Pros at the Pick: Jessi Haish LaRue
2026-02-24 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Chicago) | Pick Museum of Anthropology, Cole Hall 114, DeKalb, Illinois, 60115, United States
Join the NIU Pick Museum of Anthropology for coffee and conversation at Pros at the Pick — a space to make connections and gain insight about what really goes on in museums. This spring we are excited to feature Jessi Haish LaRue, the Executive Director of the J.F. Glidden Homestead & Historical Center in DeKalb.
Jessi is proving that history can be innovative, community-powered, and anything but dusty. Leading the organization since 2022, she brings a creative, forward-looking approach to the birthplace of “The Winner” barbed wire—home to two National Register of Historic Places buildings. An eighth-generation DeKalb County resident and descendant of barbed wire baron Jacob Haish, Jessi’s connection to local history is both deeply personal and future-focused. With a journalism background from Kishwaukee College and Northern Illinois University, she pairs strong storytelling with strategic vision, guiding a lean operation of one part-time staff member and a dedicated volunteer team, funded entirely by donations. Under her leadership, the Homestead has expanded programming, fundraising, and public engagement, including the launch of Barbed Wire Weekend in 2024 celebrating the 150th anniversary of Joseph F. Glidden’s patent, and earning a 2026 DeKalb Chamber of Commerce Nonprofit of the Year nomination.

Countdown to the Oscars Film Series
2026-02-24 19:00 - 20:30, 2026-03-03 19:00 - 20:30, 2026-03-10 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**

Soul Food at Neptune
2026-02-26 11:00 - 14:00 | Neptune Hall, 770 Lucinda Ave, DeKalb, Illinois, 60115
A communal dining experience celebrating Black culture, tradition and community. Join us incollaboration with Neptune Dining to celebrate Black Heritage Month with a delicious full-course meal showcasing African American cultural cuisine!

Faranda's Fish Fry and Community Fundraiser
2026-02-27 16:00 - 20:00, 2026-03-06 16:00 - 20:00, 2026-03-13 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.

Boo'ze & Spirits
2026-02-27 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.

Self-care Fair
2026-02-28 09:00 - 14:00 | Sycamore Park District Community Center, 480 Airport Rd, Sycamore, IL, 60178
Relax, recharge, and rediscover what makes you feel your best at this free community event celebrating wellness in all its forms. Stroll through booths from local businesses and organizations offering products, services, and inspiration to nurture your mind, body, and spirit. Amazing raffle prizes contributed by vendors will be awarded throughout the event!

Jack Benny: An Illinois Original
2026-02-28 15:00 - 16:00 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Jack Benny is regarded as one of the top comedians in American history, shining in vaudeville, radio, television, and film, while making a huge impact upon the sitcom genre. Join Film Historian Dr. Annette Bochenek for a special “Hometowns to Hollywood” tribute to Jack Benny, as she discusses his career, legacy, and early years in Waukegan, IL, in a multimedia presentation.
This event is intended for adults. Registration is not required. This is part of the America 250 initiative: celebrating our nation throughout the year. It is sponsored by the Friends of the Library.
For more information, contact Susan at susang@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2114.

Dinosaur World Live
2026-03-01 14:00 - 15:00 | Egyptian Theatre, 135 North 2nd Street, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Dare to experience the dangers and delights of Dinosaur World Live in this Olivier award-winning interactive show for all the family.

Grab your compass and join an intrepid explorer across uncharted territories to discover a pre-historic world of astonishing (and remarkably life-like) dinosaurs. Meet a host of impressive creatures, including every child’s favorite flesh-eating giant, the Tyrannosaurus Rex, a Triceratops, Giraffatitan, Microraptor and Segnosaurus!

A special meet and greet after the show offers all brave explorers the chance to make a new dinosaur friend.

Now an international smash hit, Dinosaur World Live is ready for its third major US tour. Don’t miss this entertaining and mind-expanding Jurassic adventure, live on stage.

