Special Music Events
An evening with Emmanuel di Villarosa Fri., Dec. 8, 7:30pm. The world-renowned tenor will present popular arias, Christmas favorites and other selections. Formal attire is encouraged. Hors d'oeuvres and drinks are included. Suggested donation of $25 per person or $40 per couple. The Pharmacy Gallery and Art Space, 623 E. Adams St., 801-810-9278.
Holiday Pops in the Heartland Fri., Dec. 15, 7:30pm. Presented by the Illinois Symphony Orchestra and led by four distinguished guest conductors vying to become the ISO's next music director. Wonderful entertainment for the holiday season. uispac.com. $22-$66. Students $10. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
Abbey Road's Christmas with the Beatles Sun., Dec. 17, 7-9pm. This Beatles tribute act gives attention to every detail of the iconic band's performance — Liverpudlian dialects, vintage instruments and spot-on costumes. Then they present the top hits of the Beatles along with some great holiday tunes. uispac.com. $ 28.50 - $78.50. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
Brown Bag Concert Series Wednesdays, 12:15-12:45pm. Through Dec. 27. Enjoy a free concert during the lunch hour. Bring your own lunch or purchase a brown bag lunch for $5. Free. First Presbyterian Church, 321 S. Seventh St., 217-528-4311.
Chicago Farmer Wed., Nov. 22, 8-10pm. From a small-town farming community, Cody Diekhoff logged plenty of highway and stage time under the name Chicago Farmer before settling in the city in 2003. Profoundly inspired by fellow Midwesterner, John Prine, he's a working-class folk musician. Jon-Mark Robb will open the evening. broadgauge.com. $20. Broadgauge, Petersburg, 101 North 7th St., 217-386-5669.
Christmas Charity Concert Sat., Dec. 16, 7-8:15pm. Ring in the holiday season with special guest performers. Featuring the cast of Holiday Inn, radio personality Jim Leach, the 2023 Miss Illinois Festival Queen, the Rochester High School cast of Back To The 80's and many more local artists. Donations welcome. Third Presbyterian Church, 1030 N. Seventh St., 217-528-0457.
Dual Piano Christmas Dec. 15-16, 7pm and Sun., Dec. 17, 2pm. Damien Kaplan and Mark Gifford, a duo that has been called "Improvisational and strategically comedic," are back for more mischief and music. hcfta.org. $18-$20. Hoogland Center for the Arts LRS Theatre 1, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.
It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year Dec. 1-2, 7pm. Enjoy an evening of Christmas music presented by the Land of Lincoln Chorus, along with local barbershop quartets. hcfta.org. $18. Seniors and students receive discounts. Hoogland Center for the Arts Peggy Ryder Theatre, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.
Live string quartet performance Sat., Dec. 2, 1pm. Musicians will perform pieces written by Randy Erwin in the Illinois Gallery while visitors explore the "Here I Have Lived" exhibition. presidentlincoln.illinois.gov. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, 212 N. Sixth St., 217-558-8844.
LLCC Fall Choir Concert Fri., Dec. 1, 1, 7pm. Lincoln Land Community College Choir presents a concert themed "Homeward." llcc.edu. Free. A. Lincoln Commons, 5250 Shepherd Road, 217-473-0891.
The Prophecy Show Thu., Dec. 21, 7:30pm. A tribute to the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. This St. Louis powerhouse, performing in the style of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, will bring its signature and highly-energized rock opera back to create an extravagant holiday musical production. uispac.com. $39-$85. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
Sinatra and Friends Christmas Show Fri., Dec. 22, 7pm and Sat., Dec. 23, 2pm. Starring Robbie Howard, a world-renowned impersonator and tribute artist. Hear Dean Martin, Randy Travis, Andy Williams, Burl Ives and more. Students $28, adults $32 and seniors $30. hcfta.org. Hoogland Center for the Arts, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.
Sizzling Strings Fri., Dec. 1, 7-9pm. Listen to the Chamber Orchestra of the Illinois Symphony Orchestra in this performance led by conductor Naomi Woo and featuring violinist Roy Meyer. Stick around for Coda Conversations after the performance. ilsymphony.org. $26, students (age 24 and younger) $10. First Presbyterian Church, 321 S. Seventh St., 217-522-2838.
