Name: Thatcher Woods Walking Tour
Start: 2026-04-25T10:00:00-05:00
Location: Trailside Museum of Natural History

Trailside Museum of Natural History

It’s spring and that means it’s time for our series of walking tours to begin! The first walking tour of 2026 begins at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 25, at nearby Thatcher Woods. Reserve your space and purchase your ticket now at oprfmuseum.org or call 708-848-6755.
Also, look under the events tab on our website to view upcoming walking tours. Space on each tour is limited.

Local Event: Thatcher Woods Walking Tour

Cook County

Chicago Metropolitan Area

Oak Park-River Forest

Illinois

Thatcher Woods Walking Tour

It’s spring and that means it’s time for our series of walking tours to begin! The first walking tour of 2026 begins at 10 a.m....

Let'sGoCure #9 Online Auction April 21st - 23rd
Featuring a 2025 Invitrogen Neon NxT Electroporation System, gentleMACS Octo Dissociators, Microscopes, and Lab Equipment
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Featured Assets:&nbsp;<ul><li>2025 Invitrogen™ Neon™ NxT Electroporation System</li><li>2024 VWR Under Bench Laboratory Freezer</li><li>2024 Thermo Scientific™ CryoPlus™ Storage System</li><li>2024 Sorvall X1R Pro-MD Refrigerated Centrifuge</li><li>2024 Olympus CKX53 Inverted Phase Contrast Microscope</li><li>2024 gentleMACS® Octo Dissociator with Heaters</li><li>2024 Laxco LMI-3000 Inverted Microscope System</li><li>2024 Isotemp™ General Purpose Deluxe Water Bath</li><li>2024 Eppendorf Benchtop Centrifuge</li><li>2024 Harrick Plasma Basic Plasma Cleaner (115V) - Vacuum Pump &amp; Vacuum Gauge Sold Seperately</li><li>2024 Agilent Oil-free Dry Scroll Vacuum Pump</li><li>2024 Chemyx Fusion 200X High-Precision Two-Channel Syringe Pump</li><li>2024 Quincy Lab Gravity Convection Lab Oven</li><li>2024 Chemyx Fusion 4000X High-Precision Multi-Syringe Pump</li><li>2024 Harrick Plasma Vacuum Gauge and Digital Meter - Plasma Cleaner Sold Separately</li><li>2024 High-Visibility Low-Profile Floor Scale (for monitoring of chemical and gas drums)</li><li>2024 Lot of Rainin Pipet-Lite XLS Pipets</li><li>2024 Electro-Technic Handheld Laboratory Corona Treater</li><li>2024 Dell 27-inch Full HD Height Adjustable Thin Bezel Computer Monitor</li><li>2024 LG 27-inch 4K UHD Ultrafine Computer Monitor</li></ul>

Local Event: Let'sGoCure #9 Online Auction

Chicago

Let'sGoCure #9 Online Auction

Let'sGoCure #9 Online Auction April 21st - 23rd
Featuring a 2025 Invitrogen Neon NxT Electroporation System, gentleMACS Octo...

Friendly Tap

Join the League of Women Voters of Oak Park and River Forest for an inspiring presentation on conserving natural ecosystems and bringing wildlife back to where it belongs. Learn about real world success stories in our own Chicagoland backyard from&nbsp;Emily Reusswig, Vice President of Policy &amp; Land Conservation of Openlands. If you’re ready to hear some good news for a change, this is an evening you won’t want to miss. Come curious. Leave inspired.&nbsp; Free and open to the public.

Local Event: Conserving Nature, Reviving Hope

Conserving Nature, Reviving Hope

Join the League of Women Voters of Oak Park and River Forest for an inspiring presentation on conserving natural ecosystems and...

Oak Park River Forest Museum

Join us for "Green History: Retrofitting Historic Buildings for Energy Efficiency and Historic Preservation" at 7 p.m. on Thursday April 23 at OPRF Museum.
Local architects and engineers will share some remarks and then join a panel discussion chaired by Lindsey Nieratka, Chief Sustainability Officer of the Village of Oak Park. The goal is to straddle April's annual Earth Month (which grew out of Earth Day) with Historic Preservation Month, celebrated every May. The program will explore the connections between historic architecture and environmental sustainability, with real-world examples of how community residents have made such projects happen.
Regular admission rates will apply for this program. Registration is not required but you may contact us ahead of time to reserve your spot; call the museum at 708-848-6755 or contact us on our website, oprfmuseum.org.

Local Event: Green History

Green History

Join us for "Green History: Retrofitting Historic Buildings for Energy Efficiency and Historic Preservation" at 7 p.m. on...

