DeKalb County Convention and Visitors Bureau

The Spirit of America through Coins & Currency
2026-03-25 19:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Enjoy a presentation about how the indomitable American spirit not only survived 250 years of history, but helped shape it; as told through our money!
Ben Franklin made a coin? Coins helped win WW2? What the heck is a paper coin and how did it win the civil war? Wait, they made a $500 bill? Would an American give free silver back to the government? Find answers to all these questions and more with Dann from JP Coins & Collectibles in Sycamore.
This event is part of the America 250 initiative; celebrating our nation throughout the year. All ages are welcome and no registration is required.
For more information, please contact Emily K at emilyk@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 6106.

Let “The Good Tymes” Roll: Free Showing
2026-03-27 17:30 - 19:30, 2026-03-28 12:00 - 14:00, 2026-03-28 17:30 - 19:30 | Sycamore State Theater, 420 W State St., Sycamore, Illinois, United States
Running from the 1970s-1980s this annual event attracted thousands of people each year. Held in different places throughout the county, including an annual t-shirt, music, and lots of good food! And yes, the Sycamore Park District’s “Good Tymes” shelter is part of the story.

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.

A Sound Healing Experience with the Poetry of Walt Whitman
2026-04-11 11:00 - 12:30 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Experience a session of restorative Sound Healing interspersed with the transformative words of Walt Whitman. His unrivaled optimism and surprising insight into the potential of America is as relevant today as ever.
You will experience many tones and frequencies that pull us to a peaceful place within. The poetry inspires and deepens the experience.
Sven is a certified sound healer who incorporates a variety of instruments and poetry. He has performed this program of words and sound throughout the United States and in Europe.
This program is open to all ages. Due to the nature of this program, we will be closing the doors at 11:00 a.m., so please arrive on time if you wish to be admitted.
This event is part of the America 250 initiative; celebrating our nation throughout the year.
For additional information, please contact Chelsea at chelsear@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1700.

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.

Free Breakfasts for Veterans
2026-04-19 07:30 - 11:30, 2026-05-17 07:30 - 11:30 | DeKalb Moose Lodge, 1231 E Lincoln Hwy.,, DeKalb, Illinois, 60115, United States
Continuing through 2026, the DeKalb Moose Lodge will be offering all veterans a free breakfast on the third Sunday of each month.

Past Times at Glidden: Knitting the Nation
2026-04-19 13:00 - 14:00 | Glidden Historical Center, 921 W Lincoln Hwy, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
The J.F. Glidden Homestead & Historical Center will host a program on the history and operation of circular knitting machines at 1 p.m. on Sunday, April 19, as part of its “Past Times at Glidden” series.

Presenter Dona Walzer will demonstrate a working circular knitting machine while sharing the story of how this remarkable invention helped transform textile production during the Industrial Age. The demonstration will be held at the Homestead, 921 W. Lincoln Highway. The demonstration and program are included with the museum’s $5 admission fee. Children under 14 years of age are free. Tours of the Homestead and blacksmithing demonstrations will also be available that day.

The circular knitting machine allowed factories to quickly produce knitted items such as hats, mittens, socks, and scarves—goods that were in high demand and far more time-consuming to make by hand. As home knitters adopted these machines, they played a significant role in wartime production and small home businesses, bringing industrial innovation into everyday life.

Visitors will be able to watch the machine in action during a continuous demonstration by Walzer and view samples of knitted items created using the device. Walzer is experienced in early 1800s interpretation and demonstrations of various trades for historic sites including quilting, knitting, shoemaking, spinning and weaving.

The presentation is part of the Homestead’s “Past Times at Glidden” series, the museum’s America250 programming, which celebrates the time-honored trades and crafts that helped build America. The series connects with the site’s own history as the home of Joseph F. Glidden, who invented and first manufactured “The Winner” barbed wire on the property in the 1870s.

