Mystery Dream Suite
2025-04-23 10:00 - 13:00, 2025-04-24 12:00 - 18:00, 2025-04-25 12:00 - 18:00, 2025-04-26 12:00 - 15:00, 2025-04-30 10:00 - 13:00, 2025-05-01 12:00 - 18:00, 2025-05-02 12:00 - 18:00, 2025-05-03 12:00 - 15:00 (America/Chicago) | NIU Altgeld Hall, 116 Altgeld Hall, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Four concurrent exhibitions: “Surrealist Classics from the Museum Collection,” “Windows to the Subconscious,” “Phantasmagraphica: The Early Psychedelic Work of British Artist Douglas Binder or Nightmares of alienation in post-industrial England,” and “A Deb Sokolow Sampler: 20 Years of Speculative Drawing.”

Culinary History
2025-04-24 17:00 | Kirkland Historical Society, 309 S. 5th St., Kirkland, Illinois, 60146, United States
Join this special program for an engaging exploration of culinary history where you’ll discover the evolution of recipes and cooking traditions from around the world. Connected to the History Center’s “Food” exhibit, the University of Illinois Library’s Rare Book Department is taking a road trip to DeKalb County!

Senior Car Clinic
2025-04-25 09:00 - 11:00 | Kishwaukee College, 21193 Malta Rd, Malta, IL
DeKalb County TRIAD, Kishwaukee College, and DeKalb Township to Host FREE Senior Car Clinic on April 25
On Friday, April 25th, DeKalb County TRIAD, Kishwaukee College, and DeKalb Township are partnering to host a FREE Senior Car Clinic at Kishwaukee College. The event, which will run from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM in the Caukin Building on the Kishwaukee College campus, is open to all DeKalb County residents age 60 and over.
At the clinic, students from Kishwaukee College’s Automotive Technology Department will conduct 25-point vehicle inspections and perform fluid top-offs, all under the guidance of their experienced instructors. While their vehicles are being serviced, participants can enjoy complimentary coffee and donuts, courtesy of DeKalb County TRIAD.
DeKalb County TRIAD, which focuses on empowering seniors, promoting safety, and reducing elder crime, is offering this event to help keep senior drivers safe on the road while protecting them from unethical repair shops. The event also provides automotive students at Kishwaukee College with valuable real-world experience.
Reservations are required for the free service, as a limited number of inspections will be performed. To schedule an appointment, contact Kimberly at the DeKalb Township office at 815-758-8282.

After-hours Concert: NIU Suzuki Strings featuring High School Students
2025-04-25 18:30 - 19:30 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Join an after-hours concert with the NIU Suzuki Strings in the library’s main lobby!

The NIU Suzuki Strings program includes children and their parents or caretakers from ages 4 throughout high school. This method of learning music is modeled after the natural and positive way we learn our native language. It is through daily listening and practice, positive reinforcement and encouragement of the family and community that children learn to play music. The goal of the Suzuki method is to nurture sensitivity, perseverance, cooperation, confidence, creativity, awareness, and other life skills that strengthen our world one person and relationship at a time.

These high school and middle school students have all been studying violin individually and collectively for several years. They strengthen their school and community music ensembles from all over northern Illinois. The NIU Suzuki Strings will perform a 45-minute concert of classical works by Vivaldi, Bach and Pachelbel with Tangos, Fiddle Tunes and Popular Music mixed in as well.

This group of 13 teens is primarily student lead with support from their Suzuki instructors, Courtney McNamarra, Laurie Rodriguez, and Ann Montzka Smelser.

This after-hours concert is free and open to all. No registration is required. Doors will open at 6:00 and music will begin at 6:30 p.m.

For additional information, please contact Samantha at samanthah@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1701.

Friday Night Line Dancing w/ DJ Dave
2025-04-25 19:00 - 2025-04-26 01:00 | Denim & Diamonds Saloon, 425 W State St., Sycamore, IL, 60178, United States
DJ Dave will be playing all the line dance & couple favorites! Try out Denim & Diamonds’ famous Apple Pie Shots for just $2. (There is always a $5 cover on Friday & Saturdays)

Egg-apalooza
2025-04-26 09:00 | David CarroLl Memorial Park, Park and Madison St, Genoa, Illinois
Join the Kishwaukee Valley Wanderers for Egg-apalooza! The 4th Annual Genoa Area Challenging Spring Egg Hunt will begin on Saturday, April 26th at 9:00 a.m. and continue several days until most of the eggs are found. Eggs will be hidden at Carroll Memorial Park, near the River Run Disc Golf Course, and the surrounding paths through the conservation district and prairie paths. Eggs will be hidden in difficult to find locations. You may not find an egg, but the goal is to get your family and friends outside, explore nature, have some fun and possibly find an egg. If you do find an egg, locate the chip inside the egg and claim your prize. Prizes are donated by local businesses, families and organizations.

