Citadel Theatre

In this hilarious 2025 Tony Award-winning satire, an elite private school is thrown into crisis when a mumps outbreak divides parents and board members over vaccines. As debates intensify and facts grow slippery, every solution only deepens the conflict. Eureka Day asks us to fully recognize the humanity of those we disagree with.

Local Event: Eureka Day

Lake County

Lake Forest-Lake Bluff

Illinois

Eureka Day

In this hilarious 2025 Tony Award-winning satire, an elite private school is thrown into crisis when a mumps outbreak divides...

Lake Bluff Public Library

Update: Due to the unexpected closure of Lake Bluff Brewing Co., trivia will now be held at the Gorton Center downstairs in the Grotto.
Trivia is back for one night only!
Register your team of up to 6&nbsp;people for a night of friendly competition at the Gorton Center in Lake Forest. Concessions will be available for sale. Registration opens at 10am on 9/23, one week before the event.
To Register: Reserve&nbsp;a single spot for your team, then tell us how many people total are on your team&nbsp;in the registration questions. Please note that there is a limit of 6&nbsp;people per team; teams with more than 6&nbsp;people will be split up or will be ineligible for a prize.
Location: Gorton Center,&nbsp;400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL 60045

Local Event: Trivia Night @ Gorton Center

Trivia Night @ Gorton Center

Update: Due to the unexpected closure of Lake Bluff Brewing Co., trivia will now be held at the Gorton Center downstairs in the...

Local Event: Eureka Day Understudy Show

Eureka Day Understudy Show

Northmoor Country Club

The Ninth Annual Event for the GPF Foundation​ features a keynote appearance by Ryan Knutson​, Editor &amp; Co-Host of ​T​he Journal, the daily podcast from the Wall Street Journal​. ​Lake Forest's Larry Potash, WGN-TV, ​w​ill again be emcee. ​Funds raised support the GPF Foundation’s goal of “Saving Lives Through Awareness.”
Ryan Knutson is a co-host and senior news editor of “The Journal,” a daily podcast produced by the Wall Street Journal that explores the forces driving global events, markets and major companies. Previously he worked at PBS and ProPublica, building a reputation for sharp investigative reporting and clear, accessible storytelling. Just like the GPF Foundation, Ryan's work helps bring awareness and understanding about news and events that impact us all.
In addition to the cocktail party, seated meal and conviviality, guests at the Annual Event will also hear an update on GPF Foundation initiatives from Ross and Nancy Friedman, Board Chair and Director, respectively. Current activities include:

<ul><li>Continued progress on the Blind Spot, an educational video game that has moved into the third phase of development to explore commercial viability.</li><li>First-responder and health professional training and partnerships.</li><li>Development of a diagnostic scoring system for medical professionals.</li><li>On-going Harm Reduction training for at-risk communities.</li><li>The launch of an Associate Board made up of young adult volunteers to help spread awareness on harm reduction and the Foundation’s life-saving work. </li></ul>

Local Event: An Evening of Insight Promised at the GPF Foundation's Ninth Annual Event

An Evening of Insight Promised at the GPF...

The Ninth Annual Event for the GPF Foundation​ features a keynote appearance by Ryan Knutson​, Editor & Co-Host of ​T​he...

An Evening of Insight Promised at the GPF Foundation's Ninth Annual Event

Gorton Center

Celebrate autumn with a cozy felting workshop! Create whimsical felted acorns, apples, and pumpkins using wet and needle felting techniques. Perfect for beginners and experienced crafters, this relaxing class includes all materials and lets you take home a charming fall decoration.

Local Event: Cozy Afternoon Fall Felt Session

Cozy Afternoon Fall Felt Session

Celebrate autumn with a cozy felting workshop! Create whimsical felted acorns, apples, and pumpkins using wet and needle...

A cab driver keeps small talk alive in a city run by AI. A black cat stops a young woman on her way out of her village. A boy crosses the desert carrying his mother’s last words.
They’re three of the 10 finalists in the 29th Manhattan Short Film Festival. For the first time in the festival’s history, every finalist comes from a different country. Founder Nicholas Mason has called this year’s lineup the “filmic Olympiad” he’s worked toward since 9/11.
This week, more than 500 venues on six continents screen the same 10 films, and we’re proud to be one of them. Join us in the John &amp; Nancy Hughes Theater, watch all 10 and vote for Best Film and Best Actor. Your ballot joins votes from around the world, and the winners are announced Monday, October 5. Every finalist is Oscar-qualified, so tonight’s favorite could land on next year’s Academy Awards shortlist.
The program runs about two and a half hours, including a short intermission. Some films include mature themes and language.

Local Event: Manhattan short film 

Manhattan short film 

A cab driver keeps small talk alive in a city run by AI. A black cat stops a young woman on her way out of her village. A boy...

