CENTRAL TIME
Spirit Wear Sale
July 31, Aug. 7 & 8
Hinsdale Central
Grant Street entrance
5500 S. Grant St.
The Booster Club is holding its back-to-school Red Devil spirit wear sale to get outfitted for the new school year. Hours: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
FAMILY FUN
Storytime at Burns Field
July 31
Burns Field
320 N. Vine St.
http://www.hinsdalelibrary.info
(630) 986-1976
Join librarians for stories, fingerplays and music. In the event of rain, storytime will move to the library. Time: 10 to 10:30 a.m. RR
Archery: Open House
Aug. 3
Blackwell Forest Preserve
Butterfield Road west of Winfield Road, Warrenville
(630) 933-7248
Learn about equipment, try some of the basics with a certified instructor and talk to representatives from local archery groups at this fun family event. A waiver is required and can be filled out online in advance. Hours: 9 a.m. to noon.
Glow-in-the-Dark Storytime
Aug. 5
Hinsdale Public Library
20 E. Maple St.
http://www.hinsdalelibrary.info
(630) 986-1976
Come to hear stories, sing songs and dance - in the dark! Time: 6 to 6:30 p.m. RR
FOR A CAUSE
Pet Adoption and Supply Drive
July 27
Oakbrook Center
100 Oakbrook Center, Oak Brook
http://www.hinsdalehumanesociety.org
(630) 323-5630
Meet adoptable dogs available and ready to go home and/or donate supplies for the Hinsdale Humane Society's animals. Visit website above for a list of items needed. Hours: 12:30 to 3 p.m.
Hinsdale Humane Society Golf Outing
July 31
Seven Bridges Golf Club
1 Mulligan Drive, Woodridge
http://www.hinsdalehumanesociety.org
Enjoy 18 holes of golf, hole contests, prizes and giveaways, a cash bar and a post-golf dinner while raising money for animals and programs in the this second annual event. Play will be in a scramble format with chances to compete for prizes in several competitions throughout the day. Register by July 26. Time: Noon check-in, 1 p.m. shotgun start, 5:30 p.m. dinner. Cost: $175, $700 for foursome, $60 for just dinner. RR
GAME ON
Gymnastics Developmental Training
Mondays & Wednesdays, July 29-Aug 14
Hinsdale Central High School
5500 S. Grant St.
http://www.thecommunityhouse.org
(630) 323-7500
Kids ages 5-12 can take this accelerated class for the capable and motivated young gymnast. Determination and hard work will focus students to achieve excellent basics and higher-level skills. Students must be instructor approved. Time: 5 to 7 p.m. Cost: $318. RR, MD
3-on-3 Hoops Tourney
Aug. 17
The Community House
415 W. Eighth St.
http://www.thecommunityhouse.org/3on32024
(630) 323-7500
Ages third grade through adult are invited to participate in this annual fundraising event to compete and have fun while also raising critical resources for athletic recreation services at The Community House. The rain date is Aug. 18. Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Cost: $205 before Aug. 1, $230 after. RR
Wonder Woods Mini Golf
Through Sept. 2
Morton Arboretum
4100 Route 53, Lisle
(630) 968-0074
The tree-themed adventure offers a one-of-a-kind course specially designed for the arboretum, with giant mushrooms, larger-than-life bugs and acorns. Golfers will learn how tree rings can tell the life story of a tree, how trees support the ecosystems of bugs and wildlife and other cool scientific concepts. Tickets must be purchased in advance with arboretum admission. Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m .; last tee time at 5 p.m. Tickets: $10, $8 for ages 4-17. RR, MD
GREAT OUTDOORS
Turtles
July 27
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center
9800 Willow Springs Road, Willow Springs
(708) 839-6897
Learn about turtles through hands-on discovery. Time: 1:30 p.m.
Wildflower ID
July 30
Danada Equestrian Center
3S507 Naperville Road, Wheaton
(630) 942-6200
Learn basic wildflower identification skills through the lens of botanical family groups and their characteristics. The program is for ages 18 and up. Time: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Cost: $5. RR
GREEN THUMB
Community Garden Plot Program
Through Oct. 31
Peirce Park
700 E. Walnut St.
(630) 789-7090
Discover the joys of gardening by cultivating a 4x6-foot plot to grow fresh fruits and veggies and bond with fellow gardeners. For rules and guidelines, visit http://www.cms4files.revize.com/hinsdaleil/Garden-Plot-Manual.pdf and share garden progress on Facebook and Instagram @HinsdaleParks. Cost: $25. RR
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Yoga
July 28
Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center
9800 Willow Springs Road, Willow Springs
(708) 839-6897
Enjoy an all-levels yoga class indoors with a certified instructor, then stay for a self-guided walk after the program. The program is for ages 18 & up. Time: 10 to 11 a.m. RR
Fitness Hike
July 31
Country Lane Woods
95th Street east of Willow Springs Road near Willow Springs
(312) 533-5751
Get some exercise outdoors with this faster paced 5-mile hike with little to no stopping or interpretation. Time: 9 a.m.
