2016 Winter Guide: Walking in a Lake County Winter Wonderland
By: Jonathan Jones 01/13/2016
"What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness," said John Steinbeck, writer of books like Of Mice and Men and Grapes of Wrath.
Let it snow, let it snow let it snow. When it's cold outside, all we want to do is play: slide at lightening speed
down a slope, get a work out with the brisk air or partake in some snowy, icy festivities.
Lake County is so rich with arts, culture and history, so the brisk air won't have to necessarily be making your cheeks rosey. There are indoor activities that are just exceptional as building a snowman (or snow lady) in a winter wonderland.
Check out Lake County's Winter Wonderland. Here is the complete guide to Lake County this winter.
Winter Festivals and Annual Events in Lake County
Lake County has your weekends set up for the next three months. Lake County also has these festivals and events rapidly approaching.
January
Vernon Hills' Winter Fest
Saturday, January 16; 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
This event is held outdoors in Century Park North near the sled hill. Enjoy sled dog demonstrations, a live ice sculpting show, campfire, ice skating and sledding plus concessions in the Pavilion.
2016 Art Fest Boot Camp "How to Apply to Art Festivals" @ Art Center Highland Park Saturday, January 16; noon-2 p.m.
A special FREE admission Workshop that will cover key topics for Artist’s success in applying to art festivals. Amy Amdur, of Amdur Productions will be the featured speaker. Amy is the producer of more than twenty annual fine art festivals across the country. Amy will lead an overview session where she will discuss where to start as a brand new artist, picking a show to exhibit, how to speak about the art and much more.
Parkway by the Lake Bridal Show @ Parkway by the Lake Sunday, January 17; Noon - 3 p.m.
Getting married? Come out and prepare for that special day. Meet with vendors, sample food and wedding cakes, register to win a honeymoon vacation in Mexico and much more.
The Royal Princess Daddy Ball Saturday, January 23; 5-8 p.m.
The Grayslake Community Park District will be holding a Royal Princess Daddy Ball. The ball will include a dinner and an evening of dancing. Bring that special little girl for an evening of fun. Register today
Zurko Antique and Flea Market @ Lake County Fairgrounds Saturday -Sunday Jan 23-24; Sat 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Sun 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
For 45 years, Zurko Promotions has been bringing quality antique shows and flea markets to the Midwest. This event will offer a variety of antiques and collectibles, including country furniture, estate jewelry, Victoriana, postcards, art glass and porcelains, advertising items, old toys, vintage clothing and linens, coins, decorator items, paintings, primitives, treasures, and much, much more.
Pajama Extravaganza at Viking Park Friday, January 15; 6-8 pm
Grab your fleece, slippers; favorite stuffed animal and footy pajamas, because Gurnee is throwing a story, craft and activities event. The theme of this event for children four to eight years old is from the late author/illustrator Maurice Sendak who wrote Where the Wild Things Are. Snuggle up with your blanky as Pajama Extravaganza ends with movie and popcorn.
Antioch's Winter Wine Walk Saturday, January 23; 1-4:30 pm
Winter Wine Walk is a wine tasting event that will be held in various location of Downtown Antioch. The Wine Walks are for those 21 and older who are looking to try some great wine, food, and the opportunity to make new friends. The cost of this event is $40 per person, which includes a commemorative wine glass, event menu, food, bottle of wine, and free drawing prizes. Tickets go on sale December 3.
Gurnee's Frosty Fest
Saturday January 23; 10:30 - 1 p.m.
Don't miss this unforgettable day of winter family fun. Event will include ice sculpting, with interactive play and ice carving demonstrations on-site, horse-drawn carriage rides, dog sled demonstrations and meet the team, snowshoeing on the 10th hole, sledding and snow play fun, free s’mores and hot cocoa and festive winter games. Bundle up and make memories with us. Activities subject to change based on weather conditions. No registration required.
LVVA Seventh Annual Fishing Derby 
Saturday, January 30; 7 am Top of the morning! There's nothing like waking up to the brisk air and putting up a fight against some Lake County winter fish like bass, crappie, blue gill or perch fish. This tradition of the fishing derby has been going on for over a half decade, and it's becoming a staple in Wauconda. Prizes will be awarded to the largest fish in each category!
February
56th Annual Chain O' Lakes Fishing Derby and Winter Festival Saturday-Sunday, Feb 13-14; Sat 8 a.m. - 4 p.m., Sun 7 a.m. 2 p.m.
