Name: Back Yard Bark-B-Q
Start: 2026-06-20T12:00:00-05:00
Location: Animal Care League, 1009 Garfield St, Oak Park, IL, 60304

Animal Care League, 1009 Garfield St, Oak Park, IL, 60304

Join us for our 2nd Annual Back Yard Bark-B-Q: a big summer bash and open house at the shelter! Get ready for grilling in our back yard, games, activities, tours, presentations, and more to kick off summer at ACL. This is a free event! See you there!

Local Event: Back Yard Bark-B-Q

Cook County

Chicago Metropolitan Area

Oak Park-River Forest

Illinois

Back Yard Bark-B-Q

Join us for our 2nd Annual Back Yard Bark-B-Q: a big summer bash and open house at the shelter! Get ready for grilling in our...

9000 W. College Parkway, Palos Hills, IL

The Workshop Everyone in Fashion Wishes They Had Years Ago
Join Our Exclusive 1-Day Professional Fashion Workshop
Most people spend years sewing garments… yet never truly understand why clothing fits correctly — or why it does not.
Garments pull. They twist. They collapse. They feel uncomfortable. They look expensive on one person and completely wrong on another.
And most people never learn the real reason why.
That is because true garment fitting is a professional skill rarely taught outside of high-end fashion houses, bespoke tailoring environments, and advanced professional training.
On Saturday, July 18, 2026, nationally recognized Master Bespoke Tailor Eric W. Stiles Sr. will present an exclusive live 1-Day Professional Fashion Workshop at Moraine Valley College in Building M, Room M210, from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM.
Students have attended Eric's classes and workshops from throughout Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin because the professional knowledge presented is difficult to find elsewhere and is well worth both the modest cost and travel time.
This is not a sewing class!
This is a rare behind-the-scenes look into the professional world of garment fitting, body proportions, balance, drape, and fit analysis — the same concepts used in luxury tailoring and high-end garment development.
For 2.5 intensive hours, participants will learn how professionals actually SEE clothing.
You will begin understanding:
• Why garments pull, twist, collapse, or feel uncomfortable • Why some clothing flatters the body and some does not • How body proportions affect fit • How professional fitters identify problems immediately • How to visually evaluate garments like a professional • How proper fitting changes the entire appearance of clothing • Why expensive garments can still fit poorly • The hidden details most people never notice
Once you understand professional fitting principles, you will never look at clothing the same way again.
This workshop is designed for:
• Fashion students • Designers • Sewing enthusiasts • Tailors and alteration specialists • Boutique owners • Beginners wanting professional knowledge • Anyone frustrated with poor garment fit • Anyone serious about fashion, clothing, and appearance
Eric W. Stiles Sr. brings more than 40 years of professional experience in luxury garment construction, bespoke tailoring, and high-end fashion. His background includes work connected to internationally respected fashion houses including Brioni, Giorgio Armani, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Tom Ford.
Students and attendees consistently describe his workshops as eye-opening, inspiring, practical, and unlike anything they have experienced before.
Many people spend years learning sewing techniques without ever learning the science and visual art of proper fit.
This workshop changes that.
And for a limited time, the fee for this exclusive professional workshop is just $63.21.
Considering the level of professional knowledge being presented, this is an extraordinary opportunity for anyone serious about fashion, garment construction, alterations, or understanding how clothing truly fits the body.
Seats are limited and expected to fill quickly.
Those who attend will gain knowledge that permanently changes the way they see garments, proportions, and the human body.
More professional fashion workshops will follow.
IMPORTANT:
Please visit the website prior to attending to review workshop details and see what you should bring to the workshop.
Register now: ewsacademy.org/PALOS-MARCH-WORKSHOP.HTML
Questions or registration information: 708-424-4397
Website: ewsacademy.org

Local Event: “The Art of Professional Garment Fitting & Body Proportions” 

Palos

“The Art of Professional Garment Fitting & Body...

The Workshop Everyone in Fashion Wishes They Had Years Ago
Join Our Exclusive 1-Day Professional Fashion Workshop
Most people...

“The Art of Professional Garment Fitting & Body Proportions” 

The nationally and locally acclaimed Pequod's Pizza is coming to Oak Park on Thursday, June 11th! Note that pizzas will be PAR BAKED, with Pequod’s world-famous caramelized crust and will be available for PICK UP at 5:30pm at 7525 Lake St. Pequod's was just named the "Best Pizza in the US" by Yelp!
Order by 12pm on Thursday. But don't wait until the last minute to place your order, because these events sell out!
Twice is nice! Place two or more orders for delivery on the same day and only pay the $5 DwellSocial Fee once.View menu + order: <a href="https://dwell.social/4e1O3VE" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://dwell.social/4e1O3VE</a>

Local Event: The famous Pequod's, caramelized crust pizza is heading your way. Order by noon.

The famous Pequod's, caramelized crust pizza is...

The nationally and locally acclaimed Pequod's Pizza is coming to Oak Park on Thursday, June 11th! Note that pizzas will be PAR...

The famous Pequod's, caramelized crust pizza is heading your way. Order by noon.