Women's Wellness
Aug. 3
Swallow Cliff Woods-North
Route 83 west of La Grange Road near Palos Park
(312) 533-5751
Join The Do-Good Movement for a yoga class followed by a women's wellness discussion on Spreading Kindness Together based around the 31 Days to Wellness. Time: 8 to 10 a.m.
JUST FOR KIDS
Kindergarten Readiness
July 29
Hinsdale Public Library
20 E. Maple St.
http://www.hinsdalelibrary.info
(630) 986-1976
Kids can practice writing their name, forming and naming shapes with play doh, tracing letters and numbers and more. Time: 10 to 11 a.m. RR
Take Home Packet: Back to School
Aug. 2
Hinsdale Public Library
20 E. Maple St.
http://www.hinsdalelibrary.info
(630) 986-1976
Students in kindergarten through second grade can pick up an activity packet to begin working on writing, reading, math and more. RR
LISTEN & LEARN
The Best of Regional Pies, Pastries and Cookies
July 31
Hinsdale Public Library
20 E. Maple St.
http://www.hinsdalelibrary.info
(630) 986-1976
Learn about sweet specialties throughout the U.S., uncovering some of the best and some of the most unusual. Samples of a few of the desserts will be provided. Time: 7 to 8 p.m. RR
Director Lecture Series
Saturdays through Aug. 10
Theatre of Western Springs
4384 Hampton Ave.
(708) 246-4043
Each week a different director will provide a unique perspective on the directing process regarding a specific topic, then allow time for questions. This series will teach the role of the director and provide some tricks of the trade. The remaining topics in order are musicals, black box, farces and research. Contact Nicole Leatherwood at [email protected] with questions. Time: 10 to 11 a.m. Cost: $20 at the door, free for active TWS members, HSR students and CTWS parents. RR
NOTEWORTHY
HPL After Dark: Bear Williams Trio
July 28
Memorial Building lawn
20 E. Maple St.
http://www.hinsdalelibrary.info
(630) 986-1976
Hear this group led by award-winning Chicago-based blues artist Bear Williams, who has recorded or performed with legends like Mavis Staples, Diana Ross, Little Richard and Alanis Morissette. Guests at this outdoor HPL After Dark: Summer Family Concert should bring a lawn chair and can enjoy a snack and wine, beer or a soft drink compliments of the Friends of the Hinsdale Public Library. While the concert is geared to adults, children are welcome. Time: 6 to 8 p.m. RR
Sounds Good! Choir
Aug. 1
The Community House
415 W. Eighth St.
http://www.soundsgoodchoir.org
(630) 395-9542
Hear the area's largest choral-music organization for adults 55 and older better perform its summer concert, featuring music by The Drifters, Marvin Gaye, The Beatles and more. Led by professional conductors, the whole family will enjoy the show. Time: 7 to 8 p.m.
Cinema Classics
Aug. 3
First Division Museum Military Park
Cantigny Park
1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton
The West Suburban Symphony presents an outdoor performance of hit movie music from the mid-20th century forward featuring composers John Williams, Erich Korngold, Mel Brooks and others and selections from popular films. The program also will include a salute to veterans with a sing-along to the anthems of the branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. Seating is on the lawn; folding chairs and/or blankets are recommended. Picnics are welcome and concessions also will be available for sale. Purchase a Concert Snack Tote for $60 containing a hearty meal for two in an insulated tote; totes must be pre-ordered. Time: 7:30 to 9 p.m. Admission: Free with $15 paid parking.
Elton Rohn
Aug. 9
Lakeside Pavilion
College of DuPage
425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn
(630) 942-4000
Experience the look, feel, and sound of an Elton John concert with this tribute artist. Blankets, lawn chairs and a picnic are permitted at this outdoor performance. Food and beverage vendors will also be available; outside alcohol is not permitted. The park opens 90 minutes prior to the performance. Guests are encouraged to bring a nonperishable food or paper goods item to donate to the Glen House Food Pantry and COD Student Fuel Pantry. Time: 7:30 p.m.