Brown Bag Lunch Program: Dr. Letitia Westgate
2026-03-05 12:00 - 13:00 | DeKalb County History Center, 1730 N. Main Street, Sycamore, IL, 60178, United States
The DeKalb County History Center’s second Brown Bag Lunch program for 2026, scheduled for noon on Thursday, March 5, located at the DeKalb County History Center, 1730 North Main Street, will offer a free presentation on Dr. Letitia Westgate, the first woman doctor, surgeon, chemist, and architect to design, build, and manage a hospital in the United States.

Denise Moran, author of Dr. Letitia Westgate: Medical Pioneer, will present information and vintage photographs of the physician who opened Sycamore Hospital at the corner of Somonauk and Elm Streets on May 1, 1900. The building, which now houses the DNA Holistic Center, is a contributing structure within the Sycamore Historic District that was established when it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. Copies of the book will be available for purchase during the lecture.

Sourdough 101
2026-03-05 19:00 - 20:00 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Curious about sourdough but not sure where to start? Sourdough 101 is an introductory program that breaks down the basics of this popular bread: from what a starter is and how to care for it, to the simple science behind fermentation. You’ll learn beginner-friendly techniques, common troubleshooting tips, and how to bake your first loaf with confidence.
This program is free to attend. Registration is not required. Intended for adults.
For additional information, please contact Amy at amyf@dkpl.org or call (815) 756-9568 ext. 6108.

Primary Election Information with the League of Women Voters
2026-03-07 09:30 - 15:30 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
The March 17th primary is coming up quickly. Do you need more information about the election?
The League of Women Voters, a network of women that believes the freedom to vote is a nonpartisan issue, is joining the DeKalb Public Library to educate voters about the upcoming election. Stop by their booth in the main lobby to ask questions and find out more about who is running. All are welcome.
For questions or more information, please contact Britta at brittak@dkpl.org or (815) 756-9568 ext. 2100.

2026 Home & Business Expo
2026-03-07 10:00 - 13:00 | Genoa-Kingston High School, 980 Park Ave, Genoa, IL, 60135, United States
Join the Genoa Area Chamber of Commerce for the return of our Home & Business EXPO! Visit with local businesses and nonprofits. Enter for a chance to win a door prize! This year they’re partnering with the GKHS Band Mattress Fundraiser – they will have their sale in the commons, and the Expo will take place in the gym as usual! Back by popular demand, the Taste of Genoa where you can sample food or drinks from local restaurants, bakeries and vendors! We can’t wait to “COGnect” with you again!

Sycamore Winter Farmers Market
2026-03-07 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.

Brews, Bottles, & Blarney
2026-03-07 16:00 - 19:30 | St. Mary’s Catholic Parish Activity Center, 322 Waterman St., Sycamore, Illinois, 60178, United States
Brews, Bottles & Blarney is back for its 5th year and sure to provide a wonderful evening! This adults-only community event offers a wide variety of tasting options including craft beers, wine, local spirits, hearty appetizers, games and a silent auction you won’t want to miss! All proceeds from the event support St. Mary’s Catholic School.

2026 Soup-er Sundays
2026-03-08 12:00 - 13:00 | Glidden Historical Center, 921 W Lincoln Hwy, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
The highly anticipated Soup-er Sundays lecture series returns for its fourth year in 2026. You won’t want to miss these!

