Gorton Center

<h5>Salute in Song</h5>
Celebrate the spirit of America with Salute in Song featuring the U.S. Navy Band Great Lakes. Experience an inspiring afternoon of patriotic music, American favorites, and timeless classics in Gorton’s John &amp; Nancy Hughes Theater. The talented musicians of the U.S. Navy Band Great Lakes proudly honor those who serve while sharing the power of live music with the community. Whether you’re celebrating a loved one, showing your patriotism, or simply enjoying a great performance, this free concert offers something for everyone. Join us for an unforgettable afternoon of music, service, and community.
Navy Band Great Lakes’ Wind Ensemble is comprised of active duty musicians under the direction of Lieutenant David Harbuziuk. This ensemble upholds the legacy of its famous bandmaster, Lieutenant Commander John Philip Sousa, by continuing the tradition of military music throughout the Midwest. The Wind Ensemble’s repertoire consists of classic concert band literature, patriotic music, marches, pop music arrangements, and vocal features.
As the musical “Ambassadors to the Midwest,” the Navy Band Great Lakes Wind Ensemble supports Navy outreach across a nine-state area, stretching from Ohio to Kansas, Minnesota to Missouri, and every Midwestern state in between. Wind Ensemble concerts allow the band to tell the Navy’s story, celebrate 250 years of service to our nation, and reach audiences that do not have opportunities to see Sailors on a regular basis. Concerts are patriotic, family-friendly events designed to be entertaining for young and old alike.
<h5>Proud to Serve</h5>
“Pride in Service” has been the theme for Navy Band Great Lakes for more than a century. From 1911, when the band first formed, to 1917, when Lieutenant Commander John Philip Sousa served as Bandmaster, to today, under the direction of Lieutenant David Harbuziuk, our music represents the pride and professionalism that is synonymous with the United States Navy. In addition to public outreach concerts, units from Navy Band Great Lakes also provide military support across the region, including serving Commander, Naval Service Training Command’s mission of transforming volunteers into twenty-first-century Sea Warriors by performing each week for recruits, Sailors, and their families at basic training graduations.
Navy Band Great Lakes is grateful to maintain a robust schedule with more than 250 military support and outreach performances annually for millions of Americans across the Midwest.
This event is free but seats are limited- please register to reserve yours now!

Local Event: Salute in Song: Navy Band Great Lakes

Lake County

Lake Forest-Lake Bluff

Illinois

Salute in Song: Navy Band Great Lakes

Salute in Song
Celebrate the spirit of America with Salute in Song featuring the U.S. Navy Band Great Lakes. Experience an...

<figure><img src="https://cdn20.patchcdn.com/users/23211032/20260828/092655/epic-ver-___28092653107.jpg" id="EPIC VER .jpg" data-image="EPIC VER .jpg"></figure>Experience Elvis Presley at the height of his career in EPiC, featuring rare concert footage, behind-the-scenes moments, and rediscovered recordings. Director Baz Luhrmann brings Elvis’ legendary 1970s Las Vegas performances to life, capturing his energy, humor, charisma, and unforgettable music.

Local Event: EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert 

EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert 

Experience Elvis Presley at the height of his career in EPiC, featuring rare concert footage, behind-the-scenes moments, and...

A Tribute Like No Other
From start to finish, The Brothers Doobie bring the Doobie Brothers’ greatest hits to life. Thanks to the band’s love for the music, their harmonies are tight, their playing is sharp, and their energy is contagious. Their setlist covers both the Tom Johnston and Michael McDonald eras. So, whether you prefer the early rockers or the smooth soul tracks, you’ll hear something you love.
For example, they perform favorites like “Listen to the Music,” “What a Fool Believes,” “Long Train Running,” and “Minute by Minute.” In addition, they cover classics like “Black Water” and “Takin’ It to the Streets.” Every song is played with care, passion, and precision.
Above all, The Brothers Doobie don’t just play the music—they bring it to life. Their connection to the songs and to the audience makes every show special. Because of this, fans of all ages leave the concert smiling, dancing, and singing along.
In the end, The Brothers Doobie – A Doobie Brothers Experience is more than a tribute. It’s a celebration. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or hearing these songs for the first time, this is one live music event you won’t want to miss.
The Brothers Doobie LogoThe Brothers Doobie is made up of six top musicians from the Northeast, each member brings years of experience, strong talent, and a real love for the music. Together, they create a show that both celebrates the past and connects with today’s audiences. At the heart of the band is Keith Pittman. Not only is he a powerful vocalist, but he’s also a skilled drummer, percussionist, and guitarist. Most importantly, he knows how to lead a show. Whether he’s singing a soulful ballad or rocking a fast-paced jam, Keith grabs the crowd’s attention. As a result, every performance feels alive and unforgettable.

