Dr. Irene Robinson: A 'Far-Seeking Ambitious' Woman
2026-05-31 13:00 - 14:00 (America/Chicago) | Glidden Historical Center, 921 W Lincoln Hwy, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
The J.F. Glidden Homestead & Historical Center will host a special lecture program at the Glidden Homestead on Sunday, May 31 at 1 p.m. on the unique story of Irene Robinson of Malta.

Most residents and visitors to DeKalb are familiar with the landmark red sandstone mansion located at the northwest corner of Lincoln Highway and First Street. Built in 1897 for Dr. Edward L. Mayo and his bride Harriet Ellwood, daughter of barbed wire baron Isaac Ellwood, the home has long carried a scandal-tinged backstory involving Mayo’s earlier divorce from Irene Robinson of Malta.

Until now, much of Irene Robinson’s life and fate has remained a mystery.

The program, “Dr. Irene Robinson 1862–1918: A ‘Far-Seeking Ambitious’ Woman & Reflections from a Personal Research Journey,” will be presented by John Paris, Associate Professor of History at College of DuPage and a docent and board member at the Glidden Homestead. This engaging lecture will reveal the remarkable story of Dr. Irene Robinson, M.D. Through recent research, Paris overturns longstanding assumptions surrounding Robinson’s life to uncover the achievements of a pioneering woman physician whose story deserves renewed recognition. The program will also include reflections on Paris’ own personal journey through historical research and discovery.

Admission is $5 per person and free for Glidden Homestead members. Admission includes both the lecture and a guided tour of the historic homestead.The program will take place in the museum’s Welcome Center, located at 921 W. Lincoln Highway in DeKalb.

For more information, call 815-756-7904, email jessi@gliddenhomestead.org, or visit GliddenHomestead.org

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.

2026 Sycamore Farmers Market
2026-06-02 15:00 - 18:00, 2026-06-09 15:00 - 18:00 | DeKalb County History Center, 1730 N. Main Street, Sycamore, IL, 60178, United States
The DeKalb County History Center is proud to announce that it will serve as the new host of the Sycamore Farmers Market, beginning with the 2026 season. A vibrant, producer-focused community market celebrating local food, agriculture, and handmade goods.

The Sycamore Farmers Market will take place Tuesdays from 3:00–6:00 pm, June 2 through September 1, on the front lawn of the DeKalb County History Center, located at 1730 N. Main Street in Sycamore. The weekly market will feature locally grown produce, flowers, plants, meat, eggs, honey, baked goods, prepared foods, beverages, art, crafts, and more.

Recent improvements through the Campus Expansion Project have transformed the on‑site corn crib into an outdoor music venue and classroom space. This setting will allow for live music, pop‑up educational programming, and seasonal entertainment for visitors. Guests will also be able to enjoy beverages available through the on‑site bar operated by MVPs, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the History Center.

Pickleball Open House
2026-06-03 13:00 - 16:00 | Sycamore Park District Community Center, 480 Airport Rd, Sycamore, IL, 60178
New to the game? New to the area? New to Sycamore Park District Pickleball? Whether you’ve never picked up a paddle or just want to connect with others on the court, this is the perfect place to start. See you there!

FREE Pickleball Open House

June 3, 1-4pm

Community Center, 480 Airport Rd

Fun, welcoming atmosphere

Equipment provided

Come solo or bring a friend!

2026 DeKalb Farmers Market
2026-06-04 10:00 - 14:00, 2026-06-11 10:00 - 14:00 | Van Buer Plaza, 148-198 N 2nd St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Nestled in the heart of downtown DeKalb, Illinois, the DeKalb Farmers Market features a vibrant selection of over 30 local vendors. Enjoy fresh, locally grown produce, colorful flowers, baked goods, olive oil, coffee, and delicious offerings from food trucks. With live music and a variety of unique finds, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Grab a bite to eat from one of our food trucks and enjoy local bands and musicians during your lunch hour from 12-1:30PM! The Live Lunch Music Series is presented by the Egyptian Theatre.

New this season! Enjoy later hours on June 18, July 16, and August 13

There will not be a market on August 27, 2026 due to Corn Fest street closures.

