DeKalb County Convention and Visitors Bureau

Holiday Craft Mart @ Midwest Sportplex
2024-11-10 11:00 - 15:00 (America/Chicago) | Midwest Sportsplex, 212 W Woodlawn Street, Hinckley, IL, 60520, United States
Sip-n-Shop at the 2nd Annual Holiday Craft Mart. Explore several vendors & crafters in the Plex while enjoying delicious beverages!

Slow Flow Yoga
2024-11-12 09:00, 2024-11-14 09:00, 2024-11-19 09:00, 2024-11-21 09:00, 2024-11-26 09:00, 2024-11-28 09:00, 2024-12-03 09:00 (America/Chicago) | Midwest Sportsplex, 212 W Woodlawn Street, Hinckley, IL, 60520, United States
Yoga classes at Midwest Sportsplex every Tuesday and Thursday at 9am. Childcare is available for $3/child.

NIU vs Akron
2024-11-13 18:00 (America/Chicago) | Huskie Stadium, 1245 Stadium Drive South, DeKalb, 60115, United States
Come support the NIU Huskies football team as they face the University of Akron on Wednesday, November 13th at 6pm! Find tickets at Football Tickets – NIU Athletics (niuhuskies.com).

NIU Boneyard Blend Release
2024-11-15 16:30 - 19:30 (America/Chicago) | Whiskey Acres, 11504 Keslinger Rd, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Northern Illinois University Athletics and Whiskey Acres Distilling Company are celebrating the 125th Anniversary of NIU Athletics and the Huskie football team’s historic victory over Notre Dame with the release of the “Boneyard Blend” NIU Athletics/Whiskey Acres co-branded bourbon.

The public is invited to attend the release event at the Whiskey Acres Visitor Center on Friday, November 15 from 4:30-7:30 pm. NIU head coaches and administrators, including football head coach Thomas Hammock, basketball coaches Lisa Carlsen and Rashon Burno, and Vice President and Director of Athletics Sean T. Frazier will be on hand to mingle with fans and autograph bottles of the ultra-small batch release.

The commemorative bottle celebrates 125 years of NIU Intercollegiate Athletics with the 125th Anniversary logo in gold, along with the words “Boneyard Blend, No Luck Needed” and 16-14, the score of the Huskies’ September 7 “Boneyard Win” at Notre Dame on the front of the bottle. Each bottle also showcases the NIU Cardinal and Black colors on the front and the Huskie logo on the back. The bourbon is a curation of four, five and six-year-old barrels hand-selected by Whiskey Acres Master Distiller Robert Wallace III.

All bottles of the Boneyard Blend NIU Huskies/Whiskey Acres bourbon sold at the Whiskey Acres Visitor Center will retail for $57.99 with $10 from each bottle donated to NIU Athletics.

Self-Defense Empowerment
2024-11-15 17:00 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | Sycamore Park District Community Center, 480 Airport Rd, Sycamore, IL, 60178
Come join Sycamore Park District’s beginner friendly 2-hour self-defense training seminar where NO Martial Arts experience is required. Self-defense training not only helps you protect yourself, but others too. Plus, training helps you become physically and emotionally fit. Having the ability to defend yourself increases your self-esteem and boosts your confidence. In this 2-hour course, we will discuss and practice situational awareness, practical self-defense techniques, and role-playing exercises to increase reaction time.
This seminar is offered 4 times per season. While the basic idea of each seminar is the same, a participant would benefit from attending multiple seminars and would be able to progress their learning. Friday, September 20 from 5-7pm is the first class. The second offering is Saturday, October 19 from 2-4pm. The third offering is Friday, November 15 from 5-7pm and the 4th and final offering of the Fall season in on Saturday, December 14 from 2-4pm. The price is $20 for Residents and $30 for Nonresidents.

Mom/Son Superheroes & Sidekicks Night
2024-11-15 18:00 (America/Chicago) | Haish Gym, 303 S. 9th Street, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
The DeKalb Park District invites all superhero moms (or mother figures) and their brave sidekick sons to don their capes and join the mom/Son Superheroes and Sidekicks Night on Friday, November 15, at Haish Gym, 303 S. 9th Street.

This event, for moms and sons ages 3-13, promises an action-packed evening filled with exciting games, heroic adventures, and a night of bonding you won’t forget! The fun kicks off at 6:00 pm, where participants are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite crime-fighting duos. Expect a night of teamwork, laughter, and fantastic memories as you join forces with fellow superheroes to tackle challenges and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Light snacks, pizza, and refreshments will be available to refuel after saving the day. Each superhero duo will take home a special autographed portrait keepsake taken with Wonder Woman and Spider-Man, courtesy of Parties with Character, who will be our special guests for the evening!