Thanks for the Holidays Sun., Nov. 26, 2-3:30pm. Presented by Sound Celebration Chorus and Chorus Quartets and Chorus Ensemble, with special guests the Pleasant Plains High School Madrigal Singers and a trombone quartet, Slidin' By. Goodwill offerings for Springfield-area micro food pantries welcome. soundcelebrationchorus.org. Free. St. John's Lutheran Church, 2477 W. Washington St., 217-725-0754.
Unto Us a Child is Born Sat., Dec. 9, 7:30pm. A performance by the Springfield Choral Society including Handel's Messiah, Part One, Bach's Magnificat and other selections. A percentage of the proceeds benefit The Matthew Project. $20. Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 524 E. Lawrence Ave., 217-522-3342.
Theater & Comedy
Cirque Dreams Holidaze Tue., Dec. 12, 7pm. This brilliant and whimsical family holiday spectacular wraps a Broadway-style production around an infusion of contemporary circus arts. Watch as a fantastical cast of holiday storybook characters come to life on stage. Includes an original musical score and twists on holiday classics sung live. uispac.com. $25-$102. UIS Performing Arts Center, One University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
Holiday Inn Dec. 1-2, 7:30pm, Sun., Dec. 3, 2pm, Dec. 8-9, 7:30pm and Sun., Dec. 10, 2pm. An favorite from Irving Berlin. This joyous musical features thrilling dance numbers, laugh-out-loud comedy and a parade of Berlin hit songs. hcfta.org. $18-$20. Hoogland Center for the Arts LRS Theatre 1, 420 S. Sixth St., 217-523-2787.
The Lalas, Burlesque Fri., Dec. 8, 8pm. The Lalas, the best in burlesque. Show features classic rock and blues music, perfectly choreographed dance moves, and so much fringe you'll wonder how they got it all on the plane. dfv-wines.com. $25. Danenberger Family Vineyards, New Berlin, 12341 Irish Road, 217-488-6321.
Dance
The Nutcracker Dec. 2-3, 2-4pm. Presented by the Copper Coin Ballet Company with more than 100 local dancers. This timeless holiday classic has enchanted audiences for generations. Experience Clara's magical dream, and create beautiful holiday memories for the young and young-at-heart. uispac.com. $42-$50. Sangamon Auditorium, UIS, 1 University Plaza, 217-206-6160.
The Nutcracker Ballet Sat., Dec. 2pm, 2-3, 6-7pm and Sun., Dec. 3, 2-3pm. This fast-paced, family friendly adaptation of the holiday classic is performed by dancers from the Springfield Youth Performance Group Studio Company, Preparatory Company and local young dancers, including cast members from Boys and Girls Clubs. Call for ticket info. sypgfoundation.org. $15-25. Sacred Heart-Griffin High School, 1200 W. Washington, 217-553-4475.
Art & Architecture
Call for participants - Art After Hours Dec. 2-20. Participants sought for this biennial workers' art exhibit. The program gives employers of businesses, government agencies and medical and educational institutions a chance to show their creativity and accomplishments outside work. Call the Springfield Area Arts Council for info. springfieldartsco.org. M.G. Nelson Family Gallery, 700 N. Fourth St., 217-753-3519.
Senior Crafty Creations First Wednesday of every month, 10:30-11:30am. Through March 6. A series of casual craft meetups for seniors on the first Wednesday of each month. Connect, create and relax with other people in an easygoing environment. All supplies provided. To help with supplies, consider donating $5 per session. Free. Ball-Chatham Senior Center, Chatham, 111 W. Mulberry St., 217-483-2713.
Watch and Clock Show and Sale Sat., Dec. 2, 11am-2pm. This show provides a great opportunity to buy, sell or simply look and learn about mechanical clocks and watches. Have a clock, wristwatch or pocket watch and want to learn more about it or sell it? Bring it along. Sponsored by The Route 66 Watch & Clock Club. See the Facebook page for more info. Free. Knights of Columbus Casey's Pub, 2200 S. Meadowbrook Road, 309-643-5241.
