Craft Fair and Concerts Keep Bolingbrook in the Holiday Spirit this Month

Annual Craft Fair and Cookie Walk features over 70 craft vendors, raffle tickets and more.
Photo via Jane Addams Band Boosters facebook page.

Usher in the holiday season this month by attending some fabulous events in Bolingbrook!  A local craft fair and cookie walk and holiday concerts are sure to fill you with Christmas cheer!  Read further for details on these local events.

Annual Craft Fair and Cookie Walk
On December 7th from 8am-5pm stop by Jane Addams Middle school for their Annual Craft Fair and Cookie Walk!  The show is organized by Jane Addams Band Boosters Association and proceeds benefit the Jane Addams Band. Shop from over 70 craft vendors and direct sellers! Garden stones, wreaths, pet treats, crochet & knit products, Mary Kay, Pink Zebra Soy based Candles, Origami Owl Lockets and much more.  There will also be raffle tickets available.  Some raffle prizes include White Sox tickets, restaurant gift certificates, gift-cards... just to name a few!

Residents of Montgomery Celebrate December with Festival of Trees and Holiday Decorations Contest

Tree Lighting Ceremony features Santa, Christmas music and refreshments.
Photo via Montgomery Patch website.

There is no better way to gear up for the holiday season than with Montgomery’s activities and events. From the Tree Lighting Ceremony and Festival of Trees to the Holiday Decorations Contest, there is a lot of seasonal fun to experience! 

Tree Lighting Ceremony and Festival of Trees
Don’t miss the 2014 Tree Lighting Ceremony and Festival of Trees at 5:00 p.m. on December 7th! In addition to the Tree Lighting Ceremony featuring Santa's arrival on a fire truck, Christmas music and free refreshments, the Village Hall will once again be filled with decorated trees provided by local businesses! Bring the whole family to meet Santa, have cookies and cocoa and vote for your favorite tree. If you are unable to attend on December 8th, the Festival of Trees will continue during business hours from December 8th through the 26th.

Cookie Walk and Christkindlmarket Keep Oakbrook Terrace Residents Busy this Season

Winterfest Cookie Walk features a variety of family friendly acts.
Photo via Live Here Oak Park website.

The holiday season is in full swing!  There are a lot of festive events in the Oakbrook area to get you in the Christmas spirit.  Read further to see what’s going on. Don’t miss out!   

Winterfest Cookie Walk
Head over to Downtown Oak Park's annual Cookie Walk on December 6th from 11 to 5!  A $20 participation fee includes a souvenir cookie tin (while supplies last) and a map of over 40 participating shops and restaurants.  Start the Cookie Walk at the Hospitality Tent on Marion Street, south of Lake Street.

Mokena Offers Holiday Fun for Everyone

An English Garden hosts and open house with dip samples, photos with Santa and more!
Photo via An English Garden facebook page.

The holiday season is upon us!  That means there are plenty of events and activities going on in Mokena to celebrate this December.  Read further to find out how you can participate.

December 2nd Letters from Santa
The Mokena Park District has once again made special arrangements with for children to receive a personalized letter from the North Pole.  Your child will be delighted when they see a colorful envelope in the mailbox, addressed to them, from the Jolly Old Elf along with a special treat to leave for the reindeer on Christmas Eve.  Parents or guardians can register for their child/children in person at the Park Office, 10925 W La Porte Rd by December 1, 2014.  Fee is $6 per letter.  Letters will be mailed the week of December 8, 2014.

Plainfield Hosts Candlelight Christmas and Holiday Park District Events this Season

Journey to the North Pole features songs, a wagon ride and a visit with Santa!
Photo via Plainfield Park District facebook page.

Tis’ the season and Plainfield has plenty of events to get everyone in the holiday spirit!  Read further to see what’s in store!

November 29th Candlelight Christmas
Celebrate Candlelight Christmas in downtown Plainfield!  Bring the whole family to celebrate the season early this year at Candlelight Christmas on Saturday, Nov. 29, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. in downtown Plainfield.  Activities include pictures with Santa, an opportunity to meet the “Snow Sisters,” a showing of the movie, “Frozen,” carriage rides, crafts, a dance performance, writing letters to Santa, and a crèche lighting.  Fun for the whole family!  For the complete schedule of events click here.