Jacob Haish: Immigrant and Philanthropist
2026-03-10 18:00 - 19:00 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
The story of Jacob Haish, widely known for his role in the early innovation of barbed wire, reaches far beyond this achievement.
An immigrant from Germany who arrived in the United States as a young boy, Haish built a successful career through barbed wire and other manufacturing ventures, including gasoline engines. His success allowed him to become one of DeKalb’s most generous early philanthropists. In his will, Haish specified that he desired his funds to provide a library and a hospital for his beloved DeKalb. His legacy includes establishing the Haish Memorial Library, supporting the DeKalb Hospital and what is now Kishwaukee Hospital, and offering substantial donations to local churches, schools, and civic causes. He also funded the library at the Northern Illinois State Normal School, known today as Northern Illinois University (NIU).
Glidden Homestead representatives—and Haish’s descendants—Jessi Haish LaRue and Jeff Marshall will share these lesser-known stories about Haish’s life, community impact, and enduring influence. Following the presentation, Emily Faulkner, Director of the DeKalb Public Library, will guide attendees on a tour of the historic Haish Memorial Library. To mark the bicentennial celebration, birthday treats will be served.
This event is free and open to the public. All ages are welcome. No registration is required.
For additional information, please contact Emily at emilyf@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 1000.

Voluntary Action Center's Volunteer Appreciation Open House
2026-03-12 16:30 - 18:30 | Salem Lutheran Church, 1145 DeKalb Ave, Sycamore, Illinois, 60178, United States
VAC is excited to invite dedicated volunteers to the Volunteer Appreciation Open House on Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 4:30 – 6:30 pm at Salem Lutheran Church in Sycamore, IL.
This special event is their way of saying thank you to the incredible individuals whose time, energy, and compassion make their mission possible, from delivering Meals on Wheels and providing transportation through TransVAC to supporting nutrition and community programs.
Join an afternoon of connection, refreshments, and recognition, including remarks at 5:30 pm to honor the outstanding contributions of volunteer heroes and supporters.
RSVP by March 5 at https://form.jotform.com/253366316792161

Gaelic Storm - Live in Concert 2026!
2026-03-12 19:30 | Egyptian Theatre, 135 North 2nd Street, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
It’s hard to imagine a band just coming into their own after 20 years of success, but that’s exactly what makes a true anomaly. Gaelic Storm, a multi-national, Celtic juggernaut grows stronger with each live performance, and after two decades and over 2000 shows, they are a true force to be reckoned with. The band attributes their continued success to their fanatic audience, and it’s a well-diversified crowd for sure – attracting fans of every genre with their rich storytelling, energetic instrumentals, devotion to Celtic traditions and passion for their stagecraft. They are as loyal to their fans as the fans are to them. Recent years have seen the addition of Natalya Kay on fiddle and Parker Hastings on guitar, who both bring their own energy, musicianship and spirit to Gaelic Storm.

2026 Shamrock Scramble
2026-03-14 10:00 | River Heights Golf Course, 1020 Sharon Dr, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Join a festive St. Patrick’s Day themed golf tournament at River Heights Golf Course! Gather your friends and tee off for a day filled with luck, laughter, and great golf.

9:00 AM Check-In | 10:00 AM Shotgun

18-Hole, 3-Player Scramble

Played in Groups of 6

Entry fee goes directly into the prize pool and on-course games! Half cash, half Golf DeKalb gift card prizes will be paid to 25% of teams. The three lowest scores will be paid first, with additional teams selected by random draw until 25% of the field is awarded.

World of Reading
2026-03-14 10:00 - 13:00 | DeKalb Public Library, 309 Oak St, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Explore a World of Reading at one of the DeKalb Public Library’s biggest events of the year!
Mark your calendar and join a day of literary exploration filled with crafts and activities, suitable for readers of all ages. Admission is free, and memories are guaranteed.
Wall up your friends in Fortunado’s catacombs, sample synonym buns and half-baked ideas in the world of The Phantom Tollbooth, craft your own Mad Hatter hat and meet Alice in Wonderland, show off your archery skills like Katniss Everdeen, and more!
Thank you to the following sponsors for making this event possible: The Treehouse Pie Company, Off the Leash Coffee, Sycamore Hy-Vee, and the Friends of the DeKalb Public Library.
For more information, please contact Theresa at theresaw@dkpl.org or at (815) 756-9568 ext. 3350.