Arbor Day Week Community Tree Planting - America 250
2026-04-21 09:00 - 12:00 | IL
DeKalb Township is celebrating Arbor Day week by launching our “250 Trees for Tomorrow” initiative with a community tree planting event at Elder Care Services. Volunteers are needed to plant, mulch, & water roughly a dozen trees. Volunteers are needed!

Individuals of all ages and abilities are welcome. Coffee and donuts will be provided to volunteers.
For more information, or to sign up as a volunteer, contact DeKalb Township at 815-758-8282.

To learn more about the Township’s 250 Trees for Tomorrow (free tree and shrub) initiative, visit: https://dekalbtownship.org/residental-services/

Nellie Bly: Around the World in 72 Days
2026-04-29 18:00 - 19:00 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Born Elizabeth Jane Cochran (1864-1922), this pioneer of investigative journalism is better known by her nom de plume, “Nellie Bly”. She became famous for her exposé of the New York City Lunatic Asylum on Blackwell’s Island.
On November 14, 1889, Cochrane began a solo trip around the world in emulation of the fictional character Phileas Fogg from the 1873 Jules Verne novel “Around the World in Eighty Days” – completing her trip on January 25, 1890, in the record-breaking time of 72 days, six hours, 11 minutes, & 14 seconds.
During this presentation, you’ll meet Nellie Bly in the US Embassy in Paris in February of 1919. The Great War has ended, and Nellie recounts her adventures as a reporter, in the US, Mexico and as a war correspondent, as she awaits permission to return to the US.
The presentation is followed by a Q&A and photo opportunities.
This event is sponsored by The Friends of the Library and is part of the America 250 initiative: celebrating our nation throughout the year. Registration is not required. All ages are welcome.
For more information, please contact Susan at susang@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2114.

Dessert & Dialogue
2026-04-30 18:30 - 20:00 | Sycamore Park District, 480 S. Airport Road, Sycamore, IL, 60178, United States
The DeKalb County History Center, Ellwood House Museum, and Sycamore Park District will host Dessert & Dialogue on Thursday, April 30. This session’s theme, “Exploring How Place, Identity, and Shared Stories Shape Us,” invites participants to engage in meaningful dialogue about the experiences that define DeKalb County.

Sycamore Park District Executive Director Jonelle Bailey will facilitate the discussion, creating space for thoughtful conversation and a stronger sense of belonging.

The event will take place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on April 30 at the Sycamore Park District, 480 Airport Rd. in Sycamore. Childcare will be available.

While the event is free, advance registration is recommended at dekalbcountyhistory.org. For more information, call (815) 895-5762.

Turn of the Century Tea Party @ Ellwood House
2026-05-09 14:00 - 16:00 | Ellwood House, 420 Linden Place, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
You and your little one are cordially invited to a charming, turn-of-the-century tea party where imagination meets elegance! Take a delightful step back in time and enjoy a “proper” afternoon of tea, treats, and games with Dekalb Public Library at the historical Ellwood House Museum. Start by making fancy hats and accessories to complete party attire before gathering for tea, juice, treats, and etiquette games. Afterwards, retire to the courtyard lawn (weather permitting; otherwise, inside) for old-fashioned party games and end the party with a visit to Ellwood Dollhouse.
Patrons are encouraged to “play dress up” for the occasion!
Teatime starts promptly at 2:00 p.m. and families will be seated first come, first served. Please arrive early for seating. No registration is required.
This program is intended for families with children ages 6-11. Younger children may need additional assistance with crafts and activities.
For additional information, please contact Stormy at stormye@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3310.

