DeKalb County Convention and Visitors Bureau

St. Patricks Day .1K Fun Run
2026-03-14 10:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago) | Fatty’s Pub and Grille, 1312 W Lincoln Hwy,, DeKalb, IL, 60115
Join us for a super fun St. Patrick’s Day 0.1K Fun Run with 102.3 The Coyote and Fatty’s Pub & Grill – Costume contest & live music after!St. Patricks Day .1K Fun Run is back! Join 102.3 The Coyote and Fatty’s Pub & Grill for a hilarious and laid-back event at Fatty’s Pub & Grille. Lace up your sneakers for this short, fun run that’s more about laughs than speed. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just in it for the chance to say you ran a race, this event is for everyone. Don’t miss out on the chance to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in a unique way with great company and good vibes. See you at the finish line! Proceeds Benefit Habitat For Humanity!

Come dressed in your best St Pattys Day costume for a chance to win prizes plus win prizes for 1st, 2nd and LAST PLACE finish in the race! Stay for the live music afterward.

NOTE

The deadline for a guranteed T-Shirt is February 28th. A Limited quantity of shirts will be available for walks up the day of the event on March 14th.

Timeline:9am – Bar opens10am – Race starts10:05am – Costume Contest, Race Winners Announced, and Live Music2pm – Official event ends

Click the link below to register!

Acoustapalooza
2026-03-15 18:00 - 22:00 | Fatty’s Pub and Grille, 1312 W Lincoln Hwy,, DeKalb, IL, 60115
18+Doors 6:00 PM | Music 6:30–10:00 PM

Lineup• Norah McGinnis• Mark Walter’s• Two Girls One Guitar• Bugs Benson• Ry Guys

Free Legal Consultations
2026-03-17 12:00 - 16:00, 2026-04-21 12:00 - 16:00, 2026-05-19 12:00 - 16:00, 2026-06-16 12:00 - 16:00, 2026-07-21 12:00 - 16:00, 2026-08-18 12:00 - 16:00 | DeKalb Township, 2323 S. 4th St., DeKalb, Illinois, 60115, United States
DeKalb Township will be hosting Prairie State Legal Services once a month throughout 2026 to ensure qualifying residents have access to FREE legal services.
If you are a tenant with questions regarding a housing matter; If you are being forcibly discharged from a nursing home; If you were recently denied public benefits or if your benefits were reduced; If you have an employment-related legal question; If you or someone you know has been the victim of elder abuse, please call the DeKalb Township today to schedule an appointment and determine if you are eligible to receive these FREE services.
For additional details or to check your eligibility, call the DeKalb Township at 815-758-8282.

Sip & Sparkle: Jewelry Swap 2026
2026-03-19 18:00 - 20:30 | Blumen Gardens, 403 Edward St, Sycamore, IL, 60178, United States
Join Tails for the second annual Sip & Sparkle: Jewelry Swap for a great cause- helping the many animals at Tails Humane Society!

Sip & Sparkle will take place on Thursday, March 19th at the beautiful Blumen Gardens, bringing an evening of fun, food, drinks, networking, and of course, fabulous jewelry!

At Sip & Sparkle, discover hidden treasures as participants swap 3-5 pieces of gently used jewelry or accessories (from elegant necklaces and fun earrings to chic scarves and handbags) for unique finds from others! Exciting raffle prizes and photo opportunities will add a touch of sparkle to this memorable night!

Start by exchanging your jewelry for tokens and a number, then enjoy the festivities! Once the jewelry store opens, your number, will be called and you can swap your tokens for an equivalent amount of jewelry. The more pieces you bring to the swap, the more exciting new additions you can take home to your collection!
Tickets: https://tailshumanesociety.app.neoncrm.com/nx/portal/neonevents/events?path=%2Fportal%2Fevents%2F30172
$35 Ticket Includes:
– Swag bag stuffed with amazing goodies!– Sip & Sparkle stemless wine glass– Free ticket for your 1st drink– 2 raffle tickets (participants can purchase additional raffle tickets!)– Dinner table, dessert table, cash bar, photo opportunities, and so much more!