Discover the early life of George Washington in Young Washington, a historical drama set during the French and Indian War. Follow a young Washington through battles, setbacks, and difficult decisions as he learns from failure and develops the courage and resilience that will shape his future.

Local Event: Film: Young Washington

Film: Young Washington

Discover the early life of George Washington in Young Washington, a historical drama set during the French and Indian War....

Starbucks Reserve

Join The Northshore Chess Club EVERY Saturday from 1-4PM at our “Saturday Chess at Starbucks” events at the Lake Forest Starbucks (672 N Western Ave, Lake Forest, IL). Check <a href="https://www.meetup.com/northshorechess/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.meetup.com/northshorechess/</a>&nbsp;to join the club, to post comments, ask questions, and RSVP for events.
Please RSVP, come play, and learn something to improve your chess! If you’re a beginner please review the rules of chess (like En Passant) before you come. There’s a PDF on <a href="https://www.chesshouse.com/pages/chess-learning-resources" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">chesshouse.com/pages/chess-learning-resources</a> (Rules of Chess).
Note: we have a maximum of 15 spots per event, so if you can’t come please cancel your RSVP to allow someone else to come! All ages, genders, and levels welcome!
PS-Dues are $5/YEAR (after a 1 month trial), to defray my Meetup subscription, paid either through Meetup.com, or better yet you can pay me cash and I'll mark you as paid! -Carlos Cardona, Owner, <a href="https://carloscardona.myportfolio.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Carlos Cardona Photography</a>

Local Event: Northshore Chess Club at Starbucks

Northshore Chess Club at Starbucks

Join The Northshore Chess Club EVERY Saturday from 1-4PM at our “Saturday Chess at Starbucks” events at the Lake Forest...

We’re unleashing a high-energy, laugh-out-loud experience that audiences of all ages love. Mutts Gone Nuts Unleashed brings together a dozen of the world’s most talented four-legged performers for a comedy-packed show that’s smart, surprising, and wildly entertaining.
From the first leap to the final bow, these dogs deliver nonstop action. They dance and prance. They flip, fly, skip, and sprint across the stage with jaw-dropping athleticism and perfect comedic timing. And yes, every moment feels bigger, bolder, and funnier than the last.
This all-star canine cast includes a Guinness World Record holder, an America’s Got Talent fan favorite, and a heart-melting lineup of incredible rescue dogs. Each performer brings a unique personality and skill set. Together, they create a fast-paced show that blends physical comedy, clever choreography, and plenty of tail-wagging charm.<img src="https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Conga-300x249.jpg" alt="An image of 3 of the dogs from 'muts gone nuts' in a conga line. The largest dog is black and white with a long coat and is leaning with their front paws on a wheel. The next next dog is brown and white with a long coat and has their front paws on the shoulders of the black and white dog. The smallest dog has a shorter, bluish grey and black coat with some white spots. Their front paws are on the shoulders of the brown and white dog." srcset="https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Conga-300x249.jpg 300w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Conga-1024x849.jpg 1024w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Conga-768x637.jpg 768w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Conga-1536x1274.jpg 1536w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Conga-2048x1698.jpg 2048w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Conga-90x75.jpg 90w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Conga-480x398.jpg 480w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Conga-800x663.jpg 800w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Conga-443x367.jpg 443w">

But this isn’t just about tricks. It’s about connection. These dogs don’t just perform – they engage and interact with the audience. They invite laughter and before you know it, they’ve raced straight into your heart.
The result is a feel-good experience that keeps the energy high and the smiles coming. It’s perfect for families. It’s a hit with dog lovers. And it’s just as delightful for anyone who loves smart comedy and unforgettable live performance.
Critics agree. The Washington Post calls Mutts Gone Nuts Unleashed “a must see.”
So grab your seats, settle in, and get ready for a show that’s equal parts heart, humor, and happy chaos. Best in Show? Absolutely.
You belong here.

Local Event: Mutts Gone Nuts

Mutts Gone Nuts

We’re unleashing a high-energy, laugh-out-loud experience that audiences of all ages love. Mutts Gone Nuts Unleashed brings...

Citadel The

Visit the Library October 5th through October 10th for Banned Books Week! Browse displays of banned books, gather informational resources, and enter a raffle. About&nbsp;Banned Books Week: Banned Books Week was launched in 1982 in response to a sudden surge in the number of challenges to books in libraries, bookstores, and schools. Held in the last week of September or first week of October, the annual event highlights the value of free and open access to information and brings together the entire book community — librarians, educators, authors, publishers, booksellers, and readers of all types — in shared support of the freedom to seek and to express ideas.&nbsp;

Local Event: Banned Books Week (Oct. 5th - Oct. 10th)

Banned Books Week (Oct. 5th - Oct. 10th)

Visit the Library October 5th through October 10th for Banned Books Week! Browse displays of banned books, gather informational...