St. Patricks Day .1K Fun Run
2026-03-14 10:00 - 14:00 | Fatty’s Pub and Grille, 1312 W Lincoln Hwy,, DeKalb, IL, 60115
Join us for a super fun St. Patrick’s Day 0.1K Fun Run with 102.3 The Coyote and Fatty’s Pub & Grill – Costume contest & live music after!St. Patricks Day .1K Fun Run is back! Join 102.3 The Coyote and Fatty’s Pub & Grill for a hilarious and laid-back event at Fatty’s Pub & Grille. Lace up your sneakers for this short, fun run that’s more about laughs than speed. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just in it for the chance to say you ran a race, this event is for everyone. Don’t miss out on the chance to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in a unique way with great company and good vibes. See you at the finish line! Proceeds Benefit Habitat For Humanity!

Come dressed in your best St Pattys Day costume for a chance to win prizes plus win prizes for 1st, 2nd and LAST PLACE finish in the race! Stay for the live music afterward.

NOTE

The deadline for a guranteed T-Shirt is February 28th. A Limited quantity of shirts will be available for walks up the day of the event on March 14th.

Timeline:9am – Bar opens10am – Race starts10:05am – Costume Contest, Race Winners Announced, and Live Music2pm – Official event ends

Click the link below to register!

Free Breakfasts for Veterans
2026-03-15 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.

Sister's Easter Catechism: Will My Bunny Go to Heaven?
2026-03-15 14:00 | Egyptian Theatre, 135 North 2nd Street, DeKalb, IL, 60115, United States
Celebrate the Easter Season with Sister as she answers the time-worn questions of the season like “Why isn’t Easter the same day every year like Christmas?” and “Will My Bunny Go To Heaven?” Part pageant, and wHOLY hysterical, the latest of the sinfully funny Late Nite Catechism series unearths the origins of Easter bunnies, Easter eggs, Easter bonnets, Easter baskets, and of course those yummy Easter Peeps. Sister answers questions about pet heaven and the significance of those adorable baby chicks! Classroom participation is a must, so don’t forget to wear your Easter bonnet and join Sister for this seasonal treat!

Acoustapalooza
2026-03-15 18:00 - 22:00 | Fatty’s Pub and Grille, 1312 W Lincoln Hwy,, DeKalb, IL, 60115
18+Doors 6:00 PM | Music 6:30–10:00 PM

Lineup• Norah McGinnis• Mark Walter’s• Two Girls One Guitar• Bugs Benson• Ry Guys

Free Legal Consultations
2026-03-17 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.

Sip & Sparkle: Jewelry Swap 2026
2026-03-19 18:00 - 20:30 | Blumen Gardens, 403 Edward St, Sycamore, IL, 60178, United States
Join Tails for the second annual Sip & Sparkle: Jewelry Swap for a great cause- helping the many animals at Tails Humane Society!

Sip & Sparkle will take place on Thursday, March 19th at the beautiful Blumen Gardens, bringing an evening of fun, food, drinks, networking, and of course, fabulous jewelry!

At Sip & Sparkle, discover hidden treasures as participants swap 3-5 pieces of gently used jewelry or accessories (from elegant necklaces and fun earrings to chic scarves and handbags) for unique finds from others! Exciting raffle prizes and photo opportunities will add a touch of sparkle to this memorable night!

Start by exchanging your jewelry for tokens and a number, then enjoy the festivities! Once the jewelry store opens, your number, will be called and you can swap your tokens for an equivalent amount of jewelry. The more pieces you bring to the swap, the more exciting new additions you can take home to your collection!
Tickets: https://tailshumanesociety.app.neoncrm.com/nx/portal/neonevents/events?path=%2Fportal%2Fevents%2F30172
$35 Ticket Includes:
– Swag bag stuffed with amazing goodies!– Sip & Sparkle stemless wine glass– Free ticket for your 1st drink– 2 raffle tickets (participants can purchase additional raffle tickets!)– Dinner table, dessert table, cash bar, photo opportunities, and so much more!