Local Event: The Brothers Doobie

The Brothers Doobie

A Tribute Like No Other
From start to finish, The Brothers Doobie bring the Doobie Brothers’ greatest hits to life. Thanks to...

Art Impact Project: fantasy collage explores the concepts of Surrealism, allowing the subconscious mind to express itself while nurturing our creativity at the same time.&nbsp; Join Art Impact Project and let your imagination soar as they inspire you to create your own magical art made with just a few simple materials.
All supplies provided. &nbsp;Ages 11+
<img src="https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FantasyCollage-201x300.png" alt="FantasyCollage" srcset="https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FantasyCollage-201x300.png 201w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FantasyCollage-50x75.png 50w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FantasyCollage-246x367.png 246w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/FantasyCollage.png 354w">
This class is free, but spaces are limited and participants must pre-register.&nbsp;
Celebrating their tenth anniversary, <a href="https://www.artimpactproject.org/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Art Impact Project</a> is a local 501c(3) with a mission of enhancing emotional wellness through creative expression.&nbsp; They partner with organizations such as schools, treatment facilities, libraries, and other community spaces throughout Lake County, to facilitate art programming with a focus on better mental health.&nbsp; Providing a supportive, small group setting, Art Impact Project guides participant step-by-step through the creative process so everyone can experience the benefits of art.
Want to take this class but can’t make this date? Check out our other Art Impact Classes on <a href="https://gortoncenter.org/event/art-impact-project-prompted-painting-oct-13/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Tuesday, October 13</a>&nbsp;or <a href="https://gortoncenter.org/event/art-impact-project-i-am-thankful-for-nov-10/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Tuesday, November 10</a>!

Local Event: Art Impact Project: Fantasy Collage

Art Impact Project: Fantasy Collage

Art Impact Project: fantasy collage explores the concepts of Surrealism, allowing the subconscious mind to express itself while...

Get ready for a true rock show.&nbsp; Outside!
Mike &amp; Joe deliver one of the tightest modern rock cover performances in the country. First, they pull you in with familiar riffs. Then, they keep you there with nonstop energy. Their setlist spans the 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s – plus today’s biggest hits. In other words, if you love it, they play it.
But they don’t just perform songs. They recreate the concert experience. You’ll sing, dance, and feel like you’re front row at the original artist’s show.
With more than 4,000 performances worldwide, they’ve played everywhere from Chicago arenas and Boston conference centers to Florida beaches, Hollywood film sets, Lake Michigan cruises and international resorts in Costa Rica and Mexico. They’ve rocked Super Bowl events, historic landmarks and private celebrations for NFL, MLB and NHL teams.
No matter the stage, they bring the same thing – big sound, real interaction and a crowd that becomes part of the show.
Join us. Feel the energy.
<h5>Some Artists Mike &amp; Joe cover:</h5>
Maroon 5 • Morgan Wallen • Goo Goo Dolls • U2 • Blink 182 • Fleetwood Mac • Justin Timberlake • Third Eye Blind • The Killers • Sublime • Dave Matthews Band&nbsp; • Eric Church&nbsp; • Keith Urban • The Eagles • Jimmy Eat World • Foo Fighters • The Cure • Tears For Fears • Fallout Boy • Pearl Jam • and more!
This concert will take place rain or shine.&nbsp; Rain venue is The John &amp; Nancy Hughes Theater

Local Event: Mike & Joe

Mike & Joe

Get ready for a true rock show.  Outside!
Mike & Joe deliver one of the tightest modern rock cover performances in the country....

