Events in Ottawa, IL

17 things to do around Ottawa this week, each one checked against where it was posted.

17 this week43 in the next 30 days4 freeChecked Friday, October 23

Every day this week

All 17, in order. Open any one to read more.

Friday, October 23Today

4 events

  • 4pm

    Boo-tique After Dark 👻

    La Salle · 531 1st St

    Downtown LaSalle becomes a festive shopping night with Halloween flair. Explore local businesses featuring seasonal specials, browse the Mystical Market, and see the Hocus Pocus Hags in Pocket Park. At Modern Creek, purchases of $50 or more earn an entry to win a ghost mug filled with goodies, and purchases of $150 or more earn an entry to win a Halloween tumbler filled with goodies. It is an evening for friends to discover local finds and enjoy a touch of spooky fun.

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  • 6pm

    Halloween Trivia Night

    Ottawa · Alfano's Pizza of Ottawa, 1476 N 29th Rd

    Celebrate spooky season with a battle of wits at Halloween Trivia Night at Alfano’s Pizza of Ottawa. Reserve a table for your crew, with space for up to 10 people and a single $100 entry fee per table. Doors open ahead of the first questions, and food and drinks will be available to purchase throughout the event. Look for raffles and games happening all night, with proceeds benefiting the Community Food Basket. Costumes are encouraged. To preregister by phone, call 815-431-0155.

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  • 7pm

    Trap shoot

    Newark · Newark Sportsmens Club, 10251 Fox River Dr

    Friday nights feature a recurring trap shoot held each week. During weeks when breakfast is on the schedule, a Sunday trap session is also available.

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  • 8:30pm

    Discount Vinyl Band

    Ottawa · Shakers Ottawa, 121 W Stevenson Rd.

    Discount Vinyl Band performs a decades-spanning set of hits from the 1960s through the 1990s at Shakers Ottawa in Ottawa, IL.

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Saturday, October 24

7 events

  • 10am

    World’s Largest Polio Walk

    Marseilles · Marseilles City Hall

    Free

    This free walk focuses on raising awareness to help end polio worldwide. Participants come together in support of eradication efforts and to amplify the message. Donations are accepted to further the cause.

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  • 2pm

    A Victorian Haunting: Escape from the Asylum

    Ottawa · Reddick Mansion Association, 100 W Lafayette St

    Slip into a Victorian night of mystery and tension at A Victorian Haunting: Escape from the Asylum at Reddick Mansion Association. An escapee prowls the city, scattering clues across downtown Ottawa, and the task is to connect them and unravel the story before time runs out. Tickets provide access to a citywide interactive game, immersive encounters, and spine-tingling surprises at every turn. More twists are planned, though some details remain purposely hidden. Will you find the way out?

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  • 5pm

    Skeleton Strut

    Mendota · Downtown Mendota, 700 Illinois Ave

    Free

    Mendota’s downtown comes alive with a skeleton themed celebration featuring local boutiques, delicious food and drinks, and plenty of photo opportunities. A highlight is a parade of decorated golf carts, a new addition for the area.

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  • 5pm

    Annual Ravioli Dinner

    Marseilles · Yeiser Art Center, 200 Broadway St

    The Annual Ravioli Dinner brings the community together for a hearty meal and friendly conversation. Guests may dine in by entering through the right-side door at the courtyard’s rear, or opt for carryout by using the food pantry entrance. Pricing is $15 for adults, $6 for ages 5 to 10, and free for children under 4, with payment currently accepted in cash only. Volunteers and donated desserts are appreciated. Extra activities include a bake sale, a 50/50 drawing, and a raffle for the Cozy Winter gift basket.

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  • 6pm

    Horror at the Incubator

    Streator · Streator Incubator, 401 W Bridge St

    Streator Incubator hosts a professional wrestling event featuring talent from Illinois Valley Wrestling. An opening showcase leads into the main show. Tickets are $10.

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  • 7pm

    Zazzle Band Rocks

    Ottawa · Berta's Tap, 616 Clinton St

    Matt, Beth, and Randy perform a set of 90s punk and rock hits at Berta's Tap.

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  • 7:30pm

    Casey McGrath is Fiddlerock

    Ottawa · CatsEye Wine Bar, 724 La Salle St

    Casey McGrath delivers fiddle-driven takes on rock and classic rock, with forays into metal, rap, and plenty in between. This genre-hopping performance showcases familiar songs reimagined for the fiddle, blending styles across the musical spectrum.

