DeKalb County Convention and Visitors Bureau

Advance Directive Workshops
2026-01-26 12:00 - 16:00 (America/Chicago) | DeKalb Township, 2323 S. 4th St., DeKalb, Illinois, 60115, United States
DeKalb Township is making it easy to start the new year off on the right foot!

They are hosting Advance Directive Workshops every Monday & Friday in January featuring Northwestern Medicine‘s Doctor of Nursing, Annette Meares. Come learn about Living Wills, Powers of Attorney for Healthcare, & POLST Forms. Complete your forms and walk out of the workshop with your executed documents in-hand, and a smile on your face. Workshops begin at 12 PM, 1 PM, 2 PM, & 3 PM on January 26th!

This FREE offer makes it easy to complete your advance directives without the need to hire an attorney.
Anyone over the age of 18 can participate. Simply call 815-758-8282 to sign-up.

DIY Color Analysis
2026-01-26 18:30 - 19:30 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Have you ever wondered what colors look best on you? Join the DeKalb Public Library to learn how to find the seasonal palette that highlights your natural features!
They’ll begin with a presentation covering everything you need to know to complete your own analysis, then you’ll have the chance to try it out yourself. Come ready to experiment, have fun, and leave with a personalized color swatch ring and a refreshed perspective on your wardrobe.
This program is free to attend. Registration is not required. It is intended for adults and teens.
For additional information, please contact Amy at amyf@dkpl.org or call (815) 756-9568 ext. 6108.

Ask a Piercer: Community Q&A
2026-01-27 18:30 - 19:30 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Curious about piercings, aftercare, or what really happens behind the studio door? Join the DeKalb Public Library for an informative session with local artist, Cassie, of DeKalb Tattoo Company. Cassie will give a brief presentation covering piercing basics, safety, trends, and tips, then the floor is yours for an open Q&A.
Whether you’re considering your first piercing, planning your newest addition, thinking about joining the industry, or you’re simply looking to learn something new, this is your chance to “get to the point” with a local pro in a relaxed, judgment-free space. Come have all your questions answered– no needles involved!
This program is free to attend. Registration is not required. This program is intended for adults, but older teens are welcome to attend.
For additional information, please contact Amy at amyf@dkpl.org or call (815) 756-9568 ext. 6108.

Countdown to the Oscars Film Series
2026-01-27 19:00 - 20:30, 2026-02-03 19:00 - 20:30 | Egyptian Theatre, 135 North 2nd Street, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Join the Egyptian Theatre’s countdown to the Oscars with this film series celebrating Academy Award nominees and winners through the decades. Shown on the largest movie screen in DeKalb County, you don’t want to miss this exciting lineup.

Tuesdays at 7:00 PMJanuary 6 – Les Misérables (1935)January 13 – Spellbound (1945)January 20 – Mister Roberts (1955)January 27 – Thunderball (1965)February 3 – The Man Who Would Be King (1975)February 10 – Witness (1985)February 17 – Apollo 13 (1995)February 24 – Good Night, and Good Luck (2005)March 3 – Mad Max: Fury Road (2015)March 10 – Anora **2025 Best Picture Winner**

Just Jane: A Visit with Jane Austen
2026-01-28 18:00 - 19:00 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Jane Austen visits you from the autumn of 1815. Her first three novels, Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice and Mansfield Park are published, and Emma is complete. Jane visits with you at this, the most vibrant and hopeful time of her life. Drawing from her letters, juvenilia, and novels, this 45-minute performance delves into the personal life of one of the most beloved and intriguing novelists of the 19th century.
By the end of the presentation, the audience will know more about Miss Jane Austen the woman, as well as the author. The presentation is followed by a Q&A and photo opportunities.
This event is sponsored by the Friends of the Library. Registration is not required. All ages are welcome.
For more information, please contact Susan at susang@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2114.