Bring the family and friends to enjoy the good old-fashioned winter fun. There will be raffles and games for the children and adults both days. Weather permitting. This year fish judging and food will be inside the tent. Come watch the fishermen register their catch of the hour hoping to win a prize for the smallest or the largest fish. When you get hungry there's plenty of good food at the Conservation Café. Don't forget the children's auction held on Sunday at 3:00pm. The adult auction is next followed by the main raffle. There will also be Ice Shanty Contest. The event takes place at Thirsty Beach next to the Thirsty Turtle on Channel Lake.
Fat Tuesday Celebration Key Lime Cove Tuesday, February 17
Celebrate Key Lime Cove with a little Creole experience at Key Lime Cove in Gurnee! You may not be able to get down the Big Easy and hear that authentic traditional Dixie Land jazz, but this Fat Tuesday celebration can do you one better. 
This celebration includes the Banjo Buddies Dixieland Quartet and the Strolling Magic Show at 5:30 pm. The kids can have grand ole time from 6-8 pm where they can be entertained with face painting, stilt walkers a mime and a juggling show.
What Mardi Gras celebration would it be without a parade. That's right; the Sunset Festival Mardi Gras Parade will begin at 8 with King Cake to follow immediately. Get out there and Cut a rug at the Energy Productions Dance Party from 9-11 pm. Let's not forget you can take a dip in the Gulf...or pool if you're interested as well!
Waukegan's Annual Mardi Gras Casino Night Saturday, February 6; 6-11pm
Save the date. Come out and enjoy the Annual Mardi Gras Silent Auction and Casino night. In keeping with the Mardi Gras Krewe tradition, this event features a Vegas-style casino, cash raffle, a live Jazz band, dancing, photos, tarot card readings and a delicious dinner. Please visit the website for more information.
33rd Annual Profiles in Excellence @ the Greenbelt Cultural Center Sunday Feb 7; 3-5 p.m.
Join us for an inspiring afternoon in honor of black history at the 33rd annual Profiles in Excellence. This year we will look at the tremendous role that African American youth have played throughout history, from the time of slavery until today. This is an educational, entertaining and family-friendly event.
8th Annual Vintage Snowmobile Ride & Show @ Cook Park 
Sunday, Feb 7; 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Celebrating 48 years of Snowmobiling History! Come out for the 8th Annual Vintage Snowmobile Ride & Show. Registration begins at 9:45am, entry fee is $3 donation per sled (max $10), ride only if conditions permit, food and beverages available, snow or no snow and everyone is welcome to come and have fun!
Enchanted Evening With Gurnee Park Disctict @ Hunts Club Community Center Saturday, Feb 20; 6:30-9 p.m.
Anna, Else, Cinderella, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, Tiana, Rapunzel, Belle and Prince Charming invite you to a magical evening! Dress in the finest clothes (and bring a special adult along) to enjoy dinner, dancing and Photo Booth fun with the family. All registrations must be in prior to February 13 or until full. Ages 2-12 with an adult. Non-residents $15.00 per person.
Let's Wine About Winter in Downtown Libertyville Saturday, Feb 20; 1-4 p.m.
Stroll through historic downtown Libertyville with MainStreet merchants opening their doors to warm the toes with tasty wines at each stop along the way. Refreshments also provided. A limited number of glasses will be sold. Each $30 ticket includes a tasting glass, unlimited tastings, and a $10 merchant coupon redeemable at participating stores.
Hawthorn Woods' Winter Carnival Saturday Feb 20; 1-4 p.m.
It is time to make plans to shake loose from being cooped up inside and get out and enjoy Community Park for a spectacular fun family evening. There is no reason to wait for spring. The afternoon will be complete with refreshments, entertainment, music, snowman building contest, games, sledding, and old fashioned wagon rides. This promises to be a spectacular afternoon for the whole family. This is sure to be a cozy night to make some family memories that will last a lifetime.
The Orchid Show at Chicago Botanic Garden Feb 13-Mar 13; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
The Orchid Show is the only one of its kind in the Chicago area. More than 12,000 brilliantly beautiful and unusual orchids from around the world will extend throughout the Regenstein Center, including lush presentations within the Greenhouses. There are several special events during the show including a Preview reception, Tuesday Morning music and more. Please visit the website more information. Members receive $2 off admission.
