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Enjoy May around the Western Suburbs Starting with these Fun Events There's so much happening in the western suburbs of Chicago this May, a variety of unique events await. This month's 5 THINGS TO DO feature unveils a curated selection of experiences, from floral indulgences to the allure of Lilac displays, inviting you to explore the charm of the communities around you. Enjoy! 1. Spring Fest 2024 CANTIGNY • SATURDAY, MAY 18 WHEATON–Enjoy the the beautiful gardens and stop by McCormick House for the first-ever marketplace inside the historic home. Featuring talented artisans— a curated shopping experience with local vendors offering jewelry, pottery, art, and more! A craft coffee and pastry bar will be set up on the South Porch to enhance your visit. www.cantigny.org 2. Batavia Boardwalk ShopsOpening Weekend FRIDAY-SUNDAY • MAY 10-12 • 10am-4pm BATAVIA–Be the first to check out the 2024 season of the Batavia Boardwalk Shops during Opening Weekend. This season features 10 incredible new shops, each excited to show you all they have to offer.Open Fridays 10am- 5pm, Saturdays 9am- 5pm, and Sundays 11am- 4pm www.downtownbatavia.com 3. Enjoy May Events at The Growing Place ALL SEASON LONG AURORA–The Growing Place in Aurora is a family-owned garden center offering a variety of plants, events, and knowledgeable staff. In May, they have exciting events like "Spring Containers @ The Potting Bar" and more. www.thegrowingplace.com 4. Lilac Time LOMBARD • MAY 4-19 LOMBARD–Lilac Time in Lombard for 2024 features events like the Lilac Heritage Tour, Art and Craft Fair, and the highly anticipated Lilac Ball honoring the 2024 Lilac Court. Experience he beauty of 700 lilacs at Lilacia Park. www.lombardlilactime.com 5. Firefly Market DUPAGE COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS SATURDAY, MAY 11 • 10-4PM WHEATON–Shop with a unique blend of handmade artisans from around the Midwest. Live music will be flowing through the fairgrounds as shoppers search for one-of-a-kind finds! www.fireflycandlemarket.com

DOWNERS GROVE Welcoming New Businesses Downtown Downers Grove DOWNERS GROVE–The variety of small businesses, amazing owners, and community support make downtown Downers Grove the destination it is today. We look forward to welcoming Vintage Charm this month and Eleven 26 & Entourage in the coming months! May kicks off the Friday Night Live, Moose Lodge Cruise Night, Indian Boundary YMCA Downtown Market and the DG Park District Summer Concert Series. Visit downtowndg.org for all the fun details. www.downtowndg.org

Here’s What’s Trending Locally in Brunch Favorites– From Crafty Brunch events to Fabulous Mother’s Day Brunches, local hot spots are embracing creative themes to make brunches more exciting and memorable. #1 | Champagne Sunday Brunch at The Drake www.thedrakeoakbrookhotel.com/sunday-brunch.htm Enjoy the sophistication of Champagne Sunday Brunch at venues like The Drake Oak Brook, Autograph Collection offering a luxurious dining experience with carving stations and waffles. $65 for adults, $35 for children ages 6-12 (5 and under are free). 10am-2pm on Sundays. #2 | Weekend Brunch at Pinstripes www.pinstripes.com/brunch/ Brunch at Pinstripes Oak Brook offers a decadent experience with chef-inspired entrees, signature waffles, carving and omelet stations, and a variety of food choices for a delightful weekend meal. Enjoy the buffet featuring made-to-order omelettes, bottomless mimosas, and a welcoming ambiance perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. #3 | Greek Weekend Brunch at Violi www.tavernavioli.com/event/weekend-brunch/ Violi, a Greek restaurant in Oak Brook, offers a delightful weekend brunch featuring traditional lunch favorites alongside specially crafted brunch items. 10am-3pm on Saturdays & Sundays; 10-3pm. #4 | Lawless Brunch at Granite City www.gcfb.com/lawless-brunch/ This Naperville favorite offers a delightful brunch experience, serving a buffet-style spread featuring delicious options like caramel rolls, reggianno hash brown potatoes, steak and black bean chili, smoked salmon, and made-to-order eggs. Perfect for a satisfying weekend meal. Sundays, 10am-2pm. #5 | Mothers’ Day Brunch at Redstone Grill www.redstonegrill.com Redstone Grill in Oakbrook Terrace offers a delightful Mother's Day Brunch experience. Enjoy a special menu with American cuisine, breakfast, and brunch options. Make reservations for a memorable dining experience with your mom on this special occasion. May 12, 9am-3pm. #6 | A Diverse Brunch Menu at Craft Urban www.crafturban.com Get ready for a delightful experience with a diverse menu. In Aurora, enjoy brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 2pm, featuring delicious dishes like brunch tacos and customizable options. In Geneva, indulge in a scrumptious brunch available on the weekends from 10am to 2:30pm, with offerings such as hot sauce, pickles, and hand-cut fries on the menu. #7 | Elegant Brunch at Perry’s Steakhouse www.perryssteakhouse.com This local favorite offers a delightful brunch experience featuring a range of delicious dishes and brunch-inspired cocktails. Guests can enjoy a unique dining experience complete with Perry's signature steaks and impeccable service. Perry's Steakhouse is a perfect blend of quality food and inviting ambiance, making it a must-visit for brunch enthusiasts. #8 | The Graceful Ordinary Brunch www.thegracefulordinary.com The Graceful Ordinary in St. Charles, Illinois offers a delightful brunch experience with refined rustic fare along the scenic Fox River. Enjoy a modern take on traditional tavern cuisine and gracious hospitality in a sophisticated setting. Brunch at The Graceful Ordinary is a blend of past and present flavors. #9 | A Dynamic Brunch Experience at JoJo’s www.jojosshakebar.com JoJo's ShakeBAR in Naperville offers a dynamic brunch experience with a delectable menu featuring items like Pancake Stack, Chilaquiles, Smoked Brisket Hash, and more. This next-generation restaurant combines nostalgia with creativity, providing a must-try brunch adventure for food enthusiasts in Naperville. #10 | Noble House Serves a Beautiful Brunch www.nobelhouserestaurants.com Nobel House in Geneva, Illinois offers a delightful brunch experience with a diverse menu featuring classic favorites and innovative dishes. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, quality ingredients, and friendly service that make brunch at Nobel House a must-try culinary adventure for locals and visitors alike.

