Discover Oak Park’s Hidden Gem – A living world of beauty

Oak Park Conservatory

Located in historic Oak Park, Illinois, the Oak Park Conservatory is a treasured landmark and one of the community’s top three historical sites. Free and open to the public, the Conservatory offers visitors a lush escape into nature with three distinct indoor showrooms — the Mediterranean Room, Tropical Room, and Desert Room — each showcasing a diverse collection of plants from around the world. Outside, the urban gardens continue the experience with native Illinois landscapes featured in the Elsie Jacobsen Discovery Garden and Rubinstein Garden. Sweeps of prairie grasses and native blooms welcome you at the entrance, inviting you to slow down and explore this hidden oasis in the heart of the village. Owned and operated by the Park District of Oak Park, the Conservatory provides year-round opportunities to connect with nature through programs, events, and community initiatives. Highlights include: • Seasonal Events: Enjoy festive gatherings throughout the year such as the Candlelight Walk, Shamrock Scavenger Hunt, and Halloween Fright at Night. • Plant &amp; Garden Markets: Shop a variety of seasonal plant sales, including the Winter Seed Sale, Valentine’s Market, Spring Plant Sale, Perennial Pollinator Sale, Succulent &amp; Cacti Sale, Fall Mum &amp; Bulb Sale, and Winter Greens Market. • Private Event Rentals: Celebrate life’s milestones surrounded by natural beauty. The Conservatory is available for weddings, showers, graduations, birthday parties, memorial services, and other special occasions. • Educational Programs: Participate in a variety of hands-on programs for all ages — from adult gardening workshops to free early childhood nature programs that inspire young explorers. Whether you’re a lifelong plant lover or simply seeking a moment of calm, the Oak Park Conservatory offers a space to reconnect with nature, beauty, and community — right in your own backyard.

Cook County

Chicago Metropolitan Area

Oak Park-River Forest

Illinois

Located in historic Oak Park, Illinois, the Oak Park Conservatory is a treasured landmark and one of the community’s top three historical sites....

Mint Cannabis is a premier dispensary located at 310 E North

Mint Cannabis Villa Park

Mint Cannabis is a premier dispensary located at 310 E North Ave in Villa Park, IL, dedicated to providing high-quality cannabis products to the local community. As a trusted destination for adults aged 21 and older, the shop offers a professional and welcoming environment for both seasoned enthusiasts and those new to cannabis. Customers can easily browse the extensive menu online and utilize convenient in-store pickup options for a seamless shopping experience. The dispensary features a diverse selection of premium cannabis products, including a wide variety of flowers, concentrates, cartridges, and edibles sourced from top-tier growers and brands. Beyond standard product sales, the team provides expert guidance to help patrons find the perfect items to suit their individual needs. The location also supports custom and bulk ordering, ensuring that every customer has access to the specific tools and accessories they require. At Mint Cannabis, customers can expect a commitment to quality, exceptional service, and consistent value through a dedicated loyalty rewards program. By prioritizing customer education and maintaining a reliable inventory, the dispensary stands out as a dependable resource for the Villa Park area.

DuPage County

DuPage

Villa Park

Mint Cannabis is a premier dispensary located at 310 E North Ave in Villa Park, IL, dedicated to providing high-quality cannabis products to the...

The biggest risk in a home remodel is not the work itself.

LuxeLine Remodeling

The biggest risk in a home remodel is not the work itself. It is hiring the wrong company. Homeowners across DuPage County suburbs hear the same promises from every contractor: quality work, on time, on budget. Then the project starts. Communication drops off. Timelines slip. The person who sold the job disappears and a crew you have never met shows up. Decisions pile up with no one to guide you through them. LuxeLine Remodeling exists because that experience is unacceptable. We are a residential-only remodeling company led by Jason Neu, a licensed general contractor who founded LuxeLine on a simple principle: the person responsible for your project should be the person you talk to, the person who shows up, and the person who makes sure every detail is right. We serve homeowners across the western suburbs of Chicago. We do not take commercial jobs. We do not spread ourselves across dozens of active projects. We take on the work we can deliver at the level our name demands.

David Giuliani

Elmhurst

The biggest risk in a home remodel is not the work itself. It is hiring the wrong company. Homeowners across DuPage County suburbs hear the same...

Submitted by the Elmhurst Park District. Image via shutterstock.Middle schoolers, do you have plans to become a babysitter? Stop by Courts Plus on Friday, October 9 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. for Babysitting Basics and Beyond, a one day class for aspiring babysitters aged 11-14 that will focus on safety. Participants will help with hands-on caring for children and learn first aid and safety tips. Please bring a bagged lunch. Fee is $55 members/$59 non-members. Visit <a href="http://www.epd.org/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.epd.org</a> to register or call <a rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank" href>(630) 993-8900</a>.