Family Fun Science: Brilliant Botany
2025-04-26 10:00 - 11:00 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Beautiful, beguiling, and bold: plants are all of these and more! DeKalb Public Library is digging deep into botany this month with lots of fun plant activities. Design a wind-blown seed and test it. Use microscopes to look at close-ups of plant parts. Make an origami tulip. Put together a puzzle to learn the life cycle of plants. And, of course, plant a bean seed to take home with you.
They’re calling in the plant pros too! NIU Biology students will be there to get into the roots (and stems, and leaves) of it all.
The program is limited to the first 30 children to arrive. Sign-up will begin at the children’s desk 1 hour before the event.
For additional information, please email Laura at lauraw@dkpl.org or call (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350.

Tai Chi for Health & Wellness
2025-04-26 10:30 - 12:00 | Sycamore Park District Community Center, 480 Airport Rd, Sycamore, IL, 60178
Tai Chi is an effective, slow-moving exercise to improve physical and mental health. It can be done seated or standing. It exercises the entire body, and at the same time, strengthens the mind. It improves your immunities, relieves stress and anxiety, and makes you feel better all around. This celebration is for beginners and current students. Wheelchair accessible. Each participant will receive a certificate and fortune cookie for attending the class.

Goat Yoga at Midwest Sportsplex
2025-04-26 11:00 - 13:00 | Midwest Sportsplex, 212 W Woodlawn Street, Hinckley, IL, 60520, United States
The adorable goats from Blue Sky Goat Yoga Farm in Sugar Grove, IL are returning to Midwest Sportsplex for yoga. Enjoy a relaxing yet fun hour of Slow Flow Yoga with “the kids” climbing on you and then 1 hour of just cuddle time with the cuties! This program is appropriate for ages 12+. Got a younger kiddo that wants just cuddle time? Registration is required for either session. Visit midwestsportsplex.com/services, toggle to classes and search 4/26 Goat Yoga or 4/26 Cuddle Time.

Goat Yoga with Blue Sky Farm
2025-04-26 13:00 - 13:45, 2025-04-26 14:15 - 15:00 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Blue Sky Farm Goat Yoga is looking forward to providing a “bucket list” event at the DeKalb Public Library! Their baby goats love to snuggle, run, and jump on you as you enjoy some soul-stretching yoga with a certified yoga instructor. It may seem silly to some, but they can assure you the experience is unlike any other. Interacting with any animal is therapeutic, but combining the beautiful practice of yoga with animal therapy is a joy you will feel deep in your heart.
Each session will include 30 minutes of yoga, followed by 15 minutes to snuggle and pet the goats, as well as take photos.
This event is open for ages 12 and up. Attendees must bring a yoga mat or towel (please remember that this item may get dirty). Participation is first come, first served, as there is a limit of 25 participants per class.
This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Library.
For more information, please contact Chelsea at chelsear@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 1700.
Here are some details to help you know what to expect:
What time should I arrive for class? Because the class is first-come, first-served, we cannot be certain how early the spaces in the class will fill up.
What do I bring?Everyone is required to bring their own (it may get dirty) yoga mat or towel.
What if I don’t normally do yoga?This is a gentle flow yoga class that focuses on many poses that the goats seem to enjoy. You might be surprised how much you enjoy doing yoga, but you don’t have to be a pro to enjoy the day.
Are there age requirements to attend an open goat yoga class?Participants should be at least 12 years old for open yoga classes. Participants aged 12-17 must attend with a parent or other adult guardian.
What should I wear?Dress comfortably, but we suggest you leave the adorable yoga tank tops at home or under a T-Shirt. Sometimes tiny goat hooves are a little scratchy!
Will goats try to eat my shoelaces and hair?A little bit! Goats like to nibble just about everything. You won’t get a major haircut, but bring a hair tie if you have longer hair, and take off your shoes.
Will the goats pee or poop on me?Goats are not potty trained. It happens!
Do I need to bring my own yoga mat?Please bring your own yoga mat or beach towel. Remember that this item may get dirty.
Will I need to sign a waiver for myself and/or my child between 12-17?All adults 18 and over are required to sign a waiver. All minors need a parent or legal guardian to sign a waiver. Participants aged 12-17 must attend with a parent or other adult guardian.

