The Branch Moms do the research so you can save time and live your best mom life. Check out these special winter events in Illinois! Special Winter Events Lights & Flights Craft Beer Festival LOCATION: Peck Farm Park, Geneva DATES: December 12, 2026 4-7PM DETAILS: Join us for the 2026 Lights and Flights Craft Beer Festival, where the magic of the season meets the bold flavors of craft brewing! This one-of-a-kind winter celebration will light up your December with dazzling holiday lights, craft beer tastings and delicious food! Each guest will 15 sample pours along with a commemorative glass to take home. VIP tickets gain access to the event 1 hour early and receive a commemorative pint glass. Click on the tabs below to choose your experience for this inaugural event! This festival is part of Winter Wonder Lights, a monthlong celebration at Peck Farm Park. To learn about more events that all ages can enjoy, please go to the Winter Wonder Lights page . FEE: $55/ticket & $15 for designated driver Geneva EXPLORE MORE Cocoa & Chocolate Crawl LOCATION: Businesses throughout Geneva DATES: November 7, 2026, 11AM - 3PM DETAILS: Stroll through shops and restaurants at our Cocoa & Chocolate Crawl! Experience a variety of Geneva shops and restaurants from 11AM-3PM. FEE: $22/ticket Geneva EXPLORE MORE Gingerbread House Creation LOCATION: Baker Community Center, St. Charles DATES: December 12, 2026, 10AM DETAILS: Goody gumdrops! Create the ultimate architectural masterpiece while listening to holiday tunes during this fun D-I-Y event. Using a made from scratch house frame, graham crackers, frosting and colorful candies, you and your child will be all smiles decorating and celebrating with this holiday tradition. Ages 15 & under must be accompanied by an adult. FEE: $30/reservation St. Charles EXPLORE MORE Sundaes with Santa LOCATION: Baker Community Center , St. Charles DATES: December 14, 2026 at 4:30PM or 5:45PM DETAILS: How does Santa stay jolly all year long? He indulges in his favorite foods - hot chocolate, milk & cookies, and ice cream! Build your own sundae with frosty, fun toppings from the North Pole. Make paper chains to count down to Santa’s arrival on Christmas Eve and do the Freeze Dance with St. Nick himself. Santa will visit with families at their tables and make time for photos. He’ll share a special gift before heading back to the North Pole. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. One adult may accompany multiple children from the same household. Advance registration required. FEE: $18/person St. Charles EXPLORE MORE Caroling with the Cows LOCATION: Primrose Farm, St. Charles DATES: December 11 from 5PM - 8PM & December 12, 2026 from 3PM - 6PM DETAILS: Gather your family and friends to get into the holiday MOOOd! Celebrate the holiday season singing carols to the farm’s cows, sipping hot cocoa, eating delicious treats, exploring the farmyard and browsing the NEW winter maker’s market. Embrace music, history and farming with this one-of-a-kind experience. Dress for the weather. Ages 15 & under must be accompanied by a paying adult. FEE: $10/person St. Charles EXPLORE MORE Breakfast with Santa LOCATION: Courtyard Banquets, Warrenville DATE: December 5, 2026 from 8:30AM-10:30AM DETAILS: Santa Claus is coming to town, and he's stopping by for a jolly breakfast and a merry morning of festive fun! We will enjoy a breakfast buffet at Courtyard Banquets, visit with Santa, crafts, musical entertainment, basket raffles and a letters to Santa station. Seating is limited, so be sure to make your reservations early! Children must be accompanied by an adult and everyone attending must register. FEE: Ages 2 & Under are FREE Ages 3-10 $19 R/NR $24 Ages 11+ $27 R/NR$32 Warrenville EXPLORE MORE Splashing with Santa LOCATION: Vaughan Athletic Center, Aurora DATE: December 12, 2026 from 9AM - 11AM DETAILS: Splashing with Santa is guaranteed to be a one of a kind experience! Families will enjoy swimming and splashing in the Leisure Pool and watch as Santa makes his grand exit via the water slide! Santa’s elves will be on site helping children make holiday themed craft. Refreshments will be available. All Ticket Sales are final and nonrefundable. Children under 2 years old (1 or younger) are free. All other participants age 2 or older (including adults) must purchase a ticket to enter the event. Ages under 12 years old must have a companion of 16 years or older. FEE: Early Bird $13 R/NR $15, Day of $15 R/NR $17 Aurora EXPLORE MORE Winter Wonderment LOCATION: Lisle Recreation Center, 1925 Ohio Street, Lisle DATE: December 12, 2026 from 3PM - 6PM DETAILS: Enjoy our Christmas holiday celebration that combines some family favorite activities and events! Join us as we.... Make Cookies with Mrs. Claus Enjoy a special visit and photo opportunity with Santa Make a craft with our elves at their workshop Hunt for candy canes Play reindeer games Enjoy special goodies from our Holiday Café (add'l fee) FEE: $20/child with registration and $25/child at the door Lisle EXPLORE MORE Woodland Santa Holiday Workshop LOCATION: Hickory Knolls Discovery Center, 3795 Campton Hills Dr, St. Charles DATE: December 6, 2026, 10AM - 11:30AM DETAILS: Watch Santa arrive pulled by his dashing huskies, and then spend some time helping him get ready for his Big Day. Write a letter to Santa. Make an ornament. Have your picture taken with the Big Guy himself! Santa arrives at 10:15am. For ages 2+. This activity will be held at Hickory Knolls Discovery Center. FEE: $12/person ages 2+ St. Charles EXPLORE MORE Christkindlmarket LOCATION: RiverEdge Park, 360 N. Broadway, Aurora DATES: November 20 - December 24, 2026 DETAILS: The Christkindlmarket Chicago is the most authentic traditional holiday market of its kind outside of Europe, offering a unique shopping experience, family-friendly events & intercultural activities. HOURS: Christkindlmarket Aurora is open Thursdays to Sundays* Thursday: 11AM – 7PM Friday through Saturday: 11AM – 9PM Sunday: 11AM– 6PM *See below for special hours Special Opening Hours: Day before Thanksgiving (November 25): 11AM - 7PM Thanksgiving (November 26): 11AM – 4PM December 21-23: 11AM – 7PM Aurora EXPLORE MORE Lightscape LOCATION: Chicago Botanic Gardens, 1000 County Line Road, Glencoe DATES: November 13 - January 3, 2027 DETAILS: Step into an enchanting 1.3-mile trail of twinkling lights and showstopping displays expertly curated anew each year. Bundle up, grab a hot chocolate, and see the Chicago Botanic Garden glow beyond the expected. FEE: Prices vary from advance, day of and member/non-member 2 & Under are FREE Children 3-12 years $16-$23 Adults $29-$39 Glencoe EXPLORE MORE Christmas Walk LOCATION: Downtown Geneva DATE: December 4, 2026 at 6PM DETAILS: Tis the season to be jolly… especially in downtown Geneva! Our annual Christmas festival will begin Friday, December 1st at 6 pm with the first candy cane of the season being presented to the mayor, the arrival of Santa Lucia who lights the Great Tree, and the highly anticipated arrival of Santa Claus. The evening’s events continue with roasted chestnuts, strolling carolers, a live nativity and special offerings from Geneva merchants. FEE: FREE Geneva EXPLORE MORE Letter from the North Pole DATES: November 23 thru December 11, 2026 DETAILS: Ho! Ho! Ho! Add to the excitement of Christmastime’s holiday magic with a letter from Santa Claus, all the way from his workshop at the North Pole. Letters will be mailed after December 11. FEE: $6/person St. Charles EXPLORE MORE Dinner with The Grinch LOCATION: Baker Community Center, St. Charles DATES: December 8 & 9, 2026 at 6PM DETAILS: Create magical memories with the WHO-liday’s most lovable villain. Smiles, mischief and laughter guaranteed! Decorate your very own miniature Christmas tree. Enjoy a delightful dinner of pizza, salad, grinch snacks and more. Bring your camera for Grinch selfies. Be warned: Your heart might just grow 3 sizes! All ages welcome. This activity will be held at Baker Community Center. FEE: $40/person St. Charles EXPLORE MORE Gingerbread Barn Raising at Winter Wonder Lights LOCATION: Peck Farm, Geneva DATES: December 6, 2026 from 4-6PM DETAILS: Get your own gingerbread barn and start decorating! Enjoy hot cocoa and holiday music, while you and the family decorate your gingerbread barn to take home. Start a new holiday tradition! Registration includes your very own gingerbread barn, plus frosting, and assorted candies for decorating! One registration covers the whole family (up to six people per barn). Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. This event will take place at the Orientation Barn at Peck Farm Park. FEE: $72 R/NR $92 Geneva EXPLORE MORE Holiday Movie Night: The Grinch (2018) LOCATION: Playhouse 38, Geneva DATE: December 21, 2026 from 6PM-8:30PM DETAILS: Join us for a special night of holiday magic as we watch The Polar Express on the big screen! Each child will also receive a Golden Ticket! Hot chocolate will be served, and additional snacks and non-alcoholic & alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase. FEE: $15/person Geneva EXPLORE MORE Snow Stroll Down Peppermint Path LOCATION: Lisle Community Park, Lisle DATE: December 1-31, 2026 from 5PM - 10PM DETAILS: Join us as we unveil the festive lights of Peppermint Path in Lisle Community Park, including some new, festive additions! Enjoy hot chocolate, provided by St. Joan of Arc, as we celebrate the magic of the season amongst the sparkling holiday decorations along the path near Van Kampen Stage. From December 1-31, take a self-guided 'Snow Stroll' on the Peppermint Path, and capture magical moments at our various festive photo ops and lighted displays anytime between 5:00-10:00pm. FEE: FREE Lisle EXPLORE MORE Breakfast with Santa LOCATION: PARC, Plainfield DATE: December 5, 2026 9AM or 10:30AM timeslots DETAILS: Santa is making a special stop at the Plainfield Park District to have breakfast with all the good children! Each participant receives a breakfast ticket, one-on-one visit with Santa, and a craft! Don't forget your camera to capture your meeting with Santa! Each person attending must be registered. FEE: $18/person & children under 2 are FREE Plainfield EXPLORE MORE Santa's Express LOCATION: Fox River Trolley Museum, South Elgin DATE: December 14, 2025, 4:20PM-5:20PM or 5:35PM-6:25PM DETAILS: All Aboard for Holiday Magic at the Fox River Trolley Museum! Celebrate the season with a nostalgic, joy-filled train ride that’s sure to warm hearts of all ages. Step into the magic aboard our beautifully decorated 1950s vintage elevated cars and travel along an authentic rail line from 1896. Before departure, enjoy a steaming cup of delicious hot chocolate. Santa Claus himself will make a merry appearance – greeting each family and snapping cheerful selfies. • Transportation is NOT included. • Please indicate who you will be sitting with. Once the train is seated, there will be no switching trains at the site. • Everyone must have a ticket due to fire code. • Boarding begins at the Jon Duerr Forest Preserve. • No refunds once tickets are purchased. • Seats are limited to the first 60 people. • An adult must accompany the children on the train. FEE: $38 R/NR $43 South Elgin EXPLORE MORE Grinchmas on the Green LOCATION: Village Green, Chicago Street, Plainfield DATE: November 28, 2026, 4:30PM - 6PM DETAILS: Celebrate the season and experience Village Green aglow with holiday lights and sights at the annual Grinchmas on the Green November 29. FEE: FREE! Plainfield EXPLORE MORE An Almost Winter Day LOCATION: SEBA Park, 151 Water Street, South Elgin DATE: November 22, 2025 from 2PM - 5PM DETAILS: Join South Elgin Parks and Recreation for the 24th annual An Almost Winter Day. Make s'mores, decorate cookies, enjoy craft projects, get a balloon animal, drop-off a letter to Santa (and get a reply from the North Pole), Snowball slingshot, ice sculptor and tree decorating contest. Pictures with Santa is 2PM - 4:45PM (bring your camera) Village Tree Lighting is at 5PM at Panton Mill Park Parking is available in the North lot, Panton Mill, County Park, and Willard School parking lot. FEE: FREE South Elgin EXPLORE MORE Oswego Holiday Express LOCATION: 810 Prescott Lane, Oswego DATES: December 11-13, 2026 2PM, 4PM & 6PM Time slots DETAILS: Join us for a beloved holiday tradition! Dress in your coziest pajamas and warmest clothes, and embark on a magical journey to the top of the world. Mrs. Claus will welcome you, you’ll savor hot cocoa from the Village Grind, and you’ll have the chance to meet Santa! FEE: 2PM Session: $20 R/ $30 NR 4 PM & 6PM Session: $25 R/ $35 NR Oswego EXPLORE MORE Holiday Homecoming Electric Christmas Parade LOCATION: Downtown St. Charles DATE: November 28, 2026, 5:30PM DETAILS: St. Charles Holiday Homecoming is one of the Midwest's most spectacular holiday events. Join us for a magical celebration that marks the beginning of the holiday season in St. Charles. Be captivated by the Electric Christmas Parade on Main Street, between 6th Street and 4th Avenue. Enjoy the beautifully illuminated parade entries, the high school marching bands, and a special appearance by Santa Claus himself! FEE: FREE St. Charels EXPLORE MORE Woodridge Winterfest LOCATION: Kagann Plaza at the Village of Woodridge DATE: November 22, 2025, 3PM - 7PM DETAILS: Celebrate the Magic of the Season at Woodridge Winterfest! Join us for a festive evening as we light up our dazzling 20-foot Christmas tree and fill the night with holiday cheer. Create heartwarming memories with Santa and Mrs. Claus, shop unique gifts from 20+ talented vendors at the maker’s market, and savor tasty bites from food trucks. Enjoy festive music, a cozy children’s craft area, and meet beloved characters like Anna, Elsa, and Rudolph. With something for everyone, Winterfest is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season. Proudly hosted by the Village of Woodridge, Woodridge Park District, Woodridge Public Library, Woodridge Special Events Committee, and Woodridge Volunteer Corps. Don’t miss this magical community celebration! FEE: FREE Woodridge EXPLORE MORE Breakfast with Santa LOCATION: Shannon Hall, Batavia DATES: December 12, 2026, 8:30AM - 9:30AM OR 10AM - 11AM DETAILS: Celebrate the holiday season with a festive breakfast and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus! Santa will talk to each child and hand them a small gift. Please sign up each family member who plans to attend. Please know this event sells out FAST! FEE: $18 per person Batavia EXPLORE MORE Polar Express Storytime Train LOCATION: Geneva Train Station DATES: December 5-6, 2026, 9:30AM - 12PM & 1:30PM - 4PM DETAILS: All aboard the Polar Express Storytime Train! Travel to the North Pole to pick up Santa & his friends. Then travel back with us to Geneva and have lunch/dinner. After we eat, each child will have the opportunity to sit on Santa’s lap, give him their wish list, and have a picture taken. Families are encouraged to wear their pajamas and bring their holiday spirit!. Please note: this event is listed in the Fall brochure, which is out in late July. Pre-registration is required and space is limited. FEE: Ages Newborn - 11 months are FREE Ages 1-17 years: $40 R/ NR $47 Ages 18+ years: $45 R/NR $53 Geneva EXPLORE MORE Winter Wonderland Express with a visit from Santa LOCATION: LaFox Metra Train Station DATE: Decmber 5 & 6, 2026 at 10:15AM DETAILS: Celebrate winter your way by hopping aboard the Winter Wonderland Express with your friends and family. Enjoy a magical experience full of holiday cheer and be greeted by a special guest. Savor a delicious pizza & salad meal, topped off with a sweet treat. A parent must register for this event. One parent may accompany multiple children from the same household. Trip departs from and return PROMPTLY to LaFox Metra Train Station. Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to departure for each train ride. Fee includes train ticket, lunch, dessert and holiday fun. Advance registration required. No refunds after November 2. FEE: FREE for kids under 1 & $59/person St. Charles EXPLORE MORE Santa's Naperville Workshop LOCATION: Paddleboat Quarry Rentals, 441 Aurora Avenue, Naperville DATES: November 30-December 20, 2026, 5PM - 8PM DETAILS: You're invited to visit Santa! Registration Required. FEE: $12 R/ $18 NR per family Naperville EXPLORE MORE Santa's Hotline LOCATION: phone call DATE: Calls are made on December 6, 2026 from 6PM - 8PM DETAILS: Make this holiday season even more special for your child with a personal phone call from Santa Claus or Mrs. Claus! Santa or Mrs. Claus will address each child by name, ask for gift ideas and have a magical and memorable conversation. Registration is free. Registration is per family. Please make your reservation early as limited spots are available! FEE: will be on website on registration date, 10/20/26 Naperville EXPLORE MORE Journey to the North Pole LOCATION: Eaton Preserve, Plainfield DATES: December 12 & 13, 2025 from 5PM - 9PM DETAILS: Bundle up for a wagon ride to the North Pole! Sing along to seasonal songs while sipping hot chocolate, and enjoy a visit with Santa and his Elf. Each child receives a snack and bell for the event. FEE: $15/person Plainfield EXPLORE MORE Sugar Plum Tea LOCATION: Prisco Community Center, Aurora DATE: December 5, 2026 from 1PM - 3PM DETAILS: Our Sugar Plum Fairy Tea Party is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season. Dress in your holiday best and enjoy an elegant tea party with delectable treats from the Land of Sweets, holiday music, and a mini Nutcracker performance from our dancers. After the show enjoy photo opportunities with the Sugar Plum Fairy and Nutcracker dancers! Both child and adult need to register. Fee includes tea party and performance. FEE: $20 R/NR $25 Aurora EXPLORE MORE The Great Gingerbread Bake-Off LOCATION: Eola Community Center, Aurora DATE: December 4, 2026 from 6PM - 7:30PM DETAILS: Enjoy family bonding and some friendly competition during an extra sweet holiday activity. Families will have 90 minutes to “build” and decorate their best gingerbread house to present to our panel of judges for the chance to take home fun prizes. Registration includes families of up to 4. Gingerbread kits and all the fixings will be provided. Register by December 3 for discounted pricing! Day of registration will be $32. Adults must register for the event too. FEE: $24-$32/person Aurora EXPLORE MORE Santa Express LOCATION: Museum at Lisle Station Park, Lisle DATES: December 5 at 10AM or 12PM and December 6 at 1PM DETAILS: Santa will travel from family to family to find out what they want for Christmas and to take photos. Stories will be read and carols will be sung. A treat and goodie bag will be handed out at check-in for the ride. FEE: $24 Res / $32 NR for everyone ages 1+ Lisle EXPLORE MORE Dickens in Dundee 2025 LOCATION: Dundee Depot Market and Visitor's Center, Dundee DATES: December 5, 2025 from 5:30PM - 9PM and December 6, 2025 at 6:30PM DETAILS: Dickens in Dundee was formed in 1988. It began as a small community gathering, with caroling and the search for Tiny Tim’s crutch in local stores. With the support of local businesses, this event has grown significantly and attracts people from all over the Dundee area. This year’s Dickens in Dundee will take place on Friday, December 6th from 5:30-9:00 pm, with a Holiday Lights Parade to follow on Saturday, December 7th at 6:30 pm. 𝐃𝐈𝐂𝐊𝐄𝐍𝐒 𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐈𝐕𝐈𝐓𝐈𝐄𝐒 𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐋𝐔𝐃𝐄: Friday, December 5 𝟓:𝟑𝟎 𝐏𝐌: Dundee-Crown Chamber and Varsity Treble Choirs perform 𝟓:𝟒𝟓 𝐏𝐌: Tree Lighting Ceremony by The Christmas Schooner Cast of the Dundee Township Park District Theater Then.........Santa Arrives!! 𝟔-𝟖 𝐏𝐌: Those Funny Little People Toy Making Elves Living Windows (along River St. and Main St.) 𝟔-𝟗 𝐏𝐌: * Visits with Santa (FREE apple cider and cookies will be served) * The Frozen Robins Caroling Quartet * The Frozen Fab Four (Elsa, Anna, Kristoff and Olaf) * FREE Horse-drawn Carriage Rides * LIVE Reindeer Display by Santa's Village * Eastside Cafe will offer warm, adult beverages for purchase on site in the white tent. (FREE hot chocolate will be served as well) 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆: In addition to street parking, there are parking lots located: - At 311 Barrington Ave (behind the building) - At Main St/Rt 72 next to Dairy Queen/Dundee Music - Behind Duke's BBQ/the Caboose - 112 Railroad St. (Use Hill Street Entrance) - At the AT&T parking lot at the northwest corner of Jackson & Water Streets HANDICAPPED/ACCESSIBLE Parking will be available in front of 220 N. River St. where marked with signage. ****************************************************************** Saturday, December 6 𝟔:𝟑𝟎 𝐏𝐌 - Riverside Parade of Lights Please join us for a magical night along the riverfront for our 3rd Annual Riverside Parade of Lights. The 2025 Parade Marshall for the Riverside Parade of Lights is Joe Minoso from the hit TV show Chicago Fire! The Parade kicks off in West Dundee on S. Lincoln Ave. (just south of N. 6th St.), travel north to, and across, the Main St. bridge in Carpentersville, then south on Washington/Water St. to East Dundee (ending at Railroad St.) 𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗔𝗗𝗘 𝗧𝗥𝗔𝗩𝗘𝗟 𝗧𝗜𝗠𝗘𝗦: (These are approx. times based off of previous years) 6:30 PM - Kicks off in West Dundee 6:45 PM - Travels down the Main St. bridge in Carpentersville 7:00 PM - Approaches East Dundee **** 𝗔𝗗𝗗𝗜𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗡𝗧 𝗣𝗔𝗥𝗞𝗜𝗡𝗚 **** 𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗧 𝗗𝗨𝗡𝗗𝗘𝗘: In addition to street parking, there are parking lots located: - At 311 Barrington Ave (behind the building) - At Main St/Rt 72 next to Dairy Queen/Dundee Music - Behind Duke's BBQ/the Caboose - 112 Railroad St. - At the AT&T parking lot at the northwest corner of Jackson & Water Streets 𝐇𝐎𝐓 𝐂𝐎𝐂𝐎𝐀 𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐓: Hot cocoa will be offered by Eastside Cafe for purchase at $2 a cup (Cash only) at the BIG WHITE TENT at the corner of Water St. and Barrington Avenue. Also, Donations will graciously be accepted for the D300 Food Pantry. Eastside Cafe will match all donations received. FEE: FREE East Dundee EXPLORE MORE Holiday Fun with the Grinch and Cindy Lou Who LOCATION: Vaughan Athletic Center, Aurora DATE: December 19, 2026, 10AM - 11:30AM DETAILS: Join the Grinch and Cindy Lou for cocoa & cookies, crafts, and Whoville Bingo! Fun for the whole family at the Vaughan Center. All ages welcome. All attendees must purchase a ticket. and all children must be accompanied by and adult during the event. Children