Film & Television
Christmas Classics Dec. 15-16, 7pm. Bring the whole family for these timeless classics. Friday showing It's a Wonderful Life and Saturday showing Irving Berlin's White Christmas. $10 at the door or $5 with a food bank donation. Doors and bar open at 6pm. The Legacy Theatre, 101 E. Lawrence, 800-838-3006.
Auditions
Auditions for drama, comedy Fri. and Sat., Dec. 1 and 2. Become a part of a new and original theatrical experience. Have You Scene It Productions will be holding auditions for a comedy and drama. Performances dates are April 12-13. Call for details. Grant Conservatory of Music and Dance, 501 W. Elliott Ave., 217-553-8282.
Food & Drink
Mark Twain Holiday Tea Sat., Dec. 9, 1pm. Learn about popular tea customs while participating in a special program focused on Mark Twain. Includes tea, tea foods, gifts and original programming. edwardsplace.org. $50. Edwards Place, Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., 217-523-2631.
Holly Fair and Bake Sale Sat., Dec. 2, 10am-3pm. A delicious annual holiday tradition. Gyros, vegetable soup, baklava, spinach pie and pastries. Eat in or take out. St. Anthony's Hellenic Orthodox Church, 1600 S. Glenwood Ave., 217-522-7010.
History
What Was Ours film screening
Tue., Nov. 28, 6-8pm. Learn more about repatriation as the documentary What Was Ours follows members of the Arapaho Tribe as they navigate the return of their sacred and cultural items from the Chicago Field Museum. A Q&A session with Heather Miller will follow the film. [email protected]. Free. Illinois State Museum, 502 S. Spring St., 217-782-5992.
Christmas at the Front
Sat., Dec. 9, 2-8pm. Learn how soldiers of the past celebrated Christmas on the front. The Soldiers Aid Society will be on hand to show how they helped soldiers during the Civil War, not only at Christmas, but year round. The living history detachment will be on hand to answer questions. Illinois State Military Museum, 1301 N. MacArthur Blvd., 217-761-3910.
Faith & Philosophy
1850s Community Carol Sing Sat., Dec. 16, 6-7:30pm. Travel back in time to the 1850s this Christmas season, and join Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln for special music, worship and a carol sing. The Lincolns will greet visitors, and everyone is invited to attend in period costumes. lincolnschurch.org. First Presbyterian Church, 321 S. Seventh St., 217-528-4311.
Candle-Lighting Service
Sun., Dec. 17, 6-7pm. Reawaken the Christ light within. Music, singing and fellowship. unityofspringfieldil.org. Love offering. Unity of Springfield, 417 Cordelia, 217-523-5897.
Christmas Eve Service Sun., Dec. 24, 5pm. First Presbyterian Church, 321 S. Seventh St., 217-528-4311.
Christmas with Hope Church Sat., Dec. 23, 7-8pm and Sun., Dec. 24, 11am-12pm, 1-2pm, 3-4pm. We see different pictures in different seasons of our life. This holiday season we consider our different frames for Christmas and share the most wonderful time of the year. Children's programming both days for kids up to fifth grade. ASL interpreter provided at Saturday's 11am program. myhope.church. Hope Church, 3000 Lenhart Road, 217-787-1446.
Comedy concert with Greg Tamblyn
Sun., Dec. 10, 12-1:30pm. Get a healthy dose of conscious comic relief and enjoy some hilarious, heartfelt musical musings and mindful mischief. Greg Tamblyn's songs and stories impart empowering life messages and spiritual insights through the right-brain doorway of music and laughter. $20. Unity of Springfield, 417 Cordelia, 217-523-5897.
Labyrinth Walk Mon., Nov. 27, 6-8:30pm. This walking meditation is a unique spiritual experience. aluuc.org. Free. Abraham Lincoln Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 745 Woodside Road, 217-801-2698.
Christmas at Calvary Sun., Dec. 10, 6pm. A night of celebrating the birth of the Savior through songs of praise, worship and rejoicing. Calvary Church Hazel Dell Campus, 501 W. Hazel Dell Road, 217-546-9700.
Christmas at West Side Fri., Dec. 22, 5pm and 7pm, Sat. and Sun., Dec. 23 and 24, 1pm, 3pm and 5pm. A starting point for people to discover how much the birth of Jesus matters for them. West Side Christian Church, 2850 Cider Mill Lane, 793-2800.