The History of The Beach Boys
2026-05-14 18:00 - 19:00 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
The soundtrack for an American summer wouldn’t be complete without The Beach Boys…surf, sun and California dreaming. This presentation will focus on The Beach Boys “sunniest” years from 1962-1967. With the use of performance and interview clips, we’ll trace the arc of the Beach Boys’ early career from “Surfin’ U.S.A”., “Fun, Fun, Fun” and “California Girls” to the more mature Pet Sounds, “Good Vibrations” and the abandoned Smile project. Surf’s Up!
After a rewarding career in advertising sales, Gary Wenstrup retired and developed courses on the Beatles, Simon & Garfunkel and Motown Records for the Continuing Education Departments of College of DuPage and Oakton Community College. He has lectured at over 80 Chicago area libraries.
This event is part of the America 250 initiative; celebrating our nation throughout the year. This event is free and open to all. No registration is required.
This program is open to all ages, but please note that the presentation may include discussion of mature subjects.
For additional information, please contact Chelsea at chelsear@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1700.

Veteran's Breakfast - 250 Birthday Celebration
2026-05-20 06:00 - 10:30 | Hy-Vee, 2700 Dekalb Ave., Sycamore, Illinois, 60178, United States
Join Hy-Vee Sycamore for a free breakfast honoring veterans, active-duty service members, and reservists!
As we celebrate America’s 250th birthday, we want to say thank you to the brave men and women who have served and continue to serve our country. This meal is a small token of our gratitude for your sacrifice, dedication, and service to the United States.
We are proud to honor you. ❤️🤍💙

Stars and Stripes Bikes, Boards and Rollerblades
2026-05-23 10:00 - 12:00 | Rotary Park, 1701 E Lincoln Hwy, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
DeKalb Park District, DeKalb Rotary, and the DeKalb Public Library invite you to celebrate the 250th anniversary of our country with a red, white, and blue bikes, skateboards, and rollerblades parade. (No electric scooters, please.)

Listen to a patriotic story read by DeKalb Mayor Cohen Barnes.
Decorate your bikes, boards, and rollerblades in a star-spangled way! Decorations & light refreshments will be available.
Ride, board, or rollerblade in a parade around the park to commemorate our country’s 250th anniversary!
Enter the prize drawing to win: $150, $100, or a $50 gift card!

Ages 10 and UnderNo pre-registration is required.

Beeswax Candles Workshop
2026-05-24 13:00 - 16:00 | Glidden Historical Center, 921 W Lincoln Hwy, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Step back in time and experience the warm glow of history at the J.F. Glidden Homestead & Historical Center. As part of the Past Times at Glidden series, this hands-on workshop invites participants to explore the art and function of beeswax candle making in the 19th century.

Begin with a brief look at how candlelight shaped daily life in early American homes—long before the flip of a switch. Then, guided by instructor Courtney Sliga, create your own set of beautiful, functional candles. Each participant will make and take home four handcrafted beeswax candles.

This workshop takes place on Sunday, May 24 from 1-4 pm at the Glidden Homestead, 921 W. Lincoln Highway in DeKalb. The cost is $55 per person, with a portion of proceeds supporting the Homestead’s mission. Pre-registration is required and tickets can be purchased at GliddenHomestead.org.

The Past Times at Glidden series is part of the site’s America250 programming, celebrating traditional trades and crafts that helped shape the nation. These programs connect historic practices to the site’s own story as the home of Joseph F. Glidden, who invented and first manufactured “The Winner” barbed wire on this property in the 1870s.

Memorial Day Sunset Observance 2026
2026-05-24 19:00 - 20:00 | Franklin Township Park, 250 W. South St, Kirkland, IL, United States
Join the Northern Illinois Veterans Memorial for a Memorial Day Sunset Observance at Franklin Township Park.

Service Schedule:Pledge of AllegianceNational AnthemWelcome Statement (Brent Bacon)Invocation Pastor (Dee Mede)Laying of WreathsService Branch Medely Musical Selections

Intro for Chris Mitchell USMC From Kirkland

Chris Mitchell SpeechBuilding of Battle Field CrossTaps (Service Concludes After Taps)

Motorcycle Parade Escorts
2026-05-25 06:15 | IL
On Memorial Day, the Genoa American Legion Riders are coordinating motorcycle escorts for the DeKalb, Sycamore and Genoa Memorial Day Parades.