under 2 are free. All ticket sales are final. FEE: Early bird: $10 (Child 2Y+) / $5 (Adult) Day Of: $15 (Child 2Y+) / $10 (Adult) Aurora EXPLORE MORE Donuts with Santa LOCATION: ARRCC Community Hall & Kitchen, Naperville DATE: December 5, 2026, 9AM - 10AM OR 10:45AM - 11:45AM DETAILS: Participate in a holiday story told by Santa, enjoy delicious DeEtta's Bakery donuts and take pictures with the man in red. Please bring your own camera. Infants under 12 months of age are free. Everyone must register including adults and infants. FEE: Not on website yet* Naperville EXPLORE MORE Gingerbread Drink & Decorate LOCATION: Fox Valley Winery, Oswego DATE: December 1, 3 & 9, 2026 at 6:30PM DETAILS: Take a gingerbread break this holiday season. Leave the kids at home for this adult only evening of candy coated, creative, exterior decorating. Each registration includes a complimentary “holiday spirit”. FEE: $36 R/$46 NR Oswego EXPLORE MORE Holly Jolly Days LOCATION: Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster, Naperville DATES: December 6-8, 13-15, & 19-20, 2024 Fridays: 3pm - 7pm Saturays & Sundays: 1pm - 6pm DETAILS: Celebrate the wonder and joy of the holiday season with holiday crafts, stories, and more! Learn how reindeer shoes are made with a special story-time and demonstration by the blacksmith at the forge. Create your own holiday crafts to take home in the Meeting House. Listen to holiday stories in the museum’s one-room Schoolhouse. And end your visit with a special family photo at our Victorian Christmas photo stop at the Paw Paw Post Office. Don't forget to send a letter to Santa while you're there for an extra touch of holiday magic! New this year, several of our historic buildings will be lit for the holiday season. Please note: All children must be accompanied by an adult. All adults must be accompanying a child. Santa will not be at Naper Settlement for this event. No food or beverages will be for sale. FEE: $6 per person and children under 4 are FREE Naperville EXPLORE MORE Hot Cocoa with Anna & Elsa LOCATION: Blackberry Farm, Aurora DATES: December 5, 12, 19, 2026 at 1:30PM, 2:30PM, 3:30PM, 4:30PM & 5:30PM DETAILS: Join your favorite Frozen Sisters, Anna and Elsa, for a hot cocoa party complete with sing-a-long and photo opportunities. Each registered attendant is also invited to enjoy all Holiday Express has to offer. You will not want to miss the train, visit with Santa and all of the festive decorations! All attendees ages 1 and up (including adults) must purchase a ticket. All ticket sales are final. FEE: $16/person Aurora EXPLORE MORE Deck the Paws with Santa LOCATION: Blackberry Farm, Aurora DATES: December 3 & 10, 2026, 6 - 8PM DETAILS: Get ready to capture paw-some memories this holiday season! Bring your dog to meet Santa and watch them strike adorable poses for the camera. Each dog will have a private visit with Santa and receive a goody bag, while adults can enjoy refreshments. Don’t forget to bring your own camera to capture the memories! FEE: $15/person Aurora EXPLORE MORE Storytime with the Grinch LOCATION: Blackberry Farm, Aurora DATES: December 6, 13, 20, 2026 at 1:30PM, 2:30PM, 3:30PM, 4:30PM, 5:30PM DETAILS: Visit with the Grinch and enjoy cookies and hot cocoa. There will be story time and photo opportunities. Each registered attendant is also invited to enjoy all Holiday Express has to offer, come early or stay after depending on your ticket time, Holiday Express runs 2-7pm. You won’t want to miss the train, visit with Santa and all of the festive decorations! Everyone ages 1 and up need to purchase a ticket. FEE: $16/person Aurora EXPLORE MORE Back to ILLINOIS Winter Guide

The Branch Moms do the research so you can save time and live your best mom life. Check out these Haunted Houses in Illinois this fall! Haunted Houses + Places Gallery of Ghoulish Homes Tour LOCATION: various locations throughout St. Charles DATES: October 16-31, 2026 from dusk until 10PM DETAILS: Pack up the family for an evening out! Drive by several of the spookiest homes in the Fox Valley area, and admire the ghoulish yard displays of St. Charles’ finest home haunters. View displays from either your vehicle or the sidewalk. Homes are best viewed from dusk until 10pm beginning October 17 through Halloween night. Free tour guides are available. Click EXPLORE MORE to get more info! Judging Nights: Oct 16 & 17 FEE: FREE St. Charles EXPLORE MORE Dark Hallow Hayride LOCATION: Big Timber, Elgin DATE: October 16, 17, 23 & 24, 2026, 7PM - 10:20PM Time slots DETAILS: Deep in the fog-choked hills of Elgin, IL lies Haul Away Timber Co., an old logging camp abandoned after workers vanished and bodies were found torn apart beside the saw pit. The foreman’s final warning spoke of something in the woods that wore a man’s face until the moon rose. Years later, the land became Camp Big Timber, but the forest never forgot. Scouts whisper about the “third whistle” that echoes after lights-out. Those who answer it swear they hear something circling just beyond the firelight. One counselor saw the figure standing at the edge of the clearing: too tall, eyes shining like glass, its body twisting into something beastlike under the moon. When the camp whistle blew, it slipped silently back into the trees. The counselor left before dawn, saying, “They built that camp on something that wasn’t finished.” To this day, the rules at Camp Big Timber are strict: no one leaves their cabin after the final whistle. No exceptions. And if you hear a third whistle? You pretend you didn’t. FEE: $30+tax Elgin EXPLORE MORE Nightmare on Chicago Street LOCATION: Chicago Street, Elgin, IL (Between Grove and Villa St.) DATE: October 16-17, 2026 from 6PM - 11PM DETAILS: Downtown Elgin will again be defending the city this year to keep everyone safe from the zombie infection. To ensure your survival, citizens are encouraged to proceed to the SAFE ZONE at Nightmare on Chicago Street. Elgin’s Zombie Defense Initiative (ZDI) has sanctioned the area of Chicago Street from Grove to Villa, as well as portions of Douglas Avenue, S. Grove Avenue, S. Spring Street and DuPage Court, as the official boundaries of the SAFE ZONE. Venture outside this area at your own peril. Although the SAFE ZONE has been deemed safe from the undead, we cannot guarantee that order will prevail. Expect businesses to be boarded up, vegetation reclaiming derelict buildings, creatures on the prowl, burning tires and barrels of toxic waste littering the streets, abandoned cars, buses and even airplanes damaged and overturned, as well as stray zombies being taken for processing and study. Do not fear! Your safety is Team ZDI's top priority. Opportunities to purchase food, alcoholic beverages, and goods will be available. This may be your last shot at survival, so we at the ZDI want to make sure that every human has a good time with stages of live entertainment and bands, food, drinks, retail vendors, roaming performers, live graffiti artists, a hookah lounge, and special guests like MeTV’s SVENGOOLIE and more! Visit our Thunderdome, Nightmare Alley, and B-Movie Boulevard for extra spooky entertainment! FEE: $38.50 - $85.15 (Ages 17+) Elgin EXPLORE MORE Haunted Hayrides LOCATION: Eaton Preserve, Plainfield DATES: October 15-17, 2026 from 5PM - 9PM DETAILS: Ready for a fright? Bone-chilling thrills await on the Haunted Hayrides at Eaton Preserve October 15-17 Twisting trails, lurking shadows, and unexpected scares will keep you on edge — just don’t look behind you… Choose your adventure: Less Spooky (family-friendly) More Spooky Rides depart every 15 