Gorton Center’s John & Nancy Hughes Theater, 400 E. Illinois Rd., Lake Forest

Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart presents “Fall Exploration Through Music and the Arts” at the Gorton Center’s John &amp; Nancy Hughes Theater, 400 E. Illinois Rd., Lake Forest. All are welcome to attend this free community event on Wednesday, Oct.7, from 6 to 7 p.m. 
Enjoy an evening with Woodlands Academy’s orchestra and choir, along with a reception featuring a showcase of student artwork. The musical presentation will include selections from The Phantom of the Opera and a vocal potpourri. 
Snacks and refreshments will be served. 
For more information and to register, visit <a href="https://bit.ly/WAGorton" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">bit.ly/WAGorton</a>
Gorton Center is a premier destination for outstanding cultural and performing arts experiences serving the residents of Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, and the surrounding region. This nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization is dedicated to enriching the community through an array of exceptional events and programs.
Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart is a Catholic, independent, day-and-boarding, college-preparatory school for young women of all faiths in grades nine through 12. Founded in Chicago in 1858 and located in Lake Forest since 1904, Woodlands is part of a worldwide network of Sacred Heart Schools.

Local Event: Woodlands Academy presents fine arts showcase at Gorton Center

Woodlands Academy presents fine arts showcase...

Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart presents “Fall Exploration Through Music and the Arts” at the Gorton Center’s John &...

Woodlands Academy presents fine arts showcase at Gorton Center

Bachata is a dance that originated in the Dominican Republic. Its infectious rhythms and inviting steps have contributed to its fast-growing popularity. No partner is required as we learn the foundations of this rhythmic and expressive dance.

Local Event: Let's Dance Bachata

Let's Dance Bachata

Bachata is a dance that originated in the Dominican Republic. Its infectious rhythms and inviting steps have contributed to its...

<h3>Shredding the Silence on Menopause</h3>
A silent epidemic affects millions of American women, resulting in billions in lost wages, upended careers, family disruptions, and emotional chaos. “The (M) Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause” confronts the neglected menopause crisis, challenging societal and medical shortcomings, and advocating for a revolutionary approach to women’s health in America where she’s prepared for midlife.&nbsp;Don’t miss this special screening of The (M) Factor followed by an engaging panel discussion featuring three experts in the areas of gynecology, sexual wellness and menopause care.&nbsp;Film Run Time: 56:46 minutes

Local Event: The M Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause

The M Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause

Shredding the Silence on Menopause
A silent epidemic affects millions of American women, resulting in billions in lost wages,...

History Center of Lake Forest-Lake Bluff

<h5>A part of our Cornerstones of History lecture series.</h5>
&nbsp;Carol Summerfield, executive director at the History Center. This lecture looks at the unusual role that Frances Perkins, a Lake Forester, played in shaping significant policies and practices for President Franklin Roosevelt and how she helped build his legacy.
<hr>
<h3>Thank You To Our Sponsors!</h3>
Visionary Sponsor - Maude Glore&nbsp;
Patron Sponsor - Jim Phelps
Friend of America 250 - Tom and Sally Coyle
Friend of America 250 - Fred Jackson

Local Event: Frances Perkins & the Social Safety Net of the 1930s-40s

Frances Perkins & the Social Safety Net of the...

A part of our Cornerstones of History lecture series.
 Carol Summerfield, executive director at the History Center. This...

Frances Perkins & the Social Safety Net of the 1930s-40s

A hands-on seasonal candle-making experience inspired by the colors, scents, and natural elements of autumn. Participants will explore multiple candle-making techniques while creating three distinct candles:
<ul><li>A foundational candle introducing the basics of candle making</li><li>A scented candle incorporating floral/botanical elements</li><li>A designer candle allowing participants to experiment with their own creative composition, style, and finishing details</li></ul>
Participants will leave with three finished creations while gaining hands-on experience with the candle-making process from preparation and pouring through scent, botanical embellishment, and creative design.
Ages 10+

Local Event: Autumn-Inspired Candle Making with Dandelion Gallery & Studio

Autumn-Inspired Candle Making with Dandelion...

A hands-on seasonal candle-making experience inspired by the colors, scents, and natural elements of autumn. Participants will...