Submitted by the Elmhurst Park District. Image via shutterstock.

Middle schoolers, do you have plans to become a babysitter? Stop by Courts Plus on Friday, October 9 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. for Babysitting Basics and Beyond, a one day class for aspiring babysitters aged 11-14 that will focus on safety.

Participants will help with hands-on caring for children and learn first aid and safety tips. Please bring a bagged lunch. Fee is $55 members/$59 non-members. Visit <a href="http://www.epd.org/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">www.epd.org</a> to register or call <a rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank" href>(630) 993-8900</a>.

Babysitting Basics and Beyond will take place Oct. 9.

Become a Babysitting Pro

Kids & Family 

Oak Brook

Lisa Marie Farver

Glen Ellyn

Hinsdale-Clarendon Hills

Western Springs

Forest Park

La Grange

Downers Grove

Wheaton

Park Ridge

Maplewood Public House

Prism Market: Flannel, Music &amp; Virgos is taking over Maplewood Public House this Saturday!
When: Saturday, September 5, 12pm–5pm Where: Maplewood Public House, 486 Pennsylvania Ave, Glen Ellyn, IL 60137 Free admission | Family friendly | Outdoor market | Rain or shine
We have a stellar lineup of local artists, makers and small businesses coming together for one last summer market with just a hint of fall.
Dig through vinyl records. Check out handmade cigar box guitars. Shop original artwork, boho-style jewelry, tie-dye, tarot, unique home décor, handmade creations, sweet treats and plenty of things you probably didn’t know you needed until you saw them.
Music is part of the theme, several of our artists happen to be Virgos, and if Mother Nature gives us some early September fall weather, break out the flannel and join the fun.
Grab a craft beer or your favorite beverage from Maplewood Public House, shop local and spend your Saturday afternoon supporting independent artists and small businesses.
Current artist lineup:
Atlas Art Designs Belonio Doodles Crow &amp; Moon Enchantments Design with Millie Dye The Day Away JB Jewelry Design Jetibles Treats Kookies By Michelle Libra Rising By Yoali Lost &amp; Found Planters and Portraits Melanie Klegerman Fersko - Author and Artist Ramblin' Rose Designs Roczilla Records S&amp;K, LLC Scrapgrinder Guitars Special K's BeerCandles Ten Cups Tarot
Summer isn’t quite finished. Fall is getting closer. Come sip, shop, discover something different and spend Saturday with us in Glen Ellyn.

Local Event: Prism Market: Flannels, Music & Virgos

Prism Market: Flannels, Music & Virgos

Prism Market: Flannel, Music & Virgos is taking over Maplewood Public House this Saturday!
When: Saturday, September 5,...

Sports Core Soccer Fields

The Oak Brook Healing Field, presented by True Patriots Care, will commemorate the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, with a powerful display of 2,977 American flags honoring the men and women who lost their lives that day. Each flag will include a biography, helping visitors connect with the individual stories behind the tribute.
Open 24 hours a day, the Healing Field invites the community to walk among the flags for a meaningful experience of remembrance, reflection and unity. The event will also include opening and closing ceremonies, along with daily programs honoring the lives lost and the lasting legacy of September 11.

Local Event: Healing Field

Healing Field

The Oak Brook Healing Field, presented by True Patriots Care, will commemorate the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, with...

DuPage County Administration Building, Auditorium and Atrium 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Diana Torres Hawken
civic@almascommunity.org&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.almascommunity.org" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">almascommunity.org</a>
ALMAS to Host "Meet the Candidates: DuPage County" Open House &amp; Candidate Forums on September 9
Naperville, IL — August 28, 2026&nbsp;
ALMAS – Alliance of Latinos Motivating Action in the Suburbs is pleased to invite the community to Meet the Candidates: DuPage County, a nonpartisan Open House and Candidate Forums event on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, from 5:30 to 8:30 PM at the DuPage County Administration Building, Auditorium and Atrium (421 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton).
This event brings together candidates from across DuPage County for an evening combining an open-house-style candidate fair with moderated candidate forums. All candidates for participating DuPage County races were invited to take part in this nonpartisan effort to inform and engage voters ahead of the November election.
Open House: All Evening, All Candidates
Throughout the full 5:30–8:30 PM event window, the Atrium will host an open-house-style candidate fair. Every invited candidate, regardless of office, is offered a space to meet one-on-one with residents, share campaign materials, and answer informal questions.
Candidate Forums: County Board Districts, by Scheduled Panel
Given the volume of candidates on this year's ballot and the evening's time constraints, moderated forums in the Auditorium are organized around County Board District races, run in three back-to-back panels:
●&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 5:45–6:30 PM — Forum 1: County Board Districts 2 &amp; 4
●&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 6:45–7:30 PM — Forum 2: County Board Districts 1 &amp; 6
●&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; 7:45–8:30 PM — Forum 3: County Board Districts 3 &amp; 5
Each forum is moderated by a trained ALMAS representative to ensure fair, time-limited, equal speaking opportunities for every candidate on the panel.
Community Participation Encouraged
Residents are encouraged to submit questions for the candidates in advance by emailing Civic@ALMAScommunity.org with the subject line "Question for DuPage Candidate Forum." Submitted questions will be reviewed by ALMAS organizers and the moderator to ensure a fair, issue-focused discussion; attendees may also ask candidates questions directly at their Atrium tables throughout the evening.
Accessibility
The event is free and open to the public. Spanish interpretation will be available on-site to ensure inclusive participation for the forums only. Visitors should park in the 421 South Lot and enter through the 421 Main Entrance; all visitors will pass through security screening upon arrival.
“Join us in this important opportunity to engage with local leadership and make informed choices for DuPage County’s future,” said an ALMAS President, Dr. Lili Burciaga. For more information, visit almascommunity.org/event-details/dupage-county-forum.
For more information, please contact info@ALMAScommunity.org.
About ALMAS: The Alliance of Latinos Motivating Action in the Suburbs (ALMAS) is the first Latino-led, Latino-serving nonprofit organization based in Naperville. ALMAS celebrates culture, fosters community, and empowers through education, leadership, and civic engagement. Learn more at <a href="https://www.ALMAScommunity.org." rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">ALMAScommunity.org.</a>&nbsp;