minutes, 5–8:45 p.m. Pre-registration closes at noon on the day of each event, but tickets will also be available onsite (while spots last). Don’t miss this spooky seasonal tradition — secure your ride today! FEE: $12-$15/person Plainfield EXPLORE MORE Spooky Trail LOCATION: Trail is west of Reed-Keppler Park, West Chicago DATES: October 22 from 7:30PM - 9PM & October 23-24, 2026 from 7:30PM - 10PM DETAILS: Dare to enter the haunted woods of Reed-Keppler Park? Venture into the darkness of Spooky Trail for a spine-chilling adventure, where you'll encounter eerie clowns, creepy crawlies and other frightful surprises along the 0.25 mile path. FEE: $15 pre-sale & $18 at the door West Chicago EXPLORE MORE Naperville Hauntings Ghost Walks LOCATION: 43 E. Jefferson Avenue, Naperville (Quigley's Irish Pub) DATES: Fridays & Saturdays starting August 21, 2026 and goees through October 31, 2026 All dates start at 8PM DETAILS: Join us for a haunting and historic adventure through one of Illinois' most haunted towns in the state! Join us for an eerie on foot excursion throughout the haunted city of Naperville! We will be departing from Quigley's Pub right in downtown Naperville. Our tour will give you the opportunity to experience the most haunted locations in this historic and infamously storied town. From there you will get up close and personal with some of the most haunting locations joined along by your expert guide. We would advise that you wear comfortable shoes and dress accordingly for the weather. FEE: $34+tax/person, lasts 2 hours Naperville EXPLORE MORE West Chicago Wicked Hallows Haunted Hayride LOCATION: Sonny Acres Farm, West Chicago DATES: Select Nights October 2-30, 2026 DETAILS: Join us Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings for our SONNY ACRES FARM NIGHTTIME FESTIVAL FEATURING: The all-new Wicked Hallows Haunted Hayride at Sonny Acres Farm. It’s is an open-air hayride with creepy live action characters and scary scenes around every bend with live actors, dynamic scenery, animatronics, pyro techniques, vibrant lighting, music, sound effects, and more. What Are the Age Requirements? We leave this to our guests’ discretion. Everyone handles frights and sights differently! In our experience over the years, some 8-year-olds have a great time, while some 38-year-olds are spooked and need their mommy! If you ask us, we recommend our nighttime haunted attractions for children ages 12 and over. For the little ones not yet ready for the thrill of the haunt, we are proud to offer daytime amusements, and attractions including a hayride without the live character actors. No matter which experience is right for your visit, we know it will be a memorable one! FEES: Single Haunted Hayride Attraction Ticket: $25 Single Haunted House (Barn) Attraction Ticket: $20 Add a Haunted Barn VIP Fast Pass for just $10 (Barn Only), skip the regular line. Combo Ticket (Both Attractions): $38 West Chicago EXPLORE MORE Curse of the Scarecrow Haunted Barn LOCATION: Sonny Acres Farm, West Chicago DATES: Select Nights October 2-30, 2026 DETAILS: Join us Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings for our SONNY ACRES FARM NIGHTTIME FESTIVAL FEATURING: Curse of the Scarecrow Haunted Barn in West Chicago. It’s a creepy maze with twists, turns and characters (live actors) around every corner. The scene is set in an old, abandoned barn, he’s on the loose inside the barn and out for revenge! The Scarecrow is joined by many of his sinister cohorts, and they just can’t wait to meet you! What Are the Age Requirements? We leave this to our guests’ discretion. Everyone handles frights and sights differently! In our experience over the years, some 8-year-olds have a great time, while some 38-year-olds are spooked and need their mommy! If you ask us, we recommend our nighttime haunted attractions for children ages 12 and over. For the little ones not yet ready for the thrill of the haunt, we are proud to offer daytime amusements, and attractions including a hayride without the live character actors. No matter which experience is right for your visit, we know it will be a memorable one! FEES: Single Haunted Hayride Attraction Ticket: $25 Single Haunted House (Barn) Attraction Ticket: $20 Add a Haunted Barn VIP Fast Pass for just $10 (Barn Only), skip the regular line. Combo Ticket (Both Attractions): $38 West Chicago EXPLORE MORE Haunted Forest Walk LOCATION: Fred C. Hohnke Community Center, Woodridge DATES: October 23-24, 2026, 6PM - 9:30PM DETAILS: Hawthorne Hill Woods will be transformed into a thrill of nine scary scenes, complete with all sorts of creatures that slither and groan. Patrons will wind their way through the haunted forest trail which will feature scary characters and around every dark corner will lurk a new horror. The Saturday afternoon session will be more suitable for children 9 and under (parental discretion). Be sure to vote for your favorite scene before you leave; a QR code will be available at the end of the woods and on the haywagon for quick and easy voting. FEES: $10/person Ages 2 & under are free Woodridge EXPLORE MORE Cemetary Walks LOCATION: Oswego Township Cemetery, 503 Main St, Oswego DATE: October 1, 2026, 5:30PM - 9:15PM Timeslots DETAILS: Experience local history come to life during our annual Oswego Cemetery Walk! Participants will be guided through the cemetery to visit with “ghosts” of early Oswego residents and pioneers. Pre-registration is required. Registration the day of the event is $10, space permitting. Please arrive at the beginning of your timeslot! Participants should be able to walk for 45 minutes, wear comfortable shoes, and are encouraged to bring a flashlight. An adult must accompany all children. Registration is per person. Presented in partnership with the Oswegoland Heritage Association. FEES: $7 Res/NR $10 Oswego EXPLORE MORE Back to Fall Guide

The Branch Moms do the research so you can save time and live your best mom life. Check out these Halloween events in Illinois this fall! Halloween Events Trick or Treat on the Trails LOCATION: Hickory Knolls Discovery Center, 3795 Campton Hills Dr, St. Charles DATE: October 23, 2026, 6PM - 8PM DETAILS: Dress up in your costume and get into the Halloween spirit! Take a nighttime journey through Hickory Knolls’ beautiful oak savanna for safe and spooky - but not scary - nature fun! Along the trail, encounter activity stations complete with hands-on learning experiences and lots of treats! Bring a flashlight and treat bag. Visit with Hickory’s animal ambassadors who can’t wait to see you. Ages 15 & under must be accompanied by a paying adult. FEE: $12/person for ages 2+ St. Charles EXPLORE MORE Escape the Mansion: Greta’s Greenhouse LOCATION: Stephen D. Persinger Recreation Center, 3507 Kaneville Rd, Geneva DATE: October 17, 2026, 1PM - 9PM DETAILS: Escape the Mansion is an escape room-style event that pits groups of 10 people against the clock to see if they can solve a series of challenges, clues, hidden passwords, and more before time runs out. For one night only, the second floor of the Stephen Persinger Recreation Center is transformed into the fictitious Madam Klara’s Mansion, an estate built in 1799 which has been rumored to be haunted and filled with dark magic. Participants will be given a tour of the mansion, featuring a newly discovered room of the building: Gustav’s Game Room, where Gustav has left behind cryptic secrets and hidden clues for you to uncover! FEE: Starting at $15 Geneva EXPLORE MORE Halloween Hayday LOCATION: Stephen D. Persinger Recreation Center, Geneva DATE: October 24, 2026, 10AM - 1PM DETAILS: Don’t miss this day packed with seasonal activities, including a costume contest, Mad Scientist, bounce houses, Halloween Egg “Haunt,” hayrides (weather permitting), and more! Admission is free for adults. FEE: Pre-Registration: $11 (N/R $13) & Day-Of Registration: $13 (N/R $16) for ages 14 & Under Geneva EXPLORE MORE Howl O' Ween Dog Parade LOCATION: Peck Farm Park, 4038 Kaneville Rd, Geneva DATE: October 24, 2026, 9AM - 10AM DETAILS: Bring your dogs and dress-to-impress at Peck Farm Park! This event is free, but pre-registration required. Prizes will be awarded! One handler per dog. One person may bring more than one dog. Additional people are welcome to enjoy the parade. FEE: FREE! Geneva EXPLORE MORE Thriller on 38 LOCATION: 2nd Street between Rt. 38 & Hamilton (behind Vargo's Dance in back parking lot) DATE: October 10, 2026, 7PM - 9PM DETAILS: Thriller on 38 2026 So here are the deets: 🔥Saturday Oct 10th, 7PM 🧟Location- behind Vargo’s Dance in back parking lot. 