New Lenox Looks to Nearby Joliet for a Jolly Good Time

The White Christmas Lunch Matinee features an authentic show and gourmet meal.
Photo via Jacob Henry Mansion Estate website.

With the holiday season nearly underway, folks all around the New Lenox area are marking their calendars in preparation for their community’s upcoming festivities! Whether you’ve grown up in New Lenox or are still getting settled, you’re sure to love the many events that will be kicking off from November to December. Set aside some time for the next weekend or two and be sure to stop by any one of the celebrations for what is sure to be a fun-filled experience!  

Winterizing Your Home

The cold came quickly this year!  Is your home ready for winter?  The following tips will help you to stay safe and warm this winter:

Service Furnace
Have a professional inspect and perform required maintenance.  Clean filters monthly to improve airflow and to ensure furnace runs efficiently.  This can reduce heating costs.

Christmas Tea and Jingle Bell 5K: Lockport Keeps Lago Vista Full this Holiday Season

Christmas Tea features teas, treats, live music and more!

One thing is for certain – this colder weather sure isn’t keeping Lockport folks indoors this year! Instead, the whole town is bursting with excitement over Lockport’s upcoming winter festivities. Whether you’re new to the area or have lived there your whole life, these events are sure to brighten everyone’s holiday season. Drop by for some fun! 

Take a Tour of the New Models at Marquis Pointe

The Single Family Homes of Marquis Pointe in Montgomery, IL

The new models, the Cypress and the Lily, join two other styles, the Citrine II and the Kingsford, and feature open floor plans, roomy kitchens and basements. The 2,200 sq. ft. Cypress offers four bedrooms in addition to a first floor home office and a luxury master bedroom suite with walk-in closet. Also offering four bedrooms, the 2,376 sq. ft. Lily is ideal for larger families or families who enjoy playing host and featured nine-foot first floor ceilings and a master bath with double bowl vanity.

Like all Hartz homes, the Cypress and the Lily feature high-quality materials and state-of-the-art craftsmanship such as Moen faucets, oak cabinetry and Whirlpool® appliances. Two-car garages, basements and two-and-a-half baths are standard features included in each of the four home styles offered at Marquis Pointe. And every Marquis Pointe home is affordably priced starting from the mid $200’s.

To learn more about Marquis Pointe visit: HartzHomes.com/Marquis-Pointe

Hartz Homes Unveils New Home Designs for Marquis Pointe Community

New designs offer popular features including open floor plans, first floor home office and family-friendly kitchens.

For more than 50 years, Hartz Homes has been providing top-quality homes to buyers looking to make the Chicago area their home. Now, the company is offering even more options for homeowners by introducing two new models at their popular Marquis Pointe development, aimed at appealing to an even broader range of tastes and buyer preferences.

Maintenance-Free Manchester Cove Adds an Upscale Twist to Single-Level Living

Townhomes range from 1,337 to 1,447 square feet.

Charming, maintenance-free ranch homes? Check. Spacious floor plans? Check. Highly esteemed builder? Check. With this list, it’s evident that Manchester Cove has much to offer for today’s home buyer! Located in Mokena, Manchester Cove is Hartz Home’s recent addition to the Chicagoland area. These ranch-style townhomes cater to home buyers seeking to cultivate a carefree, vibrant, and healthy lifestyle. However, interested buyers must act quickly – only 7 Manchester Cove homes remain, so the time to buy is now!

Local Festivities Allow Residents to Get to Know Lockport this Fall

Extreme Adult Scavenger Hunt is a great way to explore Lockport!
Photo via Lockport Township Park District website.

From pumpkin pie to football season, there is no question that autumn brings a whole bundle of goodness. This year, the charming town of Lockport is inviting residents to share in the beauty of the season by attending their annual lineup of festivals and events. From mouthwatering meals to an exhilarating competition, Lockport is sure to please all. Stop by for some fall fun! 

