*Full Calendar Below
Elf an Aerial
Christmas Adventure
December 21
7:00 PM
New Year Party
December 31
2:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Noon Year’s Eve Party
December 31
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Looking for fun activities for the family in McHenry County, IL? Below is Northern Illinois Parents Event calendar which includes local events and festivals for children, adults, and families. Many of these events are free. So check out the calendar for things to do and start planning your week/weekend.
*Be sure to call the venue beforehand to make sure the activity is still scheduled. Northern Illinois Parents is not liable for any accidents, harm, or cancellations of events.
Happy Holiday Railway Embark on a magical 40 minute train ride through the winter countryside with Santa Claus himself! Enjoy a 40-minute train ride for the whole family See and visit with Santa Claus on the train Treats and hot chocolate will be served An animated light show and holiday song presentation entertain you during […]
Cary Winter Farmer’s Market is held on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month from 9am – 1pm, between the months of October and May. It is held in the Algonquin Township Building, 3702 US Route 14, Crystal Lake
The McHenry County Santa Run is a 5k run/walk and 1 mile walk that benefits 6 local children’s charities: Girls on the Run of Northwest IllinoisBig Brother Big Sister of McHenry CountyCASA of McHenry CountyMain Stay FarmsKiwanis Club of Crystal LakeKids In Need of McHenry County Registration link:https://raceroster.com/…/mchenry-county-santa-run-for-kids
For the Kids Ornament Workshop, bring the kids by for a holiday workshop. Color – Paint 2 wood ornaments. All supplies included. Limited Seating. Payment and reservation are required before class. Cost is $10.00 per child. Call Artisan Marketplace today to reserve your spot. (815) 322-2698.
Kick off the holiday season with a heartwarming tradition! Join us for the Parent/Child Holiday Gift Making Memories event—an evening of creativity and festive fun, perfect for making cherished memories with your little one. For just $36, you and your child will: -Decorate and design 3 special gifts for family members, including a wood, ceramic, […]
Try the Free Lacrosse Clinic Now’s your time to try this awesome sport! Sign up today with the QR Code or link here: https://docs.google.com/…/1W96m7NPgLZBQpYDe9Iy7…/edit…
Enjoy a beautiful stroll under the stars as we light a trail through Veteran Acres Crystal LakeTrail map with parking and low mobility course information located on our website$1 per person/$5 max per family donation appreciated for future Nature Center education programs DEC 4-64:30-7:30 pmWalk the lit trail (no activities)
Meet Santa at Nick’s Pizza and Pub. Come and have pizza and beverages with Santa! It’s a holiday experience for the whole family! Visit https://nickspizzapub.com/nicks-pizza-pub-crystal-lake/ for more details.
Come visit Santa and make sure to bring a camera to capture the special memory. Free admission.
Christmas Wreath Workshop Decorate your own faux evergreen wreath to take home with you. All supplies included. Limited Seating RSVP & Payment required to hold your space All supplies included. Cost is $40.00 per person. Call Artisan Marketplace today to reserve your spot. (815) 322-2698 .
Senior Services Associates will be hosting their Annual Craft & Vendor Fair
Holiday Music with Seniors Music for the Ages is partnering with Rock ‘n’ Kids to help make this holiday merry and bright! An amazing event to get seniors and little ones (5 and under) together for the holidays! Sing and dance to holiday music. This is a free event. Register at https://www.musicfortheages.net/event-list
Ladies Night Out 2024: Holiday Hoedown Y’all are invited to the 2024 Ladies Night Out Holiday Hoedown! Round up your friends, put on your best boots, and get ready to kick up some holiday cheer! Enjoy a festive evening of shopping, dining, and fun on the town—country style. Dress in your best Western wear and join us […]
2nd Annual Merry Makers at More Brewing Co Details TBD – visit event website for updates
Christmas Movies at the Outdoor Theatre Grab a HOT chocolate and bring the kids to see The Polar Express followed by Dudley Moore in Santa Claus: The Movie from 1985! We are open through the holiday season at the outdoor and admission is a flat rate of $15 for everyone in your car. Car load […]
Christmas Themed Painting Party Welcome to a fun creative holiday art party Dec 6th at 6pm. By the end, you’ll create your beautiful work of art to take home. Choose to create your painting from our inspiration packets or bring in your own picture. Alicia will guide you step by step through the process. It’s […]
Come and celebrate the holidays with the Starline Excursion Market’s 4th annual Art, Craft, and Vintage Fair! Explore the town of Harvard, Illinois as we come together as a community for Christmas in Harvard on Saturday the 7th, and stop by for great shopping from over 40 permanent vendors and special pop up vendor guests […]
Happy Holiday Railway Embark on a magical 40 minute train ride through the winter countryside with Santa Claus himself! Enjoy a 40-minute train ride for the whole family See and visit with Santa Claus on the train Treats and hot chocolate will be served An animated light show and holiday song presentation entertain you during […]
Christmas in Harvard returns in 2024 with a full schedule of events and fun for the whole family all day on Saturday December 7, 2024. Event Schedule: Holiday Hoopla – 8:00am to 10:00am – Brown Bear Daycare – 21007 McGuire Rd., 815-943-3499 – Visit with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, then make a picture frame and […]
Holiday Photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus! Reserve your spot! Bring your friends, dogs, cats and family for professional photos! Pets are not required to attend! $25 – 15 minutes to do as many poses as you would like and the choice of one digital image. Each addition image will be $5 – purchase at […]
The Woodstock Winter Farmers Market has a new location! Visit your favorite local farmer’s market vendors at All Season Orchard. Enjoy the expanded market with room for even more vendors, live music, and family fun!
Enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast just in time for the holidays. Stop by to see Santa for a photo op. All ages welcome, only 2 years and up need to register. Register with Woodstock Recreation. $15 Fee
Welcome to the 2nd Annual Grinch Breakfast! Come to Niko’s Grill & Pub for a fun-filled morning with the Grinch himself. Enjoy a delicious breakfast while meeting the iconic character in person. This event is perfect for families looking to kick off the holiday season with a touch of whimsy. Don’t forget to wear your favorite […]
Kids Shopping with Santa’s Elves A special shopping event for children ages 12 and under. We have assorted items from the shop that are priced especially for children (everyone else pays regular price). Have them bring in their shopping lists of who they want to buy for. Santa’s elves help them choose, wrap, and tag […]
Holiday Sing-a-long with WHS Music Students Join the WHS Music Students for a joyful holiday sing-along featuring live music, a festive story by Santa, delicious treats, and a special memento to take home. Cost: $10 per child (adults are free!). Lead by students from the Jazz Band, Chamber Orchestra, Madrigal Singers, and Jazz Choirs! The […]
Meet the Grinch You better watch out…you better not cry….The GRINCH is coming to town!! Join us in welcoming the big man in green on Tuesday, December 10th from 5:30pm – 7:30pm! Bring your cameras! Kids will enjoy fun and a FREE Coloring Book! Only at the *NEW* Squire on the Square! www.goodplacestobe.com
Christmas Tree Bucket Workshop Create your own faux Christmas tree in a bucket. Great gift idea. Or table decoration for your home or office. All supplies provided. Just bring yourself or you and a friend and enjoy making and taking something beautiful home. Have a large group? Inquiry about a private event. Limited Seating RSVP […]
Enjoy a Paint & Sip Family Night at Trio Grille Restaurant & Bar/Glo-Bowl Fun Center Wednesday, December 11th from 6:30-8:30pm Art is pre-sketched and instructed by Artzilla Studio $35 per guest, reservation is required, text 779-548-1823 to reserve your spot today! Receive 10% off your entrée when you come to paint!
Ladies Night Out Holiday Edition Ladies, join us for an evening out in Huntley! Ring in the holidays with a night of fun, pampering, special promotions and so much more. Pre-registration for this event is NOT required! The first 200 ladies checking in will receive extra goodies. The fun starts when you check in at […]
Merry and Bright Ladies Night! Join in for the annual holiday sip and shop. Browse an intimate selection of makers and small businesses at the Algonquin Village Vintner.
Meet the Grinch You better watch out…You better not cry… The GRINCH is coming to town!! Come to Rookies in Huntley to Meet the Grinch!! Thursday, December 12th from 5:30pm – 7:30pm! Bring your cameras for free photos with the man in green! FREE Grinch Coloring Book Pages!Candy & Giveaways KIDS EAT FREE FEATURING:- Half […]
Take a Train to Santa’s Workshop! Must register through Cary Park District. Visit website for more information.