Autumn-Inspired Candle Making with Dandelion Gallery & Studio

<h4>Strings Attached</h4>
Rendezvous Arts kicks off Season 7 with an audience favorite. But this time, we’re adding strings!
Our beloved Woodwind Octet returns—and it’s bigger than ever. Eleven musicians take the stage, bringing even more color, warmth, and energy. The program blends familiar favorites with something completely new.
And we mean completely new.
Local composer Scott Stevenson is creating a piece just for this ensemble. Nice Fresh will receive its world premiere at these performances. Rendezvous audiences will be among the first to hear this brand-new work, written specifically for the musicians onstage.
Next, the program takes a playful turn with Jonathan Dove’s Figures in the Garden. This lively serenade for wind octet draws inspiration from Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro. The program also gets up close and personal with intimate performances by horn trio and cello and bass duo.
Then comes a piece we’ve dreamed of bringing to Rendezvous for years: Antonín Dvořák’s Serenade for Winds in D Minor, Op. 44. It’s warm, lyrical, joyful, and full of personality. And with our expanded ensemble, it’s the perfect way to launch a new season.
A world premiere. Eleven musicians. Mozart reimagined. Dvořák at his most irresistible.
Strings attached? Absolutely.

Local Event: Rendezvous Arts: Strings Attached

Rendezvous Arts: Strings Attached

Strings Attached
Rendezvous Arts kicks off Season 7 with an audience favorite. But this time, we’re adding strings!
Our beloved...

Lake Forest College

Join Forester Athletics for Community &amp; Alumni Day, a celebration of our connection to the community and our alumni!
We invite alumni, families, community members, F.A.N. Club members, and Forester fans of all kinds to campus to cheer on Forester Athletics, enjoy food and drinks from local food trucks, and take part in family-friendly activities and giveaways. Come snap a photo with Boomer the Bear, show your Forester spirit, and shop for Lake Forest College merchandise!
Event Schedule includes:
11 a.m. | Men’s Soccer vs. Grinnell — Farwell Field 12 – 4p.m. | Food Truck Social — Tailgate Lot, South Campus 1 p.m. | Women’s Volleyball vs. Ripon — Sports &amp; Recreation Center 1:30 p.m. | Women’s Soccer vs. Grinnell — Farwell Field
Complimentary food truck meal tickets are available to the first 50 pre-registered Community Members, as well as all F.A.N. Club members and alumni of Men’s Soccer, Women’s Soccer, Men’s Golf, and Women’s Golf.
Please reach out to fanclub@lakeforest.edu with any questions. Go Foresters!

Local Event: Lake Forest College Community Engagement Event: Community Sports Day

Lake Forest College Community Engagement Event:...

Join Forester Athletics for Community & Alumni Day, a celebration of our connection to the community and our alumni!
We invite...

Lake Forest College Community Engagement Event: Community Sports Day

Chicago Metropolitan Area

Vernon Hills

Rachel Barnes

Highland Park

Eric DeGrechie

Deerfield

Amie Schaenzer

Libertyville

Buffalo Grove

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Northbrook

Grayslake

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Lake Zurich

Glenview

Your New Favorite Yoga Studio,  Modern Yoga for Every Body

YogaSix Highland Park

At YogaSix Highland Park, we believe yoga should be accessible, empowering, and energizing for everybody. Our modern, welcoming studio offers a variety of heated and non-heated classes designed to meet you where you are—whether you’re brand new to yoga or looking to deepen your practice. From strength-building Power and Sculpt + Flow classes to restorative Slow Flow and Restore experiences, every class is designed to help you move, sweat, reset, and reconnect. More than just a workout, YogaSix Highland Park is a community-focused space where members can show up exactly as they are. Our experienced instructors create an inclusive environment that feels supportive, motivating, and approachable—without intimidation or pressure. We focus on movement that feels good, music that keeps the energy high, and experiences that leave you feeling stronger both physically and mentally. Located in the heart of Highland Park, our studio is proud to offer a consistent schedule of classes seven days a week, special workshops, wellness events, and opportunities to connect with others in the community. Whether you’re looking to build strength, reduce stress, improve flexibility, or simply carve out time for yourself, YogaSix Highland Park is here to support your goals. We’re more than a yoga studio—we’re a place to sweat, grow, breathe, and belong.

At YogaSix Highland Park, we believe yoga should be accessible, empowering, and energizing for everybody. Our modern, welcoming studio offers a...

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Events and Things to Do in Lake Forest-Lake Bluff, IL

Thursday, October 1

An Evening of Insight Promised at the GPF Foundation's Ninth Annual Event

OCT

1

6:00 PM

Northmoor Country Club, 820 Edgewood Rd, Highland Park, IL

Saturday, October 10

Lake Forest College Community Engagement Event: Community Sports Day

OCT

10

11:00 AM

Lake Forest College, 555 N Sheridan Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Also around town...

Please confirm event details with the organizers before attending

Wednesday, September 30

Thursday, October 1

Saturday, October 3

Sunday, October 4

Monday, October 5

Wednesday, October 7

Thursday, October 8

Friday, October 9

An Evening of Insight Promised at the GPF Foundation's Ninth Annual Event

Lake Forest College Community Engagement Event: Community Sports Day

YogaSix Highland Park