Local Event: Meet the Candidates: DuPage County Open House & Candidate Forums on 9/9

Naperville

Meet the Candidates: DuPage County Open House &...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Diana Torres Hawken
civic@almascommunity.org 
almascommunity.org
ALMAS to Host "Meet the...

Meet the Candidates: DuPage County Open House & Candidate Forums on 9/9

Mint Cannabis Villa Park Grand Opening Celebration
Mint Cannabis is officially opening in Villa Park, Illinois, and you’re invited to celebrate with us!
Join us Saturday, September 12 for an all-day Grand Opening celebration filled with exclusive deals, entertainment, activities, giveaways, and plenty of good vibes.
Come experience the new Mint Cannabis Villa Park location and enjoy:
<ul><li>Up to 50% OFF storewide</li><li>Cannabis brand vendors</li><li>Games &amp; activities</li><li>Giveaways</li><li>Live music</li><li>Grand Opening festivities throughout the day</li></ul>
Whether you're coming to check out the new store, meet some of your favorite brands, take advantage of Grand Opening specials, or simply join the celebration, we’d love to have you there.
Doors open at 8:00 AM and the celebration continues until 10:00 PM.
Important Information
Ages 21+ only. A valid government-issued photo ID is required for entry into the dispensary and for cannabis purchases.
Event activities, participating vendors, promotional offers, giveaways, discounts, and product availability are subject to change and while supplies last.

Local Event: Mint Cannabis Villa Park Grand Opening Celebration

Mint Cannabis Villa Park Grand Opening Celebration

Mint Cannabis Villa Park Grand Opening Celebration
Mint Cannabis is officially opening in Villa Park, Illinois, and you’re...

St. James Farm Forest Preserve

Join NAMI DuPage for our 2026 NAMIWalks
Help break the stigma associated with mental illness at the 2026 NAMIWalks (Runs) 5K and 1 Mile Color Run. Before, between, or after the runs, visit the Kids Zone and Health Fair.
This highly anticipated event will be held on Sunday, September 13th, at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/St.+James+Farm+Forest+Preserve/@41.8333486,-88.1619043,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x880e55f0b0b22935:0xa5ed064d126e1387!8m2!3d41.8333486!4d-88.1619043!16s%2Fg%2F1hf70yd7b?entry=ttu&amp;g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDcwOS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">St. James Farm Forest Preserve</a> in Warrenville on their USATF Certified course. Participants with wheelchairs, strollers, and leashed pets are welcome.
The event is free.Earn money, win prizes!
9:00 – 5K 
9:00 – Kids Zone &amp; Health Fair 
10:45 – 1 Mile Color Run (in partnership with the DuPage Prevention Leadership Team, led by local high school students as part of our Anti-Stigma Campaign)
Don’t miss out on this exciting event – it’s sure to be a blast while making a meaningful difference in the mental health community! All proceeds from this event will go directly to supporting mental health programs and services in our community. Your participation helps rase awareness and provides crucial support to individuals and families affected by mental illness.
For more information or to buy tickets, go to the Race Webpage <a href="https://namidupage.org/run-for-the-mind/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">namidupage.org/run</a>!
*In the event of inclement and/or severe weather, this event will be canceled, and there will not be a rain date. 
No refunds, no exchanges.