Opening Reception for "Collections Work" and "Celebrating 20 Years"
2026-01-29 16:00 - 18:00 | Pick Museum of Anthropology, Cole Hall 114, DeKalb, Illinois, 60115, United States
Join the NIU Pick Museum of Anthropology for a reception to mark the opening of two new exhibitions at the Pick Museum of Anthropology — “Collections Work: Recent Student Projects at the Pick Museum of Anthropology” and “Celebrating 20 Years: The Asian American Resource Center’s Legacy in Motion.” Light refreshments will be provided.
“Collections Work” highlights how students’ engagements with museum collections, such as class assignments researching objects and internships focused on improving storage conditions, helps them build practical skills while also improving the museum’s care and understanding of these cultural heritage materials.
“Celebrating 20 Years” explores how the Asian American Resource Center was established and has transformed over the years. From its original location in Jacob House to its current home in Wirtz Hall, the AARC continuously strives to improve student experiences through its focus on programs that support academic success, promote cultural education, foster leadership and build community. This exhibit invites you to reflect on the role of cultural centers while imagining how the AARC will evolve to meet future needs.
Both exhibitions will remain on view at the museum through April 18, 2026.

Salsa Night
2026-01-29 20:00 | El Jimador Mexican Grill, 260 E Lincoln Hwy., DeKalb, Illinois, 60115, United States
Put on your dancing shoes and learn to dance Salsa!

Join El Jimador Mexican Grill and NIU Tumbao for a dance demonstration from 8-9pm and then practice your dance moves afterwards with DJ NRG.

This event is completely free!

Advance Directive Workshop
2026-01-30 09:00 - 12:00 | DeKalb Township, 2323 S. 4th St., DeKalb, Illinois, 60115, United States
DeKalb Township is making it easy to start the new year off on the right foot!

They are hosting Advance Directive Workshops every Monday & Friday in January featuring Northwestern Medicine‘s Doctor of Nursing, Annette Meares. Come learn about Living Wills, Powers of Attorney for Healthcare, & POLST Forms. Complete your forms and walk out of the workshop with your executed documents in-hand, a and a smile on your face. Workshops begin at 9 AM, 10 AM, & 11 AM on January 30th!

This FREE offer makes it easy to complete your advance directives without the need to hire an attorney.
Anyone over the age of 18 can participate. Simply call 815-758-8282 to sign-up.

8th Annual Vintage & Maker Market
2026-01-30 14:00 - 18:00, 2026-01-31 09:00 - 15:00 | Blumen Gardens, 403 Edward St, Sycamore, IL, 60178, United States
Blumen Gardens is excited to host the 8th Annual Vintage & Maker Market! Join them as they showcase 25+ vendors on 1/30 and 1/31. Featuring antiques, vintage, farmhouse, architectural, clothes and jewelry.

Adult Skate Day at Fargo
2026-01-30 19:00 - 21:00 | Fargo Skateboarding, 641 E Lincoln Hwy, DeKalb, 60115, United States
Have you ever wanted to try skateboarding, but aren’t sure where to start? Join the DeKalb Park District at Fargo for this beginner-friendly class designed just for adults! Boards and safety gear are provided if you don’t have your own.
Before entering the skatepark, we’ll start with the very basics. Learn how to safely stand on your board and how to push off. Instruction runs from 7:00pm-9:00pm and participants are welcome to stay afterward to keep practicing their new skills.

Ages 18+

Resident: $25 | Non-resident: $31

Register Here: https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/dekalbparkdistrict/activity/search/detail/3717?onlineSiteId=0&locale=en-US&from_original_cui=true

Boo'ze & Spirits
2026-01-30 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.

Memorial Pillow Workshop
2026-01-31 09:30 - 10:30, 2026-01-31 10:30 - 11:30 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
This free workshop will provide the opportunity to create a pillow from a loved-one’s button-down shirt or t-shirt. Sewers will be available to assist you, all you need to bring is the shirt you would like for your pillow. Individuals or family groups can create up to two pillows during the one-hour workshop. Please do not bring jackets, denim, or thick fabrics.
Bereavement support and information will be available. Registration is required, as supplies are limited. All ages are welcome.
Missing our loved ones is difficult; create a huggable, loveable memorial to cherish. This program is held in conjunction with Northern Illinois Hospice.
For additional information, please contact Chelsea at chelsear@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1700.

Seed Giveaway
2026-01-31 10:00 - 13:00 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
You are invited to join University of IL-Extension Master Gardeners as they host the 2nd DeKalb County Master Gardener Seed Giveaway in the DeKalb Public Library’s main lobby.
Master Gardeners will be on hand to answer questions about seed starting, germination testing and transplanting.
This is a free, educational event for all ages. No registration is required.
For more information, contact Britta at brittak@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2100.