42nd Annual Carmel Street Scenes "Toasts Mardi Gras" Friday and Saturday, Feb 12-13; 6:30 pm
For one weekend per year the entire school is completely transformed into a party town atmosphere with more than 50 live bands, a huge casino, food and drink from popular area restaurants, comedy clubs and the famous Student Show in the Carmel auditorium. The student show is professionally produced and
choreographed, presenting four shows per night. The school gymnasium is also transformed into an exciting Las Vegas-style casino with Blackjack, Poker, Roulette, Wheel of Fortune and many other popular games. The casino opens at 7:00p.m. and is traditionally one of the hottest spots during Street Scenes weekend. Please visit the Event Info page for more details about this fun weekend. Please visit the Event Info page for more details about this fun weekend. Ages 21 and older only.
Joe McHale @ Genesee Friday, Feb 26; 8 p.m.
Joe McHale is best known for his starring role on the hit comedy series "Community" and as the host of the satirical pop culture and current events show "The Soup." He is one of this generation's favorite comedians.
March
The Orchid Show at Chicago Botanic Garden Saturday, February 14 - Sunday, March 15; Sunday through Saturday 10 am - 4 pm
Craving the beautiful flowers that spring brings? There's no place like the Chicago Botanic Garden. During the last full month of winter, the Orchid Show comes to town featuring 12,000 of the most brilliant and unusual orchids from all around the globe. These orchids will be showcased in the Regenstein Center. The flowers aren't the only thing that will make you sing, there's also music and a lot more as you gaze at this wondrous plant life. There will be a slew of presentations within the greenhouses of Chicago Botanic Garden for you and the family to enjoy!
Reptile Rampage @ City of Lake Forest Rec Center
Sunday, March 6; 10 am - 4 pm
Reptile Rampage is a great opportunity for the whole family to spend the day getting up close and personal to some amazing and unique reptiles. Visitors can meet over 150 animals including “Bubba” the famous American Alligator, the Wildlife Discovery Center's celebrated rattlesnake collection, lizards, snakes of all shapes and sizes, turtles and tortoises, crocodilians, an assortment of frogs, and so much more. Visitors will also have the chance to talk with some of the Midwest’s most knowledgeable reptile enthusiasts from local zoos, universities, museums, nature centers, and private collections. In addition to the many reptiles on display, there will be children’s arts-and-crafts activities, face painting, a Scout patch challenge and a fabulous auction.
Journey to Oz Business and Community Show Case @ LZHS Saturday, March 12; 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Bring the family and friends out for a day of fun while visiting with members of area businesses and community organizations. The Showcase will host over 100 local businesses and community organizations that will display, demonstrate and provide advice on their newest products and services. Entertainment, food, freebies and prizes!
The Price is Right Live at the Genesee Theatre Saturday, Mar 5; 7:30 p.m.
The Price Is Right Live™ is the hit interactive stage show that gives eligible individuals the chance to "Come On Down" to win. Prizes may include appliances, vacations and possibly a new car. Play classic games from television's longest running and most popular game show and even the fabulous Showcase. Ticket purchase will not increase your chances of being selected to play.
Jerry Seinfeld @ Genesee
Saturday, March 19; 7 & 9:30 p.m.
America’s premier comedian, Jerry Seinfeld, returns to the historic Genesee Theatre performing his signature stand-up routine for 2 shows. Seinfeld has been hailed for his uncanny ability to joke about the little things in life that relate to audiences everywhere. Seinfeld now sets his sights on performing both nationally and internationally in 2016.
Cross-Country Ski Areas
Lake County boasts over 130 trails for cross-country skiing. These trails vary to expert skiers down to the novice.
Lakewood and Des Plaines River Trail Preserves pave trails for those avid cross-country skiers. Ryerson Conservation Area is also a preserve with extensive cross skiers; however the snow must be above four inches to protect the sanctity of the animal life. Lake County also offers cross-country skiing at...
Captain Daniels Wright Woods Mettawa, IL 4 miles of trails
Adler Park Libertyville, IL
Independence Grove Forest Preserve Libertyville, IL 7 miles of trails
Old School Forest Preserve Libertyville, IL 3 miles of trails
Have you been to those trails? No worries, Lake County has an array of more trails up our sleeves. For an extensive look other forest preserves and parks read more here.
Sledding and Tubing
There's no way slide down an incline and without a smile on your face. Plus it's reminder of the excitement you attain when going down Goliath at Six Flags Great America. Until the summer comes, you can find your thrills in Lake County's sledding hills.
