Name: Pet Blessing - Join us out on the Lawn to Bless our Pets
Start: 2026-05-16T10:00:00-05:00
Location: Unity Oak Park Spiritual & Family Center

Unity Oak Park Spiritual & Family Center

Join us for a heartwarming Pet Blessing at Unity Oak Park! Bring your beloved furry, feathered, or scaly friends for a special blessing celebrating the joy and companionship they bring to our lives. 

Whether it's a dog, cat, bird, a picture of your pet, or any other cherished pet, all are welcome to receive blessings from our prayer chaplains, for health, happiness, and a lasting bond. 

Enjoy a community of fellow animal lovers and share in this meaningful experience together. Don't miss out on this opportunity to show gratitude for our animal companions at this Pet Blessing!
 
Saturday, May 16 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
On the Lawn at Unity of Oak Park

Local Event: Pet Blessing - Join us out on the Lawn to Bless our Pets

Cook County

Chicago Metropolitan Area

Oak Park-River Forest

Illinois

Pet Blessing - Join us out on the Lawn to Bless...

Join us for a heartwarming Pet Blessing at Unity Oak Park! Bring your beloved furry, feathered, or scaly friends for a special...

Pet Blessing - Join us out on the Lawn to Bless our Pets

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church

Experience the rhythm of the soul where music, spirit, and community come together. Jazz Prayer is a unique Oak Park tradition — part concert, part reflection — that blends live jazz performances with moments of inspiration and peace.
Whether you’re a jazz lover, music enthusiast, or spiritual seeker, this monthly gathering offers an unforgettable evening of improvisation, artistry, and heart. Each session features top local jazz musicians, uplifting themes, and space for personal connection and renewal. Join us for an inclusive and welcoming evening where rhythm, grace, and community meet.
Come early for refreshments and stay for the music that moves both body and soul. Bring friends, invite neighbors, or join solo — everyone is welcome to this inclusive and joy-filled experience!
Doors Open at 7:10pm. Program Begins at 7:30pm.

Local Event: Jazz Prayer - Where Jazz Meets Spirit

Jazz Prayer - Where Jazz Meets Spirit

Experience the rhythm of the soul where music, spirit, and community come together. Jazz Prayer is a unique Oak Park tradition...

Toast To Paint

Bring your friends, sip on your favorite drink, and unleash your inner artist.
Eventbrite link:
<a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/chi-city-sip-and-paint-tickets-1989202606544?aff=oddtdtcreator" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">eventbrite.com/e/chi-city-sip-and-paint-tickets-1989202606544?aff=oddtdtcreator</a>
 Can’t wait to see your masterpieces!
+Live artist instructing +All materials included for painting and BYOB +Your take home canvas
Feel free to reach out to us: Call/text- 312.576.6300 Email- toasttopaint@gmail.com
🚖 Free private parking lot 🎁 Gift certificates available 🥂 We are a BYOB art studio
Toast To Paint 7185 W Bloomingdale Chicago IL, 60707 <a href="https://www.toasttopaint.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">toasttopaint.com</a>
#artclass #meetme #chicagobean #cityofchicago #byob

Local Event: Chi City Sip and Paint 🎨 

Chi City Sip and Paint 🎨 

Bring your friends, sip on your favorite drink, and unleash your inner artist.
Eventbrite...

Gardeners in Oak Park and neighboring communities — this is for you!
Join us at The Forest Park Community Garden for a free workshop on organic vegetable gardening, led by a University of Illinois Extension horticulture expert. 
 
Get guidance tailored to our local soil and growing conditions, including what to plant, when to plant it and how to avoid common mistakes.
Bring your questions and leave with practical answers you can use right away.
Free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be provided. The Forest Park Community Garden is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Local Event: Ask An Expert Gardener - Organic Vegetable Gardening Workshop and Q&A

Ask An Expert Gardener - Organic Vegetable...

Gardeners in Oak Park  and neighboring communities — this is for you!
Join us at The Forest Park Community Garden for a free...

Ask An Expert Gardener - Organic Vegetable Gardening Workshop and Q&A

Forest Home Cemetery, enter from First Avenue

Have you ever wondered what's across the bridge at Forest Home Cemetery? If so, join Oak Park River Forest Museum docents for a walking tour to learn more about the people, organizations and stories found west of the Des Plaines River. Find out about the Bill Posters Union and the Cigar Makers International Union, veterans’ and fraternal groups, ethnic areas, the founder of the world’s first blood bank, a well-known radio personality, and more. NOTE—this is a walking tour only, not a character tour like our October Cemetery Walk.
The summer tour meets inside the First Avenue gate of the cemetery at 10 a.m. and will last approximately 90 minutes. Tickets are $10 each or $8 for members. Spaces are limited, so order your tickets today <a href="https://oprfmuseum.org/store#!/Summer-Cemetery-Walking-Tour-July-10/p/376062285/category=26624115" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">on our website at oprfmuseum.org or </a>by phone at 708-848-6755.
Please wear good walking shoes and bring your own water if needed. Restrooms and water fountains will NOT be available at the cemetery, and the cemetery bridge over the Des Plaines River is currently closed.

Local Event: West of the River: Forest Home Cemetery Walking Tour

West of the River: Forest Home Cemetery Walking...