Christmas Cantata Sun., Dec. 10, 10:30am. Enjoy beautiful Christmas music performed by the New Life Choir and a full orchestra under the direction of Dr. See Tsai Chan. Springfield First United Methodist Church, 2941 S. Koke Mill Road, 217-793-9760.
Holiday Observances
Vietnam Christmas Remembrance Sat., Dec. 2, 1pm. Honor and remember the Illinoisans listed as prisoners of war or missing in action (POW/MIA) during the Vietnam War. The names of the soldiers will be read. Families and friends are welcome to hang their weatherproof ornaments on the tree. dnrhistoric.illinois.gov. Illinois Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Oak Ridge Cemetery.
Wreaths Across America Sat., Dec. 16, 11-12am. A part of wreath-laying ceremonies conducted across the country at the same time as the ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery. Wreaths Across America is a nonprofit organization supported by volunteers and wreath sponsors. This year's theme is "Serve and Succeed." Free to attend. Camp Butler National Cemtery, 5063 Camp Butler Rd, (217) 492-4070.
Holiday Happenings
Thee Office Christmas Party Sat., Dec. 16, 6:30pm. The Office Christmas Party for All. Includes hors d'oeuvres, ugly sweater contest, games, photo booth, pictures with Santa, food truck, white elephant gift exchange and more. Launch event of The Culture Experience LLC. Partygoers must register at thecultureexperience.com.
Alternative Holiday Fair Fri., Dec. 1, 4-8pm, Sat., Dec. 2, 9am-2pm. Shop fair trade goods, enjoy a meal and learn about local and national nonprofits. Items for sale include toys, jewelry, housewares, scarves, ornaments, bake sale and more. Call for more information. First Church of the Brethren, 2115 Yale Blvd. 217-685-1610.
Candlelight Christmas Fri., Dec. 8, 5-9pm and Sat., Dec. 9, 3:30-9pm. Experience the sights and scents of Christmases long ago in the candlelit historical buildings. If you catch a chill from the nippy weather, warm up by the crackling fire in the stone fireplace. Clayville Historic Site, Pleasant Plains, Route 125, 217-481-4430.
Caroling at the Carillon and Jingle Bells Spectacular Sun., Dec. 10, 3-5:30pm. Gather around a roaring bonfire and sing Christmas carols accompanied by the Carillon. The Trinity Wind Ensemble, under the direction of Jan Zepp, will provide musical interludes. Free. Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-3853.
Christmas at Sugar Creek Sat., Nov. 25, 10am-3pm. A holiday tradition. Fifty vendors, used book sale, bake sale and one-stop holiday shopping. Free admission. Non-perishable food items welcome for the local food pantry. Free admission. Sugar Creek United Methodist Church, Chatham, 1022 New City Road, 217-725-4359.
Christmas Market Sat., Dec. 2, 10am-5pm. Find unique gifts not found at the Big Box stores. Includes photos with the Grinch, musical performances, make-and-take kid crafts, and gingerbread cookie decorating. See the Facebook page for more info. $5 or $11 for ages 3-12. Brinkerhoff Mansion, 1500 N. 5th St., 217-361-5555.
Christmas tree lighting. Sat., Nov. 25, 4pm. Kick off the holiday shopping season in downtown on Small Business Saturday with the annual lighting of the Christmas tree. downtownspringfield.org. Free. Old State Capitol Plaza, between Sixth and Fifth streets at Adams, 217-544-1723.
Christmas with Santa Sat., Dec. 2, 10am-2pm. Clayville Historic Site, Pleasant Plains, Route 125, 217-481-4430.
First Night Springfield Sun., Dec. 31. An annual celebration of the arts with live music, dance and art exhibits at various downtown venues. A family-friendly, handicapped-accessible and affordable event. Snacks available for purchase. $20, children $5. Hosted by the Springfield Area Arts Council. Downtown Springfield. 217-544-1723.