Waterman Farmers Market
2026-06-04 16:00 - 19:00, 2026-06-11 16:00 - 19:00 | Pub West, 100 E Adams St., Waterman, Illinois, 60556, United States
Join every Thursday for fresh, local goods!

100 E Adams St, Waterman, IL 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Fresh produce Baked goods Local honey & more Handmade items

Bring the whole family and support local vendors!

Summer Concert Series 2026
2026-06-04 19:00 - 20:30, 2026-06-11 19:00 - 20:30 | Sycamore Park District Good Tymes Shelter
Immerse yourself in the magic of live music surrounded by the beauty of nature for an evening of great tunes and togetherness! Bring seating or a blanket. Food from the grill including burgers, hot dogs, and brats as well as snacks, beer, and wine are available for purchase (cash or credit). If a concert is canceled due to weather, it will be posted on the Park District’s Facebook page and at sycparks.org.
Thursdays • 7pm FREE
June 4, 11, 18 • July 9, 16, 23
See the lineup at sycparks.org
Thank you to the sponsors who made the 2026 concert series possible!
Service Master Restoration & Cleaning Services by Skip | First State Bank | Old National Bank | Hauser-Ross Eye Institute | Sycamore Parks Foundation

After-Hours Concert: Pangelic Performance
2026-06-05 18:30 - 19:30 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
The Pangelic steelpan and harp duo will perform an eclectic program consisting of musical styles from around the world; these will include classical, calypso, choro, bossa nova, and jazz standards. The duo will be joined by 18-year-old multi-instrumentalist Jaden Teague-Nunez, who will provide rhythmic accompaniment on the cajón—a box-shaped Afro-Peruvian percussion instrument.
Liam Teague is Professor of Music and Director of Steelpan Studies at Northern Illinois University (NIU) and leads the renowned NIU Steelband. He is the recipient of an NIU Board of Trustees Professorship Award (2022); Presidential Research, Scholarship and Artistry Professor Award (2018); and an Illinois Arts Council Artist Fellowship Award (2023).
Hailed as the “Paganini of the Steelpan”, he has received several honors from Trinidad and Tobago, his country of birth, including the Hummingbird National Award (Silver), the Ansa McAl Caribbean Award for Excellence, and the Keys to the City of San Fernando. In 2024, the Fox Valley Orchestra honored Teague with its Champion of the Arts award.
Faye Seeman is established as one of the most versatile harpists in the Midwest. As principal harpist of the innovative and cutting-edge Chicago Sinfonietta Orchestra, she has worked with musical talents of all styles from around the world. An adventurous spirit at heart, she began collaborating with steel pan virtuoso Liam Teague, forming the unique Pangelic duo. Together the pair have performed recitals and master classes in the Midwest, such as the Birch Creek Music Festival, Northern Illinois University faculty recital series, and the Harper College Concert series, to name a few.
Jaden Teague-Núñez is 18 years old and was born in Panama City, Panama. The son of Trinidadian and Panamanian parents, he began studying steelpan and piano at age 8 and 10, respectively. He became the first steelpan soloist in the world to perform with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra after winning the CSO’s Crain-Maling Foundation Young Artists Competition in 2024. In 2025, he was named YoungArts Winner with Distinction (classical percussion) by the National Foundation for the Advancement of Artists. His work has been covered by Chicago’s WGN-Television and in several newspapers which include the Trinidad Newsday and Guardian.
A selection of charcuterie from Class VI Wine Bar in DeKalb will also be available. Samples available while supplies last.
This concert is free and open to all. Doors will open at 6:00 and music will begin at 6:30 p.m. No registration is required.
For additional information, please contact Samantha at samanthah@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1701.

CASA Color Run 2026
2026-06-06 08:00 - 10:00 | Sycamore Middle School, 150 Maplewood Dr, Sycamore, IL, 60178, United States
The CASA Color Run is a fun, family-friendly 5K! Walk, jog or sprint – anything is fine so long as you have fun! Stick around after the race for music, snacks and water. Registration is $30 for ages 13+, $20 for ages 5-12 and free for children 4 and under. Register online at https://runsignup.com/Race/IL/Sycamore/CASAColorRun.