Gwendolyn Brooks Middle School

Bravo Proudly Presents - The Little Mermaid, Jr. The Little Mermaid, Jr.&nbsp;In a magical underwater kingdom, the beautiful young mermaid, Ariel, longs to leave her ocean home - and her fins - behind and live in the world above. But first, she'll have to defy her father, King Triton, make a deal with the evil sea witch, Ursula, and convince the handsome Prince Eric that she's the girl with the enchanting voice he's been seeking. Performances:April 24 &amp; May 1 at 7pmApril 25 &amp; May 2 at 2pm and 7pmApril 26 &amp; May 3 at 1pm Performances&nbsp;are Located at:Gwendolyn Brooks Middle School Auditorium325 S. Kenilworth Ave. - Oak Park, IL Tickets: $15.00 for Adults / $10.00 for Students &amp; Seniors <a href="https://pci.jotform.com/form/260625798264165" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener"></a><a href="https://pci.jotform.com/form/260625798264165" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">PURCHASE TICKETS</a> <a href="https://bravoperformingarts.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">BRAVOPERFORMINGARTS.ORG</a>

Local Event: Bravo Presents - The Little Mermaid, Jr.

Bravo Presents - The Little Mermaid, Jr.

Bravo Proudly Presents - The Little Mermaid, Jr. The Little Mermaid, Jr. In a magical underwater kingdom, the beautiful young...

The Nineteenth Century Charitable Association

The award-winning High School Jazz&nbsp;Ensemble of Oak Park River Forest High School offers up an electrifying&nbsp;and professional program. Boogie to&nbsp;the beat of this all-ages, family friendly event open to all!
Thursday, April 24, 7:30 pm
Admission: Students up to 17, $5;
adults 18 &amp; older, $10
Tickets available at the door.
Proceeds benefit band camp&nbsp;scholarships.

Local Event: The Annual OPRFHS Swing Dance

The Annual OPRFHS Swing Dance

The award-winning High School Jazz Ensemble of Oak Park River Forest High School offers up an electrifying and professional...

The Oak Park Country Club

An uplifting lunch to support homeless animals!Join us for our 29th Annual Spring for the Animals Luncheon!&nbsp;Held at the beautiful Oak Park Country Club, this event includes a delicious buffet, inspiring stories, adoptable animals, live and silent auctions, and more. All proceeds benefit the shelter!Tickets and more info at animalcareleague.org/springluncheon

Local Event: Animal Care League's Spring Luncheon

Animal Care League's Spring Luncheon

An uplifting lunch to support homeless animals!Join us for our 29th Annual Spring for the Animals Luncheon! Held at the...

Carnivore Oak Park

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 <li>
 Sunday, April 26, 2026
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 <li>
 
 11:00 AM
 
 2:00 PM
 
 
 </li>

 

 
 
 <li>
 
 Carnivore
 
 <a href="https://maps.google.com?q=1042 Pleasant St Oak Park IL 60302 United States" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">(map)</a>
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Join Dave Odd, full time professional forager to the stars, on a 2 hour journey through the neighborhood to discover over 50 species of edible and medicinal wild plants and mushrooms that grow right in our own backyards, with a jaunt over to the nearby woods to see ramps growing in their natural habitat. Followed by an always amazing picnic basket lunch made from some of the foraged ingredients seen on the tour, including ramps of course, expertly prepared by high end professional chef (and owner of Carnivore) Erik Williams and their talented staff.
Meet right next to Carnivore, 1042 Pleasant St, Oak Park IL, 60302.
$40 per person for the tour. $25 for the meal.
<a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/eat-the-neighborhood-ramp-foraging-walk-and-lunch-carnivore-oak-park-tickets-1122607652709?aff=oddtdtcreator" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">BUY TICKETS HERE</a>
<a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1979752185079?aff=oddtdtcreator" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1979752185079?aff=oddtdtcreator</a>
Call or text Dave Odd at 847-409-8623 with any questions and to note any dietary restrictions.

Local Event: Eat the Neighborhood: Foraging and Nature Tour & Lunch -- Carnivore Oak Park

Eat the Neighborhood: Foraging and Nature Tour...



            

            
              Sunday, April 26, 2026
            

            
              
               ...

Eat the Neighborhood: Foraging and Nature Tour & Lunch -- Carnivore Oak Park

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Bucktown-Wicker Park

North Center-Roscoe Village

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David Giuliani

Elmhurst

La Grange

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Learn what tanka poetry is, how it differs from haiku, and its important place in Japanese culture as the oldest form of...

Japanese Tanka Poetry and its Key Role in One Chicago Family

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British International School of Chicago, South Loop

Our school is dedicated to shaping a generation of successful, creative, and resilient global citizens. Our inclusive community and personalized international curriculum combine the best of both worlds, giving our Preschool, Primary, Middle School and High School students a truly global outlook rooted in Chicago’s rich heritage.

British International School of Chicago, South...

Our school is dedicated to shaping a generation of successful, creative, and resilient global citizens. Our inclusive community and personalized...