Anyone with a motorcycle may participate and ride at their own risk. Staging starts at the DeKalb Elks Lodge 765, 321 South Annie Glidden Road.

If you wish to attend the Mayors’ Memorial Day Breakfast, staging is from 6:15 a.m. to 6:30 a.m. Breakfast is $10.00 RSVP prepaid and $15.00 pay at the door. For more information contact Frank Beierlotzer at ffb66@juno.com or 815-901-3834. If you do not attend the breakfast, staging is 7:30 a.m. to 7:50 a.m. with KSU at 8:05 a.m.

There will be an escorted ride to downtown DeKalb and staging again to attend the Clock Ceremony at 8:30 a.m. There will be KSU at 8:58 a.m. and then escort the DeKalb parade to the Ellwood House. Sycamore American Legion Riders will lead to Sycamore to stage for their parade. From there, the escort will go to Genoa and stage for their parade. KSU at 11:28 a.m. to escort the Genoa parade to the cemetery for their Memorial Day Ceremony. After the ceremony, riders will be treated to free hamburgers at the Genoa Veterans Home about 1:20 p.m.

2026 Mayors' Memorial Day Breakfast
2026-05-25 06:30 - 08:00 | DeKalb ELKS Veteran’s Memorial Plaza, 209 South Annie Glidden, Dekalb, IL, 60115, United States
This will be the 34th breakfast on Memorial Day and the 10th breakfast at the Elks Lodge. DeKalb County Forty et Eight Voiture 207 asks everyone to join the breakfast and then attend one or more of the Memorial Day events.

There will be a United Prayer at 7:15 a.m., a short program at 7:30 a.m. and we will be done by 8 a.m.

Memorial Day Celebration
2026-05-25 09:00 - 10:00 | Ellwood House, 420 Linden Place, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
The parade will be held in downtown DeKalb on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, at 9 a.m., with lineup beginning at 8:30 a.m. The parade will travel west down Locust Street, DeKalb’s honorary Veterans Way, and past the DeKalb Veterans Memorial Mural. It will then proceed north on Linden Place to the Ellwood House. Join this enhanced Memorial Day parade as we commemorate the 250th Anniversary of the nation’s founding and salute America’s greatest heroes.

Genoa Memorial Day Parade 2026
2026-05-25 10:00 - 11:00 | Genoa Veterans Home, 311 S. Washington St., Genoa, Illinois, United States
You’re invited to Genoa’s Memorial Day Parade starting at 10am at the Genoa Veterans Home and ending at the Genoa Cemetery!

Sycamore Memorial Day Parade 2026
2026-05-25 10:30 - 11:30 | Downtown Sycamore, Sycamore, Illlinois, 60178
Join the Sycamore Veterans Home Association for their annual Memorial Day Parade!

Music the Native Way
2026-05-30 14:00 - 15:00 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
In this program, Kim Sigafus McIver will present on the history of Native instruments and their use. The drum, rain stick, and flute will be introduced, and attendees will be invited to play an instrument and learn a song. Everyone will also receive a handout of music to take home. A brief Q&A will follow the presentation.
Kim Sigafus McIver is an award-winning Ojibwe author and speaker.
This event is part of the America 250 initiative, celebrating our nation throughout the year.
This program is for all ages. No registration is required. It is sponsored by the Kishwaukee-DeKalb Kiwanis Club.
For additional information, please contact Chelsea at chelsear@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1700.

Read, White and Blue! Summer Reading Kick-off
2026-06-01 10:00 - 13:00 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Register on the first day of Summer Reading for Read, White and Blue! Resource Bank will be in the lobby to distribute bookmarks and treats between 10:00 and 1:00 p.m. Children may then collect a clock sheet to track their reading, and they will be set to earn reading rewards and enjoy a summer of reading and other colorful activities at the library.
Teens and adults may also register for Summer Reading beginning June 1.
Summer reading is free and open to all.
For additional information, please email Theresa at theresaw@dkpl.org or call (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350.