Afternoon Tea with Clara McKenna
2025-04-27 12:00 - 14:00, 2025-04-27 15:00 - 17:00 | Genoa Guest House, 231 S. Sycamore Street, Genoa, Illinois, 60135, United States
Wear your best hat and join the fun at Afternoon Tea with Best Selling Author, Clara McKenna! Proceeds benefit the Genoa Public Library programming.

For reservations:

Call or message Genoa Guest House at 847-792-1435

Choose your seating: 12:30 p.m. or 3:00 p.m.

Your reservation is $50 in advance (nonrefundable)

Your seating includes a Spring Tea Menu and a copy of Murder at Glenloch Hill by Clara McKenna.

Opportunity House Art Exhibit: Textured Landscapes
2025-04-30 16:30 - 18:30 | Blumen Gardens, 403 Edward St, Sycamore, IL, 60178, United States
Opportunity House Art Exhibit: Textured Landscapes
Join Opportunity House for an inspiring evening celebrating creativity and inclusion at the Opportunity House Art Show: Textured Landscapes! This free event showcases stunning nature-themed artwork—including paintings, sculptures, photographs, mixed media, fiber arts, and fashion designs—created by Opportunity House clients and staff. Enjoy live music, local artist raffles, hors d’oeuvres, and a cash bar, and don’t miss the fashion show at 6 PM featuring client-made clothing designs.
📅 Date: Wednesday, April 30, 2025📍 Location: Blumen Gardens, 403 Edward St., Sycamore, IL⏰ Time: 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM
For more information, contact Brooke Montavon at (815) 895-5108 ext. 125 or bmontavon@ohinc.org.
Come celebrate the talent and artistry of Opportunity House!

I-PASS Recycle, Return & Swap + I-PASS Assist
2025-05-01 09:00 - 19:00 | DeKalb Township Board Room, 2323 S 4th Street, DeKalb, Illinois, 60115, United States
Township to Host I-PASS Transponder Recycle, Return & Swap, Plus I-PASS Assist
On May 1st, The DeKalb Township & Senator Sue Rezin’s Office will host an I-PASS event at the DeKalb Township Administrative Building, located at 2323 S. 4th St. in DeKalb. The event will operate on an appointment-only basis during the hours of 9 AM – 4:30 PM, before transitioning to a walk-in only event between the hours of 4:30 and 7 PM.
Last year, the Illinois Tollway started the process of phasing out the decades-old I-PASS transponders in favor of I-PASS sticker tags. Anyone in possession of a transponder is encouraged to return and safely recycle their lithium-containing-transponder at this event. In exchange for their transponder, participants will receive their new I-PASS sticker tag(s) and a credit to their I-PASS account equal to the amount they paid for their transponder deposit.
Tollway representatives will also be on-site to take applications for the Tollway’s I-PASS Assist program–an initiative that makes Tollway usage accessible to low-income households.
To book an appointment or for general inquiries, contact Kimberly at the DeKalb Township (T: 815-758-8282).

Brown Bag Lunch Lecture Series
2025-05-01 12:00 - 13:00 | IL
The Brown Bag Lunch Lecture Series is presented by the Ellwood House Museum and DeKalb County History Center in partnership with DeKalb area historic sites. Once a month, a knowledgeable speaker will present an hour-long program about history relevant to DeKalb County. All programs are free of charge, and guests are invited to bring their lunch.

Program descriptions can be found at ellwoodhouse.org and dekalbcountyhistory.org.

May 1 – 2025 Ellwood House Exhibit Preview

June 5 – The Interrelation of Art + History

August 7 – Off to School: Then & Now at North Grove One-room School

September 4 – Remembering The GoodTymes: A Decade of Picnics

October 2 – Historic Homes Tour Sneak Preview

November 6 – Kernels of Corn: History of Cornsilk Magazine

December 4 – The Heiress & the Interpreter: Investigating the ill-fated “Engagement” of Elise Ellwood to Said Kalil Haick, July 1907

NIU STEM Café: Explore the Human Body
2025-05-01 17:30 - 19:00 | NIU Swen Parson Hall, 350 Normal Road, DeKalb, Illinois, 60115, United States
In partnership with NIU STEAM, monthly STEM Cafés are back!
This program dives into the fascinating world of human anatomy with a unique hands-on experience featuring real anatomical models, bones, and wet specimens—all available for exploration with gloves with NIU Human Anatomical Sciences faculty and students.
This free presentation is for teens, but open to all ages. Free pizza is available to those who attend. No registration is required.
For additional information, please contact Steven at stevenm@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3400.