🌯Food trucks & DJ start at 7PM 7:30PM- 1st Performance of Michael Jackson's Thriller 8PM - 2nd Performance Event ends 9PM. FEE: FREE but please support the vendors who come out! Geneva EXPLORE MORE Halloween Happening LOCATION: Naperville Riverwalk's Grand Pavilion DATE: October 25, 2026, 1PM - 4PM DETAILS: Come and enjoy lots of fun activities, inflatables, games & goodies at Naperville's best FREE Halloween fest for kids 10 and under. FEE: FREE! Naperville EXPLORE MORE Kids Pumpkin Painting LOCATION: South Point, 810 Preston Ln, Oswego DATES: October 12, 2026, 10:30AM - 12PM DETAILS: Your young artists will have a blast transforming their very own pumpkin into a vibrant masterpiece. This class is designed to spark creativity and provide a fun, hands-on artistic experience. Ages 5 – 12 FEE: $10 R/$15 NR Oswego EXPLORE MORE Night at the Museum: Halloween Party LOCATION: DuPage County Historical Museum (102 E. Wesley Street, Wheaton) DATE: October 2, 2026, 6PM - 8:30PM DETAILS: Experience a high-octane evening with costumes, a flashlight scavenger hunt, crafts and a movie screening on the big screen! Join us at the DuPage County Historical Museum for Night at the Museum, our annual Halloween Party! Come dressed in your Halloween costumes and enjoy a high-octane evening. Rev up the fun with a flashlight scavenger hunt, fall crafts and snacks. Experience the excitement of Radiator Springs as we screen the Disney Pixar Movie Cars in the auditorium. The DuPage Society of Model Engineers will be doing a train demonstration downstairs. Feel free to sport your favorite racing gear or come dressed as your favorite character! Admission is $20/person. FEE: $20/person; FREE for Explorers Club Members Wheaton EXPLORE MORE Wheaton Halloween Happening LOCATION: Wheaton Communutiy Center, Wheaton DATE: October 9, 2026, 5:30PM - 7:30PM DETAILS: Join us for a hauntingly good time! This fun-filled evening features games, prizes, touch-a-truck, bounce house, air brush tattoos, concessions, a life-size version of the beloved games Candyland and more. Costumes are encouraged for this activity-filled Halloween event. FEE: FREE, but some activities may cost money Wheaton EXPLORE MORE Monster Mash Bash LOCATION: Oswego High School DATE: October 24, 2026, 2PM - 4PM DETAILS: There’s a frightening amount of things to do at this year’s Bash! Crafts, candy, games and more! Pre-register for $6 or pay $9 at the door. Registration is per child. Adults are free FEE: $6 Pre-Registered or $9 at the door Oswego EXPLORE MORE Boo at the Zoo - Randall Oaks Zoo LOCATION: Randall Oaks Zoo, 1180 N Randall Rd., West Dundee DATES: October 31 & November 1, 2026, 9AM - 5PM DETAILS: Gather your little ghosts and goblins for this fun-filled family event at Randall Oaks Zoo. See your favorite animals, a few creepy crawlers, and more in your costumes at the Halloween-themed event. Trick-or-treating is available all day, and we know you will have a fang-tastic time! A costume parade will occur each day, so dress in costume and join the fun! Activities: Trick-or-Treating (9AM-5PM) Costume Parade (11AM & 2PM) FEE: $6/person & Kids 1 & under are FREE West Dundee EXPLORE MORE Boo Bash in West Chicago LOCATION: ARC Center, 201 W National St, West Chicago DATE: October 16, 2026, 5:30PM - 8:30PM DETAILS: Calling all ghosts and goblins galore... Come to the ARC Center to see what’s in store! Halloween games and lots of fun treats, this Boo Bash is sure to be neat! Jump on your broomstick or float like a ghost to the ARC Center to enjoy a hayride, live entertainment, games, crafts, activities and more Halloween fun! All children must be registered. Adults are free and must accompany children. Pre-registration closes October 16 at 12:00pm. Walk-up registration $15. FEE: $12 Res /$15 NR & $15 at door West Chicago EXPLORE MORE Ghost Story Train LOCATION: Fox River Trolley Museum, 365 S La Fox St, South Elgin DATES: Saturday, October 10, 17, & 24, 2026 at the following timeslots: 5PM, 6:15PM and 7:30PM DETAILS: Ride a spooky trolley down to the haunted forest preserve for an evening full of family friendly frights. Listen to spooky chilling stories around the roaring camp fire while enjoying monstrously good treats whipped up by you and Margie's Girls' Kitchen. Join in as our ghostly musician leads everyone in singing campfire songs. Costumes are welcome! This Event is Family Friendly and Suitable for all ages. FEE: $20/person South Elgin EXPLORE MORE Trick-or-Treat At Safety Town in Naperville LOCATION: Naperville Safety Town, 1320 Aurora Avenue, Naperville DATE: October 17, 2026, 9:30AM - 1PM DETAILS: Learn PUMPKINS safe trick or treat tips, and trick or treat on the town! Costumes encouraged! Perfect for children ages 3-12, younger children are welcome to join us as well. We will have activity stations and many local businesses handing out toys, coupons, stickers, candy and more! FEE: $15 donation per family Naperville EXPLORE MORE Naperville Trolley Tours LOCATION: visit website for more info DATES: Varous dates from October 16-31, 2026, please see website for times DETAILS: Public October Halloween Lights Trolley Tour: Ding! Ding! THUMP! This Trolley Tour highlights some of the BEST decorated homes for Halloween! It's appropriate for all ages, and costumes are encouraged! Public Halloween reservations go live on 8/1/26 at 10:00am CST FEE: 2026 Pricing for Public October Holiday Light Trolley Tours: October 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28: $25+$3.75/driver gratuity = $28.75 per person (plus online booking fee.) October 16, 17, 18, 22, 23, 24, 25, 29, 30, 31: $30+$4.50/driver gratuity = $34.50 per person (plus online booking fee.) Naperville EXPLORE MORE Boo at the Zoo LOCATION: Brookfield Zoo DATES: October 3-25, 2026, 10AM - 5PM (weekdays) & 10AM - 6PM (weekends) DETAILS: Get ready for a boo-tiful day of Halloween fun at BOO! at the Zoo, Brookfield Zoo Chicago's family-friendly fall tradition! Enjoy festive décor, not-so-scary surprises, and seasonal fun for ghosts and ghouls of all ages. Best of all, admission is FREE with Zoo membership. Put on your favorite costume and experience the Zoo like never before this Halloween season! FEE: Adults: $29.95 Seniors 65 and over: $24.95 Children 3 to 11: $20.95 Zoo admission is FREE for children 2 and under. Brookfield EXPLORE MORE Howl-O-Ween LOCATION: Lincoln Park Dog Park, Aurora DATE: October 17, 2026, 10AM - 11AM DETAILS: Dogs will hunt for eggs filled with treats. Costume contest and take home prizes. Event will include a goody bag and all the eggs the dog can get. Doggie