenty to awe the whole family. Don’t forget to take part in a winter sleigh ride, play in the Sugar Plum Playland, hear holiday stories in the Gingerbread School House, sip on cocoa from Kringle’s Café and so much more!

Festival of Lights at Phillips Park

Where: Copley Theatre Aurora When: Running through December 23 The Second City brings comedy roasting to the stage for the holidays with festively themed “critiques” about the most wonderful time of the year, sure to make you laugh the night away.

Where: Phillips Park Aurora When: Several dates through December 25 When a drive thru light show tells you they’re the biggest one in the region, you’ve got to check it out! Sit back and relax in your car as you crawl through a winter wonderland of lights, music and special effects displays.

Elburn Elburn Christmas Stroll Christkindlmarket at RiverEdge Park

Where: RiverEdge Park Aurora When: Several dates throughout December 24 The Christkindlmarket is a dazzling, wondrous authentic and traditional holiday market that folks come to visit from throughout the state. Stay for family friendly events, numerous festivities and countless choices for finishing out your gift lists.

Where: Downtown Elburn When: December 2 Take part in this rollicking small-town celebration and feel the warmth only your hometown can give during the holidays.

There will be an abundance of activities, foods and warm beverages to go around.

Don’t forget to participate in crafting, s’mores, holiday photos, the Kris Kringle Market and more!

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Lisle

*Ava purchailable for se onli ne

Illumination Tree Lights at the Morton Arboretum

Where: Morton Arboretum When: November 18 – January 6 Located throughout a one-mile walking path at the Arboretum, Illumination Tree lights is a popular and unique spectacle in our region. Be inspired by the wonder of thousands of lights, holiday music and an interactive light display, to name a few! Don’t forget to get your fill of s’mores and delicious

Wheaton Cosley Zoo Festival of Lights

Where: Cosley Zoo Wheaton When: Running through December 30, closed December 25 Lights will turn on at the zoo at 3 p.m. every day with hot chocolate available until 9 p.m. on weekdays and from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on the weekends. There will be a large selection of Christmas trees, wreaths and garlands for purchase and the zoo will be decked out in full holiday twinkle light regalia.

Naperville Naper Lights

Where: Downtown Naperville When: Throughout the month of December Stroll around downtown Naperville enjoying all the festive holiday decorations on full display throughout the month of December. Check out all the light displays and enjoy the season!

*Bonus gift card not available with online purchase.

Elgin Holly Days

Where: Downtown Elgin When: Throughout the month of December After Small Business Saturday, this event continues to the end of December in downtown Elgin.

Be on the lookout for the Holiday Cheers Beverage Crawl, the pop up market on December 16, the Krampus Crawl on December 9 and the Holiday at the Hemmens Spectacular December 9 – 10.

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www.goodplacestobe.com

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Handmade for the Holidays

By Jamie Baker

Page Page 10 10 •• Hometown Hometown Holiday Holiday Happenings Happenings •• December December 2023 2023

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If you’re looking for a gift straight from the heart, consider making your own festive decoration someone special will hold dear for years to come. Join a class or workshop with these crafting experts in the Tri-Cities area.

Heinz Brothers Greenhouse

heinzbrothers.com 2010 E Main St, Saint Charles (630) 377-6288 Winter Container Workshop, December 5 Porch Gnome Workshop, December 5 Adult Centerpiece class, December 18

Pinot’s Palette St. Charles

All Things Art Studio

pinotspalette.com/stcharles 3823 East Main Street, St. Charles (630) 338-0278 Starry Night in Winter scene, December 9 The Christmas Within ornament painting, December 10 Holidays in a Glass still life, December 11

allthingsartstudio.com 1106 W Main St, Saint Charles (331) 235-5032 Winter: Painting Adults, December 13 Winter: Silk Painting Adults, December 13 Wednesday Workshop, December 20 Art Day Camp, December 27 Deliver your letter to Santa Claus by December 8 to the St. Charles Park District and they will be mailed after December 12. Visit stcparks.org for more information.

TinkerBelz Art

tinkerbelzart.com 227 S. Third Street, Suite 108, Geneva (331) 203-5162 Glass Icicle Class, December 8 Simple Blown Ornaments, December 9 Simple Blown Ornaments, December 16

Color Me Mine

geneva.colormemine.com 1306 Commons Drive, Geneva (630) 262-9000 Family Fridays – half off studio fees, December 8, 15, 22, 29 Adults Night Out Paint and Sip, December 7, 14, 21, 28

Fine Line Arts Center

fineline.org 37W570 Bolcum Rd, St Charles (630) 584-9443 Needle Felting Holiday Workshop, December 6 Yarn Stash Basket, December 9

Water Street Studios

waterstreetstudios.org 160 S Water St, Batavia (630) 761-9977 Holiday Origami Artist’s Book Making Workshop, December 9 Watercolor & Ink Workshop – Paint & Sip, December 21

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Tinker Belz Art LLC

Flameworked glass gallery and studio

Classes, Gifts, Sculpture, Jewelry and more Trunk Show with Nancy Krahn Jewelry Sat., Dec. 2nd Noon - 7pm Join Us for a Very Berry Christmas in the Berry House! Fri. Dec. 8th 5 - 9pm

227 S Third St., Suite 108 Geneva 331-203-5162

www.tinkerbelzart.com

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The Lewis

Photo by Rena Captures Photography

A NIGHT OUT IN KANE Sometimes you don’t have to plan for a special event to have a great time during the holidays. We have handpicked some of Kane’s favorite spots for delicious cocktails, beer, live entertainment and a skating rink for a little extra romance!