French Market and Nearby Festivals in Store for Heather Glen Residents

 Family Fun Fest offers an afternoon of family, food, and entertainment.
Photo via Family Fun Fest, Silver Cross Field facebook page.

Summer may have just ended, but New Lenox folks are already gearing up for the fall months! They have good reason – their hometown’s calendar is bursting with awesome events that are sure to cater to all attendants. From family-friendly activities to a foodie’s heaven, there is certainly something for everyone in the upcoming weeks. Stop by for a great time!

Kendall County Looks Forward to Fall Fest & Craft Show

Fall Fest features crafts, jewelry, potter and more!
Photo via Emerson Creek Pottery and Tearoom website.

Summer sure went by fast, and fall will be no different! Make the most of this time of year by getting out and participating in all of the wonderful seasonal events going on in and around Montgomery. From a traditional fall fest to an arts and crafts fair, there is certainly something for everyone.

Western Suburbs Look Forward to Cultural Pow Wow & Farmers Market

Harvest Pow Wow is a Native American celebration featuring performances, authentic food and more!
Photo via Harvest Pow Wow website.

Attention, people of Bolingbrook! Fall is upon us, and there is plenty to see and do in and around town these next couple of months! Coming up in September and October, nearby communities are hosting everything from a cultural celebration to a local farmers market.

September 20th-21st: Harvest Pow Wow
For an experience that is both entertaining and educational, head over to neighboring Naperville for their 20th annual Harvest Pow Wow! The event will take place at the Naper Settlement and will feature everything from live performances to a variety of delicious and authentic foods. Enjoy a hot cup of chili stew as you watch the drumming performances and cultural demonstrations up on stage, or learn more about the rich Native American history from the many exhibits and displays. Whether you’re familiar with the heritage or are eager to learn more, the Pow Wow will be sure to impress with its informational offerings. Stop by for an eye-opening afternoon!

Biking, Dining, & Shopping in and Around Lockport

Bike and Dine is a biking trip with two food stops around the community.
Photo via Trails for Illinois website.

Looking for something fun to do this weekend? Not to worry – Lockport and its neighboring communities have plenty of activities to choose from. Whether you’re looking to stay in town or venture out, Will County will surely satisfy with its long list of offerings!

Film Fest & Spooky Concert Come to Will County this fall

Film Fest event draws in a variety of films and filmmakers from across the globe.
Photo via Naperfilmfest.org.

Fall is arguably one of the most beautiful times of the year, so we had best go out there and enjoy it! Residents of Plainfield are doing just that by attending all of the awesome events going on in and around their community this month. From a trip to the movies to a festive concert, it’s clear that there is something for everyone in Will County.

Will County Looks Forward to Outdoor Concert & Comedy Night

Comedians Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood come to town in October!
Photo via Rialto Square Theater website.

Its exquisite colors and weather make fall one of the Midwest’s most beautiful times of the year. Get out and enjoy it this season by checking out all of the awesome activities going on in and around New Lenox this month! From an outdoor autumn concert to a hysterical night of laughs, there is certainly something for everyone.

DuPage County Residents Look Forward to Block Party & Chili Cook-Off

Chilympics features a chili cook-off, live music, culinary demonstrations and more!
Photo via Downers Grove Park District facebook page.

Don’t waste another weekend sitting on the couch – instead, get out and experience all that Addison and its neighboring communities have to offer! This fall, enjoy everything from a block party to a culinary celebration.

Hartz Homes Unveils Two New Home Designs for Marywood Meadows Community

The new designs offer features identified as being most popular among today's buyers, including open floor plans, second-floor loft areas and family-friendly kitchens.

For more than 50 years, Hartz Homes has been providing top-quality homes to buyers looking to make the Chicago area their home. Now, the company is offering even more options for homeowners by introducing two new models at their popular Marywood Meadows development, aimed at appealing to an even broader range of tastes and buyer preferences.

Will County Residents Enjoy Outdoor Concerts & Farmers Markets

Concerts on the Hill offers great live music and affordable concessions.
Photo via Billie Limacher Bicentennial Park facebook page.

Lockport and its neighboring towns are giving residents plenty of ways to enjoy the weather this summer.