AARP Smart Driver Course
2026-03-26 09:00 - 13:00, 2026-03-27 09:00 - 13:00 | DeKalb Township, 2323 S. 4th St., DeKalb, Illinois, 60115, United States
AARP’s Smart Driver course teaches valuable defensive driving strategies and provides a refresher of the rules of the road. Participants may qualify for a multi-year automobile insurance discount through their insurer by completing the 8-hour course. Anyone interested in learning more about this discount should contact their automobile insurance provider.
Space for the course is limited and attendees must pre-register by calling the DeKalb Township at 815-758-8282. The classroom course costs $20 for AARP Members and $25 for non-members. Financial Assistance is available to qualifying DeKalb Township residents who are unable to pay the course fee. All inquiries about this course can be directed to Kimberly Barrios, Community Relations & Events Coordinator at DeKalb Township.

Day 1 of this class is March 26, from 9-1
Day 2 of this class is March 27, from 9-1
Attendance both days is required.

Bad Momz of Comedy - Stand Up for Seniors
2026-04-04 20:00 | Egyptian Theatre, 135 North 2nd Street, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Get ready for an evening of laughter that makes a difference! Join the Voluntary Action Center (V.A.C.) for Stand Up for Seniors, a one-of-a-kind comedy fundraiser featuring the hilarious Bad Momz of Comedy, a powerhouse group of real moms sharing genuine laughs about the chaos of everyday life. Known for their quick wit and relatable humor, these women share stories from the trenches of motherhood and beyond, promising a night filled with fun and connection.

All proceeds from the event benefit Meals on Wheels, helping V.A.C. deliver nutritious meals and friendly visits to seniors in our community. Come enjoy a night out at The Egyptian Theatre that fills your heart as much as it tickles your funny bone!

Bad Momz of Comedy, as seen on the Kelly Clarkson Show, continues to sell out shows across the country — making moms and men laugh. Founded by Chicago-based comic Orly KG in 2022, each Bad Momz of Comedy show utilizes a small showcase of hilarious comics from its growing roster of 80+ influential mom/female comics.

Adult Flashlight Egg Hunt
2026-04-04 20:00 - 21:00 | Genoa Vets Club, 311 S Washington St, Genoa, IL, 60135, United States
Adults can be part of a flashlight egg hunt on April 4th at 8pm! Featuring drink specials, 50/50 raffles, and prizes. Bring your own basket.

Taste of Spring 2026
2026-04-09 16:00 - 20:00 | Sycamore, IL, Sycamore, IL, 60178, United States
Taste of Spring returns to downtown Sycamore for an evening of wine, shopping, and springtime charm!

Grab your tasting glass and your event ticket, stroll through downtown shops, sip 20 curated wines with small bites at several businesses. You’ll enjoy a fabulous charcuterie board from Catering By Diann at check in. It’s the perfect way to sip, stroll, and explore all that downtown Sycamore has to offer. Wine in hand. Downtown at your feet. Friends, shops, strolls, and just enough buzz to forget winter ever happened!

New this year: the event starting/check-in location will be in Downtown Sycamore! Old National Bank at 230 W State in Sycamore.

Check-in will take place between 4:00–7:00 PM. From there, you will be free to visit each participating business on your tasting card at your own pace.

Thursday, April 9

4:00–7:00 PM

Start at Old National Bank and get your tasting card and souvenir Taste of Spring wine glass

Whether you’re discovering a new favorite wine, enjoying delicious bites, or shopping local, Taste of Spring is the perfect way to welcome the season in downtown Sycamore.