Experience the Magic of Brunch at JoJo's Shakebar in Downtown Naperville! NAPERVILLE–Step into a world where brunch becomes an adventure at JoJo's Shakebar in downtown Naperville! Picture this: a vibrant outdoor patio buzzing with energy, where every bite is a burst of flavor and every sip is a moment of pure delight. At JoJo's, brunch isn't just a meal—it's a celebration of all things fun and delicious. Indulge in their signature shakes that are as Instagram-worthy as they are scrumptious, or savor their delectable brunch specials that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you're a foodie exploring new culinary delights or a brunch enthusiast seeking a unique experience, JoJo's Shakebar has something special for everyone. Soak up the sun on their charming patio, sip on a refreshing shake, and let the good times roll at JoJo's Shakebar—where every brunch is a masterpiece waiting to be discovered! From a hearty lunch to a delicious brunch, there's something for everyone! *Brunch is available daily From 11am-2pm www.jojosshakebar.com/downtownnaperville

Water Street in Downtown Naperville is Hosting a Spring Plant Sale Supporting We Grow Dreams for Special Needs NAPERVILLE–Water Street in Downtown Naperville will host a Spring Plant Sale featuring flowering plants, hanging baskets mixed pots, porch planters, herb collections and garden art from We Grow Dreams in West Chicago. The sale will be held from 10am-3 pm Saturday May 18 on Foyo Plaza. We Grow Dreams is a professional nonprofit nursery and greenhouse providing training and employment to young adults who have graduated from high school transition programs. The greenhouse features flowering plants, bedding plants, vegetables, herbs, and ornamental grasses as well as mixed pots and hanging baskets. “This is a perfect opportunity to stop by on your way to lunch, brunch or shopping on Water Street, and support this wonderful cause while adding to your garden décor,” said Deb Newman, spokesperson for Water Street. “We know the quality of goods at We Grow Dreams is extraordinary, and each plant is grown with love.” Free parking is available in the Water Street deck located on the south side of the Hotel Indigo off Main or Webster streets. Founded in 2004 by a group of parents determined to help their young people gain job and social skills, the We Grow Dreams job-training program provides opportunities for Team Members to learn a variety of tasks in the day-to-day operation of a wholesale and retail greenhouse business. Over 45 specific jobs have been identified for the job-training program including deadheading plants, filling pots with soil for seeds/seedlings, transplanting, spacing plant materials, watering, stocking plants/supplies, greeting & assisting customers, running the cash register, folding cartons, clerical tasks, and maintenance tasks. Team Members develop valuable work, communication, and social skills that will facilitate their employment in the future. For more information on We Grow Dreams visit www.wegrowdreams.org. Water Street in Downtown Naperville features award-winning restaurants including Ben & Jerry’s, Blue Sushi Sake Grill, Santo Cielo, SixtyFour Wine Bar, Sparrow Coffee, Quiubo and Vasili’s Mediterranean. Shops include Pro Image Sports, Sea Love Candle Bar & Boutique, Solaia Luxury Salon & Spa and Trails & Tides. Water Street is also home to Hotel Indigo Naperville Riverwalk and Elements Events. Water Street is located along Naperville’s famed Riverwalk and features Imburgia Fountain, a splash pad and “Streaming History”, a series of five large mosaics depicting life along the river. www.waterstreetnaperville.com