James the Magician
2026-01-31 13:00 - 13:45 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Since 1986, James Ember has been creating and performing magic.
He has performed his award winning, interactive, comedy magic show throughout the world.
Performing magic with a wild passion since he won his first talent show at the age of 6, his exceptional magical talent has been showcased at school programs, during weddings, at corporate events, on stages, on the street, and everywhere in between.
There’s one thing that drives every single one of his performances – he knows joy is contagious. It’s passed from the performer to the audience, then from audience members to each other and, by the end of the show, everyone is laughing, amazed, and having fun.
This magic show is free and intended for ages 5 and up, even adults! No registration is required.
This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Library.
For additional information, please contact Chelsea at chelsear@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1700.

Princess Tea Party
2026-02-01 11:00 - 13:00 | Blumen Gardens, 403 Edward St, Sycamore, IL, 60178, United States
Calling all little princesses! Step into a fairytale afternoon filled with sparkle, imagination, and garden magic. Join a whimsical tea party complete with tea-time treats, enchanting activities, and a magical make-and-take craft!

Dress in your royal best — gowns, crowns, and fairy tale flair encouraged!

Enjoy tea-time snacks & refreshments fit for royalty

Take Home Crafts — a fun take home craft for every princess!

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Painting Valentine's Day Coasters
2026-02-04 18:00 - 19:00 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Looking for a special gift for your Valentine this year? Decorate a premade coaster, designed to be assembled in layers.

Each piece will be pre-cut on the library’s laser cutter. Whether you’re looking to put together something sweet for your sweetheart or just a nice decoration for your home, you’ll find variety to suit your creative whims!

Space and materials are limited and on a first come, first served basis. No registration is required. Intended for adults.

For additional information, please contact Pen at penn@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2851

February Brown Bag Lunch – “What are we celebrating?"
2026-02-05 12:00 - 13:00 | Ellwood House, 420 Linden Place, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
As 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States, the Ellwood House Museum and DeKalb County History Center are proud to announce the monthly Brown Bag Lunch series will focus on commemorating this historic anniversary. The series will kick off on February 5 with Bill Nicklas who will lay a foundation for the rest of the year’s discussions.

Bill Nicklas, the City Manager for the City of DeKalb, also is a historian. In preparation of the City of DeKalb’s 250th plans, he wrote an essay asking, “What are we celebrating?” During the Brown Bag lunch program he will explore “What inspired our founders, how their principles sustained later generations here and abroad, and what meaning we can still draw from a rich history of a people with boundless creative energy, fundamental decency, and an inspired confidence in meeting challenges that threaten to rob us of our dignity and purpose.”

Faranda's Fish Fry and Community Fundraiser
2026-02-06 16:00 - 20:00 | Faranda’s Banquet Center, 302 Grove Street, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Serving up great fish for a great cause, year after year. Faranda’s will host its annual Fish Fry Series starting Friday February 6th.
Join on Friday nights 4pm to 8pm until Easter for a night out while you support local nonprofits. Pick from ten entrees with five side choices. All entrees enjoy unlimited access to the soup, salad, and desert stations. Full-service bar, non-alcoholic beverages, and kids menu available.
Want to try something more unique, check weekly for specials starting February 13th. Specials will include Fried Haddock, Catfish, Corned Beef and Cabbage, and more.
10% of all sales will be donated back to local nonprofits.
In 2025 Faranda’s Fish Fry Raised over $4,500 for local nonprofits including Safe Passage, Tails, Elder Care Services, and more. Join in 2026 to make this year’s event even more impactful.

Galentine's Day Cookie Decorating Party
2026-02-06 18:00 - 20:00 | Canvas Hair Studio, 212 North 4th Street, DeKalb, Illinois, 60115, United States
Join Canvas Hair Studio for a fun Galentine’s evening on Friday, February 6th for cookie decorating with Ken’s Kakes. Space is limited – get your tickets today!+come early and add on curls for just $10 morehttps://www.vagaro.com/canvashs/classes

Celebrating with our Galentines
2026-02-06 18:00 - 21:00 | Rivers’ Mexican Cantina & Grill, 407 Sycamore Rd, Genoa, IL, United States
Celebrate with your Galentines!