After a hea
lthy snow fall, Wadsworth Sled Hill Near the Village Hall is one of the premier sled hills that Lake County has to offer. There's also the slippery slopes of Wilmot Mountain a stones throw away.
The hill is open from sunrise to 10 pm. Central Park Sled Hill is a three-in-one package. Not only can you sled on this massive hill, but you could also cross-country ski and ice skate. Adler Park in Libertyville and Century Park in Vernon Hills also offers those three features. Would you rather have a larger vessel than a sled, saucer or tube? Steitz’s Toboggan Slide has got you covered as you zip down the chute when Bluff Lake freezes with a toboggan!
Pick up the speed at any one of these slick Lake County hills.
Lake Villa’s Sled Hill at Caboose Park Lake Villa, IL 5:30 – 10 pm
Paulus Park Lake Zurich, IL Closes @ sunset
Round Lake’s Harts Sled Hill Round Lake, IL Open till 9 pm
Warren Township Sled Hill Gurnee Hill, IL Toboggans and snow boards prohibited
Wilmot Mountain
Wilmot, WI Tubing!
Blair Park in Lake Bluff Lake Bluff, IL Open till 9 pm
Skiing
Wilmot Mountain Wilmot, WI
It looks like these kids are having fun. Are you looking for a weekend ski trip filled with family fun, hot cocoa and swift slopes.?Wilmot Mountain is your destination. It’s a hop skip and a leap right over the border in Wisconsin.
In addition to being the premier skiing venue in lake county, you can snowboard, tube, have good ole fashioned family fun and then some more.
When it gets a little nippy out there, be sure to check out the lodge to warm up. Plus if you’re a resident of Lake County, you receive unlimited tubing for a mere $15 per person! Come on out and we’ll meet you on the slopes!
Ice Skating
No matter where you want to find your inner Meryl Davis and Charlie White (the 2014 U.S. Ice Dancing Gold Medalists) or you just want to get a pick-up ice hockey game going, Lake County has the indoor and outdoor ice venues that you desire. Not to mention you could get a little game of broomball going.
Whether you would rather skate inside or outside, Lake County has venues for you to pick your poison.
Indoor Skating
Outdoor Skating Outdoor Events
Winter Nature Walk/Snowshoe at Independence Grove Sunday, January 17; 5-6:30 p.m.
Enjoy a guided nature walk along the snow plowed path where you may learn about winter ecology, plant and animal adaptations and possibly hear hoots or howls. Parts of the trail may be snow-covered, uneven, and slippery. Warm, sturdy boots or snowshoes recommended. Snowshoers should walk alongside the plowed path. Snowshoes not provided. Adults and families with children 6 and up welcome. Registration required.
Lincolnshire Skate Night
Saturday, Jan 23; 7-10 p.m.
The event is free. One of the nights will include a fireworks show courtesy of Johnny Rockets! The date was reschedule from Jan. 9 to 23 based on the weather. Food will be available for purchase from food trucks, free coffee, hot chocolate and s'mores will be provided while supplies last and fire pits and heaters to keep warm. Limited skates will be provided for free rental, courtesy of Glacier Ice Arena. It is recommended that all ice skaters wear a protective helmet. No hockey sticks or pucks will be allowed.
Hoot and Howl Hike at Lakewood Forest Preserve Saturday, January 23; 4:30-6 p.m.
Winter is a great time to listen for coyotes and owls, who remain active year round. Bundle up and learn about these amazing animals while we listen for them in the Forest Preserve. Perhaps we'll get lucky enough to hear a hoot and a howl. Program held entirely outdoors so dress weather appropriately and wear warm boots. Trail may be snow-covered and uneven. If there is deep snow cover, snowshoes are recommended but not required.
Winter Walk Wednesdays: McDonald Woods Wednesdays throughout the winter; 10 - 11:30 a.m.
Keep active outdoors in the colder months with these bi-monthly walks. It's refreshing, there are no biting insects, and you'll experience the wonders of the winter season. Each session features a different Forest Preserve in areas throughout the county. Dress in layers appropriate for the weather. Trails may be snow-covered, uneven, and slippery. Wear sturdy, warm boots or snowshoes.
Nature Open House & Campfire at Ryerson Woods Sunday, Jan 30; 4:30-6:30 
Winter is a magical time in the forest preserves. Join us for a campfire, crafts and nature activities as we discover who is out and about in the woods. Please dress for the weather, portions of the program will be held outdoors. Meet at Classroom Cabins. No registration required. Adult supervision required.