Mission Ready: Estate Planning Tips for Veterans

Cathy Yanda | Baird & Warner | Oak Park & River Forest

For many veterans, the home is the cornerstone of the American Dream they served to protect. But when it comes to "mission-readiness," many overlook how military benefits intersect with real estate and estate planning. Whether you used a VA loan or are looking to pass your legacy to your children, here are critical steps to ensure your plan is as disciplined as your service. 1. The "Trust" Factor with VA Loans If you bought your home with a VA-backed loan, you can generally transfer it into a Living Trust without triggering a "due-on-sale" clause, provided it remains your primary residence. This allows your family to avoid probate—the long, expensive court process of proving ownership after you pass. 2. Protect Your Tax Exemptions Illinois offers significant property tax breaks for disabled veterans. However, these don't always "travel" automatically. If you move your home into a trust, ensure your attorney includes specific language that preserves your right to the homestead and veteran tax exemptions. Also, check if these exemptions are portable for a surviving spouse. 3. Update Your Beneficiaries A common mistake is updating a Will but forgetting the beneficiary forms on life insurance (VGLI) or a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). The Rule: A beneficiary form overrides a Will. If an old beneficiary is still listed on your policy, they will likely receive the payout regardless of what your Will says. 4. Secure Your DD214 In the military, if it isn’t in writing, it didn’t happen. Your family will need your DD214 to access almost every benefit, from burial honors to survivor pensions. Keep a digital and physical copy in a fireproof safe and ensure your executor knows the location. About the Author: Cathy Yanda is a USMC Veteran and a REALTOR® with Baird &amp; Warner in Oak Park. As a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) and Military Relocation Professional (MRP), she is dedicated to helping fellow veterans navigate the complexities of real estate and legacy planning.

Cathy Yanda | Baird & Warner | Oak Park & River...

For many veterans, the home is the cornerstone of the American Dream they served to protect. But when it comes to "mission-readiness," many...

Cathy Yanda, a REALTOR® with Baird &amp; Warner, defines her business by service, integrity, and deep local roots. As a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, she applies a "mission-first" approach to every client goal, whether you’re buying your first home in Galewood or right-sizing a family estate in Oak Park. For Cathy, real estate isn’t just about the transaction; it’s about navigating the most significant transitions of your life with a steady hand and a clear strategy. Specialized Services Senior Transitions (SRES®): Tailored guidance for clients 50+ who are right-sizing. Cathy understands the emotional and financial complexities of selling a long-time family home and specializes in making the process seamless. Military Relocation (MRP®): Expert support for active-duty service members and veterans. Cathy leverages her own experience to ensure you maximize your benefits and find the right fit, fast. Hyper-Local Expertise: Whether it’s the historic bungalows of Galewood or the Victorian classics of Oak Park, Cathy provides data-driven marketing to ensure your property reaches the right buyers. What Makes Cathy Unique The Veteran Edge: Discipline, logistical precision, and unflappable negotiation. Cathy manages the moving pieces of your real estate transaction so you don't have to. Deep Community Roots: Cathy is more than just an agent; she’s a neighbor. From organizing the annual community Toys for Tots drive to her active membership in the Oak Park Area Association of Realtors (OPAAR), she is invested in the long-term vibrancy of our area. Tech-Forward &amp; Human-Centered: Cathy combines modern technology—including the latest AI-driven marketing strategies—with genuine, one-on-one attention. She believes that while tools make the process efficient, human connection makes it successful. Ready to start your next chapter? Whether you’re scaling up or right-sizing, Cathy brings the experience and the heart to get the job done right. Connect with Cathy today.

Cathy Yanda, a REALTOR® with Baird & Warner, defines her business by service, integrity, and deep local roots. As a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, she...

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.

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

Chicago a cappella

Chicago a cappella welcomes everyone to experience the universal joy of ensemble singing through fun, innovative concerts and educational programs.

Rachel Barnes

Evanston

Boutique Event Space for Creative Gatherings|Art Experiences

Art Studio 928 - Oak Park, IL

Studio 928 is a boutique event space in Oak Park and a light-filled creative studio designed for gatherings that feel personal, inspiring, and memorable. Located on the South Boulevard Murals Corridor in the historic district—just steps from the train—our space blends art, community, and celebration. We specialize in hands-on art experiences and creative events for corporate teams, families, and community groups. From paint-and-sip parties and Prairie-style faux stained glass workshops to corporate team off-sites, birthdays, and pop-up events, Studio 928 offers curated experiences with expert guidance and a welcoming atmosphere. Founded and led by artist Cheryl Vargas, Studio 928 is known for its intimate scale, thoughtful design, and experiences that make creativity accessible—no prior art experience required. Ideal for: Boutique private events &amp; celebrations Creative team offsites &amp; corporate gatherings Art workshops &amp; guided experiences Birthday parties &amp; milestone moments Community events &amp; pop-ups If you’re searching for a boutique event space in Oak Park that offers more than just four walls, Studio 928 is where people come to create, connect, and celebrate. 📍 451 South Boulevard, Oak Park, IL 60302

Studio 928 is a boutique event space in Oak Park and a light-filled creative studio designed for gatherings that feel personal, inspiring, and...

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State Edition

National Edition

Oak Park-River Forest|Local Event

Thatcher Woods Walking Tour

Event Details

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