Dec 12 Friday
On December 12th & 13th, the production features a festive blend of holiday and popular music, comedy sketches, and storytelling, performed by a talented ensemble of regional and local musicians and actors. It’s a joyful celebration of the season and the spirit of community.
Jim Sullivan, Artistic Director of Rockford's New American Theater from 1972 to 1994, originally launched Hometown Holiday in 1994 and continued the tradition for 25 years before announcing its final curtain in 2019. However, overwhelming public demand led to a triumphant return in 2022. The community looks forward to Sullivan's return each year with this holiday event.
Dec 13 Saturday
The production features a festive blend of holiday and popular music, comedy sketches, and storytelling, performed by a talented ensemble of regional and local musicians and actors. It’s a joyful celebration of the season and the spirit of community.
Feb 21 Saturday
Local author Kathy Spaltro joins us to discuss her new biography, Ethel Barrymore: Shy Empress of the Footlights. Spaltro offers a nuanced portrait of one of America’s most iconic performers, tracing her career from the Gilded Age stage to the Golden Age of Hollywood. Don't miss this insightful conversation between Kathy and interviewer Matt Sullivan. Free to attend. Please register in advance.
Mar 21 Saturday
Join us as we celebrate the diverse and talented authors of McHenry County. Local authors will be on hand to display and discuss their latest work. Whether you’re a book lover, aspiring author, or simply curious about the literary scene in McHenry County, this is an event you won’t want to miss! A list of participating authors with be available starting March 4 on our website.Date: Saturday/March 21Time: 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Are you a local author? Would you like an exhibit table at our Local Author Showcase? If you live in Woodstock, McHenry County, have a close connection to the community, or have books set in McHenry County, consider being part of our Local Author Showcase. Self-published authors welcome. Contact katieb@woodstockil.info or carriez@woodstockil.info for an application and more information. Deadline to register is February 27.
Apr 23 Thursday
Celebrate National Library Week with an author panel you won't want to miss. Join us for a lively and laughter-filled evening with a dynamic panel discussion featuring fiction authors Christina Clancy, Sonali Dev, Nancy Johnson, Sara Maurer, and Rachel Swearingen.
From inspiration and the writing process to what’s next on their creative journeys, this roundtable promises sharp insights, candid moments, and plenty of humor.
Read Between the Lynes will have books available for purchase and signing.
Event will be held in the Luecht Auditorium at McHenry County College. Free tickets are available from your local McHenry County library.
May 12 Tuesday
Join us for a special literary event featuring beloved authors Jane Hamilton and Elizabeth Berg, two master storytellers known for their deeply human characters, emotional insight, and beautifully crafted prose. Both writers illuminate the extraordinary in everyday life, exploring love, loss, resilience, and the quiet triumphs that shape us.
In conversation, Hamilton and Berg will reflect on their shared Midwestern roots, their approaches to character and voice, and offer sneak previews on what comes next.
Read Between the Lynes will have books available for purchase and signing. Event will be held at the Leucht Auditorium at McHenry County College. Tickets are available from your local McHenry County library.