Lindy's 3-on-3 Pond Hockey Tournament Saturday, Feb 20; 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
The tournament will begin by 8:30AM and will be completed by 3:30PM. Each game will consist of two-10 minute periods. Teams will switch sides at halftime. The tournament will consist of one division this year with the maximum number of teams 32. The top 12 teams will make the playoffs with the top four seeds earning a bye in the first round. There will be a schedule board so teams can check scheduled playing times and opponents. Drink specials and more.
Frosty Footrace in Round Lake @ the Park District Sports Center Sun, Feb 28; 9 a.m.
Join the fun and walk/run for a good cause in the Frosty Footrace 5K Run/Walk. All proceeds will benefit future senior fitness programs at the Round Lake Area Park District. The footrace will start and end at the Sports Center, 2004 Municipal Way in Round Lake Beach. Race numbers will only be available for pick up the day of the race.
ArtWauk Jan 16, Feb 20 and Mar 19; 5-10 pm
The night is where art comes alive in downtown Waukegan. Come for the monthly ArtWauk event. Not only do you witness the talented brush strokes of your peers, but you also will hear some live music. Don’t go anywhere after the opening act, because there’s an after party to follow the art!
Valentine’s Day Open House and Make Your Own Heart Jan 29-31; 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Come and make your own Heart for Valentine's Day. Every year they are made differently, so collect them and get a different one each year. Pick the colors as well. The age limit is at least 10 years old. This will be first come,first served. No reservations. If you have a large group, please call the studio to arrange a different date/time. Small hearts are $25 and large ones are $50. Limit 1 per person. Weekends January 29-31 & February 5-6.
Beatris Potter Exhibition @ Chicago Botanic Until Feb 7
Beatrix Potter, beloved children’s author and naturalist's exhibit will be available for viewing at the Lenhardt Library in the Regenstein Center from November 13 through February 7. A library talk with the Author is scheduled for December 6 at 2pm.
Moments in Nature @ Ryerson
Until February 21
The digital contest was open to all and divided into Beginner and Advanced classes. The many wonderful images that were submitted really demonstrated the beautiful nature that can be seen in Lake County. Contest judge, Ralph Durham (President of the North Shore Camera Club) commented "I thought the quality of the images submitted was outstanding." A number of Awards, Honorable Mentions and one Best in Show was selected for each class. Opening reception January 10th from 1-3pm.
Robert T. Wright Members Exhibition
Jan 15-Feb 21
Located in the Grayslake campus library this exhibit is free and open to the community. A diverse group show of all fine art media by over 100 Lake County, Illinois artists. The opening reception is being held Friday, January 22 from 6pm-8pm.
Shakespeare's First Folio Exhibition @ Lake County Discovery Museum Feb 3-28
The Lake County Discovery Museum has been selected as the host site for the state of Illinois for First Folio! The Book that Gave Us Shakespeare, a national traveling exhibition of the Shakespeare First Folio, one of the world’s most treasured books. Accompanying the rare book will be a multi-panel exhibition exploring the significance of Shakespeare, then and now, with additional digital content and interactive activities. During the exhibition, the Lake County Discovery Museum is planning numerous programs for the public and families around the First Folio exhibition.
Brad Coleman Drawings Exhibit @ Robert T. Wright Gallery Feb 25-Mar 26
This exhibit emphasizes time, translation and the visual power of serial images. Marks are mimicked and duplicated in Coleman’s large-scale charcoal series of sheep drawings, which look identical but contain individual distinctions. Reception: Friday, February 26, 6-8 p.m.
36 Acres Art Exhibit at the Brushwood Center in Ryerson Feb 28-Apr 10; Mon-Thurs 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Sun 1-3 p.m.
Come out and enjoy this beautiful new art exhibit. This exhibition of work by photographer Tobin Fraley explores the wonder that can be found in the every day details of a local natural area. In 36 Acres, Fraley digs deeper into the extraordinary that exists in small spaces by taking an indepth look at the Reed Turner Woodland Nature Preserve in Long Grove, Illinois.
The Cup III at Artcetera Gallery
Feb 25-Apr 11
A National Invitational Ceramics Exhibit of Cups. Reception: Friday, February 26, 6-8 p.m.