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.

Northern Illinois Art Show
2026-06-06 09:00 - 16:00, 2026-06-07 09:00 - 16:00 | DeKalb County Courthouse, 133 W State St, Sycamore, IL, 60178, United States
Plan to attend the Northern Illinois Art Show, hosted by KVAL, on the Courthouse lawn in Sycamore on June 6 & 7. Over 60 artists will be selling their unique arts and crafts. Enjoy great music and food both days. Stop by the Art of Giving raffle booth and buy a ticket to win an original piece of art–all sales go to local art students and schools. Don’t miss it!

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.

Chasing Mother Nature
2026-06-06 15:00 - 16:00 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
This captivating storm chasing presentation takes audiences on an exciting adventure into the heart of severe weather!
Led by a seasoned storm chaser, the presentation explores the science behind extreme weather phenomena, complemented by stunning footage and gripping personal stories of close encounters with nature’s most powerful storms. Get ready to be transported into the action as we unveil the challenges, dangers, and awe-inspiring moments that come with chasing storms in real-time.
This event is intended for ages 16 and up and is free to attend. Registration is not required.
For additional information, reach out to Amy at amyf@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 6108.

Pride Night Disco
2026-06-06 18:00 | McCabe’s, 323 E Lincoln Hwy.,, DeKalb, Illinois, United States
​Join Honey Aura Studio and Behind the Beats Productions in downtown DeKalb at McCabe’s for a PRIDE NIGHT DISCO!!!

​🍹 FULL mocktail + cocktail bar

​🎧 DJs, keeping the vibes high

​🛍️ Market: 6 pm – 10 pm (18+)

​💃 Drag Show: 9 pm

​🪩 After Party: 10 pm – 2 am (21+)

​🪅 Dance, Photos, & Pure energy

​🌮 Food Options Available

The Crafty Farmer's Open Air Market
2026-06-07 10:00 - 14:00 | Hy-Vee, 2700 Dekalb Ave., Sycamore, Illinois, 60178, United States
Join The Crafty Farmer’s Open Air Market this season at Hy-Vee Fast & Fresh (GAS Station) as they kick off another exciting year of local shopping, fresh flavors, and community fun!The market begins Sunday, May 3rd and runs every 1st and 3rd Sunday through October 4th.

Come shop an amazing mix of local crafters, farmers and producers—there’s truly something for everyone! Whether you’re looking for handmade goods, fresh produce, or a delicious bite to eat, this is the place to be.Best of all, admission is FREE!