For fun you can count on, head over to nearby Joliet’s Bicentennial Park for their weekly Concerts on the Hill event! Every Thursday through the end of August, this musical celebration is the perfect way to enjoy the summer air while spending time with the community. Tasty and affordable concessions will be available, and guests are encouraged to bring their own picnics so that they can spend as long as they please listening to the music!  Coming up in August, talents such as the Bicentennial Pops Band, Rialto Idol Vocalists and soloist Karen Isberg-Sorbero will take the stage, guaranteeing a good time for all.

Western Suburbs Offer Outdoor Concerts & Wine Festival

Rollin' on the River features free concerts June through Aug 8th.
Photo via Naperville Park District facebook page.

From a musical celebration to a sophisticated evening of red, white, and rosé, there is certainly plenty to look forward to in and around Bolingbrook this year.

Nothing quite says summer like a concert series, and Naperville’s Rollin’ on the River is no different! Taking place at the Riverwalk Pavilion from June 13th through August 8th, this free music celebration will be sure to please folks of all musical tastes. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and a picnic dinner so they can listen all night long as talents such as Dave Byron, Bloody Mary, and Andrew Huber take the stage. Invite your family, or meet up with some friends – either way, the friendly atmosphere and lively beats are sure to make for a wonderful evening.

Kendall County Residents Enjoy Outdoor Movies & Local Market Finds

Phillips Park offers Movies in the Park, the Zoo and beautiful grounds.
Photo via Phillips Park Zoo facebook page.

Don’t let the summer slip on by – make the most of the beautiful weather by participating in all of the awesome outdoor events going on in and around Montgomery this season! From weekly movies to an original market, there is surely something for everyone!

Will County Looks Forward to Bluegrass Festival, Farm & Barn Fest

Don't miss the free movie in the park - Dolphin Tale!
Photo via Mokena Park District facebook page.

Stay busy this summer by participating in the awesome events going on in and around New Lenox! From a free movie under the stars to a lively day at the farm, there is certainly much to look forward to in Will County this month!

Plainfield Fest, Beats & Eats Take Over Plainfield this Summer

Plainfield Fest features carnival rides/games, live music and great food!
Photo via Plainfield Fest facebook page.

Listen up, people of Plainfield! This summer is already moving quickly, so we had best make sure we make the most of the precious warm weather. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the sunshine thanks to the many events going on in and around town this season.
Mark your calendars for Plainfield’s largest annual celebration – Plainfield Fest! Taking place downtown from July 18th-20th, this family-friendly weekend is sure to make for a wonderful summer tradition. With classic carnival rides and games, live music, and mouthwatering menu selections, there is much to see and do for folks of all ages. Meet up with friends and share some drinks in the beer tent, or dance with your spouse as talents such as Drunken Skunk and Michael Heaton take the stage!  Once you’ve worked up an appetite from all that dancing, stop by one of the many food vendors a bite of summer. This year, eateries such as Annabelle’s Bar-B-Q, Coach’s Catch and Suzie’s Fun Foods will be on-site, dishing up a variety of treats. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder why Plainfield Fest is such a beloved tradition!

DuPage County Residents Enjoy Outdoor Concerts & Local Market

Find in-season goodies at the Elmhurst Farmers Market.

Addison residents have plenty of ways to stay busy this summer. From a free concert series to a local market, there is surely something for everyone.

Hartz Homes Presents Marywood Meadows Community in Aurora

Contemporary amenities and spacious floor plans.

Marywood Meadows, a collection of maintenance-free, single-family homes in Aurora, is offering buyers the perfect place to start the live they’ve always dreamed of. This Hartz Homes community has spacious, well-appointed models for those interested in a more comfortable and care-free living environment.

Hartz Homes Opens New Models at Marquis Pointe in Montgomery

Homes range from 2,000 to 2,400 square feet.

Hartz Homes is proud to present its newest collection of homes to the charming town of Montgomery. The Marquis Pointe community offers luxurious single-family homes.

Hartz Homes Opens New Townhomes at Bella Vista in Bolingbrook

 Four ranch-style floor plans ranging from 1,300 to 1,700 square feet.