Details: Dogs must remain on leash. Please no retractable leashes (Max 6ft). Dogs must be wearing tags and current on all vaccinations. Dog must be accompanied by an adult. All family welcome. FEE: $5 Aurora EXPLORE MORE Halloween Hayride at Blackberry Farm LOCATION: Blackberry Farm, Aurora DATE: October 18, 2026, 5PM - 6:30PM DETAILS: Dress up in your favorite Halloween costume and join us for a Halloween Hayride. Take a scenic hayride around Lake Gregory, enjoy family activities, and make s’mores at the campfire. Costumes will be judged as participants enter the park. This is a great program for families to enjoy together. Each person attending must be registered. Children must be accompanied by an adult. FEE: $12 R/NR $16 Aurora EXPLORE MORE Haunted Train Ride at Blackberry Farm LOCATION: Blackberry Farm, Aurora DATE: October 23, 2026, 6:30PM - 8PM DETAILS: Be aware of ghosts, witches, and goblins during the Haunted Train Ride. Grab your flashlights and board the haunted train, if you dare! Join us for a spooky craft. Enjoy the train, wagon, carousel, and bonfire with smores. Recommended for ages 4-10. All attendees ages 1 and up (including adults) must purchase a ticket. All ticket sales are final. FEE: $16/person Aurora EXPLORE MORE Boo on the Bridge LOCATION: Hudson Crossing Park DATE: October 16, 2026, 6PM - 10PM DETAILS: Celebrate the Halloween season at Hudson Crossing Park with an evening of festive fun along the Fox River. Enjoy local craft beverages, food trucks, a live DJ, and activities. Come dressed to impress for the costume contest, featuring prizes for the funniest, scariest, most creative, and best group costumes. Boos at the Bridge is the perfect way to gather with friends and enjoy a festive fall night out. This event is for ages 21 and older. FEE: FREE Oswego EXPLORE MORE Monster Madness LOCATION: Community Park, Lisle DATE: October 17, 2026, 3PM - 6PM DETAILS: The event is being held at the South Shelter and tree grove in Community Park and runs from 3-6pm. This is a rain or shine event, and the whole event is outside, so please dress accordingly. Costumes are highly encouraged! There will be porto potties available as well as 2 additional bathrooms off the shelter for use during the event. Check in: When you arrive, you will check in at the PRE REGISTRATION tent, receive an activity wristband and one orange prize bag per child registered. The event runs from 3-6pm and the check in tent will open at 3pm. Please note siblings under 2 are welcome, but they may not participate in activities. Creepy Café: We will also have our Creepy Café again this year (for an additional cost per item) with sweet seasonal treats, warm and cold drinks, freshly popped popcorn and pizza! Cash and card are accepted. Children ages 2-10, come and enjoy a festive autumn fun fair filled with friendly games, ghouls and goodies. Win Halloween prizes and enjoy a snack at the 'Creepy Café.' Be sure to dress up in your Halloween costume! Spooktacular Fun Includes: Spooktacular Games Giant Inflatable Trick or Treat Obstacle Course Frankenstein Bouncy House Petting Zoo Pony Rides Face Painting Cookie Walk Pumpkin Patch Fun Photo Opportunities Creepy Café (addt'l fee) FEE: $20 for pre-registration & $25 at the event Lisle EXPLORE MORE Halloween Hop Trick or Treat LOCATION: Downtown Naperville DATE: October 25, 2026, 10AM - 12PM DETAILS: The Downtown Naperville Halloween Hop, will be hopping, on Sunday, October 25, from 10am – 12noon. Candy surprises door to door, face painting and free Trick or Treat Trolley rides around downtown too! Check back for locations participating – we’re gathering the ghouls! FEE: FREE Naperville EXPLORE MORE Family Halloween Spooktacular LOCATION: Naper Settlement DATE: October 24 & 25, 2026, 10:30AM & 12:30PM (10/24) and 12:30PM & 2:30PM (10/25) DETAILS: Grab your candy buckets and prepare for a magical trick-or-treat journey across our 13-acre campus with candy stops at our historic homes. After, rock out with The Little Mermen & Princess Pals —the #1 Disney tribute band. Grab your candy buckets and prepare for a magical trick-or-treat journey across our 13-acre campus with candy stops at our historic homes. After, rock out with The Little Mermen & Princess Pals —the #1 Disney tribute band performing 100 years of Disney hits (see performance schedule). From classics like Mary Poppins and The Lion King to modern hits like Frozen and Moana, the whole family will enjoy a nostalgic journey through the magical world of Disney, infused with rock and pop influences. Steps from the stage, little ones can bounce to the beat in themed inflatables including a fright-free Haunted House adorned with friendly ghouls, grinning ghosts, and playfully spooky décor. Plus, don't miss our interactive Ghoul School, where your little witches and warlocks can craft custom slime. All activities and performances are included in admission! FEE: $15/Adult | $10/Child (4-12) | FREE for Under 4 Naperville EXPLORE MORE Frankenstein's Kiddie Carnival and Fun LOCATION: PARC, Plainfield DATE: October 9, 2026, 6PM - 7:30PM DETAILS: Ghosts and goblins are wanted for a night a fun! Put on your best Halloween costume and join us for carnival games, crafts and an inflatable. Fee includes: 12 game tickets, crafts & snack Check in at Guest Services to receive your pre-paid tickets Additional tickets will be available for sale on-site. FEE: $18 R/ $23 NR Plainfield EXPLORE MORE Back to FALL Guide

There are days when you just need to leave. Not a planned outing. Not a whole thing. Just out. Somewhere with a little more breathing room than whatever is currently happening inside your four walls. Every mom has those days. The ones where the walls feel closer than usual, the kids are bouncing off them, and the idea of staying home one more hour sounds genuinely impossible. This is a list for those days. Places and types of places to keep in your back pocket. No prep required, no special occasion necessary. Just go. The library Underrated. Consistently. It is free, it is climate controlled, there are books and sometimes activities, and nobody is going to judge you for sitting in a chair and staring at nothing for fifteen minutes while your kids do their own thing in the children's section. Most libraries have story times, activity areas, or at minimum a change of scenery that costs nothing. Your local park, but a different one than usual The park you always go to is fine. But there is something about a new park that buys you extra time. New equipment, new kids to observe, new things to explore. A different park a few miles away can feel like a small adventure on a day that desperately needs one. A coffee shop that welcomes kids Not all of them do, and you know which ones in your area are which. The ones with a little space, the staff who smile instead of tense up, the corner that works. Keep one or two of these in rotation for the days you need somewhere to sit that is not your kitchen. A local trail, even a short one It does not have to be a hike. A flat, manageable path near you, one where kids can walk or ride bikes or just have space to move, does something for everyone. Fresh air changes the energy in a way that is hard to explain and easy to confirm. A hardware store or a home goods store Stay with us on this one. Kids who are fascinated by things, and most of them are, will walk the aisles of a hardware store or a large home goods store with genuine interest for longer than you would expect. It is warm or cool, it is interesting, and nobody is rushing you out. A local splash pad, pool, or water feature In summer especially, water solves a lot. A community splash pad, a town pool, even a fountain in a park. Water-based destinations are reliably effective for burning energy and improving moods. Many are free or low cost. Worth knowing where all of yours are before you need them. A familiar drive Sometimes the destination is the car. Music on, windows down or AC cranked, no particular place to be. Kids who are spiraling often reset in a moving car in a way that does not make sense but absolutely works. Drive somewhere and get a drive-through drink. It counts. A note about this list Every community is different. The spots that work for your town might not be on here, and the ones on here might not all apply to yours. That is what makes this one worth making local. If you have a go-to that is not on this list- the specific park, the coffee shop, the trail, the hidden gem that always saves a hard day- drop it in the comments over on Facebook. The best version of this list is the one we build together.