Get ready to laugh, sing, and cheer with Sing! Follow Buster Moon, a determined koala, as he stages a singing competition to save his struggling theater. With lovable characters, familiar hits, and plenty of heart, Sing celebrates friendship, courage, and finding your voice.

Local Event: Sing

Sing

Get ready to laugh, sing, and cheer with Sing! Follow Buster Moon, a determined koala, as he stages a singing competition to...

Celebrate the new chapter of The John &amp; Nancy Hughes Theater with John Hughes’ classic The Breakfast Club in a new 4K digital restoration, featuring 50 minutes of deleted and extended scenes. Follow five high school students as Saturday detention brings them together and breaks down the stereotypes that divide them. Funny, heartfelt, and timeless, the film explores friendship, identity, and the pressures of growing up.

Local Event: The Breakfast Club

The Breakfast Club

Celebrate the new chapter of The John & Nancy Hughes Theater with John Hughes’ classic The Breakfast Club in a new 4K digital...

Get ready for hands-on fun at Squishy Lab! Kids will create and decorate their own unique squishies using colorful materials, fun textures, and creative designs. They’ll build fine motor skills and creative confidence while experimenting and having fun. All supplies are included, and everyone takes home their handmade creations!

Local Event: squishy lab

squishy lab

Get ready for hands-on fun at Squishy Lab! Kids will create and decorate their own unique squishies using colorful materials,...

Get ready for a night of nonstop laughter, music, and pure entertainment! The Buckets N Boards Comedy Percussion Show is a fast-paced, high-energy performance that combines outrageous comedy with mind-blowing musical talent. From the first beat to the final bow, this show keeps audiences laughing, clapping, and fully engaged.
To begin with, Matthew Levingston and Gareth Sever – the talented duo behind Buckets N Boards – bring unmatched charisma and chemistry to the stage. Their shared passion for rhythm, music, and comedy forms the heart of the show. However, what truly sets them apart is their ability to connect with the audience. Through hilarious improvisation and spontaneous crowd interaction, every performance becomes a unique experience.
Moreover, the show features an exciting mix of percussion, tap dancing, inventive instruments, and cleverly written songs. One moment, you’ll be watching a jaw-dropping drumming routine, and the next, you’ll be laughing at a ridiculous song or dance. In other words, it’s unpredictable, unforgettable, and unbelievably fun.

Local Event: Buckets N Boards

Buckets N Boards

Get ready for a night of nonstop laughter, music, and pure entertainment! The Buckets N Boards Comedy Percussion Show is a...

Wednesdays, September 23 - October 14Today’s high school students face intense academic, social, and college admissions pressure. Many feel they must excel at everything to be “enough,” and parents often find it difficult to support their child through the high school years. This four-session parent discussion series uses Never Enough as a framework to explore how achievement culture impacts our children’s mental health, motivation, and identity – and how we, as parents, can respond in healthier, more intentional ways. The discussions will create a supportive space for reflection, conversation, and practical strategies to help families redefine success during the high school years.
*This will be a small group, limited to 12 participants
<img src="https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Gail-Gamrath-217x300.jpg" alt="Gail Gamrath">
Gail Gamrath is a warm, experienced education professional and life coach with over 30 years in local public schools and a strong background in student services. Skilled in partnering with families, supporting the transition to high school, and strengthening agency in both students and their parents. A mom to three, she brings empathy, real-life perspective, and a student-centered approach that helps families feel confident and supported.

Local Event: Parenting Book Discussions Series

Parenting Book Discussions Series

Wednesdays, September 23 - October 14Today’s high school students face intense academic, social, and college admissions...

