Embrace the crisp fall days with exciting activities that’ll make your autumn glow. From checking out charming boutiques to savoring pumpkin spice treats at seasonal festivals, there is so much to see and enjoy. Venture into fall foliage trails and local landmarks to infuse a dash of adventure into your autumn plans. Don’t miss out on these activities scheduled for this weekend to fully savor the changing leaves!
Have A Dog Day Afternoon at the Morton Arboretum
Dog Admission Days at the Morton Arboretum invites both two-legged and four-legged friends to explore the beauty of the outdoors together. With designated trails and pet-friendly activities, this event fosters a shared appreciation of nature for pet owners and their pups. It’s a day of wagging tails, joyful barks, and outdoor bliss.
Date: November 5
Time: 7AM-6PM
Cost: Including with admission ticket
Location: Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Rte 53, Lisle
More info: mortonarb.org
Run with the Family in Wheaton
Register for The Cantigny 5K Run/Walk to join in a charitable, family-friendly event, with all proceeds directed towards the support of the Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans in Wheaton. The event includes a traditional 5K race, a 1-mile Kids Run designed for children aged 6-10, and a Tot Run for those aged 0-5. The racecourse boasts scenic rolling hills, historical landmarks, and a stunning display of autumn’s vibrant colors.
Date: November 4
Time: 7-11:30AM
Cost: $5+
Location: Catigny Park, 15151 Winfield Rd, Wheaton
More info: cantigny.org
Sip Wine with the Animals of Brookfield Zoo
Head to Brookfield Zoo for an enchanting evening of conservation and fine wine at the Wines in the Wild fundraiser. This unique event offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore the zoo after hours while enjoying a curated selection of exquisite wines from around the world. Stroll through the lush animal habitats, indulge in gourmet cuisine, and revel in live entertainment, all while supporting the zoo’s vital conservation efforts. Wines in the Wild is a celebration of wildlife and wine, where every sip contributes to the preservation of biodiversity.
Date: November 4
Time: 6-10PM
Cost: $300+
Location: Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St, Brookfield
More info: czs.org
Roll the Dice for a Good Cause
Buy a ticket to celebrate the fourth annual Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Chicago Casino Night fundraiser, where attendees are invited to a night of ’20s-themed splendor. The evening promises an array of casino games, an open bar offering both cocktails and mocktails, delectable appetizers, a chance to win raffle prizes, and much more. The primary goal of this event is to raise awareness and funds in support of the Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Chicago’s invaluable free resources and services for those living with epilepsy.
Date: November 4
Time: 7PM
Cost: $75+
Location: Mae District, 19 E 21st St
More info: epilepsychicago.org
Run for Hot Cocoa!
Chocolate lovers and runners will unite at the Hot Cocoa 5k this weekend! Sign up to run 5k, 10k, or 15k with your whole family and enjoy some chocolate treats at the end of your race. If you aren’t a runner, you can cheer on your friends and neighbors downtown and support their charity of choice this year- the Special Olympics.
Date: November 5
Time: starts at 7:30AM
Cost: starts at $54
Location: Grant Park, 301 S Columbus Dr
More info: hotchocolate15k.com
See the Barrel Aged Beauties Showcased at FoBAB
The Festival of Barrel-Aged Beer (also known as FoBAB) celebrates the artistry of barrel-aged brewing. This event features hundreds of barrel-aged beverages in various styles, all meticulously crafted and aged from breweries across the country. Attendees can explore a Lager Lounge for lower ABV options and Revolution Brewing’s Super Zero Lounge showcasing their new Super-Zero Sparkling Hop Water. Your ticket price supports the largest annual fundraiser for the Illinois Craft Brewers Guild, helping their mission of promoting and advocating for member craft breweries.
Date: November 3-4
Time: Friday 6-10PM; Saturday 1-5PM
Cost: $85
Location: UIC Credit Union 1 Arena, 525 S Racine Ave
More info: fobab.com
Get Started on Holiday Shopping at the Fall Night Market
Discover the magic of the Fall Night Market, hosted by Sauced at the WNDR Museum! As the sun sets, the market comes to life, offering a captivating selection of handcrafted treasures from local artisans. From unique artworks and jewelry to gourmet goodies and more, explore a diverse array of one-of-a-kind finds. It’s an evening of art, craftsmanship, and community in the heart of Chicago. Don’t miss out on the Sauced Fall Artisanal Night Market, where creativity meets the city lights!
Date: November 3-4
Time: 5-10PM
Cost: Free
Location: WNDR Museum, 1130 Monroe St
More info: saucedmarket.com
Pop Over to Sushi Pop for A Nostalgic Night Out
Step into a nostalgia-filled time capsule at Sushi Pop, a culinary pop-up within the Peninsula Chicago Hotel. This dining experience offers a blend of traditional Japanese delicacies with a modern twist, all set against the backdrop of a neon-soaked, retro ambiance. With each hand-crafted piece of sushi, you’ll taste a bygone era, and the trendy setting and attentive service will transport you to a time when leg warmers and cassette tapes ruled the scene.
Date: Runs through November 18
Time: Reservation Only
Cost: $35 deposit + meal cost
Location: The Peninsula Chicago, 108 E Superior St
More info: exploretock.com