$35 R / $42 NR per couple • $17 R / $21 NR for each additional hero

Artisan Christmas Market
2024-11-16 10:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago) | Open Door Coffee, 502 W Main St, Genoa, IL, United States
Bundle up for a day at OpenDoor Coffee’s Artisan Christmas Market! This is a European-style, open air market, featuring everything from woodworkers to candlemakers. Find unique items from local vendors and enjoy a warm drink by the fire pits. Santa himself will also be spreading holiday joy!

Brooklyn Charmers
2024-11-16 19:30 (America/Chicago) | Egyptian Theatre, 135 North 2nd Street, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
The Brooklyn Charmers are the best Steely Dan tribute in the world. Anchored by the musical brilliance of each member, they will take you on a journey back to the golden age of Steely Dan. The band is led by singer and pianist, Colin Peterik, son of the legendary Jim Peterik. With a unique blend of authenticity and fresh perspective, The Brooklyn Charmers revives the intricate rhythms, smooth melodies, and sophisticated grooves that defined Steely Dan’s iconic sound.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the Dan, The Brooklyn Charmers offer a captivating and authentic tribute that honors the legacy of one of rock’s most enigmatic and influential bands. Get ready to rewind the tape and relive the magic with them—where classic meets contemporary, and every performance is a testament to timeless musical excellence.

Fry Bread: Make, Take, & Bake Your Way Through History
2024-11-19 18:00 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | Sycamore Public Library, 103 E State St, Sycamore, Illinois, 60178
Celebrate Native American Heritage Month with Sycamore Public Library! Join Sycamore Library to learn the controversial history behind Navajo Fry Bread, then make your own dough to bring home to fry and try!

Medical Emergency Preparedness - Taking Control of your Healthcare Decision-Making
2024-11-20 18:00 - 19:00 (America/Chicago) | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
If you are living with a chronic condition or disease, or know someone who is, join the DeKalb Township for this session!

Attendees will learn about the File of Life Initiative, the Knox Box Program, Advance Care Planning, and how to initiate difficult conversations with those they love. This session is both educational and empowering and will leave you feeling more confident and prepared for a medical emergency, should one occur. Sessions are free and open to everyone.

This event is a collaboration between Northwestern Medicine, DeKalb Fire Department , Sycamore Fire Department, Northern Illinois Hospice, and DeKalb Township.

Memory Café
2024-11-21 10:30 - 11:45 (America/Chicago) | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Held on the third Thursday of each month, Memory Cafés provide a safe place for those experiencing memory loss and their care partners to socialize and have fun with others in similar situations.
During these informal gatherings the DeKalb Public Library will start with a familiar song and a “get to know you” question. Followed by a presentation or activity with a simple craft, game, or shared reading to spark memories and conversations. Then they’ll close the program with another short singalong.
At each Café there will be a table with free resources and giveaways, along with books to check out. Snacks, tea, and coffee will be served.
This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Library.
*They are meeting on the first Thursday in September, instead of the usual third Thursday, due to a library closure on September 19 for Staff Inservice Day.
First time attendees please email Susan at susang@dkpl.org or call (815) 756-9568 ext. 2114 and give names of care partner and guest.

Moonlight Magic
2024-11-22 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Downtown Sycamore, Sycamore, Illlinois, 60178
Watch storefront windows “come alive” as local arts, theater and dance groups perform from 6 to 8pm. Arts and entertainment groups from all over the county will be participating. All will be creating holiday magic with artisans, performers, dancers and musicians.

The downtown Sycamore shops are once again gearing up for this year’s shopping marathon, Moonlight Magic. Stores will be open late for Moonlight Sales and Holiday Magic on Friday, November 22 from 6pm – 8pm. The sales will display the best deals of the season! Stroll and shop in our historic downtown for a one of a kind magical, holiday shopping experience. Our official kick off of the holiday season in downtown Sycamore. Get a head start on holiday shopping. Support our local business and help boost our economy while having fun with friends and family.

Don’t forget to dine, shop, and enjoy local this holiday season. Support our local businesses that support the place where you live, work and play.