Have you ever wondered what's across the bridge at Forest Home Cemetery? If so, join Oak Park River Forest Museum docents for a...

West of the River: Forest Home Cemetery Walking Tour

Chicago Temple Building

Rembrandt Chamber Musicians 2025-2026 Season
Concert V: Glinka Sextet with Marta Aznavoorian
Sunday, May 17, 2026 | 3 pm
The Chicago Temple, Dixon Chapel
77 W Washington St, 2nd floor, Chicago, IL 60602
Tickets: <a href="https://www.rembrandtchambermusicians.org/tickets-subscriptions" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.rembrandtchambermu...</a>
Rembrandt Chamber Musicians will present an evening of vibrant and lyrical masterpieces, beginning with Glinka’s Grand Sextet in E-flat, featuring Grammy-nominated pianist Marta Aznavoorian. The program continues with Dvořák’s radiant String Quintet in G Major, a work brimming with warmth, charm, and Bohemian spirit. Together, these two works showcase the ensemble’s artistry and passion for bringing timeless chamber music to life.
Artists: John Macfarlane, violin; Emily Nebel, violin; Carol Cook, viola; Calum Cook, cello; Sam Shuhan, double bass; Marta Aznavoorian, piano
Glinka: Grand Sextet in E-flat Major
Dvorak: String Quartet in G Major

Local Event: Rembrandt Chamber Musicians: Glinka Sextet with Marta Aznavoorian

Chicago

Rembrandt Chamber Musicians: Glinka Sextet with...

Rembrandt Chamber Musicians 2025-2026 Season
Concert V: Glinka Sextet with Marta Aznavoorian
Sunday, May 17, 2026 | 3 pm
The...

Rembrandt Chamber Musicians: Glinka Sextet with Marta Aznavoorian

Oak Park Public Library - Main Library

Meet and discuss with your Libertarian Cook County candidates for board president, assessor and sheriff.&nbsp; Most of us are unhappy with the monopoly political power and its negative effects in property taxes and safety.&nbsp; It is our time to vote out of office the corrupt career politicians and take responsibility for our future choices.

Local Event: Meet you Cook County Candidates for President, Assessor and Sheriff

Meet you Cook County Candidates for President,...

Meet and discuss with your Libertarian Cook County candidates for board president, assessor and sheriff.  Most of us are...

Meet you Cook County Candidates for President, Assessor and Sheriff

Fearless civil rights lawyer Chase Strangio battles at the Supreme Court for transgender adolescents’ access to gender-affirming healthcare, confronting&nbsp;not only the legal system but also a media landscape that distorts public&nbsp;perception and threatens the struggle for trans rights. With the dangerous&nbsp;SCOTUS decision upholding the ban on life-saving healthcare, Heightened&nbsp;Scrutiny is an urgent call to action against bigotry and injustice.Free Screening, Heightened Scrutiny Followed by Director Talk Back (Live Zoom with participants) Oak Park Public Library, Veterans Room Main Branch Screening and Director Talk Sponsored by PFLAG Oak Park Area and Out With Purpose
Refreshments provided by Happy Apple Pie Shop. Celebrating diversity for over 8 years. Details at pflagoakpark.org.Register at&nbsp;<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf0h8KiHJeTbXMEtUPcM9uuyJKUcq1yQBifsFYxGb5GR7_y3g/viewform?usp=sharing&amp;ouid=106699230798458600027" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf0h8KiHJeTbXMEtUPcM9uuyJKUcq1yQBifsFYxGb5GR7_y3g/viewform?usp=sharing&amp;ouid=106699230798458600027</a>

Local Event: Heightened Scrutiny, Free Screening

Heightened Scrutiny, Free Screening

Fearless civil rights lawyer Chase Strangio battles at the Supreme Court for transgender adolescents’ access to...

Forest Park

West Side

Bucktown-Wicker Park

North Center-Roscoe Village

DuPage County

David Giuliani

Elmhurst

La Grange

Western Springs

Lincoln Park

Lincoln Square

Lakeview

<h4>June 6-7, 2026: 5th Annual Rosemont Uncorked</h4>
Rosemont Uncorked returns to Parkway Bank Park in Rosemont on June 6–7, 2026, with two days of outdoor wine tasting, live music, and easy access from Chicago and the suburbs. Your ticket is a flexible weekend pass, so you can come Saturday, Sunday, or both days with the same admission, enjoy a souvenir glass, and use your tasting tickets to explore reds, whites, rosés, meads, and bubbly from wineries across Illinois. Grab a spot on the lawn, listen to bands, visit the park’s restaurants, and stock up on your favorite bottles to take home—all in one walkable entertainment district.
Festival hours are:
<ul><li>Saturday noon–7 p.m.</li><li>Sunday noon–5 p.m.</li><li>VIP ticket holders may enter at 11 a.m. for first pours and the best choice of seating.</li><li>Designated driver and youth tickets are available.</li><li>Parkway Bank Park offers convenient parking plus easy connections to the CTA Blue Line and a free circulator bus.</li></ul>

Local Event: Rosemont Uncorked

Rosemont

Rosemont Uncorked

June 6-7, 2026: 5th Annual Rosemont Uncorked
Rosemont Uncorked returns to Parkway Bank Park in Rosemont on June 6–7, 2026, with...

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

Pet Blessing - Join us out on the Lawn to Bless our Pets

Event Details

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