About the Book, Vintage Chicago A collection of 300 remarkable photographs from the Chicago Tribune's subterranean photo vault, curated from the @vintagetribune Instagram. Book Overview The @vintagetribune Instagram, a beloved photography account produced by the photo editors of the Chicago Tribune, has been mining the newspaper's vast subterranean archives since 2014 and breathing new life into its most gram-worthy black-and-white images. You won't find the 300 photos in this collection in your typical time capsule. These aren't the dramatic, front-page, history-making photographs we're used to seeing from photojournalists. These are the images that would have been posted had Instagram existed in, say, 1932--the offbeat, gritty, strange, funny, rare, charming, everyday images captured in the moments that happened between the well-documented events that make up the city's official biography. This book is an unexpected, inspired portrait of one of the world's great metropolises, told through the lenses of the countless feet-on-the-street photographers from the city's hometown paper. And yes, there are cats. We are talking about Instagram, after all. About the Author The Chicago Tribune, founded in 1847, is the flagship newspaper of the Chicago Tribune Media Group. Its staff comprises dedicated, award-winning journalists who have authored many bestselling books. Available at amazon.com and target.com

Enjoy a Tranquil Escape MORRIS–Located in the serene countryside of Morris, Illinois, lies the enchanting Nettle Creek Lavender Farm—a picturesque place that invites visitors seeking a sensory delight amidst nature's beauty. This idyllic farm is a charming escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, offering a myriad of experiences centered around the fragrant lavender fields that stretch as far as the eye can see. From mid-June to August, the farm invites guests to partake in the delightful tradition of U-pick lavender, where visitors can wander through the lush purple-hued fields, hand-selecting their own fragrant blooms to take home. This interactive experience not only allows guests to immerse themselves in the calming scent of lavender but also offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature in a truly special way. In addition to U-pick lavender, Nettle Creek Lavender Farm hosts a variety of workshops and events designed to engage and educate visitors of all ages. From botanical art workshops to seed-to-vase cut flower garden sessions, there is something for everyone to enjoy and learn from. These events provide a hands-on experience that fosters creativity, appreciation for nature, and a deeper understanding of the art of cultivating lavender. Moreover, on May 31, 2024, the farm will host the "All Things Peonies Party Workshop," where guests can indulge in the beauty of peonies while enjoying a fun and interactive workshop experience. For those looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in a tranquil oasis of lavender-scented bliss, Nettle Creek Lavender Farm is a must-visit destination. To plan your visit and explore all the events and workshops offered, please visit Nettle Creek Lavender Farm's official website. Experience the magic of lavender fields and the joy of hands-on workshops at Nettle Creek Lavender Farm—an unforgettable retreat in the heart of Morris, Illinois. www.nettlecreeklavenderfarm.com

Fun for the Entire Family • Saturday, May 18, 10am–4pm Celebrate the season with Spring Fest at Cantigny! Enjoy the park with a visit to our beautiful gardens. Stop by McCormick House as we host our first-ever marketplace inside the historic home. This market features talented artisans showcasing their creations — a curated shopping experience with local vendors offering jewelry, pottery, art, and more! A craft coffee and pastry bar will be set up on the South Porch to enhance your visit. Backstage Greenhouse Tours ($50) Check out our backstage pass experience. The pass includes an exclusive guided greenhouse tour, a drink ticket, and 25 Cantigny tulip bulbs that you will pick up in the Visitors Center. Quantities are limited for this special VIP opportunity. Terrarium Bar, 10 am – 2 pm ($40) Feeling creative? Craft your own botanical masterpiece at this station hosted by Leelee’s Garden. This is a specialty experience that must be reserved in advance. Purchase your Terrarium Bar ticket while supplies last! Live Music in the Beer Garden Enjoy live music performed by the Gleeson Irish Trio at our new-for-2024 beer garden in South Grove! Have a cold brew or a specialty beverage from the Mimosa and Bloody Mary bar. Explore our delicious French-themed menu or go with traditional favorites including hot dogs, brats and pulled pork sandwiches. Bulb Sale Want a piece of Cantigny for your own garden? Don’t miss our Bulb Sale — another popular stop at Spring Fest. Cantigny tulip bulbs will be 25 for $10. Saturday, May 18, 10am–4pm Families can participate in our inaugural family fun walk through the gardens complete with a gnome scavenger hunt. Additional family activities include an inflatable, lawn games, plant crafts, Animal Encounter, and more! Admission: $12 (Free for ages 15 and under!) Admission plus Terrarium Bar: $40 Admission plus Backstage Pass: $50 Parking $5 per car www.cantigny.org/event/cantigny-spring-fest/