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Sunday, October 25

1 event

  • 7:30am

    Sunday breakfast and trap

    Newark · Newark Sportsmens Club, 10251 Fox River Dr

    An unlimited breakfast is available while trap shooting takes place. Both activities run at the same time.

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Monday, October 26

0 events

Tuesday, October 27

2 events

  • 6:30pm

    Board Meeting

    Seneca · Seneca Public Library District, 210 N Main St

    Free

    The Seneca Public Library Board will hold a meeting in the Cultural Center, and attendance is open to all.

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  • 7pm

    Tuesday Night Pub Trivia

    Ottawa · Shakers Ottawa, 121 W Stevenson Rd.

    Free

    Shakers Ottawa hosts a free pub trivia night with six rounds. Teams of up to six friends can play through categories like pop culture, sports, entertainment, name that tune, geography and history, and science. Prizes go to first and second place, with an extra prize awarded midway through the game.

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Wednesday, October 28

2 events

  • 5pm

    Wednesday Night Live Featuring Neumann Superhumann Show

    Tonica · Bricks & Stones at Camp Aramoni

    Wednesday Night Live at Camp Aramoni blends casual dining, drinks, and live music in a relaxed setting. Choose from a fast-casual lineup of appetizers, salads, pizzas, handhelds, and desserts, then settle in on the deck overlooking the Vermilion River or opt for indoor seating. This week features a spooky set from the Neumann Superhumann Show, a high energy one-man rock act delivering powerhouse performances and fan favorite rock and roll covers inspired by the bold sound of late 80s rock. Guests are seated and served by staff. Check in with the host to sit on the deck, indoors, or near the pavilion, or bring lawn chairs if you simply want to listen. There is no cover to attend, and ordering food is optional if you would rather just enjoy a drink. Entrees typically range from $10 to $18. A kids menu is available with cheese quesadillas, cheese pizza, and mini cheeseburgers, each priced at $9. Many dietary needs can be accommodated, including gluten free, vegetarian, and vegan choices, though everything is prepared in one kitchen where cross contact may occur, and halal or kosher options are not available. Seating is first come, first served, with reservations accepted only for groups of 10 or more. Parties of six or more are placed on a single tab with a 20 percent automatic gratuity, and a 20 percent gratuity is added to any tabs not closed and signed. Tips are welcome. If it rains, the performance moves indoors. The menu rotates seasonally and weekly specials highlight what is fresh.

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  • 6:30pm

    Book Club

    Seneca · Seneca Public Library District, 210 N Main St

    Pick up the current monthly book club selection at the circulation desk, then take part in a friendly discussion with fellow library patrons.

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Thursday, October 29

1 event

  • 7pm

    Thursday Night Karaoke

    Ottawa · Shakers Ottawa, 121 W Stevenson Rd.

    Shakers Ottawa hosts an evening of karaoke where attendees can sing their favorite songs from beloved artists. Bring friends and enjoy drinks while taking the stage. Expect a lively crowd, with DJ Matty on the Mic keeping the music and energy going throughout the night.

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All upcoming events36 more events through Dec 16

Everything else on Ottawa's calendar, in order.

Friday, October 30

3 events

  • 6pm

    Step into the Story: Writing the Next Chapter with CASA

    Ottawa · Acre 17 Weddings & Events, 3401 E 17th Rd

    Step into a night of elegance, intrigue, and impact at a CASA masquerade fundraiser that champions children in the community. The celebration weaves storytelling into every detail, highlighting the need for advocacy, stability, and hope for the young people served by CASA. Guests can expect an immersive masked setting with a curated dinner, live music and dancing, and a bar offering signature and themed cocktails. Entertainment includes magical performances alongside tarot and mediumship readings. Every ticket and contribution supports CASA’s mission for children navigating the foster care system, helping ensure each child has a dedicated advocate focused on their best interests in La Salle and Bureau Counties. Businesses are invited to contribute goods, services, or financial support through sponsorships with branded opportunities available. For sponsorship inquiries, contact Lexi Wamhoff at awamhoff@lasallecountycasa.org.

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  • 7pm

    Live Music - Kalamit̄ - Halloween Eve

    Ottawa · Fire on Fifth, 218 Geiger Ct

    KALAMIT̄ hits the stage at Fire on Fifth in Peru, IL for a Halloween Eve performance and a wild night of live music.

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  • 7pm

    Halloween Party

    Marseilles · ILLINI LOUNGE, 390 Main St

    Put on your best costume and get ready for a great time, with spooky vibes and music to set the mood.