DeKalb County Volunteer Fair
2026-04-09 17:00 - 19:00 | Egyptian Theatre, 135 North 2nd Street, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Join the first-ever
DeKalb County Volunteer Fair:Thursday, April 9, 20265:00pm – 7:00pm
The best local nonprofits are gathering under one roof, so individuals looking for ways to support can find the cause that needs their unique talents. A strong volunteer program is vital to the success of so many nonprofits, including those which serve DeKalb County. This event is designed to do two things: connect local causes with people who power them and empower individuals to find meaningful ways to give back.
This event is open to the public and free to attend. It has been planned by the following members of the 2025-2026 DeKalb Chamber Leadership Academy class:
Casey Bachochin, DeKalb TownshipRobin Borgione, Egyptian TheatreMegann Horstead, Shaw MediaEmily Kvasnicka, DeKalb Park DistrictNicole Ruffin, Safe PassageCharles Schmitt, DeKalb MechanicalMenelek Shah, NIU Police Department
If you represent a nonprofit that might be interested in participating or have any questions about this event, please email robin@egyptiantheatre.org or call (815) 758-1215, ext. 8.

Yes, And...The History of Improv in the American Experience
2026-04-11 13:00 - 14:00 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Improv didn’t just change comedy—it reflected how Americans learn to collaborate, adapt, and create. Drawing on the history uncovered in Improv Nation by Sam Wasson, this talk explores the overlooked history of improvisation, from Chicago classrooms and counterculture stages to television and film, revealing how “yes, and” became a distinctly American way of thinking about art, community, and possibility.
This event is intended for adults and is part of the America 250 initiative: celebrating our nation throughout the year. Registration is not required.
For more information, please contact Susan at susang@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2114.

Murder Mystery Dinner Fundraiser - Hinckley Festival Association
2026-04-25 17:00 - 21:00 | Midwest Sportsplex, 212 W Woodlawn Street, Hinckley, IL, 60520, United States
Back by Popular Demand!
Hinckley Festival Association presents: Muuurder in Maaaybury
A murder at a garden party brings together your favorite characters from Maybury in this Andy Griffith spoofed murder murder mystery.
Welcome to the 1st Annual Maybury Garden Party.
Aunt Dee is throwing a garden party to raise money to buy fertilizer for the Flower and Garden Club. Unfortunately, someone has tried to sabotage the garden spot! Who could it be? Aunt Dee? Otis? Earnest D. Sass? Andy? Or any one of numerous other characters that the audience members will play!
Whoever “did it,” expect lots of mayhem at “Muuurder in Maaaybury!”
When: April 25, 2026 – 5 PM – 9 PM (ish)Where: Midwest Sportsplex, HinckleyWhat: Cash bar, dinner buffet catered by Good Times Grill, and a great show!How Much: $60 per person
Tickets are available in person at:
Resource Bank – HinckleyJack & Jina’s BPThe Brown Pub
Or pay via Venmo
Call Barry with any questions: 630-337-7720

Past Times at Glidden: Barn Quilt Workshop
2026-04-26 13:00 - 16:00 | Glidden Historical Center, 921 W Lincoln Hwy, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
The J.F. Glidden Homestead & Historical Center will host a hands-on artistic experience with its upcoming Past Times at Glidden: Dutch Tulip Barn Quilt Workshop on Sunday, April 26, from 1–4 PM at the Glidden Homestead, 921 W. Lincoln Highway, DeKalb.

Participants in this engaging three-hour workshop will receive a pre-drafted 17″ x 17″ wooden shiplap board, already primed and ready to paint. Guided by instructor Courtney Sliga, attendees will learn a brief history of barn quilts, explore painting techniques, and receive expert advice on selecting a balanced and visually striking color palette. By the end of the session, each participant will leave with a completed barn quilt ready for display.

The workshop is designed for both beginners and experienced painters. Registration is $75 per student, and space is limited. Advance registration is required and available at GliddenHomestead.org. A portion of all proceeds directly supports the museum’s operations.