Culinary Exhibit "Food, Family and Tradition: Dining in Grayslake @ Grayslake Heritage Center & Museum Now til May 31
Join us as we explore the history of restaurants in Grayslake with the opening of a new exhibition, "Food, Family and Tradition: Dining in Grayslake. From past favorites such as the Country Squire, Pratser's Silver Saddle, and Pat's Pizza to the latest dining establishments, this show will leave you hungry for more!
Live entertainment isn't just solely for concerts and sports: It's also about the theatre.
There are a slew of stages that play Broadway performances around Lake County. Let's see what Lake County has to offer. Break a leg!
Botanic Garden at The Citadel Theatre
Now until January 17
A fifth show called Botanic Garden, written and produced by local playwright Todd Logan, will be offered for a two-week run along with Citadel's mainstage season as the fifth play in our subscription series. It's Kate's first date as a widow. She's desperate to get out of it. There's only one person who can help: Jake, her dead husband.
The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes @ James Lumber Sunday, January 17
The clever and legendary Sherlock Holmes skillfully maneuvers the twisted web of London’s most intriguing cases with split-second deductions and logical reasoning in this witty, fast-paced production. The acclaimed Aquila Theatre brings it’s energetic and physical style to this new adaptation.
The State Ballet Theatre of Russia Presents Swan Lake @ Genesee Friday, January 22
This full-scale production, set to the music of Tchaikovsky and based on Russian folklore and German legend, follows a heroic young prince as he works to free the beautiful swan maiden from an evil spell. The State Ballet Theater of Russia presents 50 of Russia’s brightest ballet stars to bring this romantic tale of true love to glorious life!
Breakneck Shakespeare With Tim Mooney at the Clockwise Theatre Playing now til January 24
Mooney connects the dots between the plays, reveals the authors liberties with factual events and his penchant for having his reality-based characters. His show contains a staggering amount of material including war, murder, deception, banishment, conquests, family drama and much more.
Spring Awakening A New Musical @ Marriott Theatre Playing now until January 31
Spring Awakening is a rock musical with music by Duncan Sheik and a book and lyrics by Steven Sater. It is based on the German play Spring Awakening (1891) by Frank Wedekind. Set in late-19th century Germany, the musical tells the story of teenagers discovering the inner and outer tumult of teenage sexuality. In the musical, alternative rock is employed as part of the folk-infused rock score.
PM&L Theatre Presents Uncommon Women and Others Jan 29 - Feb 14
Uncommon Women and Others is a dramatic comedy by Wendy Wasserstein. Performance dates are Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, January 29-31, February 5-7 & 12-14.
Sister Act
Saturday, March 5
Kicking off the 2016 Season, Sister Act will be a show not to be missed. This divine musical comedy is based on the hit 1992 film. Follow Deloris Van Cartier/Sister Mary Clarence through her journey while taking refuge in a convent.
From old to young, everybody everywhere gets a tune of some sort stuck in their head.
It's always an experience in itself to see some of your favorite artists, or new ones live in concert. There are so many venues that showcase live music in Lake County, so don't miss out on when your band or singer is coming to town. Dance to the beat of your own drum at these venues in Lake County:
Genesee Theatre in Waukegan
American English with Brandon Bennett: Elvis My Way
Saturday, January 23; 7:30 p.m.
Voted the Best Beatles Tribute Band by Chicago Rocker Awards, American English in concert perform songs covering the entire career of the Beatles from 1963-1970. Along with the electrifying Brandon Bennett (Million Dollar Quartet) sets the stage ablaze in a spine-tingling tribute to Elvis Presley. With his pure-bred southern charm, powerful voice, and scandalous moves, Bennett was named the “Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist” by Elvis Presley Enterprises at Graceland.
Wynonna & The Big Noise Saturday Jan 30; 8 p.m.
Wynonna Judd's stories have always been told through music. Experience incomparable artistry as she and her band take the audience on a musical journey from The Judds to her illustrious solo career to her new music from Wynonna and The Big Noise. Local artists, The Judson Brown Band, will entertain the audience with countrified arrangements of rock and pop songs.
Dennis DeYoung & the Music of Styx
Saturday, Feb 13; 8 p.m.
Dennis DeYoung is a founding member of STYX and the lead singer and songwriter on seven of the bands Top Ten Hits. His live concert showcases all of the STYX greatest hits spanning the 70s, 80s and 90s, including Lady, Come Sail Away, Babe, Too Much Time on My Hands, Best of Times and Mr. Roboto.
Herman's Hermits & The Buckinghams
Friday, February 19; 7:30 p.m.