Local Event: NAMIWalks DuPage

NAMIWalks DuPage

Join NAMI DuPage for our 2026 NAMIWalks
Help break the stigma associated with mental illness at the 2026 NAMIWalks (Runs) 5K...

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS 
Leyden Fire Protection District 
Concrete Work 
The Leyden Fire Protection District (Owner) is requesting Bids for the removal and replacement of a concrete apron and sidewalk. Sealed Bids for the construction of the Project will be received at the Leyden Fire Protection District 2600 Mannheim Road Franklin Park IL 60134, until Tuesday, September 8, 2026 at 4:00 pm local time. At that time the Bids received will be publicly opened and read. The Project includes furnishing all labor, materials, and equipment required to perform removal of a concrete apron 24&rsquo; x 30&rsquo;. This area will need 8&rdquo; of high strength concrete or aircraft concrete with a suitable substrate to hold 75,000lbs. The second area is 26&rsquo; x 24&rsquo; will need some excavation and will require a 4&rdquo; pour of concrete. The area is outlined in blue paint in front of the garage doors. Any questions you have may be sent to <a href="mailto:firechief@leydenfire.com" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">firechief@leydenfire.com</a> or call 847-455-0180.

Cook

Franklin Park

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS 
Leyden Fire Protection District 
Lockers 
The Leyden Fire Protection District (Owner) is requesting Bids for lockers which are 24&rdquo; wide by 24&rdquo; deep and approximately 84&rdquo; in height. Sealed Bids for the construction of the Project will be received at the Leyden Fire Protection District 2600 Mannheim Road Franklin Park IL 60134, until Tuesday, September 8, 2026 at 4:00 pm local time. At that time the Bids received will be publicly opened and read. The Project includes furnishing all labor, materials, and equipment required for the installation of lockers per the drawing. Interested bidders should contact <a href="mailto:firechief@leydenfire.com" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">firechief@leydenfire.com</a> or call 847-455-0180 to obtain a drawing of the project.

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS 
Leyden Fire Protection District 
HVAC Replacement 
The Leyden Fire Protection District (Owner) is requesting Bids for the removal and replacement 6 HVAC units. Sealed Bids for the construction of the Project will be received at the Leyden Fire Protection District 2600 Mannheim Road Franklin Park IL 60134, until Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 4:00 pm local time. At that time the Bids received will be publicly opened and read. The Project includes furnishing all labor, materials, and equipment required to perform removal of 6 HVAC units. To schedule a walk-through of the system or answer any questions you have may be sent to <a href="mailto:firechief@leydenfire.com" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">firechief@leydenfire.com</a> or call 847-455-0180.

Across Illinois

Porch Posse, Blood Moon And Friday Night Lights...

This week's photo roundup from across Illinois.

Porch Posse, Blood Moon And Friday Night Lights: IL In Photos

Community Corner

Will County

Frankfort

Frankfort Mom Who Killed Toddler Claimed He Was...

Corie Walsh closely followed the Lindsay Clancy murder trial and was discussing the case with friends hours before the killing.

Frankfort Mom Who Killed Toddler Claimed He Was 'The Anti-Christ': Prosecutors

IL Mom Who Killed Toddler Claimed He Was 'The Anti-Christ': Prosecutors

Crime & Safety

Elmhurst Continues Building Sidewalks Where Few...

The city has kick-started sidewalk construction after years of little action. 

Elmhurst Continues Building Sidewalks Where Few Exist

Politics & Government

Improve Elmhurst Debris Pickup After Storms To...

Unbundled branches sit on residential edges for weeks, causing problems, three aldermen said. 

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Kids & Family

Become a Babysitting Pro

Babysitting Basics and Beyond will take place Oct. 9.

Morgan Searles, Patch Staff

Find out what's happening in Elmhurstfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Find out what's happening in Elmhurstfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

More from Elmhurst

Elmhurst Continues Building Sidewalks Where Few Exist

Improve Elmhurst Debris Pickup After Storms To Help Residents: Officials

Elmhurst Man Punches Neighbor's Window During Dispute: Police

Prism Market: Flannels, Music & Virgos

Healing Field

Meet the Candidates: DuPage County Open House & Candidate Forums on 9/9

Mint Cannabis Villa Park Grand Opening Celebration

NAMIWalks DuPage

Bid

Bid

Bid

Mint Cannabis Villa Park

LuxeLine Remodeling

Oak Park Conservatory

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Become a Babysitting Pro

Babysitting Basics and Beyond will take place Oct. 9.

Morgan Searles, Patch Staff<img alt="Verified Patch Staff Badge" class="styles-module-scss-module__AKw7-a__Badge" src="https://patch.com/img/cdn/assets/layout/badges/verified-patch-staff.svg"/>

Find out what's happening in Elmhurstfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Find out what's happening in Elmhurstfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Morgan Searles, Patch Staff