'Così fan Tutte'
Aug. 10
First United Methodist Church
100 W. Cossitt Ave., La Grange
http://www.saltcreekchamberorchestra.com
The Salt Creek Chamber Orchestra presents a concert version of this opera by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart with English supertitles. Tickets can be purchased online and at the door. Time: 7 p.m. Tickets: $25, $20 for seniors & students.
ON STAGE
'Disney's Tarzan'
July 26-28
The Community House
415 W. Eighth St.
Washed up on the shores of West Africa, an infant boy is taken in and raised by gorillas who name him Tarzan. When a human expedition treks into his tribe's territory, and he encounters creatures like himself for the first time. Tarzan struggles to navigate his animal upbringing clashing with his human instincts. Times: 7 p.m. July 26, 2 and 7 p.m. July 27 & 2 p.m. July 28. Tickets: $25-$30.
'Monty Python's Spamalot'
July 26-28
Theatre of Western Springs
4384 Hampton Ave.
http://www.theatrewesternsprings.com
(708) 246-4043
The Children's Theatre of Western Springs presents this hilarious musical-comedy inspired by the movie "Monty Python and the Holy Grail." Killer rabbits, Black Knights, French people and lots of silliness in Camelot await. The show is recommended for ages 10 and up. Times: 7 p.m. July 26, 3 & 7 p.m. July 27, 2 p.m. July 28. Tickets: $17.
'Alice in Wonderland Jr.'
Aug. 1-3
Avenue Christian Church
5750 Holmes Ave., Clarendon Hills
http://www.bamtheatre.com/box-office
BAMtheatre's Broadway Kids presents the story of young Alice, who finds herself in a strange world where everything seems upside down. Trying to find her way home, she encounters all of the iconic Wonderland characters that audiences have come to love: the ever tardy White Rabbit, the grinning Cheshire Cat, a cool Caterpillar, the wacky Mad Hatter, and the hot-tempered Queen of Hearts. Times: 7 p.m. Aug. 1-2, 2 and 7 p.m. Aug. 3. Tickets: $24-$28.
'Ain't Misbehavin'
Through Aug. 18
Drury Lane Theatre
100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace
http://www.drurylanetheatre.com
Stride along with the toe-tapping, finger-snapping revue that journeys through the Harlem Renaissance with the music of legend Fats Waller. Brimming with the energetic charm of jazz classics such as "Honeysuckle Rose" and "I Can't Give You Anything But Love," the crooners of "Ain't Misbehavin'" bring soulful melodies to life, capturing the essence of an era where the joint was always jumpin.' Times: see website above for a full schedule. Tickets: start at $67.95.
'House on Pooh Corner'
Weekends through Aug. 25
Morton Arboretum
4100 Route 53, Lisle
Enjoy this family friendly outdoor play adapted for this arboretum performance in which the audience is led to each scene at several natural backdrop locations along a one- to two-mile hiking route. Bring water, a portable chair or blanket and bug spray. Time: 6 p.m. Tickets: $25, $15 for ages 2-17, free for infants. MD
SENIOR SCENE
AARP Driver Safety Course
July 30 & 31
The Community House
415 W. Eighth St.
http://www.thecommunityhouse.org
(630) 323-7500
Drivers over the age of 50 who wish to update their driving skills can take this classroom-only program. Attendance both days is required to receive a certificate. Arrive 10 minutes early the first day to sign-in and pay; payment is due at the class. Coffee will be provided and you may also bring a beverage or snack, if desired. Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost: $25, $20 for AARP members. RR
SIGN UP NOW
Beginning Knitting
July 30
Hinsdale Public Library
20 E. Maple St.
http://www.hinsdalelibrary.info
(630) 986-1976
Learn how to cast on and how to knit that first stitch. All supplies are included. Additional sessions on how to purl (Aug, 29) and how to follow a basic pattern to knit a scarf (Sept. 10) also are planned. Learn the basics and join the library's Needlework Nights every other Thursday night. Time: 7 to 8 p.m. RR
Fencing Olympic Swordplay
Mondays, Aug. 5-26
The Community House
415 W. Eighth St.
http://www.thecommunityhouse.org
(630) 678-0035
All ages from 7 and older will learn the basics of attack and defense as well as strategies that create the foundation for fencing. Families are invited to learn together. Equipment is arranged with the fencing club; call the number listed above. Time: 7:15 to 8 p.m. Cost: $46. RR, MD