British beat band Herman's Hermits featuring Peter Noone is known for some of the world's most beloved 1960's hits. The Buckinghams are one of the most respected Chicago bands to ever explode onto the national scene with hits like Don't You Care, Mercy, Mercy, Mercy & Hey Baby They're Singing Our Song. This should be a great night of music not to be missed.
CMT Presents Jennifer Nettles w/2016 Women of Country Tour Thursday, Mar 10; 7:30 p.m.
Featuring Brandy Clark, Lindsey Ell, & Tara Thompson along with Jennifer Nettles. Nettles a CMT and Grammy-winning singer/songwriter and lead vocalist of international duo, Sugarland, Jennifer Nettles has racked up over 22 million in worldwide record sales since exploding onto the music scene in 2004. With all four of these singers in one concert, this should be one not to be missed.
CLC's James Lumber Theatre in Grayslake
Lake Forest Symphony's Beethoven’s Symphony No. 8 Jan 23-24; Sat 8 p.m., Sun 2 p.m.
The tragic overtones of Wagner’s Tristan & Isolde will be joyfully relieved by the optimism of Beethoven’s lighter, bravado-inspired Symphony No. 8. Emotions will be stirred with the immortal and virtuosic expressions of Brahms’ Violin Concerto played by newly appointed concertmaster Netanel Draiblate.
Voiceplay
Tuesday, Jan 26; 7:30 p.m.
VoicePlay recreates the orchestrated sound of an entire musical production with nothing but the human voice. The cast takes you between eras and styles, channeling the breadth of the musical landscape and lacing it with inventive and often hilarious on-stage theatrics.
Jazz Ensemble Concert Sun, March 4; 4 p.m.
Jazz up your Sunday as the Monday and Tuesday Night Jazz Ensembles swing out to a wide selection of repertoire from the big band tradition.
Mariachi Divas Wednesday, March 9
Directed and founded by trumpet player Cindy Shea in 1999, the Mariachi Divas have made big waves on the national and international music scene. Winners of two Grammy® Awards, this all-female Mariachi group brings new meaning to the genre with their multi-cultural, eclectic and innovative sound.
Gospel Choir Annual Concert @ CLC Saturday, March 12; 4 p.m.
Gospel music performed by the CLC Gospel Choir featuring a variety of inspirational choral music by choir, soloists and instrumentalists. Due to the quiet nature of many songs, the choral program is not appropriate for children under the age of 3.
Wind Ensemble Spring Concert Sunday March 13; 4 p.m.
The excellent acoustics of the Mainstage Theatre are the perfect complement to a varied program of high-quality and challenging wind music conducted by Dr. Michael Flack.
Lake Forest Symphony's Mozart and Sibelius
Mar 19-20; Sat at 8 p.m., Sun at 2 p.m.
Passion, lyricism and pathos all join together in the remarkable Symphony No. 40 by Mozart, the “miracle that God let be born in Salzburg.” Life and death coexist in the highly expressive and mysterious Valse Triste by Sibelius, and this season’s young soloist Catherine Winters performs the Nielsen flute concerto.
Kashmir Led Zepplin Tribute Band
Sat, Jan 16; 10 p.m.
Kashmir is a very entertaining show bringing only the best of Led Zeppelin to their fans. Kashmir seeks to re-create the experience of a 70's Zeppelin show utilizing authentic vintage stage gear, costumes, and special effects, with great attention to detail in a non pretentious way.
Infinity Saturday Jan 23; 10 p.m.
Bring the friends out for a great night of music and fun with this great band. Infinity plays everything from Journey to Elvis and Def Leopard to the Beatles.
Wedding Banned Friday, Feb 5; 10:30 p.m.
Skip the ceremony, start the party! Music- Lot's of 80's, some 90's and other surprises. Be the bride and groom, come sing, dance and laugh. Come out for a great time. 21 and older only.
Hans & the Hormones at Mickey Finns Saturday, Jan 16; 10 p.m.
This will be a great night of music, not to be missed. They play dance/pop/party rock from the 80's to current covers!
Jamie Lono & Noble Heart at Mickey Finns Friday, Jan 22
Bring the friends out for a night of great music with Jamie Long and the Noble Hearts. Acoustic covers and originals.
Mosquito Jam Band at Mickey Finns Saturday, Jan 23
Bring out the friends for a night of great music. The Mosquitos play a variety of funk, rock and jam covers.