Dog Training Workshop Series
2026-06-13 09:00 - 11:00 | Sycamore Park District Community Center, 480 Airport Rd, Sycamore, IL, 60178
These fun, informative, and accessible workshops are great for brushing up on skills or exploring something new! Dogs of all ages and skill levels are welcome. They must be group-appropriate and comfortable working around other dogs and people. All workshops use positive reinforcement, force-free training methods, focusing on building confidence, communication, and trust while keeping learning enjoyable for your dog. See the full line up and register at sycparks.org or stop by the Community Center, 480 Airport Road, Sycamore.
Saturdays 9-11amCommunity CenterResident $65 | Nonresident $75
Instructor: Katie Morgan, ABCDT (Animal Behavior College Dog Trainer), Forever K9 Training
May 2Intro to Beginner Canine FitnessBuilding strength, balance, coordination, and body awareness is a great way to support overall health, help reduce injury risk, and enhance performance for pets, sport dogs, and working or therapy dogs alike.
May 16Canine ParkourCanine parkour is a fun and practical activity that builds confidence, body awareness, and teamwork. Using everyday, safe obstacles, dogs will learn how to navigate their environment with purpose while responding to clear handler cues. This introduction to basic parkour prioritizes safety, proper positioning, and positive reinforcement.
May 30Brain Games: Enrichment for DogsLearn brain games designed to provide meaningful mental stimulation and enrichment. Mental exercise is just as important as physical activity, helping dogs build problem-solving skills, confidence, and emotional balance. Brain games are suitable for dogs of all ages and especially helpful for dogs who need additional enrichment, confidence-building, or structured outlets for their energy.
June 13Basic Canine First AidGain essential knowledge and skills to respond calmly and effectively during common canine emergencies, including recognizing signs of injury or illness, providing immediate care, and knowing when veterinary attention is needed. This workshop does not replace veterinary care but equips participants with the tools to support their dog until professional help is available. Please note that this is not a first aid certification class.
June 27Paws for Poses: Photo Ready Tricks ClassThese tricks aren’t only fun to learn but also perfect for photos and social media. Whether you’re looking to capture holiday photos, action shots, or everyday memories, this class helps you teach clean, expressive behaviors that photograph beautifully.
July 11Intro to Beginner Level TricksThis beginner-level tricks class introduces dogs and handlers to fun, engaging behaviors that build confidence, coordination, and communication. Trick training is more than entertainment—it strengthens the human-dog bond, improves focus, and gives dogs a positive outlet for learning and problem-solving.
July 25Muzzles: The Canine Party HatMuzzles are valuable tools for veterinary visits, grooming, emergencies, public safety, and behavior support—and when introduced correctly, dogs can learn to feel comfortable and confident wearing them. Explore the purpose, benefits, and proper use of muzzles in a safe, humane, and positive way.
August 8Peak into MantrailingMantrailing is a scent-based activity where dogs learn to follow a specific human scent trail. It taps into a dog’s natural ability to use their nose while building confidence, focus, and teamwork. Unlike other scent sports, mantrailing allows dogs to work in a natural, methodical way, using both ground and airborne scent. The class emphasizes clear communication, leash handling, and reading your dog’s body language as they work.
August 22Shed Hunting WorkshopShed hunting is an excellent way to provide both mental and physical enrichment while strengthening your dog’s focus, confidence, and working drive. Learn the fundamentals of locating naturally dropped deer antlers using scent, search patterns, and teamwork.
Dog Training Workshops

Shabbona Farmers Market 2026
2026-06-13 09:00 - 13:00 | Purdy Park, 205 E Navaho Ave, Shabbona, IL, 60550, United States
Shabbona Farmers Market begins Saturday, May 2 running every other weekend through October 10, 2026! New in 2026 – Family Outing Days will be held with the Farmers Market. There will be an inflatable obstacle course, games, crafts, and a sweet treat offered sponsored by Big Time Rentals. This market features 12+ vendor and craft bar!

The Flag Day Car Show 2026
2026-06-13 09:00 - 15:00 | Brad Manning Ford, 402 Manning Drive, DeKalb, Illinois, 60115, United States
What to Expect at this Car Show – Veteran Event:

· Cars featuring awards for the winners

· Flag display

· Tasty treats

· Blue Angels Tribute Motorcycle appearance

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.

Strawberry Party
2026-06-13 10:00 - 16:00 | The Treehouse Pie Company, 265 West Peace Road unit 102, Sycamore, Illinois, United States
The Treehouse Pie Company is kicking off summer by hosting its inaugural Strawberry Party on June 13th, featuring a specialized menu of strawberry pies and salads, alongside a Berry Best Friends Cosplay contest. The celebration extends to neighborhood local Sycamore businesses, which are offering exclusive, curated strawberry-themed food, drinks, and goods. For more details, visit thetreehousepieco.com.

Gardener's Lab
2026-06-13 11:00 - 12:30 | Malta Township Public Library, 203 Adams St., Malta, Illinois, 60150, United States
Plant, explore, and get your hands a little dirty at this fun, interactive program presented by the Malta Garden Club! Families will rotate through hands-on stations to learn how gardens grow—planting seeds, creating a dream garden, and discovering different types of seeds. Perfect for curious young gardeners ready to dig in and learn!

Sunday at Sandwich Market
2026-06-14 08:00 - 15:00 | Sandwich Fair Grounds, 15730 Pratt Road, Sandwich, IL
Sunday at Sandwich is a vintage, antique, and handmade goods market held at the Sandwich Fairgrounds! Visitors have a chance to shop for new or repurposed items, consumables, and vintage or handmade goods by local vendors from all over the Midwest.

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.

Free Legal Consultations
2026-06-16 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.