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Saturday, October 31

4 events

  • 10am

    Ashley's Spooky Good Clearance Event

    Peru · Ashley Store, 1647 38th St

    Free

    Enjoy a one-day clearance event at Ashley with an extra 50 percent off pink-tag clearance items and select floor models. Everything is in stock for same-day pickup, so consider bringing a truck or trailer. Availability is first come, first served and items cannot be held, so arriving early can help secure the best selection. Children can enjoy free trick-or-treating while adults browse. Once an item is gone, it is gone.

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  • 12pm

    Halloween Booo-wling Special

    Peru · Illinois Valley Super Bowl, 4242 Mahoney Dr

    A Halloween bowling special features cosmic bowling in a darkened center with laser lights and eerie Halloween music. Family Fun Packs offer two hours on the lanes, shoe rental, and a pitcher of soda for up to six people for $60, which is more than 20 percent off the regular rate. Large one topping pizzas are priced at $15. Costumes are welcome, and those who dress up receive a goody bag. Reservations are recommended but not required. For safety, bowling shoes must be worn with costumes, so ensure outfits can accommodate rental shoes.

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  • 8pm

    Wild Card

    Tonica · Aces & Eights Bar, 103 S. Lasalle St.

    Halloween at Aces & Eights encourages costumes. Attendees are invited to dress up for the occasion.

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  • 8:30pm

    Snap Shot Rocks Shakers

    Ottawa · Shakers , 121 W Stevenson Rd

    Snap Shot makes a return appearance at Shakers Ottawa. This event welcomes the act back for another visit.

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Sunday, November 1

1 event

  • 9am

    K & V Kraft & Vendor Fall Show

    Utica · Village of North Utica, 248 W Canal St.

    Free

    Explore handmade goods and local vendor offerings at the K & V Kraft & Vendor Fall Show at the Village of North Utica in Utica, IL. Admission is free, and there will be door prizes. The event coincides with Utica's Veterans Parade & Air Show. Vendors seeking a spot can request an application by emailing kimbernabe@ymail.com, and should plan to bring their own tables and chairs, as they are not provided.

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Saturday, November 7

5 events

  • 5pm

    Star Trek MTG Prerelease

    Earlville · Dark Wolf Gaming Company, 119 W Railroad St

    A Star Trek MTG prerelease is planned with limited capacity. Advance sign up is encouraged to secure a spot. Register in store or reserve by calling or texting 815-503-9653. If texting, include your name and a phone number so staff can confirm your reservation as the event approaches.

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  • 5:30pm

    50th Anniversary Golden Gala

    La Salle · The Auditorium Ballroom, 451 1st St

    An evening of dining and dancing celebrates YSB's first 50 years and helps carry its mission forward. Early bird tickets are on sale.

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  • 5:30pm

    Streator Chamber Casino Night

    Streator · Oakley Avenue Klub, 806 Oakley Ave

    Streator Chamber Casino Night, presented by SOCU, supports the Streatorland Community Food Pantry, with 50 percent of all ticket sales benefiting the cause. Hosted at Oakley Avenue Klub, formerly K of C, the evening features casino play strictly for fun with chances to win prizes, along with raffles and both live and silent auctions. Admission is $45 and includes dinner and casino chips, and a cash bar will be available. Dinner is catered by The Bullpen with selections that include pork chop, brisket, baked chicken, spinach lasagna, mac and cheese, a baked potato, green beans, salad, and a dinner roll. Tickets can be purchased online and at the Chamber Office, Oakley Ave Klub, SOCU Northpoint and Owens branches, Midland States Bank, First State Bank at the Walmart Shopping Center, and Streator Home Savings Bank. Support comes from Presenting Sponsor SOCU, Dinner Sponsor Constellation Energy, and Dessert Sponsor US Truck Body. Additional backing is provided by Gaming Table Sponsors Stertil ALM, Shaw Local Radio, Alloy Specialties, Justice Law Firm, and Elevate Real Estate - KW Infinity, High Roller Sponsors Vactor, McDonald's, Streator National Bank, and Midland States Bank, Business Partner Sponsors Streator Community Credit Union, Accounting, Tax & Business Services, Edward Jones - Ben Hiltabrand, Evergreen Senior Living, Streator Home Savings Bank, The Thread Revival, Villas of Holly Brook & Reflections Memory Care, West Side Café, Chismarick Realty, and Town & Country Apts, and Community Sponsors City of Streator, IVCC, Streator Eagles Club #645, Parker Nursing Home, and Luckey Distribution Services.