The Lewis

thelewisstcharles.com 106 E Main St, St. Charles (630) 549-7167 The Lewis is a unique blend of the classic ‘70s aesthetics and quality wines, whisky and cocktails. Try out one of their expertly crafted classics like the whiskey sour, old fashioned and Manhattan. Feeling a little frisky? Sip on a Gold Rush, a fantastic blend of honey, lemon and Larceny Bourbon. Or you can let a Phil Collins serenade you with its delicious mix of elderflower liqueur, lemon and Empress Gin. Don’t miss this vibe!

Art History Brewing

arthistorybrewing.com 649 W State St, Geneva (630) 345-6274 A true celebration of artisans and the timeless craft of brewing amazing beer, Art History Brewing is not to be missed. Down to the glassware and amount of foam in a pour, this brewhouse pays attention to every

last detail when it comes to their beer. Choose from a wide variety of labels such as Art Therapy, Cathedral, Modernist and more!

Alchemist

alchemistgeneva.com 477 S 3rd St, Geneva (630) 338-9446 With a talented team of “alchemists,” this extraordinarily unique cocktail haven has something for any particular taste. Try out a scrumptious sip from their carefully curated crafted cocktail menu like the Grapes and Grain featuring flavors like orange and cinnamon blended expertly with Mulled Rioja and bourbon. The East India Trading Co. is a magical mixture of star anise, curry leaves, orange, gin and Mediterranean Tonic.

Or perhaps you like more complicated tastes? The Samurai Sour is the ticket with an inventive combination of egg white, Toki Japanese Whisky Lime, Togarashi, Shiranami Shochu, horseradish, Lemon, wasabi and Mirin. With names like Allmost Amoxicillin, Snowbird, Pirates Dilemma and more, the Alchemist menu is a true tribute to artistic mixology and delicious libation science. Plus, their food is just as mouthwatering. Nosh on specialty cheeses, small plates like oyster mushrooms and citrus burrata or a full-sized entrée selection including Butcher’s Cut Steak and grilled octopus, to name a few.

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French 75

56 East Galena Blvd., Aurora (630) 340-5675 french75gallery.com Elegant and nostalgic, French 75 Gallery & Lounge highlights gorgeous fine art amid a richly appointed salon. With a constantly updated menu and a delightful cocktail menu, French 75 is a perfect place to lounge about and appreciate artistry from around the entire country. Taste the Rosé, a sweet blend of rosé, grenadine, brandy and lemon juice. Or try one of their seasonal cocktails like the Strawberry Fields, Dill Intentions or Open Sesame. While enjoying their cocktail creations, don’t forget to indulge in their small plates, assorted chocolates and cheese boards.

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Paramount Theatre Aurora paramountaurora.com 23 E Galena Blvd, Aurora (630) 896-6666

Billy Elliot Starting on February 7 and running through March 24, join the Paramount Theatre as it presents a renowned favorite, “Billy Elliot.” With music from Elton John, celebrate with Billy as he finds the courage to stay true to himself in the face of negativity and doubt.

Holiday Hostess Gifts & Baskets Available

An Olive Oil Experience Select from over 60 different extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars from all over the world.

Unique Gift Baskets Available.

Homemade Skincare Products made with Olive Oil: Soaps ~ Lip Balms ~ Moisturizers

New CBD Infused Olive Oils & Relief Gel Now Carrying Limited Selection of Spice House Products!

315 James St. • Geneva (630) 262-0210 www.olivemillstores.com

Alchemist

Photo by Luoma Photography

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Holiday Hours: Mon - Fri 10am - 6pm Sat 10am -5:30pm Sun 11am - 4pm

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Paramount Theatre Aurora Photo by Sandy Bressner sbressner@shawmedia.com

Arcada Theatre

www.arcadalive.com 105 E Main St, Saint Charles, IL 60174 (630) 962-7000 Kenny G On December 14, the incomparable Kenny G is coming to Arcada Theatre, performing for The Miracles Holiday and Hits 2023 Tour. After recently releasing his 19th studio album, he will be playing some of his fan’s most favorite pieces and keeping the holidays festive.

ICE SKATING Oakhurst Forest Preserve, Aurora kaneforest.com/winter-activities Lake Patterson is a 55-acre man-made lake that can be used for ice skating when conditions are appropriate. The lake is also a popular site for ice fishing in the winter. The large mound that was created when the lake was built has now become a popular sledding hill in the winter.

Priscilla Presley Located in the newly minted Rockin’ Ravioli restaurant in Arcada’s lobby, a dinner is planned on December 17 with icon Priscilla Presley.

Christmas Wizards…A Night of Trans-Siberian Orchestra and more starring Infinity As a tribute to the world-famous Trans-Siberian orchestra, Arcada is following tradition and hosting a 10-piece orchestra with a choir, lasers, snow and lights to make this show spectacular on December 23.

All You Need is Love On January 27 you are invited to experience one of the most inspiring events this year with the All You Need is Love Tour. Arcada is pulling out all the stops for this show with state-of-the arts effects and visuals. It will be a true celebration of The Beatles and include famous tribute artists bringing The Beatles’ careers and discography to colorful life.

The Arcada Theatre

Photo by Alex Claney Photography

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Ignite Giving

230 W. State St | Geneva, IL | 630.232.2085 www.statestreetjewelers.com Page 16 • Hometown Holiday Happenings • December 2023 ShawLocal.com KCC_Hometown Holiday 2023.indd 16

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