Northern Illinois Community Calendar

Relax and have fun with your family and friends when you join us for Family Movies & Popcorn at the library. Shown on the big screen, just like at the theater, but FREE! Come early to grab a seat or bring pillows to get comfy on the floor.

Today’s Feature: TOY STORY 5 (2026) rated G. 1h 42m

The toys face an existential crisis as modern technology threatens playtime. When Bonnie’s parents gift her a smart tablet named "Lilypad," Bonnie becomes distracted and neglects her toys. Led by Jessie, the gang must team up with a new generation of electronic toys to save Bonnie from isolating herself and remind kids of the joy of traditional play.

This program is intended for families and children, but all ages are welcome. Please arrive early as seating is limited.

For additional information please contact Stormy at stormye@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3310.

In this STEAM Café, we delve into the science of play with Kristin Schulz, executive director of the NIU Child Development and Family Center, and Melissa Clucas Walter, NIU assistant professor of human development and family sciences. They’ll explain why playing is so important for children’s brain development, and why adults benefit from preserving a sense of play. Learn about early childhood theories of play, find out why play encourages learning for both children and adults, and get tips for how to incorporate play into your life.

Spread your wings of knowledge and soar into a feathered frenzy. Uncover bird adaptations that have made birds true masters of the sky. Join us at Severson Dells for these family-friendly, open-house style events. Each month will have a different nature theme full of hands-on, minds-on activities for guests of all ages to participate in. Weather permitting, there will also be guided hikes.

All Science Saturdays are FREE! NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED.

For more information, visit WildRootsNatureCenter.org/Science-Saturdays

This seasonal favorite returns! Enjoy a stroll on candlelit trails, live music in the classroom, s'mores, hot chocolate and more! All ages. FREE family friendly event! No registration required.

For more information, visit WildRootsNatureCenter.org/Luminaria

The Elgin Symphony Orchestra, led by Music Director Chad Goodman, brings its treasured Holiday Spectacular concerts to the Hemmens Cultural Center on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 13, 2026, at 2:30 p.m.

Special guests include the Elgin Master Chorale, Integrity School of Dance, and Santa himself, as the ESO performs holiday favorites.

This seasonal favorite returns! Enjoy a stroll on candlelit trails, live music in the classroom, s'mores, hot chocolate and more! All ages. FREE family friendly event! No registration required.

For more information, visit WildRootsNatureCenter.org/Luminaria

The Elgin Symphony Orchestra, led by Music Director Chad Goodman, brings its treasured Holiday Spectacular concerts to the Hemmens Cultural Center on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 13, 2026, at 2:30 p.m.

Special guests include the Elgin Master Chorale, Integrity School of Dance, and Santa himself, as the ESO performs holiday favorites.

The Elgin Symphony Orchestra, led by Music Director Chad Goodman, brings its treasured Holiday Spectacular concerts to the Hemmens Cultural Center on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 13, 2026, at 2:30 p.m.

Special guests include the Elgin Master Chorale, Integrity School of Dance, and Santa himself, as the ESO performs holiday favorites.

Participate in real community-driven science on these monthly walks! Learn about our seasonal wildlife and plant monitoring techniques and try them out for yourself. It's a perfect way to learn more about the volunteer research we coordinate and how you can get involved. FREE event, but space is limited so please register. Ages 12 and up.

Register at: https://wildrootsnaturecenter.app.neoncrm.com/nx/portal/event-detail?event=9678

Celebrate the holidays with Rockford’s most joyful musical tradition. Gather with family and friends for unforgettable festive favorites, dazzling lights, and joyful surprises. Joined by the Nielsen Chorale and Kantorei Youth Choir, the RSO brings together nearly 200 musicians and guests to fill the Coronado with the sounds of the season. Share in the music and magic of the most wonderful time of the year.