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  • 6pm

    Jonny Lyons & the Pride at Heritage Harbor

    Ottawa · The Vue at Heritage Harbor, 417 Great Loop E Dr

    Spend the day exploring Heritage Harbor during the annual Wine and Art Walk, browsing work by local artists, uncovering unique finds, sampling wine and spirits, and enjoying bites as you stroll a self guided route with scenic harbor views and a market to peruse. After the walk, head to The Vue, the waterfront event venue at Heritage Harbor, for a live performance by Jonny Lyons & the Pride. Wine and Art Walk tickets include concert admission, and standalone concert tickets are also available.

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  • 7pm

    Katie Belle and Joe are Duffelbelle

    Ottawa · CatsEye Wine Bar, 724 La Salle St

    Katie Belle and Joe perform as Duffelbelle, of the Belle Rangers. The performance highlights folk, Americana, and alt country, blending original songs with cover material.

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Sunday, November 8

1 event

  • 3pm

    Jon Swags

    Troy Grove · The Grove, 307 E Church St

    The Grove welcomes a return performance featuring unplugged country and rock, creating a relaxed setting with easygoing tunes throughout the show.

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Saturday, November 14

3 events

  • 7pm

    The Wise Guys

    Peru · IV Super Bowl

    This event celebrates the arrival of The Wise Guys at IV Super Bowl in Peru, Illinois.

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  • 7pm

    On the Road: Six Mile Grove

    Ottawa · The Abbey, 113 E Lafayette St

    Six Mile Grove brings a roots-honoring sound shaped by Minnesota greats such as Bob Dylan and the Jayhawks, while carving out a distinct voice in live performance. Tickets are $35.

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  • 7pm

    Ryan Wotherspoon

    Ottawa · CatsEye Wine Bar, 724 La Salle St

    Ryan Wotherspoon presents an all-instrumental program of solo piano interpretations of songs.

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Sunday, November 15

2 events

  • 1pm

    November Acoustic Jam

    Peru · Music Suite 408, 408 5th St

    Free

    Bring an instrument or simply enjoy the music at this welcoming acoustic jam. All experience levels are encouraged, from first timers to long-time players. Music Suite 408 hosts a monthly acoustic jam on the third Sunday from September through May, with Mike and Lisa Templeton facilitating. Light refreshments are offered after the music, often a warm soup. Voluntary contributions are appreciated to help keep community events free. Trained service animals are welcome. Emotional support animals and pets are not allowed inside.

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  • 2pm

    Back in the Day Restaurants

    Ottawa · Ottawa Historical and Scouting Heritage Museum, 1100 Canal St

    Take a nostalgic look at local dining through the years, spotlighting beloved restaurants and overlooked gems while exploring where people went when they ate out. Admission is $9 for members and $10 for general admission, with tickets available at the door.

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Tuesday, November 17

1 event

  • 10am

    Tunes & Tots

    Seneca · Seneca Public Library District, 210 N Main St

    A cheerful musical session with singing, laughter, dancing, and plenty of movement.

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Wednesday, November 18

1 event

  • 8am

    John's Place Coffee & Donuts

    Peru · John's Place, 1802 5th St

    Free

    At John's Place, guests can enjoy a complimentary coffee and donut. This recurring meet-up takes place on the third Wednesday of each month.

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Thursday, November 19

1 event

  • 7pm

    Other People's Poetry

    Ottawa · Open Table United Church of Christ, 910 Columbus St

    Open Table UCC hosts Other People’s Poetry, an evening devoted to spoken verse where guests can read and listen. The gathering champions public art, open conversation, enjoyment, and community. It takes place in the church’s lower level. Anyone age 12 or older is invited, including poets, aspiring writers, performers, dramatic readers, and people who simply love poems. Bring a piece you wrote or a favorite by someone else to share, or relax and listen from your seat. Though set in a church space, the program is nonsectarian and welcomes free expression. Coffee, juice, and light refreshments are provided. A Zoom option is available, with details shared in a Facebook post during the week of the event. Creativity and a willingness to contribute are especially encouraged.

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Saturday, November 21

4 events

  • 10am

    Barbie Club

    Seneca · Seneca Public Library District, 210 N Main St

    Bring along your favorite doll and enjoy playtime in the dreamhouse. The focus is simple, hands-on doll play with the house.

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  • 3pm

    Writing Club

    Seneca · Seneca Public Library District, 210 N Main St

    Fellow writers gather to share and explore creative writing.