Evening at Ellcourt
2026-05-30 18:00 - 21:00 | Ellwood House, 420 Linden Place, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Dearest Museum Patron,
The Ellwood House Museum is pleased to announce the 4th annual Evening at Ellcourt celebration. This year, they look forward to hosting a regency-era masquerade at the beautiful Tudor-Revival Ellcourt Home on Saturday, May 30, from 6pm-9pm.
Guests are welcome to attend in their finest masquerade attire. Attendees can expect to enjoy handcrafted cocktails, live music, exploring the gardens, Regency parlor games, and light refreshments. Evening at Ellcourt will have catered food and drink from Fatty’s Pub.
Evening at Ellcourt tickets include one free drink ticket. Additional drink tickets will be available for purchase during the event. Tickets may be purchased online, over the phone, or in-person at the Ellwood Visitor Center, located at 420 Linden Place, DeKalb, IL 60115. Parking is on-site and the Ellcourt home is accessible.
Guests must be 21 or older to purchase tickets and attend Evening at Ellcourt.
Tickets:$30 General Public$25 Ellwood House Museum Members$20 Student (21+)$15 Designated Driver*
*Designated driver tickets do not include a drink ticket

Forest Therapy Walk 2026
2026-06-06 09:00 - 10:30 | P.A. Nehring Forest Preserve, 380 Bethany Road, DeKalb, Illinois, 60115, United States
Experience the healing and wellness-promoting effects of forest therapy, the practice of immersing the senses in the atmosphere of the forest. This 90-minute introductory session will be held at P.A Nehring Forest Preserve at 380 Bethany Rd. in DeKalb.
Certified Forest Therapy Guide Beth Hanson of Peace in Nature Forest Therapy will lead this mindful walk and help you awaken your senses and connect with nature. No two walks are the same!
Registration is required, as space is limited. This program is open to ages 16 and up.
Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes, bring a water bottle, and wear sunscreen and bug spray if you require them. There are no restrooms on site, so please plan accordingly. You may also bring a small camp chair if you wish, as there will be some quiet time to sit during the walk.
In case of inclement weather, the DeKalb Public Library will post a cancellation announcement on social media and email all registered participants.
This program is made possible through a partnership with the DeKalb County Community Mental Health Board. Through leadership and funding, the DeKalb County Community Mental Health Board supports access to high-quality behavioral healthcare services for the residents of DeKalb County. This program is also sponsored in part by the Rick Johns Memorial Fund.
For additional information or help with registration, please contact Chelsea at chelsear@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1700.

Prairie State Winery Production Tours
2026-06-20 13:00 - 14:15, 2026-06-20 15:00 - 16:15 | Prairie State Winery, 222 West Main St., Genoa, IL, 60135, United States
Tours will be led by Prairie State Winery’s esteemed winemaker Rick Mamoser and feature the barrel room, bottling line, production facility, sparkling line, distillation equipment, and more.

The tour will last about one hour and start with a tasting of wine in the barrel room! You will have time during and after the tour to ask questions about the amazing wine making and distilling processes.

Participants must be able to use stairs and stand for 1+ hours, as there will be no chairs available.

All participants must be 21+.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show 2026
2026-06-26 20:00 | Egyptian Theatre, 135 North 2nd Street, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Featuring the live shadow cast of “Irrational Masters” at the Egyptian Theatre. The Rocky Horror Picture Show is an outrageous assemblage of the most stereo-typed science fiction movies, Marvel comics, Frankie Avalon/Annette Funicello outings and rock ‘n’ roll of every vintage. Running through the story is the sexual confusion of two middle American Ike Age kids confronted by the complications of the decadent morality of the 70’s, represented in the person of the mad ‘doctor’ Frank N Furter, a transvestite from the planet Transexual in the galaxy of Transylvania. Rated R – FOR MATURE AUDIENCES.

Boo'ze & Spirits 2026
2026-06-27 20:00 - 22:00, 2026-07-10 20:00 - 22:00 | Egyptian Theatre, 135 North 2nd Street, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
What has led to the Egyptian Theatre being known as one of the most haunted buildings in town and in the top ten haunted theatres in Illinois? Join the Theatre staff as they share all the secrets and stories with a ‘balcony to backstage’ tour that focuses not only on the history of the building that opened in 1929 but also all of the Theatre’s ghostly guests.