Revolutionary Ruth and Patriotic Paul
2026-06-06 11:00 - 12:00 | Malta Township Public Library, 203 Adams St., Malta, Illinois, 60150, United States
Kids are invited to create their very own Patriotic Paul & Revolutionary Ruth paper dolls inspired by the Flat Stanley concept! After designing and coloring their dolls, participants can take them on adventures, snap photos, and share where their patriotic friends travel. Sponsored by the Daughters of the American Revolution, this hands-on activity encourages creativity while helping children connect with American history in a fun and memorable way.

Voices of 1776: The Diverse Faces Behind America’s Founding
2026-06-06 13:00 - 14:00 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
When we think of America’s Revolution, we often picture a handful of famous Founding Fathers—but the fight for independence was far broader, richer, and more diverse.
This one-hour program brings to light the stories of women, enslaved and free African Americans, Native peoples, and immigrants whose contributions shaped the Revolution and the new nation. From Phillis Wheatley’s poetry to Deborah Sampson’s bravery in disguise, from the strategies of Native leaders to the labor of ordinary farmers and artisans, “Voices of 1776” uncovers the hidden figures whose voices helped define liberty.
This event is part of the America 250 initiative; celebrating our nation throughout the year.
This program is intended for adults, but teens are welcome. It does not require registration. Sponsored by the Kishwaukee-DeKalb Kiwanis Club.
For more information, please contact Britta at brittak@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2150.

In Time: A Live History Experience
2026-06-13 10:00 - 16:00 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
The library is alive with characters from the past! These legendary Illinois personalities have emerged from different eras of history, appearing as “living exhibits” drawn together by a mysterious force. A hidden mystery threatens to erase their entire family histories and legacies from existence—unless you can help them.
Combining elements of immersive theatre, escape rooms, and high-stakes quests, In Time turns you into a participant in history. As you explore the library, you will solve logic puzzles, find hidden clues, and complete tasks that assess your skills. The stories and characters appear in real time as they go about their day. Spend time with each figure to learn their unique stories and decide which paths to follow.
You may meet Wild Bill Hikock, Ulysses S. Grant, Ernest Hemingway, Amelia Earhart, or others!
This program runs from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and takes about one hour to complete. Missions will start every 15 minutes, with the final slot beginning at 3:00 p.m.
Please register now for a time slot. Drop-ins are welcome if we can accommodate. All ages are welcome.
During the event, free flavored iced lattes will be available from The Greenhouse in Sycamore. Sample their blueberry crumble and banana bread lattes while you complete your group’s mission! Beverages available while supplies last.
For additional information, please contact Samantha at samanthah@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1701.

Flag Day Celebration
2026-06-14 14:00 - 15:00 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Intertwined within the threads of red, white, and blue, lies a story of a country and its people. The American Flag not only acts as a symbol of our great nation’s freedom, but it is a representation of our country’s citizens and their history. Old Glory is the thread that binds us all together. Every year on June 14, we get to honor our nation’s greatest symbol, the Flag of the United States of America.
Our Flag Day celebration includes the Pledge of Allegiance led by the Boy Scouts, a flag-folding demonstration, an explanation of flag etiquette, and singing of “The Star-Spangled Banner” with musician and veteran Ron Lofton. Children will receive a patriotic pinwheel, and there will be a raffle of American Flags and children’s Flag Day books. We’ll also take an America 250 Flag Day photo in front of the library.
This all-ages event is sponsored by the Friends of the Library and provided in collaboration with American Legion Post 66. It is part of the America 250 initiative: celebrating our nation throughout the year.
For more information, please contact Susan at susang@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2114.