Rivers' Cinco de Mayo
2025-05-03 00:00 - 2025-05-05 23:59 | Rivers’ Mexican Cantina & Grill, 407 Sycamore Rd, Genoa, IL, United States
Rivers’ Mexican Cantina & Grill has a full weekend of Cinco de Mayo activities planned for you to enjoy!

Saturday – 5/3 – live entertainment from 5-8 pm

Sunday – 5/4 – drink specials & a michelada bar on patio

Monday – 5/5 live entertainment beginning at 4 pm, including a DJ, Mariachi Singer, Mini Mexican Market, & Tiny Mexican Folklorico Dancers!

Spring Craft Mart
2025-05-03 09:00 - 16:00 | Midwest Sportsplex, 212 W Woodlawn Street, Hinckley, IL, 60520, United States
2-day indoor event with a variety of crafters and vendors at Midwest Sportsplex!

Cinco de Mayo Dance Party
2025-05-03 11:00 - 12:00 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Celebrate Cinco De Mayo with a Latin American dance party!
Children will learn basic steps of Latin American Folk Dance including Salsa, Cumbia, and Afrobeats. Using balloons, hula hoops, and ribbon sticks, children will learn movement, improvisation, and rhythm.
Participants should wear comfortable shoes and dress casually. This program is for children ages 3-12. No registration is required.
For additional information, please contact Anna at annas@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2851.

Dave Rudolf’s British Invasion Show
2025-05-03 14:00 - 15:00 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Join award-winning, Gold Record artist Dave Rudolf for a trip down memory lane (maybe even Penny Lane)! You’ll hear music from the British Invasion that influenced a whole new world of music, fashion, and style.
This concert will include music from The Beatles, The Kinks, The Who, Peter and Gordon, and others, with a few stories about the groups and the times from the rather warped mind of Dave.
Dave is a long-time performer and a multi-award winning singer/songwriter who just released his 42nd album. He’s a Gold Record, Grammy-nominated artist, 15-time nominee for Entertainer of the Year awards from NACA (The National Association for Campus Activities). In the last 6 years, Dave has 4 albums in the NPR Indiana and Illinois regional Top Ten. He is an award-winning children’s author with 3 children’s books, wrote for Disney, did a TV pilot for the All-New Captain Kangaroo several years back, and much more.
Dave has shared the stage with The Beach Boys, The Everly Brothers, The Mamma and Pappas, Steve Goodman, John Hartford, The Smother Brothers, Michael Smith, Megon McDonough, The Gatlin Brothers, Sha Na Na, Cheech and Chong, and other notable artists.
“Dave Rudolf Captivates his audience. Anything and everything that happens onstage or offstage during a Rudolf concert becomes fair game for his disarming wit.” – Chicago Sun Times
This concert is free and open to all. No registration is required. It is sponsored by Gretchen and Charles Moore.
For additional information, please contact Samantha at samanthah@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1701.

Cinco de Mayo Celebration!
2025-05-03 15:00 | The Dirty Bird 815, 124 South Maple Street, Sycamore, IL, 60178, United States
Nina’s Taco Shop and the Dirty Bird are teaming up to bring you an awesome Cinco de Mayo celebration in downtown Sycamore! This event will feature live entertainment, vendors, food, and more! Learn more at (7) Cinco de Mayo Celebration! | Facebook.

KSO Season Finale Concert: Vive la France!
2025-05-03 19:30 - 20:30 | Boutell Memorial Concert Hall at Northern Illinois University, 400 Lucinda Ave, DeKalb, IL
Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra (KSO) is set to conclude its 48th season with the much-anticipated Vive la France! concert on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 7:30 pm. The performance will take place at the Boutell Memorial Concert Hall in Northern Illinois University’s Music Building in DeKalb, Illinois. This concert is sponsored in part by JoAnn Smelser.

This season finale promises a captivating journey through French orchestral masterpieces, celebrating the elegance and vibrancy of France’s musical legacy.

Claude Debussy – Prélude à l’après-midi d’un faune (Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun, 1894)

Maurice Ravel – Rapsodie Espagnole (Spanish Rhapsody, 1907–1908)

Hector Berlioz – Symphonie Fantastique (Fantastic Symphony, 1830)

These selections highlight the rich textures and evocative themes characteristic of French classical music, from Debussy’s dreamy impressionism to Ravel’s Spanish-inspired rhythms and Berlioz’s bold Romantic storytelling.