A Charlie Brown Christmas Live on Stage
2024-11-22 19:00 (America/Chicago) | Egyptian Theatre, 135 North 2nd Street, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
A Charlie Brown Christmas, the Emmy and Peabody award-winning story by Charles M. Schulz, has warmed the hearts of millions of fans since it first aired on television over fifty-five years ago. Now the classic animated television special comes to life in this faithful stage adaptation that celebrates the timeless television classic so the whole family can join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus and the rest of the Peanuts characters in their journey to uncover the true meaning of Christmas. After the final bow, the show crescendos into a celebration of song as the audience is invited to join the Peanuts gang in singing traditional Christmas songs and carols. A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage is a present the whole family can enjoy! There’s no better way for both among children and adults to discover the magic of the season!

A Charlie Brown Christmas Meet & Greet Package – $129•One premium reserved ticket located in the first 10 rows•Exclusive post show meet & greet with members of the Peanuts gang•Personal photograph with members of the Peanuts gang•Commemorative laminate and lanyard•On-site VIP host•Limited availability

Jonathan Lyons - The Man in Black: Johnny Cash Tribute
2024-11-23 19:30 - 22:00 (America/New_York) | Sandwich Opera House, 140 E Railroad St, Sandwich, IL, 60548
Award-winning tribute artist Jonathan Lyons takes you back in time with his polished tribute to The Man In Black. For over a decade, Jonathan has been portraying the country/rockabilly sensation perfecting his craft along the way. From the deep bass-baritone voice, to the mannerisms, the pompadour and the charming persona, Jonathan will have you believing Mr. Cash is still with us! Performing Cash’s hits from the 50’s ,60’s, 70’s, 80’s, and even 90’s, Jonathan will have you singing, clapping, and dancing along to the clickity-clack of the train beat from the moment he sets foot on-stage! Johnny Cash fans will not want to miss this electrifying tribute to The Man In Black from the best in the Midwest-Jonathan Lyons!

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Glidden Patent Party
2024-11-24 12:00 - 16:00 (America/Chicago) | Glidden Historical Center, 921 W Lincoln Hwy, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Stop by the Glidden Homestead on the 150th anniversary of Joseph F. Glidden receiving his patent for “The Winner” barbed wire — November 24, 1874!– FREE ADMISSION ALL DAY– House tours at 12:30 and 2:30 pm– Desserts– Door prizes– Barbed Wire items in the gift shop

2024 Shop Small Crawl
2024-11-29 08:00 - 2024-12-02 17:00 (America/Chicago) | Illinois
Get ready for a shopping adventure like no other!

Join Blumen Gardens and so many others for the Shop Small Crawl and discover the hidden gems of DeKalb County!

Lace up your shopping shoes and explore a world of local treasures as you hop from one unique business to another!

Bring your friends, family, and holiday spirit, and let’s make this season one to remember. Support our local businesses and create lasting memories.

Ready to crawl with us?

November 29th- December 2nd Sycamore | DeKalb | Genoa-Kingston

How it works?

Each participating business will receive Shop Small Crawl punch cards with a list of all businesses participating this year. Shoppers are encouraged to visit as many businesses over the course of the four days for a chance to win gift cards. For every 5 businesses you visit and get a “punch” on your punch card is one raffle entry for a gift card. Leave your punch card at the last business you visit.

Participating Businesses

Sycamore:

1809 Evergreen Boutique– 1225 E State Street FRIDAY- 12PM-5PM SATURDAY- 11AM-3PM SUNDAY- 11:30AM-3PM MONDAY- 4PM-7PM

35:35 Makers Collective & Vurr Lont Candle Co.– 265 W Peace Rd. FRIDAY- 10AM-5PM SATURDAY- 10AM-4PM SUNDAY- 10AM-2PM MONDAY- CLOSED

Bella Boutique– 2180 Oakland Drive, Unit D FRIDAY- 10AM-3PM SATURDAY- 10AM-3PM SUNDAY- CLOSED MONDAY-5PM-8PM

Blumen Gardens– 403 Edward Street FRIDAY- 9AM-4PM SATURDAY- 9AM-4PM SUNDAY- 9AM-4PM MONDAY- 9AM-5PM

Cesaroni’s Café & Deli-219 W State Street FRIDAY- 7AM-3PM SATURDAY- 7AM-3PM SUNDAY- 7AM-3PM MONDAY-7AM-3PM

Christian Connection– 337 W State Street FRIDAY- 9:30AM-6PM SATURDAY- 9:30AM-5PM SUNDAY-CLOSED MONDAY- 9:30AM-5PM

Empower Wellness– 352 W State Street FRIDAY- 9AM-5PM SATURDAY- 10AM-2PM SUNDAY- CLOSED MONDAY- CLOSED