This tour, which is in the dark using only your flashlights, starts in our lobby and will include climbing stairs and extended periods of standing. Doors open 30 min prior to the tour beginning. Be sure to grab a drink from the concession stand to make it a truly spirited evening!

Everyone must bring a flashlight for the tour. 10 and older allowed but minors must be accompanied by an adult.

This evening tour will last approximately 2 hours and the tickets are limited, so don’t wait! The tour involves many stairs and no elevator is available.

Blondie Tribute Band - Atomic
2026-07-18 18:30 - 22:00 | Warehouse on Park, 662 Park Ave, Genoa, IL, 60135, United States
The Warehouse on Park welcome’s totally Tubular & Radical, Atomic the area’s BEST Blondie Tribute band!

The 80’s! The 80’s brought some pretty schweet, bodacious words to describe the awesome music of that time! Blondie was one of the most triumphant bands of those stellar times! Atomic, THE Blondie tribute band will be playing the big-time hits from Blondie as well as punk/new wave hits from those righteous times!

Atomic will be performing from 7-10PM

Slow Smoke BBQ will be there with their amazing, award-winning BBQ

Gate & bar will open at 6:30PM

16 & older event

$15 per person at the gate

VIP TIX $25 per person at the gate

VIP – 18 spots under pergola next to the Tiki bar & a complimentary cocktail

No outside food or drinks allowed

No pets allowed

Presentation: Seeds of a Nation
2026-07-23 17:30 - 19:00 | Malta Township Public Library, 203 Adams St., Malta, Illinois, 60150, United States
Join garden enthusiast and founder of the Malta Garden Club, Erin McNeal, as she takes us on a journey of seed-growing traditions and changing landscapes. Seeds have played an essential role in the story of America’s growth, from wild harvests to backyard gardens. This presentation brings to life the stories of cultivation that shaped the land and defined a nation’s character. This is a free program. Refreshements provided. All ages welcome.

Sycamore Park District and Parks Foundation present: Sip 'n' Savor
2026-07-25 13:00 - 17:00 | Sycamore Community Park, 940 E. State St, Sycamore, IL, 60178
Sip ‘n’ Savor Celebrates the flavors and makers that nurture local spirit.
Free general admission brings people together for live music and to visit with local food and artisan vendors. A $30 Tasting Ticket allows eventgoers to sample the spirit of the community! Proceeds support the Sycamore Parks Foundation.

FREE ADMISSION to enjoy live music, food vendors, and craft and artisan booths.
TASTING TICKET: $30Sample the unique local libations that nurture the community spirit! Ages 21+ | Proceeds support the Sycamore Parks Foundation.
Presented in partnership with MVP Sports Bar and Sycamore Whiskey Club. Sponsored by Pest Control Consultants and Resource Bank.

Drum & Bugle Corp Competition 2026
2026-07-25 18:30 | Huskie Stadium, 1245 Stadium Drive South, DeKalb, 60115, United States
The sounds of Drums and Bugles will be loud and clear at Northern Illinois University!

The NIU Football field will host the DCI Champions Show on Saturday, July 25th with the “King Cobras Drumline” entertaining for part of the pre-show event.

TICKET Information: 2026 Summer Tour Tickets

50 Men Who Cook 2026
2026-08-08 18:00 - 21:00 | BARSEMA ALUMNI AND VISITORS CENTER, NIU, 231 N Annie Glidden Rd, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
CASA’s signature fundraising event, 50 Men Who Cook, showcases 50 men from across the DeKalb community as they showcase their best dishes for guests to taste and vote for their favorite in each category. Beyond the competition, the evening features live music, raffles for attendees, and a cash bar! Enjoy an exquisite night of great food, friendly competition, and community spirit. All for a good cause!