Oak Park Arms

Seniors from the community are invited to a Spring Soiree Dance from 5 – 8 p.m. on Friday, June 12, 2026, at the Oak Park Arms Senior Living, 408 S. Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park. Live music will be provided by Swing Set Big Band. The public is warmly welcome to attend, and admission is free. RSVP is required.
<ul><li>5 – 6 p.m. Hors d’oeuvres</li><li>6 – 8 p.m. Music and dancing with Swing Set Big Band</li></ul>

“We are so excited to open our doors for the Spring Soiree and welcome our neighbors back to the Oak Park Arms,” said Renee Steingard, director of leasing and resident engagement at the Oak Park Arms. “There is something truly magical about the energy Swing Set brings to our ballroom. Whether you’re here to relive the hits of the past or just want to enjoy some great conversation, it’s going to be a vibrant evening of community and connection. We love seeing the dance floor full and the building alive with music.”
The live entertainment for the evening will be provided by Swing Set, directed by Dave Vieitev. Swing Set will play music from the 1950s to the 1960s.
Oak Park Arms Senior Living is a rental retirement community that provides senior housing in the form of independent living. A licensed home care agency is onsite to provide support services for seniors. Furnished apartments are also available for a short-term stay – a weekend, a week, a month, or longer.
This event is free and open to the public. RSVP is required to ensure adequate space and food. For more information call 708-386-4040 or visit <a href="https://www.oakparkarms.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://www.oakparkarms.com/</a>.

Local Event: Spring Soiree Dance with Swing Set Big Band

Spring Soiree Dance with Swing Set Big Band

Seniors from the community are invited to a Spring Soiree Dance from 5 – 8 p.m. on Friday, June 12, 2026, at the Oak Park Arms...

If you love books, antique maps, or old paper goods with curious images upon them, come join us at the 63rd Chicago Book &amp; Paper Fair! We will have ~25 rare and antiquarian book dealers from across the midwest selling their beautiful wares in the Plumber's Union Hall ballroom. Local artist Design Martinez will be holding paper marbling demonstrations, and Curt's Cafe will have a pop-up cafe in the balcony so you can pause your perusing and have refreshments on-site.
Mark your calendar:
Saturday, June 13, from 10am - 5pm
at 1340 W Washington Blvd in Chicago's West Loop.
Easy access by CTA and a parking garage right next door.
Keep an eye out for free passes and coupons at your favorite bookstores across Chicago!

Local Event: 63rd Chicago Book & Paper Fair

Bucktown-Wicker Park

63rd Chicago Book & Paper Fair

If you love books, antique maps, or old paper goods with curious images upon them, come join us at the 63rd Chicago Book &...

BUGHOUSE THEATER

Come see the Therapy Players, Chicago's premiere all-psychotherapist improv troupe, on Saturday, June 13, 7pm! We're doing a mix of short form games and lon-ish form pieces for a truly unique experience!&nbsp;

Local Event: The The Long and Short of It 

The The Long and Short of It 

Come see the Therapy Players, Chicago's premiere all-psychotherapist improv troupe, on Saturday, June 13, 7pm! We're doing a...

Toast To Paint

Saturday, June 13th, 2026 at 7pm
After the Puerto Rican Day Parade continue the celebration with a BAD BUNNY inspired art class at Toast To Paint 🇵🇷🎨🥂
Check out our website <a href="https://www.toasttopaint.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">toasttopaint.com</a> for more info 
Toast To Paint 7185 W Bloomingdale Ave Chicago IL, 60707 (312)576-6300 <a href="https://www.toasttopaint.com" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">toasttopaint.com</a>
#badbunny #puertorico #artlesson #chicago #byob

Local Event: Bad Bunny Sip and Paint 🎨 

Bad Bunny Sip and Paint 🎨 

Saturday, June 13th, 2026 at 7pm
After the Puerto Rican Day Parade continue the celebration with a BAD BUNNY inspired art class...

Oak Park River Forest Museum

Celebrate “Juneteenth Eve” with Oak Park River Forest Museum on a History of African-Americans in Oak Park Bike Tour. Meet at the museum, 129 Lake St., with your bike, helmet and water for the two-hour tour led by our executive director, Frank Lipo.
This tour is free but please RSVP at <a href="https://oprfmuseum.org/contact" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://oprfmuseum.org/contact</a> or by emailing <a href="mailto:oprfhistorymatters@sbcglobal.net">oprfhistorymatters@sbcglobal.net</a>
so we can contact you in case of inclement weather.

Local Event: Juneteenth Eve Black History Bike Tour

Juneteenth Eve Black History Bike Tour

Celebrate “Juneteenth Eve” with Oak Park River Forest Museum on a History of African-Americans in Oak Park Bike Tour. Meet at...

Forest Park

West Side

North Center-Roscoe Village

DuPage County

David Giuliani

Elmhurst

La Grange

Western Springs

Lincoln Park

Lincoln Square

Lakeview

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.

Chicago

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...

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Oak Park-River Forest|Local Event

Back Yard Bark-B-Q

Event Details

More Upcoming Events

“The Art of Professional Garment Fitting & Body Proportions”

JUN

10

9:00 AM

Palos, IL

The famous Pequod's, caramelized crust pizza is heading your way. Order by noon.

JUN

11

5:30 PM

Oak Park-River Forest, IL

Spring Soiree Dance with Swing Set Big Band

JUN

12

5:00 PM

Oak Park Arms, 408 S Oak Park Ave, Oak Park, IL

63rd Chicago Book & Paper Fair

JUN

13

9:00 AM

1340 W Washington Blvd, Chicago, IL

The The Long and Short of It

JUN

13

7:00 PM

BUGHOUSE THEATER, 1910 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL

Bad Bunny Sip and Paint 🎨

JUN

13

7:00 PM

Toast To Paint, 7185 W Bloomingdale Ave, Chicago, IL

Juneteenth Eve Black History Bike Tour

JUN

18

6:00 PM

Oak Park River Forest Museum, 129 Lake St, Oak Park, IL

63rd Chicago Book & Paper Fair

British International School of Chicago, South Loop

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

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

Oak Park Conservatory

Chicago a cappella

Art Studio 928 - Oak Park, IL