 

Hartz Homes is pleased to introduce a collection of brand new, maintenance-free townhomes at its beautiful Bella Vista community in Bolingbrook. The resort-style development offers spacious, well-appointed townhomes in a private, conveniently located community—the perfect place for people seeking a truly hassle-free living experience.

Hartz Homes Announces Eight Decorated Models Now Open in Playa Vista of Plainfield

Maintenance-free, resort-style community will offer an on-site clubhouse and both ranch and two-story homes.

Playa Vista, a clubhouse community in Plainfield, has homes for buyers who desire maintenance-free living, a carefree lifestyle without lawns to mow or snow to shovel as well as resort-style amenities within the community. Homebuyers can now tour eight decorated single-family and townhome models at the subdivision located near the corner of 135^th Street and Ridge Road.

Hartz Homes Announces Large Lots Now Available at Nantucket Lakes in New Lenox

Single Family Homes on 1/2 to a Full 2 Acres, Starting from the Mid $200's

Nantucket Lakes, a Hartz Homes residential community, offers single family homes situated on lots ranging from a half-acre to a full two-acres starting in the mid $200's. The large lots provide a personal oasis for families of any size, with ample space for play, pets or entertaining. Hartz Homes continues a 50 year tradition of establishing premium residential communities in the Chicagoland area with the development of Nantucket Lakes.

Hartz Homes Announces Newly Decorated Models Now Open at Sky Harbor in New Lenox

 

Single Family Homes from the Low $200's Close to Schools, Shopping and Parks

Less than one hour south of Chicago sits Sky Harbor, a new residential community nestled between East Laraway and Delaney Roads in the village of New Lenox. Located minutes from schools, shopping and dining, Sky Harbor features single family homes starting in the low $200's. Hartz Homes announces newly decorated models are now open throughout Sky Harbor. One of the largest family-owned builders in the Chicago area, Hartz Homes has constructed residential communities for more than 50 years.

Hartz Homes Announces New Models Now Open in Manchester Cove in Mokena

Open kitchen design looks out onto the dining and living areas.

 

Maintenance-free Ranch Townhomes in Two Contemporary Styles

Mokena, Illinois, a thriving southwest suburb of Chicago, is home to more than 18,000 residents. Located less than 40 miles from the Chicago, Mokena offers suburban living with easy access to I-80 and Route 45 (LaGrange Road) and Route 30 (Lincoln Highway.)

Hartz Construction Announces New Luxury Townhome Models Now Open at Oliviabrook in Oakbrook Terrace

 

Maintenance-free Luxury Townhomes Close to Upscale Shopping and Fine Dining

Nestled between Butterfield and Cermak Roads and Kingery Highway is Oliviabrook, an upscale residential community minutes from the shops at Oakbrook Center and some of the finest restaurants west of the Loop. Hartz Construction announces new models are now open at the luxurious Oliviabrook community.

Hartz Construction Announces New Townhome Models Now Open at Playa Vista in Plainfield



Maintenance-free, resort-style community that will offer an on-site clubhouse and single-level homes.

Hartz Construction presents Playa Vista, a clubhouse community located in Plainfield, IL. Located less than an hour from Chicago and only five miles from downtown Plainfield, Playa Vista is close to dining, shopping and local parks.

Homeowners of Playa Vista have more time to enjoy local destinations, hobbies and the amenities of the community with the maintenance-free lifestyle offered by Hartz Homes.  The resort-style community offers maintenance-free living for adults who no longer want the hassels of maintaining a large single-family property.  Without lawns to mow or snow to shovel, Playa Vista homeowners have more time for the "fun stuff".

Hartz Construction Announces New Single Family Homes Now Open at Whisper Creek

Whisper Creek in Mokena Offers 3 New Decorated Models: Genesis, Sapphire and Winchester

Mokena, Illinois, located about 45 minutes from Chicago, offers friendly, suburban living plus easy access to major roadways I80, I355, Route 30 (Lincoln Highway) and Route 45 (LaGrange Road.) A charming, historic southwest suburb of Chicago, Mokena is home to more than 18,000 people.

Hartz Construction has established Mokena's newest neighborhood with the opening of Whisper Creek. Three new single-family models are now available: the Genesis, Sapphire and Winchester.