Happy HoliGays Sat., Dec. 9, 9am-3pm. A local LGBTQ+ artisan open house. Visit with some favorite local creators, decorate cookies and get some Christmas goodies. Vendors, make and take ornaments and cocoa and cider bar. OUT on Second, Springifeld, 120 E. Scarritt St., 217-528-5253.
Holiday Arts and Crafts Fair Fri., Dec. 8, 5-8pm and Sat., Dec. 9, 9am-3pm. Unique gifts, beautiful art and crafts, and all items are handcrafted by local artisans. aluuc.org. Free admission. Abraham Lincoln Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 745 Woodside Road, 217-585-9550.
Holiday Craft Fair Fri., Dec. 1, 10am-3pm. Sewn, knitted, crocheted and woven items, pottery, gift baskets, bead work, Christmas decorations and more, plus baked good. Cash or checks only. Jubilee Farm, 6760 Old Jacksonville Road, 217-787-6927.
Holiday Embroidery Sat., Dec. 2, 9am-12pm. Create small embroidered objects appropriate for the winter holidays and gift-giving. edwardsplace.org. $25 members; $35 others. Edwards Place, Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., 217-523-2631.
Holiday Lights Parade Sat., Dec. 2, 5:30pm. Begins at dusk. A dazzling event for the season with a possible sighting of the jolly old elf himself. Hosted by the Springfield Jaycees. Starts west on Jefferson Street to Fifth Street to Monroe Street to Sixth Street and ends at Washington Street. Free. Downtown Springfield, Downtown, 217-544-1723.
Holiday Open House Sat., Dec. 2, 1-4pm. See Edwards Place decked out in holiday finery, listen to Christmas songs played on a piano that Lincoln once listened to and visit with Santa who will be dressed in his Civil War era Christmas attire. Refreshments served. edwardsplace.org. Free. Edwards Place, Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., 217-523-2631.
Holiday Tours Experience the beautiful holiday decorations at the Illinois Governor's Mansion with a 30-minute tour. eventbrite.com. Free. Illinois Governor's Mansion, 410 E. Jackson St., 217-210-1020.
Holiday tree lighting ceremony Fri., Nov. 24, 5-5:30pm. Watch a short parade down Plaza Drive followed by the lighting of the beautiful trees in the Plaza. Merchants will be open offering great merchandise for the holidays. bunngourmet.com. Free. Pease's at BUNN Gourmet, 2941 Plaza Dr., 217-971-3996.
Holiday Zoo Lights Thursday through Sunday, 5-9pm through Dec. 17, then daily through Dec. 23. Take a stroll through the zoo and enjoy thousands of lights and themed lighted displays, stopping at the photo opportunities for your holiday pics. Enjoy the Zoo Choo Express hot chocolate bar or roast a marshmallow over the fire pit. Henson Robinson Zoo, 1100 E. Lake Shore Dr., 217-585-1821.
Jacksonville Festival of Lights Nov. 24-Dec. 31, 5-9pm. This magnificent drive-thru experience will be the festive highlight of the holiday season. Food pantry donations accepted. $10 per car. Morgan County Fairgrounds, Jacksonville, 110 N. Westgate, 217-245-5119.
Jubilee Farm Holiday Craft Fair Fri., Dec. 1 through Sun., Dec. 3, 10am-3pm. Holiday craft fair with baked goods. Free gifts for those who bring their own bag. jubileefarm.info. No entrance fee. Jubilee Farm, 6760 Old Jacksonville Road, 217-787-6927.
Local Small Business Holiday Market Sat., Nov. 25, 9am-4pm. Support local independent businesses and causes from across the state and shop small at this annual holiday market. Besides vendors, it includes Santa, Bluey, gift wrapping, excerpts of The Nutcracker by the Springfield Youth Performance Group, salsa dancing and an American Business Club Amtryke giveaway. illinoislocal.org. $3. Illinois State Fairgrounds Exposition Building, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-391-4302.
New Year's Eve Masquerade Party Fri., Dec. 29, 11:15am. Sparkling juice, appetizers, masquerade mask, and live music by Curt Smith. centralILseniors.org. Senior Services of Central Illinois, 701 W. Mason St., 217-528-4035.