Have fun at the Holiday Workshop – Snapology! Dress in holiday colors and get ready to have some holiday fun with Snapology! Ages 5-11. Friday, Dec 13, 2024 1:30pm-4pm at Village of Spring Grove 7401 Meyer Road Spring Grove, IL 60081 Get ready to have some holiday fun with Snapology! In our Christmas Workshop, your […]
Oh, the weather outside may be frightful, but the Village Hall fireplace is delightful! While you’re waiting for your photo with Santa, you’ll wrap around all the uniquely decorated spaces inside Village Hall. Marvel at our lobby filled with snowflakes, high-five Frosty the Snowman, and collect a gift or two from some of Santa’s Elves. […]
Christmas Movies at the Outdoor Theatre ELF!!! Need we say more. What a way to spend a December night just weeks out from Christmas! This is the most unique way you’ll see this favorite followed by The Nativity Story. Find more events for the season and FAQ at Goldenagecinemas.com
Happy Holiday Railway Embark on a magical 40 minute train ride through the winter countryside with Santa Claus himself! Enjoy a 40-minute train ride for the whole family See and visit with Santa Claus on the train Treats and hot chocolate will be served An animated light show and holiday song presentation entertain you during […]
SWINGS WITH SANTA A Fundraiser for Kids In Need of McHenry Co – a 501c3 Join in for a FREE Family-Friendly Fundraiser Supporting Local Foster Kids in McHenry County! This event is family-friendly, FREE, and the perfect way to connect with other amazing people in the area! Event Details: Date: Saturday, December 14thLocation: Elite Warrior […]
The Woodstock Winter Farmers Market has a new location! Visit your favorite local farmer’s market vendors at All Season Orchard. Enjoy the expanded market with room for even more vendors, live music, and family fun!
Huntley Winter Farmers Market Winter Season: The indoor farmers markets take place on the second Saturday of the month during the winter. They are located inside the American Legion ( 11712 Coral Street) during November and December. They then move inside Huntley Municipal Complex (10987 Main Street) from January to April. We’re open from 9:00am-1:00pm.
Cary Winter Farmer’s Market is held on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month from 9am – 1pm, between the months of October and May. It is held in the Algonquin Township Building, 3702 US Route 14, Crystal Lake
Pancakes with Santa! Get ready for a magical holiday morning with Pancakes with Santa on December 15th from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM! Enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast, followed by fun crafts and games for the whole family. Capture the holiday spirit with photos with Santa—he’s ready to hear all your Christmas wishes! Tickets are […]
Winter Farmers Market at the Dole Free Admission, Free Ample Parking, ATM Onsite, 50+ Vendors
Enjoy a fun and creative Holiday Glass Etching Workshop! In this hands-on class, young artists will learn how to safely design and etch their very own glass creations. With easy-to-use stencils and non-toxic etching cream, they’ll personalize glass jars or drinking glasses with unique patterns, shapes, and initials. Perfect for all skill levels, this workshop […]
Bopp’s Bar and Grill will be hosting family bingo night! This is NOT bar bingo. This is a simple 5 round, fun, kid friendly, bingo. A funny and simple prize will be given out to the winner each round. Starts at 6pm and estimating it will take about an hour to complete. Family Bingo Night! […]
Merry Jane’s 3rd Annual Market Please join in for a night full of AWESOME small business deals! Stay tuned for the vendor line up!!
Christmas Fun with Santa Cow Come celebrate the magic of Christmas at Chick-fil-A Crystal Lake with an evening of family fun and Santa Cow on Thursday, December 19, 2024 from 5pm – 7pm. There will be cookie decorating* for the kids (while supplies last), a complimentary cocoa bar*, and a special performance by the Prairie […]
Christmas Movies at the Outdoor Theatre It wouldn’t be the holidays without Clark firing up the Christmas Lights for his family and Cousin Eddie showing up! National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation followed by Scrooged with Bill Murray! Our final showing of the season! Find more events and FAQ at goldenagecinemas.com
How the Grinch Stole Christmas Experience Come warm and come fuzzy, a craft there will be, A grinchily good ornament to put on the tree. Then let’s have a treat, a milkshake-y type treat, with Truffala trees, and a sucker to eat. What great fun we will have, with a special guest too, The Grinch […]
Happy Holiday Railway Embark on a magical 40 minute train ride through the winter countryside with Santa Claus himself! Enjoy a 40-minute train ride for the whole family See and visit with Santa Claus on the train Treats and hot chocolate will be served An animated light show and holiday song presentation entertain you during […]
The Woodstock Winter Farmers Market has a new location! Visit your favorite local farmer’s market vendors at All Season Orchard. Enjoy the expanded market with room for even more vendors, live music, and family fun!