The Chicago Theatre, Chicago, IL Fri, Jun 14 • 8pm / Doors Open at 7pm NAPERVILLE–Donny Osmond will bring his Direct From Vegas tour to The Chicago Theatre on Friday, June 14. Donny Osmond has become a worldwide music legend. He has sold over 100 million records, received 33 gold records and has performed to millions of fans around the globe during his illustrious six-decade long music career and shows no signs of stopping. www.msg.com/the-chicago-theatre

Book a Birthday Bath Bomb Party! MAGNOLIA SOAP & BATH IS LOCATED DOWNTOWN ST. CHARLES ST. CHARLES–Magnolia Soap & Bath Co. in St-Charles provides plant-based essentials for the whole family. This local area shop offers the most adorable, plant-based, phthalates and paraben free products for you and your little ones AND it makes the perfect place for a party. www.facebook.com/magnoliasoapandbathstcharlesil

Perfect Paddle NAPERVILLE–Are you ready to serve up some fun? Grab your paddle, lace up your sneakers, and get ready to hit the court, because we're heading to The Picklr, Naperville's hottest spot for pickleball enthusiasts. Picture this: rain, sun, snow, or wind - no matter the weather, you will always hear the sound of friends laughing as they rally back and forth on the pickleball court. That's exactly what awaits you at The Picklr, where the game is fast-paced, the competition is friendly, and the good times are guaranteed. As you walk into The Picklr, you're greeted by the unmistakable sound of pickleballs bouncing and the sight of players of all ages and skill levels having a blast. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a newbie to the game, there's a court and friendly instruction available at your fingertips! My friends and I love pickleball because it’s easy to pick up, but challenging to master, making it the perfect activity for a group of friends looking to have some fun, and maybe place a wager or two keeping score! As the game gets underway, you quickly realize that pickleball is addictive. There's something incredibly satisfying about nailing that perfect shot or pulling off a tricky maneuver that leaves your opponents scrambling. And with each point scored, the friendly banter and high-fives flow freely. The beauty of the design of this facility is that each court is fenced in, so balls remain contained to your area, and you can spend more time playing and less time chasing random hits! My crew is very competitive but don’t confuse that with talent - for as much as I play, I should be amazing,….but I find I’m laughing at myself more than anything, regardless of how fancy my racket is! I just love the camaraderie and the sense of community that comes with this sport. Whether you're cheering each other on from the sidelines or strategizing together on the court, there's a bond that forms when you're all in it together. From epic rallies to hilarious moments, it's simple fun regardless of the weather! They even host open playtime from 9 p.m. to midnight on the weekends! Get ready to serve, volley, and score your way to unforgettable memories. Overview The Picklr, the indoor courts are state-of-the-art professional grade outdoor surfacing. You’ll find everything you need to play like a pro - paddles, pickleballs, and ProShop items available. Whether you are new to the game or a seasoned veteran, The Picklr has open play, events, leagues, and clinics for all skill levels. They also provide onsite snacks, drinks, and other amenities to make your experience even more enjoyable. The Picklr 740 Illinois Rt 59, Naperville www.ThePicklr.com (630) 504-6294 Hours: See Website Price $: $30/Court; Memberships Available ABOUT THE WRITER Kristen Kucharski’s days are never dull, her kids are never bored! Over the years #MomsLittleBlackBook has explored hundreds of kid friendly things to do in our surrounding community and on the road. As her girls have grown and gone away to college, she continues to enjoy unique activities, excursions, day trips, weekend get-a-aways, and road trips while rediscovering my own passion for adventure with friends, girls nights outs, and date nights. In her words: “Life is a journey–might as well have fun along the way. Go, fly, roam, travel, voyage, explore, discover!”

WALK ALS CHICAGO Saturday, June 1 • Cantigny Park WHEATON–Everyone is welcome to this family-friendly event dedicated to raising awareness, showing solidarity with our ALS community, and fundraising to support individuals living with ALS in our community. Join us at Cantigny Park on Saturday, June 1, 2024. Check-in starts at 8am, Walk begins at 10am. Together, we can make a meaningful impact by uniting against ALS and offering support to those affected. Let's come together and end ALS. Register or donate today at walkalschicago.org. Did You Know? May is ALS Awareness Month. Get involved today to support our local ALS community! ALS United Greater Chicago 5315 N Clark St #650, Chicago, IL 60640 www.alsunitedchicago.org | 312-932-0000