<h4>Healthy Heart: Eat to Protect and Even Improve Your Heart</h4>
Did you know that the vast majority of heart disease is preventable, and in many cases, its progression can be slowed or even reversed through nutrition and lifestyle? Leading physicians and researchers, including Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn and Dr. Michael Greger, have demonstrated that what we put on our plates each day has a profound impact on our cardiovascular health.
In this engaging and practical class at Gorton Center, you’ll discover how simple, evidence-based dietary changes can help lower cholesterol, reduce blood pressure, improve circulation, and support a healthier heart, without complicated meal plans or expensive specialty foods.
Together we’ll explore:
<ul><li>The foods that nourish and protect your heart</li><li>How a whole-food, plant-forward diet can reduce cardiovascular risk</li><li>Simple strategies for lowering high cholesterol and blood pressure naturally</li><li>Easy, affordable meal ideas the entire family can enjoy</li><li>Practical tips for making sustainable lifestyle changes that last</li></ul>
Whether you’re looking to prevent heart disease, improve existing heart health, or simply feel your best, you’ll leave empowered with the knowledge and confidence to make informed choices every day.
Participants will enjoy a tasting of a delicious heart-healthy dip and receive a collection of easy, budget-friendly recipes and take-home resources to help put these concepts into practice immediately.
No prior cooking or nutrition experience is necessary! Just come hungry to learn and inspired to take charge of your heart health.

Local Event: Food for Life with Thais Boddicker

Food for Life with Thais Boddicker

Healthy Heart: Eat to Protect and Even Improve Your Heart
Did you know that the vast majority of heart disease is preventable,...

Join the Physicians Committee for a transformative session focused on the power of plant-based nutrition for cardiovascular wellness. Learn how to incorporate fruits, grains, legumes, and vegetables into your daily routine to promote a healthier heart and lifestyle.

Local Event: Food For Life: Foods For A Healthy Heart

Food For Life: Foods For A Healthy Heart

Join the Physicians Committee for a transformative session focused on the power of plant-based nutrition for cardiovascular...

Manhattan Short Film Festival returns to the John &amp; Nancy Hughes Theater! Watch ten international short films from filmmakers across six continents, then vote for your favorite. Help choose the Best Film and Best Actor while enjoying 2.5 hours of fresh, global storytelling.

Local Event: Manhattan shot film

Manhattan shot film

Manhattan Short Film Festival returns to the John & Nancy Hughes Theater! Watch ten international short films from filmmakers...

Let your little artist get creative with mosaics! Kids will design and create their own colorful mosaic coaster using bright tiles, fun patterns, and creative designs. With guidance from an instructor, they’ll explore mosaic art while building fine motor skills, concentration, and confidence. Each child takes home a unique handmade coaster!

Local Event: Mosaic Coasters Workshop

Mosaic Coasters Workshop

Let your little artist get creative with mosaics! Kids will design and create their own colorful mosaic coaster using bright...

The popular Manhattan Short Film Festival returns to the John &amp; Nancy Hughes Theater at Gorton! Watch ten international short films from filmmakers across six continents, then vote for your favorite. With 10 finalists competing for Best Film and Best Actor, this 2.5-hour program celebrates fresh voices and global storytelling.

Local Event: Manhattan Short Film Festival

Manhattan Short Film Festival

The popular Manhattan Short Film Festival returns to the John & Nancy Hughes Theater at Gorton! Watch ten international short...

Local Event: Manhattan short film

Manhattan short film

Local Event: Manhattan Short Festival Film

Manhattan Short Festival Film

Sing at Gorton brings people together through the joy of music. Each event invites you to sing along to songs you know and love in a fun, welcoming setting. No experience is needed and no auditions are required. Just bring your voice, enjoy the music, and experience the energy of singing together at Gorton!

Local Event: Sing at Gorton – Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, Hello Penny Lane: An Evening of Elton, Billy and the Bea

Sing at Gorton – Goodbye Yellow Brick Road,...

Sing at Gorton brings people together through the joy of music. Each event invites you to sing along to songs you know and love...

Sing at Gorton – Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, Hello Penny Lane: An Evening of Elton, Billy and the Bea

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...