Small Business Saturday and Holiday Walks Kickoff Sat., Nov. 25. Many of the unique and charming downtown businesses will be open with extended hours and holiday specials. See the tree lighting at 4pm at the corner of Fifth and Adams Street. Holly, The Lighted Bus will be there along with Santa, and Abe and Mary Lincoln. Downtown Springfield, Downtown, 217-544-1723.
Springfield Holiday Extravaganza Winter Show Sun., Dec. 10, 11am-6pm. Family-friendly holiday craft fair with over 100 vendors, live entertainment, an old-fashioned cake walk, visits with Santa, concessions and more. Orr Building, Illinois State Fairgrounds, 801 Sangamon Ave., 217-725-8047.
Villa DeWolf Christmas Open House Sat., Dec. 2, 2-5pm. Enjoy an afternoon of conversation, music and visits by Gus and Annie Ayers and family, and Mr. Lincoln. Music provided by pianist Tim Chipman, refreshments and tours.. Adults $15, children $5. Villa DeWolf, Jacksonville, 876 W. State St., 707-349-7790.
Winter Centerpiece Workshop Sat., Dec. 9, 9-10:30am, 12:30-2pm. Construct a winter centerpiece for your table, made with fresh evergreens and colorful blooms. springfieldparks.org. $50-$55. Washington Park Botanical Garden, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-4116.
Winter Nights at the Museum Wednesdays, Saturdays, 4-7pm. Through Dec. 23. The museum is joining in the Holiday Walks with dance selections from The Nutcracker by the Copper Coin Ballet Company, and winter-themed arts and crafts for kids in the Winter Wonder Workshop. in Lincoln's Cafe. presidentlincoln.illinois.gov. Free. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, 212 N. Sixth St., 217-558-8844.
Fundraisers and Galas
Giving Tree Fundraiser Friday, Nov. 24 through Sunday, Dec. 31. Help animals at the Animal Protective League of Springfield by visiting participating businesses and selecting an ornament off a displayed tree. Each ornament features an item needed by the APL. Buy the item and place it in the donation bin at the business or bring it to the APL. See the website for a list of businesses. apl-shelter-org. Animal Protective League, 1001 Taintor Road, 217-544-7387.
Springfield Urban League 97th Anniversary Dinner Fri., Dec. 1, 5:30-9:30pm. "Empowering Communities: Building Strength, Equity, and Opportunity." Acclaimed filmmaker Ryan Coogler will be the keynote speaker. Social hour at 5:30pm, dinner and program at 6:30pm, followed by entertainment and a reception. springfieldul.org. $75 per person, tables $800. Crowne Plaza Springfield, 3000 S. Dirksen Pkwy., 217-789-0830 ext. 1100.
Children's Corner
Junior and Senior Naturalists First Saturday of every month.. Through Dec. 2. A hands-on nature exploration program . At each session participants will learn about a different nature topic, make a craft and enjoy outdoor play and exploration. Junior naturalists ages 5-8 meet 10am-12pm. Senior naturalists ages 9-12 meet 1-3pm. lincolnmemorialgarden.org. $15. Lincoln Memorial Garden, 2301 E. Lake Shore Dr., 217-529-1111.
Little Lincoln's Fireside Tales: Thank You Tue., Nov. 28, 10-11am. Join the ALPLM's Education Team as it shares stories and activities to express its gratitude and learn the magic words, "Thank You." Can't make it in person? Check out the virtual option via Zoom at 9am, Thursday, Nov. 30. presidentlincoln.illinois.gov. Free. Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library, 112 N. Sixth St., 217-558-8844.
Meet St. Nicholas, the real Santa Sat., Dec. 9, 2:30-5:30pm. Join in the fun and excitement. Get a photo with St. Nicholas, enjoy a hot chocolate, take home a coloring book and candy. Free. Cathedral Church of St. Paul, 815 S. Second St., 217-544-5135.
Mission Day Sat., Dec. 2, 11am-2:30pm. Board games for kids ages 4-16. All kids receive a gift. Winners of game tournaments receive a special prize. Adult volunteers to supervise games are welcome. Parents asked to bring store-bought cookies only. Sponsored by the Freedom in Holiness Mission. Free. Lincoln Library, 326 S. Seventh St., 217-753-4900.