Christmas Movies at the Outdoor Theatre It wouldn’t be the holidays without Clark firing up the Christmas Lights for his family and Cousin Eddie showing up! National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation followed by Scrooged with Bill Murray! Our final showing of the season! Find more events and FAQ at goldenagecinemas.com
Elf an Aerial Christmas Adventure presented by the Lofty Life Flyers. Tickets are $25 and available for purchase at the Harvard Chamber of Commerce.
Winter Farmers Market at the Dole Free Admission, Free Ample Parking, ATM Onsite, 50+ Vendors
Carriage Rides on the Historic Square See for yourself why Woodstock was voted the most festive Christmas town in Illinois. Enjoy the charm and enchantment of the Woodstock Square during the Holidays with a nostalgic horse drawn carriage ride around the Square. This is a first-come, first-served opportunity and a popular holiday attraction, so grab […]
Little Elves Christmas Party Joining for the Christmas celebration will be a family favorite Disney princess and our holiday heroes- Santa & Mrs. Claus. Bring your loved ones and your friends, and let’s celebrate the holiday season together! Our program:- Surprise Disney princess greets guests- Decorating cookies for Santa & Mrs. Claus- Santa & Mrs. […]
Lorcana Azurite Sea League is a free event! Earn fun prizes and make new friends! It will add more fun to your Disney Lorcana collection. The Pieceful Project will have the organized play rewards and prizes including fun Disney enamel pins, promotional cards, and more! Each week you can earn league points by completing activities, […]
Carriage Rides on the Historic Square See for yourself why Woodstock was voted the most festive Christmas town in Illinois. Enjoy the charm and enchantment of the Woodstock Square during the Holidays with a nostalgic horse drawn carriage ride around the Square. This is a first-come, first-served opportunity and a popular holiday attraction, so grab […]
Race against other teams to finish a 500 piece winter puzzle. Prize to be awarded to team that finishes first. For ages 8+, must have one member 18+, teams of up to 4 people, $40 per team, must register through Woodstock Recreation.
Join Niko’s Pub & Grill for a New Years party!! There will be 2 fireworks shows:9pm we will have a mini fireworks show for the kids11pm Grand Finale Fireworks Show! Make your reservations now to get your New Years plans in the calendar!
New Year’s Eve Bowling at Raymond’s 3 party packages available. Please visit website for more information and to make reservations https://secure.meriq.com/event/nye-celebration-raymonds
Join Glo-Bowl Fun Center for their New Year’s Eve Rock ‘N Bowl event! Many options for your New Year’s Eve bowling: 4-6pm, $70 per lane, 2 hours of bowling, shoe rental, 4 people per lane ($3 for additional person), and party favors 7-9pm, $75 per lane, 2 hours of bowling, shoe rental, 4 people per […]
Noon Year’s Eve Party 11am-2pm (Balloon Drop at Noon) ROLL in the New Year with Bella’s Bouncies Skate on Grand! Roller skate, play games, huge balloon drop and so much more. Kids & Adult Skaters $17 advance purchase, $27 day of the eventNon Skating Parents $10 (Includes Pizza/Drink), $20 Day of the Event Tickets can […]
Moretti’s Kid’s New Year’s Eve Party Kids $14.95 Adults $19.95Family Dinner (Pizza, Pasta, Salad, Ice Cream & Soft Drinks) EXPLOSIVE KIDS VIDEO COUNTDOWNBALLOON DROPPARTY FAVORSPARTY DJ AND DANCING KID’S NYE 2025!!! Get Your Tickets Nowhttps://kidsnewyearseve.com/
Moretti’s Kid’s New Year’s Eve Party Kids $14.95 Adults $19.95Family Dinner (Pizza, Pasta, Salad, Ice Cream & Soft Drinks) EXPLOSIVE KIDS VIDEO COUNTDOWNBALLOON DROPPARTY FAVORSPARTY DJ AND DANCING KID’S NYE 2025!!! Get Your Tickets Nowhttps://kidsnewyearseve.com/
Lorcana Azurite Sea League is a free event! Earn fun prizes and make new friends! It will add more fun to your Disney Lorcana collection. The Pieceful Project will have the organized play rewards and prizes including fun Disney enamel pins, promotional cards, and more! Each week you can earn league points by completing activities, […]
The Woodstock Winter Farmers Market has a new location! Visit your favorite local farmer’s market vendors at All Season Orchard. Enjoy the expanded market with room for even more vendors, live music, and family fun!