Somewhere along the way, summer got a to-do list. Camps and activities and experiences, carefully scheduled, carefully documented. The pressure to make it count, to make it memorable, enriching, screen-free, intentional. To send them back to school in September having done something with all that time. And there is nothing wrong with any of those things, individually. But there is also something worth protecting in the version of summer that does not look like much. The long, unstructured, slightly sweaty stretch of a day where nothing is planned, and everything is possible. The kind of summer that bored kids into creativity, into neighborhood alliances, into elaborate games with complicated rules that only they understood. That summer did not disappear because something better came along. It got crowded out. And it is worth reclaiming. What boredom actually does Boredom is uncomfortable. That is the whole point. When kids do not have something handed to them, they have to generate something themselves. That process, sitting with the discomfort, deciding what they want, figuring out how to get it, negotiating with whoever is around, is doing a lot of work developmentally. It builds frustration tolerance, creativity, self-direction, and the ability to entertain themselves without external input. It also, eventually, gets kids off your case. Not immediately. The "I'm bored" phase is real, and it requires some nerve to wait it out. But on the other side of it is a kid who figured something out, built something, invented something, convinced the neighbor kid to come outside. That is not nothing. That is actually a lot. What it asks of parents Honestly? Mostly just tolerance. Tolerating the whining. Tolerating the mess that comes when they finally do find something to do. Tolerating the fact that it does not look enriching. It looks like four kids digging a pointless hole in the backyard or two siblings building a blanket fort that will take over the entire living room. It asks parents to resist the pull to fill every gap. To say "figure it out" and mean it. To let them be a little bored, a little restless, a little uncomfortable, because that is the very condition that produces the good stuff. The boring summer is not the lesser summer It does not need to be documented. It does not need a theme or a bucket list. It does not have to mean anything to anyone outside your family. A kid who spent a significant portion of June doing absolutely nothing in particular, and figuring out how to be okay with that, is a kid who learned something. Maybe something more durable than whatever would have gone in the caption. Let this be the summer with some room in it. The days where nothing is scheduled and everyone survives. Where they are bored and then, eventually, they are not. Those days are enough. They might even be the ones they remember.

There's a particular loneliness that comes with secondary infertility. It doesn't announce itself the way other kinds of grief do. There's no clear moment when the people around you understand what you're carrying — because from the outside, everything looks complete. You have a child. You're a mother. And you are grateful, genuinely and fiercely, for that. And you are also grieving. Both of those things are true at the same time. And somehow, the coexistence of them makes each one harder to talk about. What secondary infertility actually is Secondary infertility is the inability to conceive or carry a pregnancy to term after already having had a biological child. It affects a significant number of families — more than most people realize, partly because it's so rarely talked about openly. It can involve months or years of trying. It can involve loss. It can involve medical interventions, hard decisions, and a kind of hope that keeps getting picked up and put back down. And it often happens in near silence, because the people around you don't know it's happening, or don't know what to say, or assume that because you already have a child, the grief must be smaller somehow. It isn't. The guilt that comes with it One of the most exhausting parts of secondary infertility is the guilt that shadows the grief. The voice that says you don't have the right to be this sad when you have what so many people are still waiting for. The discomfort of wanting more when you know, rationally, that you already have something precious. That guilt is common. It makes sense that it exists. And it doesn't make the grief less valid. Loving your child deeply and mourning the sibling they might not have, the family shape you imagined, the pregnancy you hoped for — those things are not in competition. Grief doesn't work on a hierarchy of who deserves it. What makes it feel so invisible Well-meaning people sometimes say things that land harder than intended. "At least you have one." "Maybe it's just not meant to be." "Have you tried relaxing?" "You could always adopt." These aren't said with cruelty. But they can communicate, without meaning to, that the grief should already be over — or that it wasn't warranted in the first place. The result is that a lot of moms going through secondary infertility go quiet about it. They smile through baby showers. They hold other people's newborns and feel things that are complicated and real and not easily explained. They carry it privately because it feels like there's no clear space to set it down. If you're in it You're not alone in this, even when it feels that way. There are other moms in this community who understand the specific texture of this grief — the hope and the disappointment cycling, the way it can color an entire season, the exhaustion of holding it alongside regular life. You don't have to justify how hard this is. You don't have to perform gratitude to earn the right to grieve. And you don't have to figure out how to talk about it before you're ready. If and when you want to talk about it — here, with a counselor, with someone who's been through it — that conversation is worth having. You deserve support that actually sees the whole picture. If someone you love is going through it You don't have to have the right words. You mostly just have to not fill the silence with reassurance. "I'm so sorry. This is really hard," goes further than almost anything else. Ask how they're doing and mean it. Follow up. Don't assume that because they seem okay, they are. And if they want to talk, let them — without trying to fix it or reframe it into something more manageable. Sometimes the most important thing is just knowing someone can hold it with you.