The Polar Express Pajama Party Sat., Nov. 25, 1, 6pm and Sun., Nov. 26, 1pm. Be greeted by conductors, and welcomed to the cocoa party by dining car servers. Young travelers will also enjoy crafting and cocoa before continuing on to a special screening of the film. A photo with a special holiday guest is included. atthelegacy.com. $15 advance; $20 day of show. The Legacy Theatre, 101 E. Lawrence, 800-838-3006.
Sensory-Friendly Visit Times First Sunday of every month, 9-11am. Through Dec. 1. Lights and noises are turned down to make the museum more comfortable for visitors with sensory differences so they can explore and discover the galleries at their own pace. Headphones are available for loan at the admissions desk. kidzeum.org. Admission. Kidzeum of Health and Science Children's Museum, 412 E. Adams St., 217-971-4435.
Tiny Adventurers First Wednesday of every month, 10-11am, 1-2pm. Through Dec. 6. A nature exploration program for children ages 3 to 5 with an adult chaperone. Participants will learn about a nature topic, make a craft and enjoy a story. lincolnmemorialgarden.org. Free. Lincoln Memorial Garden, 2301 E. Lake Shore Dr., 217-529-1111.
Treat Tree Workshop Thu., Dec. 21, 9-11am. Get messy and make wildlife-friendly ornaments for your trees. Participants ages 5-9 will make different kinds of edibles out of birdseed, spices,and fruits. springfieldparks.org. $35-$40. Washington Park Botanical Garden, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-4116.
Nature, Science & Environment
Winter Holiday Floral Show Dec. 2-20. Monday-Friday 12-4pm, Saturday and Sunday 12-5pm. Enjoy over 500 poinsettias nestled among the decorated fresh evergreens and lush tropical foliage. Free. Washington Park Botanical Garden, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-4116.
Fresh Evergreen Wreath Making Workshop Sat., Dec. 2, 9am-12pm or 1:30-4:30pm. Bring pruning shears and any custom decorations for your wreaths. Plant materials, wreath frames and wire will be provided. Pre-registration and pre-payment are required. $50-$55. Washington Park Botanical Garden, 1740 W. Fayette Ave., 217-546-4116.
Springfield Civic Garden Club Mon., Dec. 4, 9:30am. Four club members, who also are floral designers, will share their favorite seasonal floral arrangements and give arranging tips. Includes raffle of the arrangements. Visitors are welcome. For more info, call or visit the Facebook page. Free. Westminster Presbyterian Church, 533 S. Walnut St., 217-899-3283.
Lectures & Meetings
Inner City Older Neighborhoods meeting Mon., Nov. 27, 5:30-7pm. The annual ICON meeting and Good Neighbor Awards. Open to the public. Includes dinner and cash bar. Dinner is free for members. Membership dues are $20. Call to make reservations. $25. Maldaner's Restaurant & Catering, 222 S. Sixth St., 217-218-9465.
Working Toward Systemic Equity with Courageous Vulnerability Wed., Nov. 29, 6-7:30pm. Joe F. Bozeman III, assistant professor of civil and environmental engineering at Georgia Tech, will introduce the Systemic Equity Framework and its application in civil and environmental engineering research, offering guidance on achieving equitable outcomes through courageously vulnerable actions. uis.edu. Free. UIS Brookens Auditorium, One University Plaza, 217-206-6245.
Bulletin Board
Annual Food Drive Sat., Dec. 2, 9am-12pm. Presented by the AAUW Springfield Branch and Junior League of Springfield, Inc. to benefit the Central Illinois Food Bank, Springfield area micro pantries, Springfield Immigrant Advocacy Network, and UIS Cares Food Pantry. Food, household items, personal care items and monetary donations are welcome. Prevention First, Inc., 2800 Montvale Dr., 217-793-7353.
Illinois Product Holiday Market Fri., Dec. 1, 9am-4pm, Sat., Dec. 2, 11am-6pm and Sun., Dec. 3, 11am-4pm. Enjoy seasonal shopping at an outdoor market decked out for the holidays. Browse the vendors under festive twinkling lights. Live music, ready-to-eat food, Illinois Wine tent, prize giveaways and children's activities. Y Block, north of the Governor's Mansion, 217-782-2172.