The Greenhouse in Sycamore– 265 W Peace Rd. FRIDAY-8AM-9PM SATURDAY- 8AM-9PM SUNDAY- 8AM-2PM MONDAY- 8AM-5PM

Kar-Fre Flowers– 1126 E State Street FRIDAY- 9:30AM-4PM SATURDAY- 9:30AM-2PM SUNDAY- CLOSED MONDAY-CLOSED

Made Just For You– 338 W State Street FRIDAY-9:30AM-5:30PM SATURDAY- 9:30AM-5:30PM SUNDAY- 12PM-4PM MONDAY-9:30AM-4PM

Nina’s Taco Shop– 122 E Page Street FRIDAY- 10AM-9PM SATURDAY- 10AM-9PM SUNDAY- CLOSED MONDAY-10AM-9PM

The Regale– 124 1/2 S California St. FRIDAY- CLOSED SATURDAY- 9AM-2PM SUNDAY-CLOSED MONDAY-CLOSED

Seven Out Cards & Collectibles– FRIDAY-8AM-6PM SATURDAY- 10AM-5PM SUNDAY-CLOSED MONDAY-CLOSED

S.I.S.- Shop In Style– 355 W State Street FRIDAY-10AM-5PM SATURDAY- 10AM-3PM SUNDAY- CLOSED MONDAY- CLOSED

Sycamore State Theater– 420 W State Street FRIDAY-5:30PM-10:30PM SATURDAY- 11:30AM-10:30PM SUNDAY- 11:30AM-8:30PM MONDAY-5:30PM-8:30PM

DeKalb:

The Balloon Bar– FRIDAY-12:00PM-6:00PM SATURDAY- 10:00AM-3:00PM SUNDAY- CLOSED MONDAY-CLOSED

Barb City Bagels– FRIDAY-CLOSED SATURDAY- 7:00AM-2:00PM SUNDAY- 7:00AM-2:00PM MONDAY-7:00AM-2:00PM

Cast Iron Coffee– FRIDAY-8:00AM-1:00PM SATURDAY- 8:00AM-8:00PM SUNDAY- 8:00AM-6:00PM MONDAY-7:00AM-8:00PM

Cracker Jax– FRIDAY-10:00AM-6:00PM SATURDAY- 9:00AM-6:00PM SUNDAY- 10:00AM-6:00PM MONDAY-10:00AM-6:00PM

DeKalb Tattoo Company– FRIDAY-1:00PM-7:00PM SATURDAY- 1:00PM-7:00PM SUNDAY- 1:00PM-6:00PM MONDAY-1:00PM-6:00PM

Fargo Skateboarding– FRIDAY-12:00PM-9:00PM SATURDAY- 9:00AM-9:00PM SUNDAY- 12:00PM-8:00PM MONDAY-12:00PM-8:00PM

The Herbal Oracle– FRIDAY-9:00AM-7:00PM SATURDAY- 9:00AM-7:00PM SUNDAY- 1:00PM-4:00PM MONDAY-CLOSED

Hidden Treasures & More– FRIDAY-10:00AM-6:00PM SATURDAY- 10:00AM-6:00PM SUNDAY- 10:00AM-3:00PM MONDAY-CLOSED

Jubilee– FRIDAY-11:00AM-7:00PM SATURDAY- 11:00AM-7:00PM SUNDAY- 12:00PM-4:00PM MONDAY-CLOSED

Kid Stuff– FRIDAY-12:00PM-5:00PM SATURDAY- 9:00AM-5:00PM SUNDAY- 11:00AM-3:00PM MONDAY-9:00AM-5:00PM

Found Home & Vintage– FRIDAY-12:00PM-5:00PM SATURDAY- 10:00AM-5:00PM SUNDAY- 11:00AM-3:00PM MONDAY-CLOSED

Perchance– FRIDAY-10:00AM-5:00PM SATURDAY- 10:00AM-4:00PM SUNDAY- 11:00AM-4:00PM MONDAY-12:00PM-6:00PM

Robin’s Nest Bookshoppe– FRIDAY-9:00AM-6:00PM SATURDAY- 9:00AM-6:00PM SUNDAY- 11:00AM-5:00PM MONDAY-10:00AM-6:00PM

Tapa La Luna- FRIDAY-11:00AM-2:00PM, 4:00PM-11:00PM SATURDAY- 11:00AM-2:00PM, 4:00PM-11:00AM SUNDAY- CLOSED MONDAY-11:00AM-2:00PM, 4:00PM-10:00PM