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  • 6pm

    Harvest Slam

    Streator · Streator Township High School District 40, 202 W Lincoln Ave

    This professional wrestling event at Streator Township High School District 40 showcases the stars of Illinois Valley Wrestling. Tickets are priced at $10, making it an easy way to catch the action. The program features a pre-show showcase that leads into the main bell.

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  • 7pm

    Ian Leith

    Ottawa · CatsEye Wine Bar, 724 La Salle St

    Ian Leith delivers an evening of cover songs spanning alternative, classic rock, and indie. Settle in for a night of familiar tunes performed from start to finish.

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Sunday, November 22

1 event

  • 12pm

    Chili Cook-off

    Seneca · Mariner's Marina, 8 Logue Cir

    This chili cook-off at Mariner's Marina centers on the Bears vs. Saints game, offering hearty bowls, cold drinks, and a tailgate atmosphere for boating friends once the boats are stored. Chili will be served at kickoff. Anyone confident in their recipe can bring a batch to share and should let Rose know. Fans are welcome to wear their jerseys, bring an appetite, and enjoy food and football as the Bears face the Saints.

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Tuesday, November 24

1 event

  • 1pm

    Family Lego Build & Play

    Seneca · Seneca Public Library District, 210 N Main St

    Enjoy creative building and play with a wide range of bricks and sets. Tubs of standard-sized Legos and Lego sets will be available, along with a Lego table stocked with Duplos, offering plenty of pieces and space to create.

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Wednesday, November 25

1 event

  • 8pm

    Wild Card

    Tonica · Aces & Eights Bar, 103 S. Lasalle St.

    Celebrate Blackout Wednesday at Aces & Eights Bar. Enjoy a fun night out ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.

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Thursday, November 26

1 event

  • 10:30am

    Thanksgiving Buffet

    Oglesby · Starved Rock Lodge, 1 Lodge Ln

    Enjoy a Thanksgiving buffet at Starved Rock Lodge in a scenic, welcoming setting. Advance reservations are required and can be made by calling 815-220-7386. Pricing is $47.95 for adults, $24.95 for children ages 4 to 12, and complimentary for children under 3.

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Saturday, November 28

2 events

  • 10am

    Model Train Display

    Streator · Streator Incubator, 401 W Bridge St

    This display features multiple model trains running over more than 100 feet of working track, passing through hand-built towns and businesses set among rolling hills and valleys. Visitors can meet the model makers to learn about their process and craftsmanship. Sponsored by Dieken & Straughn Farm Management, Steril ALM, and Mike & Tom Gulo.

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  • 11am

    Christmas

    North Utica · LaSalle County Historical Society Canal Market, 221 Clark St

    Celebrate the season at Christmas at the Canal Market, an annual gathering featuring over a dozen vendors offering handmade, vintage, antique and homemade goods. Enjoy hot chocolate as you browse for holiday gifts, then wrap up your visit with a carriage ride through Utica. Vendor applications are available for those interested in participating.

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Sunday, November 29

1 event

  • 11am

    Gather & Give Holiday Market

    Streator · Centennial Farm on the Ridge, 1817 N 19th Rd

    At Centennial Farm, the Gather & Give Holiday Market offers a refined yet cozy holiday shopping experience. Explore local boutiques, find handcrafted goods, and enjoy festive treats. Guests are encouraged to bring canned goods and gently used or new winter coats and accessories to support local families this season.

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Friday, December 4

1 event

  • 7pm

    Uprising: Women Athletes 10

    La Salle · Kay Cee Club of LaSalle, IL, 209 Gooding St.

    The Uprising series returns to the Kay Cee Club in LaSalle, Illinois with its tenth showcase of women’s professional wrestling, presented by X-ercise Science, Inc. This installment highlights elite independent competitors in hard-hitting matches, with heated rivalries, standout athleticism, and championship implications creating an electric atmosphere. Surprising moments and high-stakes action continue the tradition that has made Uprising a destination for women’s wrestling.

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Saturday, December 5

1 event

  • 7pm

    Zazzle Duo

    Earlville · R's All In, 109 E Railroad St

    Zazzle Duo brings an acoustic set to R's All In in Earlville, featuring stripped back 90s rock, alternative favorites, and plenty of sing along tunes. This intimate version of the band spotlights gritty vocals and close-knit harmonies with a lively, close-up feel. There are no backing tracks, only a fully live show built for a fun night.

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Wednesday, December 16

1 event

  • 8am

    John's Place Coffee & Donuts by Liberty Village

    Peru · John's Place, 1802 5th St

    Free

    Start your morning at John's Place with complimentary coffee and a donut, offered on the third Wednesday of each month.

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