Hartz Construction Announces New Single Family Ranch Homes Now Open in Playa Vista

Enjoy maintenance-free living and resort-style amenities within the community.

Playa Vista, a clubhouse community in Plainfield, Illinois has new ranch homes for homebuyers who desire the privacy of a single-family home without the burdens of exterior upkeep. At Playa Vista, homeowners enjoy maintenance-free living, a carefree lifestyle without lawns to mow or snow to shovel as well as resort-style amenities within the community. The homes come fully landscaped and include sprinkler systems.

Building a Tradition for More than 50 Years

Don Hartz, founder of Hartz Construction Company.

With over half a century of experience constructing homes that are just as high in quality as they are in value, the founder of Hartz Construction Company Don Hartz is looking forward to many more years of providing exceptional housing choices for families throughout the Chicagoland area.

New Lenox Residents Look Forward to Country Market & Irish Fest

The Market is the perfect opportunity to support the local community while filling your kitchen with the season’s freshest picks! 
 Photo via frankfortcountrymarket.org.

Whether you’re new to New Lenox or have lived there your entire life, you’re sure to cherish the many events and activities going on within the community every month. Coming up this spring, residents are looking forward to a nearby food market and an exciting cultural celebration. Keep reading to find out more! 

 

Oakbrook Terrace Residents Look Forward to Arts & Crafts Affair & Memorial Day Event

Villa Park's Arts & Crafts Affair. 
Photo via yelp.com.

  

Don’t waste another weekend sitting in front of the TV – instead, make the most of your time by celebrating with the folks of Oakbrook Terrace! This spring, Oakbrook Terrace and its neighboring communities have plenty of awesome activities for folks of all ages. Keep reading to find out more!

Addison Residents Look Forward to Earth Day Event & Art in the Park

Photo via brookfieldzoo.org.

Now that the bitter winter temperatures are behind us, it’s time to start being active again! Fill up your weekends by checking out the latest events going on in and around Addison this spring. From a fun Earth Day celebration to a day dedicated to the arts, it’s clear that folks of all ages will have plenty to look forward to in the upcoming weeks! 

Easter Brunch & Bowling Extravaganza in Lockport this Spring

Photo via Lockport Park District facebook page.

Stay busy this spring by checking out all of the exciting happenings going on in and around Lockport! From April to May, the town is featuring delicious brunch options and a fun bowling party. Keep reading to see what's coming up near you!

Valentine’s Day Dinner & Philharmonic Concert for New Lenox Residents This February

Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra presents a riveting collection of musical works!  Photo via rialtosquaretheatre.com.

Don’t waste the beginning of 2014 hibernating in your home – instead, make the most of your time by spending it with the folks of New Lenox and its neighboring communities! This month, residents have a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner and concert performance to look forward to. Keep reading to find out more!

Oakbrook Terrace Residents Look Forward to Winter Carnival & a Chocolate Celebration

 

Whether you’ve lived in Oakbrook Terrace your entire life or it’s your first time visiting, residents are always pleasantly surprised by the abundance of activities and events going on around DuPage County. From a family-friendly festival to sweet celebration, the folks of Oakbrook Terrace won’t have any trouble keeping busy this year!

Lockport and Will County Feature Oysterfest & Valentine’s Day Soiree this February

Oyesterfest celebration at Tribes Alehouse & Grill!
Photo via Tribes Alehouse & Grill facebook page.

Don’t let the bitter temperatures get you down – with all of the awesome activities going on in and around Lockport this February, folks won’t have any trouble beating the wintertime blues! From tasty menu specials to a romantic Valentine’s Day getaway, it’s clear that the folks of Will County will have plenty to look forward to this month.

Addison Residents Look Forward to Bill Nye & St. Patty’s Parade

Photo via elmhurststpatsparade.com.

 

The folks of Addison are determined to beat the winter blues this year. Fortunately, their neighboring town of Elmhurst is offering them plenty of ways to keep busy in the upcoming months. From an intriguing lecture series to an annual parade, it seems that Addison residents won’t have any trouble filling their calendars!