Join Rivers’ Mexican Cantina & Grill for an evening with cocktails, local vendors, and a celebration designed for mingling, sipping, and celebrating Galentines!

Rocky Horror Picture Show
2026-02-06 20:00 - 21:00 | Egyptian Theatre, 135 North 2nd Street, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Featuring the live shadow cast of “Irrational Masters”. 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.

Ticket pricing will reflect base ticket price plus online fees.ALL TICKETS GENERAL ADMISSIONProps that are NOT allowed are: lighters, candles or flames of any kind, large water guns, toast, hot dogs, prunes, glitter or confetti.Prop kits will be available for purchase in the lobby before the show. Prop kits are $7 and include everything allowed. Cash, card, and contactless pay accepted.

Sycamore Winter Farmers Market
2026-02-07 10:00 - 13:00 | Flowers by Emelia and Prairie Wildflowers, 1126 E. State St, Sycamore, Illinois, 60178, United States
Shop honey, wool, bread, crafts, teas, and more at the Sycamore Winter Farmers Market every 1st and 3rd Saturday November-March from 10am-1pm in their greenhouse!

Valentine’s Day Market on February 14th.

Galentine's Party at Painted Lady Collection
2026-02-07 10:00 - 17:00 | Painted Lady Collection, 303 W State Street, Sycamore, Illinois, 60178, United States
Join Painted Lady Collection on Saturday February 7th from 10am-5pm to celebrate friendship and love! Featuring new clothing, decor, and accessories.

Grab your besties and get ready to have some fun shopping while sipping on a “Pink” Drink and capture the moment in fun Photo Op Area.

10th Annual Polar Palooza
2026-02-07 12:00 - 15:00 | Hopkins Park, 1403 Sycamore Road, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Join the DeKalb Park District on Saturday, February 7th, at Hopkins Park, from noon to 3:00 pm for the 10th Annual Polar Palooza Winter Festival!

Meet by the Hopkins Park Shelter for all the festivities. This is a FREE, snow or shine event that features:

Hot ChocolateS’mores Roasting*Sled Dog DemonstrationsWinter HayridesWinter Craft Activities*Sledding

*Some activities are weather-dependent

Burl Ives, Midwestern Minstrel
2026-02-07 14:00 - 15:00 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Burl Ives was and is an iconic figure in the annals of American Folk Music and he got his start in the little Illinois town of Newton.
Ives went on to become one of the world’s most well-known folk singers and actors, but never lost his hometown ‘folksie’ touch. He recorded more than 100 albums in his career and was called America’s Great Ballad Singer by none other than Carl Sandburg. In the 1930’s he was an “official hobo”, traveling the country in boxcars, but went on to become an internationally recognized star. A fixture of the nascent “folk scene” of the 40’s, 50’s & 60’s in New York City, Ives became an Oscar winning actor in 1958’s Big Country and many other films.
Award-Winning singer/songwriter Barry Cloyd portrays a friend of Ives, Gypsy Davey, who was a hobo and guitar-toting minstrel. Hear ‘Gypsy’ perform many of Burl Ives’ most well-known folk songs.
This event is free and open to all. No registration is required. It is sponsored by Gretchen Moore in memory of Charles Moore.
This event is part of the America 250 initiative; celebrating our nation throughout the year.
For additional information, please contact Samantha at samanthah@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1701.

Cupid & Cuties Market
2026-02-07 18:00 - 21:00 | The Greenhouse, 265 W Peace Rd., Sycamore, Illinois, 60178, United States
A Valentine’s event for the besties and sweethearts on Saturday, February 7th from 6-9pm. Featuring a curated group of vendors bringing you food, drinks, photos, flowers, custom skincare and more!

Tickets are required and can be purchased online up until the event but grab your tickets by 2/1 in order to guarantee a plant in your goodie bag!

9th Annual Jazz at the Egyptian
2026-02-07 19:00 | Egyptian Theatre, 135 North 2nd Street, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
The Egyptian Theatre is proud to present the 9th annual “Jazz at the Egyptian” featuring performances by Jazz in Progress, the DeKalb High School Jazz Ensemble, the Sycamore High School Jazz Ensemble, and the NIU Jazz Orchestra. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind concert featuring performances by the area Jazz ensembles. Proceeds from the event will support local music programs at DeKalb & Sycamore high schools and NIU.