Library Edition Book Club
Aug. 7
Hinsdale Public Library
20 E. Maple St.
http://www.hinsdalelibrary.info
(630) 986-1976
Join this monthly group to discuss "His Only Wife" by Peace Adzo Medie. Copies of the book will be available on the library's Book Club Holds shelf. Time: 7 to 8 p.m. RR
SPECIAL EVENTS
Birdies and Brews
Aug. 2
Morton Arboretum
4100 Route 53, Lisle
(630) 968-0074
Play a round of Wonder Woods Mini Golf, enjoy beer on tap and stay to learn about studying, appreciating and protecting birds. Watch a professional falconer hold and fly trained birds and take a photo with a falcon. Tickets include a round of mini golf and two drinks. The event is for ages 21 and older, and advance timed-entry tickets are required. Time: 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tickets $50. RR, MD
Destination Asia Festival
Aug. 3 & 4
Morton Arboretum
4100 Route 53, Lisle
(630) 968-0074
This fun-filled, family-friendly festival celebrates the diverse cultures of Asia through music, dance, food and more. Enjoy cultural performances and demonstrations, a bonsai exhibit, shopping and art vendors, and food trucks. Guests can also explore the arboretum's vast tree and shrub collections from China, Japan and Korea. Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission: $17, $15 for seniors, $12 for ages 2-17.
Fall Expo at TCH
Aug. 13
The Community House
415 W. Eighth St.
http://www.thecommunityhouse.org
(630) 323-7500
Join this inaugural free event to explore the variety of programs available at The Community House for all ages, including enrichment, athletics, arts and before and after school services. Hours: 6 to 8 p.m.
STEPPING BACK
Date with History
Aug. 1
Cantigny Park
1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton
Two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and New York Times best-selling author David Maraniss will discuss his book "They Marched Into Sunlight: War and Peace, Vietnam and America, October 1967." The book weaves together the stories of three different worlds: the death and heroism of 1st Infantry Division soldiers in Vietnam, the antiwar movement back home and the obfuscating behavior of Washington officials. Maraniss is an associate editor at The Washington Post. Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing. A cocktail reception with Maraniss will be held after the program in McCormick House; advance tickets are $60 and include parking, drinks and hors d'oeuvres. Time: 6 p.m. Admission: Free with $5 parking.
At Home With Nature House Tour
Through Sept. 30
Mayslake Peabody Estate
1717 W. 31st St., Oak Brook
(630) 206-9566
Learn some of the surprising history of Mayslake Hall, the 1921 home of F.S. Peabody and a landmark and architectural gem that has been surrounded by an oasis of nature for more than 100 years. Ages 12 and up are welcome. Time: 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. weekdays, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturdays. Cost: $8.
Nothing But Victory
Ongoing
First Division Museum
Cantigny Park
1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton
This immersive outdoor exhibit commemorates the 80th anniversary of D-Day, fusing art and history and spanning across the grounds to recall the pivotal day of World War II: June 6, 1944. A complementary exhibit inside the museum highlights the D-Day service of seven well-known personalities. Lectures, guided exhibit tours and drop-in events for kids and families are also featured.
SUMMER SERIES
Uniquely Thursdays
Thursdays through Aug. 22
Burlington Park
30 E. Chicago Ave.
http://www.hinsdalechamber.com
The annual concert series sponsored by the Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce will feature Kelly Daniels tonight, July 25. Also enjoy food vendors and plenty of fun surprises. Hours: 6 to 9 p.m.
Cantigny Summer Concerts
Sundays through Sept. 1
Cantigny Park Parade Field
1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton
The outdoor concert series continues July 28 with Hairbangers Ball. Seating is on the lawn, and guests are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets and picnics; an area will be reserved for guests with pop-up tents and canopies. Time: 3 to 5 p.m.
Arbor Evenings
Wednesdays through Aug. 21
Morton Arboretum
4100 Route 53, Lisle
Enjoy this outdoor concert series against the backdrop of spectacular sunsets at the arboretum. Purchase drinks, ice cream, and menu items from a variety of food trucks and play lawn games. The series continues July 31 with the Billy Elton playing hits from Billy Joel and Elton John. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Time: 6 to 8 p.m. Tickets: $15, $5 for ages 2-12.
Farmers Market
Mondays through Oct. 14
Chicago Avenue near Burlington Park
http://www.hinsdalechamber.com
The 48th annual Hinsdale Farmer's Market, sponsored by the Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce, will feature farmers from near and far, with booths of fresh produce and unique finds from their farms and stores. Hours: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
TEENS & TWEENS
Six Flags Middle School
Aug. 2
Leave from The Community House
415 W. Eighth St.
http://www.thecommunityhouse.org
(630) 323-7500
Kids ages 10-15 can have summertime fun at Six Flags amusement park with transportation included. Time: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost: $125. RR, MD
Key
RR - registration required
MD - member discount