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: Young Washignton

Young Washignton

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

Leslie Lord

Rachel Barnes

Chicago Metropolitan Area

Vernon Hills

Highland Park

Eric DeGrechie

Deerfield

Amie Schaenzer

Libertyville

Buffalo Grove

Cook County

Northbrook

Grayslake

Winnetka-Glencoe

Lake Zurich

Glenview

www.northshoreplantclub.com

This is an online plant sale:&nbsp; Ending Sunday, August 30 at 7:00 pm for plants arriving by Thursday, September 3 with local plant pick up locations in your area.It's fun to bring in fall color and refresh containers outside your front door or on your patio with harvest gold, reds and purples -- plan ahead so you are ready when the seasons change and cooler weather is here.&nbsp; Order your <a href="https://northshoreplantclub.com/list?t=142&amp;all=0&amp;sort=name" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">fall favorites</a>&nbsp;like <a href="https://northshoreplantclub.com/plants?search=Chrysanthemum" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">mums</a>, <a href="https://northshoreplantclub.com/plants?search=Brassica%20oleracea" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">cabbages</a>,&nbsp;and <a href="https://northshoreplantclub.com/plants?search=Viola%20x%20wittrockiana" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">pansies</a>&nbsp;now and receive them on your choice of delivery dates in September.&nbsp; Remember - we also offer <a href="https://www.northshoreplantclub.com/browseByTag?lifespan=perennial" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">perennials,</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.northshoreplantclub.com/browseByTag?tag=Grasses" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">grasses,</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.northshoreplantclub.com/browseByTag?tag=Illinois+Native" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Illinois Natives,</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.northshoreplantclub.com/plants?search=Hydrangea" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Hydrangeas</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.northshoreplantclub.com/big-list" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">more</a>&nbsp;throughout the garden season.Free to join!&nbsp; <a href="https://northshoreplantclub.com/join/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">North Shore Plant Club</a>&nbsp;members receive&nbsp;emails&nbsp;with plant information, pro tips, and techniques as well as updates to future order windows. Plants will arrive for you to pick up at one of our locations in Bannockburn, Buffalo Grove, Deerfield, Glenview, Highland Park, Lake Bluff, Lake Forest, Libertyville, Mundelein, Naperville, Northfield, Skokie/Evanston, Wilmette and Winnetka or we offer home delivery for a fee.<a href="https://northshoreplantclub.com/join/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">North Shore Plant Club</a>&nbsp;was started by neighbors who wanted an affordable way to access great plants for their garden. We order in season perennials, shrubs, groundcover&nbsp;and annuals all summer long, so <a href="https://northshoreplantclub.com/join/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">join for free</a>&nbsp;and you’ll be able to get great plants for your garden too!

Local Event: Fall mums and more in beautiful colors for the season

Skokie

Fall mums and more in beautiful colors for the...

This is an online plant sale:  Ending Sunday, August 30 at 7:00 pm for plants arriving by Thursday, September 3 with local...

Fall mums and more in beautiful colors for the season

Renaissance Chicago North Shore Hotel

<h2>An Evening of Comedy and Connection</h2>
Enjoy an evening of cocktails, small plates, and laughter with comedian Kellen Erskine, hosted by emcee Marc “Silvy” Silverman, as we recognize Kim Matthews with the Extraordinary Contribution Award.&nbsp;

Your generosity helps change the lives of everyone a cancer diagnosis touches – patients, caregivers and families throughout Northern Illinois. Celebrate our honoree and community by making a gift, attending the Benefit, or placing a tribute ad to honor someone special.

Local Event: Cancer Wellness Center - Better Together Benefit 2026

Cancer Wellness Center - Better Together...

An Evening of Comedy and Connection
Enjoy an evening of cocktails, small plates, and laughter with comedian Kellen Erskine,...

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Posting Activity

Salute in Song: Navy Band Great Lakes

AUG

30

4:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

EPiC: Elvis Presley in Concert

SEP

4

7:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

The Brothers Doobie

SEP

6

7:30 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Art Impact Project: Fantasy Collage

SEP

8

6:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Mike & Joe

SEP

11

7:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Sing

SEP

12

4:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

The Breakfast Club

SEP

13

4:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

squishy lab

SEP

19

9:00 AM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Buckets N Boards

SEP

19

2:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Parenting Book Discussions Series

SEP

23

9:30 AM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Food for Life with Thais Boddicker

SEP

24

7:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Food For Life: Foods For A Healthy Heart

SEP

24

7:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Manhattan shot film

SEP

26

9:00 AM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Mosaic Coasters Workshop

SEP

26

10:00 AM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Manhattan Short Film Festival

SEP

26

3:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Manhattan short film