This & That Collectibles– FRIDAY-9:00AM-5:00PM SATURDAY- 9:00AM-5:00PM SUNDAY- 10:00AM-4:00PM MONDAY-9:00AM-5:00PM

Whiskey Acres Distilling Co.– FRIDAY-1:30PM-8:30PM SATURDAY- 1:30PM-8:30PM SUNDAY- 1:30PM-5:30PM MONDAY-CLOSED

Willrett Flower Company– FRIDAY-12:00PM-6:00PM SATURDAY- 10:00AM-5:00PM SUNDAY- CLOSED MONDAY-CLOSED

Genoa-Kingston:

The Enchanted Valley Farm– FRIDAY-CLOSED SATURDAY- 9:00AM-5:00PM SUNDAY- 9:00AM-4:00PM MONDAY-CLOSED

Open Door Coffee– FRIDAY-7:00AM-2:00PM SATURDAY- 8:00AM-3:00PM SUNDAY- 8:00AM-3:00PM MONDAY-7:00AM-2:00PM

Free Movie: The Muppet Christmas Carol
2024-11-29 11:00 (America/Chicago) | Egyptian Theatre, 135 North 2nd Street, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Join the Egyptian Theatre for a free showing of The Muppet Christmas Carol on Friday, November 29th, at 11 AM! Enjoy the heartwarming classic featuring your favorite Muppets as they bring Charles Dickens’ tale to life. Doors open at 10:30 AM, and no ticket or RSVP is required. This special holiday event is sponsored by Thrivent. Bring the whole family and kick off the holiday season with a fun morning at the movies!

Christmas on the Farm
2024-11-29 11:00 - 15:00, 2024-11-30 11:00 - 15:00, 2024-12-01 11:00 - 15:00 (America/Chicago) | Whispering Pines Reindeer Ranch, 2792 Shabbona Grove Rd., Shabbona, Illinois, 60550, United States
Come visit with Santa and his reindeer, pick out the perfect pine, and gift shop from small businesses! Whispering Pines Reindeer Ranch is offering pre-cut and u-cut trees.

They will also be open for tree sales Dec. 8th 11am-2pm.

Merry Market
2024-11-30 09:00 - 16:00, 2024-12-01 11:00 - 15:00 (America/Chicago) | Downtown DeKalb, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Merry Market – Vintage, Artisan & Gift Market Saturday, November 30th: 9 AM – 4 PM Sunday, December 1st: 11 AM – 3 PM Inside Downtown DeKalb Storefronts

Join Downtown DeKalb for a festive weekend of shopping small and supporting local businesses during Shop Small Weekend! The Merry Market brings together a curated selection of vintage treasures, unique artisan creations, and hand-crafted gifts—all hosted within the charming storefronts of downtown DeKalb.

Whether you’re hunting for the perfect holiday gift or something special for yourself, you’ll find plenty to explore. From one-of-a-kind home décor to handmade jewelry, there’s something for everyone.

On Saturday and Sunday DeKalb will offer all our lovely stores PLUS 40 more wonderful vendors featuring great holiday gifts and sweet treats. But that’s not all! Saturday DeKalb C.A.R.E.S. is hosting a horse drawn sleigh ride taking you off to some VIP events. Your ticket will get you a sleigh ride, photo ops including a family sized snow globe, Olaf, Story time with Elfie, and more. Crafts for kids, Hair Tinsle and a gourmet cocoa bar also included. Support a great cause and create great memories! Purchase your tickets here Holiday Sleigh Rides Tickets | DeKalb County C.A.R.E.S..

NIU vs Central Michigan
2024-11-30 14:30 (America/Chicago) | Huskie Stadium, 1245 Stadium Drive South, DeKalb, 60115, United States
Pack the stadium for the season finale of the NIU Huskies as they face Central Michigan University at the Huskie Stadium on Saturday, November 30th at 2:30 p.m. Find tickets at Football Tickets – NIU Athletics (niuhuskies.com).

DeKalb Basketball Charity Game
2024-12-02 19:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Huntley Middle School, 1515 S. Fourth St., DeKalb, Illinois, 60115
DeKalb’s annual charity & toy drive basketball game, where DeKalb Police and Fire will face off against DeKalb District 428 faculty and staff. Head to Huntley Middle School for the 7pm tip-off. Doors will open at 6pm. Admission is $5 or one NEW, unwrapped toy worth $5+Toys an proceeds will benefit DeKalb County children in need.
