Lakeview Museum
1125 W Lake Ave, Peoria
309-686-3382

John James Audubon: American Artist and Naturalist
September 18, 2010 through January 9, 2011

Forest Park Nature Center
5809 Forest Park Drive, Peoria Heights, IL 61614
309-686-3360

Feel the smooth scales of a snake slide through your hand, hear the hiss of a giant cockroach, see a tarantula up close and personal.

This short program will give you a new respect for some “critters” who definitely don’t fit into the cute, furry, cuddly mold, but are nonetheless some of nature’s greatest creatures.

Age: All
Fee: Donations appreciated
Time: 1:30-2:00 pm

Forest Park Nature Center
5809 Forest Park Drive, Peoria Heights, IL 61614
309-686-3360

Feel the smooth scales of a snake slide through your hand, hear the hiss of a giant cockroach, see a tarantula up close and personal.

This short program will give you a new respect for some “critters” who definitely don’t fit into the cute, furry, cuddly mold, but are nonetheless some of nature’s greatest creatures.

Age: All
Fee: Donations appreciated
Time: 1:30-2:00 pm

Willow Knolls 14 Movie Theatre
4100 W. Willow Knolls Dr.
Peoria, IL 61615
PH: 309 689-8463

Free Fall Matinees
For All Ages
Saturday and Sunday, 9am and 10am
15 minute Intermission with Every Show

9/18-9/19 Diary of a Wimpy Kid
9/25-9/26 Shrek Forever After
10/2-10/3 Marmaduke
10/9-10/10 Karate Kid
10/16-10/17 Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs
10/23-10/24 Spy Next Door
10/30-10/31 Last Airbender
11/6-11/7 Ramona & Beezus
11/13-11/14 Dispicable Me

Willow Knolls 14 Movie Theatre
4100 W. Willow Knolls Dr.
Peoria, IL 61615
PH: 309 689-8463

Free Fall Matinees
For All Ages
Saturday and Sunday, 9am and 10am
15 minute Intermission with Every Show

9/18-9/19 Diary of a Wimpy Kid
9/25-9/26 Shrek Forever After
10/2-10/3 Marmaduke
10/9-10/10 Karate Kid
10/16-10/17 Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs
10/23-10/24 Spy Next Door
10/30-10/31 Last Airbender
11/6-11/7 Ramona & Beezus
11/13-11/14 Dispicable Me

Wildlife Prairie State Park

Calling all 5-7 year olds for this program designed for having fun, learning and meeting new friends! By becoming a Junior Explorer, you can do it all!

Join us on the first Saturday of every month from 1-3 pm for crafts, games and projects. Each month a different topic is covered.

Admission Price: $7, plus applicable admission / $6 for Park Members
Phone: (309) 676-0998 x 6758

Wildlife Prairie State Park

10:00 am - 11:30 am.

Gather up the 2 - 4 year old in your life and bring them to the Park for a curriculum designed especially for them! This hands-on, learning program revolves around a main topic and incorporates story-time, crafts, a hike and refreshments.

The cost is $6 per child, plus applicable General Admission, $5 for Park Members. Advance payment and registration for either Tuesday or Wednesday is required. (Please choose only one session per month.)

Admission Price: $6.00 per child plus applicable General Admission, $5.00 for Park Members
Phone: (309) 676-0998 x 6758

Lakeview Museum
1125 W Lake Ave
Peoria, IL 61614
(309) 686-7000

Wildlife Rehabilitator and Educator
Marge Bjorklund brings her animals
and talks about their stories and nature.
1 p.m. Free

Local wildlife educator Marge Bjorklund
will introduce you to some of the birds
featured in the Audubon exhibition, and
more! Get an up-close look at these birds
as you learn about their important role
in our ecosystem, 1 p.m.

Lakeview Museum
1125 W Lake Ave
Peoria, IL 61614
(309) 686-7000

Wildlife Rehabilitator and Educator
Marge Bjorklund brings her animals
and talks about their stories and nature.
1 p.m. Free

Local wildlife educator Marge Bjorklund
will introduce you to some of the birds
featured in the Audubon exhibition, and
more! Get an up-close look at these birds
as you learn about their important role
in our ecosystem, 1 p.m.

Lakeview Museum
1125 W Lake Ave
Peoria, IL 61614
(309) 686-7000.

Children (ages 5 and older) are invited
to join us for gallery walks during the
Audubon exhibition. We will explore
different areas of the gallery week
by week, and learn about visiting a
museum. Free with gallery admission.

It’s Story Time at Fired Up

During story time a staff member will read the story and each child will paint a dinner plate with an outlined scene from the book.

On Saturday, November 6th we’ll hop aboard the The Polar Express and discover the magic of believing. This book written and illustrated by Chris Van Allsburg.

10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
$16/child per day (ages 5 and up)
Please call 309.685.8906 to make reservations.

The Home Depot's Kids Workshops offer useful projects including the creation of toolboxes, fire trucks and mail organizers, as well as more educational projects, such as a window birdhouse, bughouse or Declaration of Independence frame kit.

The workshops teach children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. Additionally, this fun time allows for quality one-on-one time between adults and children.

In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron, similar to The Home Depot associates' aprons, and an achievement pin.

It's a FREE Admission Day at the Peoria Zoo. Have fun checking out the AFRICA exhibit!

Germantown Hills PTO’s Annual Craft & Vendor Show with Bake Sale

Come join us for shopping, food, and fun!
Over 25 Companies and over 75 Crafters!

One Stop Shopping!
Just in time for Christmas Shopping!
Lots of Holiday Gift Giving Ideas!
Enjoy a day out with friends!

Germantown Hills Middle School
103 Warrior Way, Germantown Hills, IL 61548

Saturday, November 6, 2010
9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Don’t miss products from the following Companies represented in East Gym:
 Longaberger
 Tastefully Simple
 Mary Kay
 Cookie Lee Jewelry
 Silpada Designs
 Pampered Chef
 Tupperware
 Scentsy
 Dove Chocolate Discoveries
 Discovery Toys
 Pet Pantry
 Avon
 Stampin Up
 East Side Animal Hospital
 Creative Memories

Come to the Kindermusik Children's Fair on Saturday, November 13 from 9:00-12:00 noon! There will be free preview classes, instrument and dance demonstrations, and exhibits featuring products and services for children. Drawings will be held for a free semester of Kindermusik and a free set of At Home Materials. Bring the whole family and find out what Kindermusik is all about! Call(676-4609)or email(kindermusik@trinitypeoria.com) Marie for more information.

5001 N. Big Hollow Road
Peoria, IL 61615
309- 693-9408
Storytime every Monday morning

5001 N. Big Hollow Road
Peoria, IL 61615
309- 693-9408
Storytime every Monday morning

5001 N. Big Hollow Road
Peoria, IL 61615
309- 693-9408
Storytime every Monday morning

5001 N. Big Hollow Road
Peoria, IL 61615
309- 693-9408
Storytime every Monday morning

5001 N. Big Hollow Road
Peoria, IL 61615
309- 693-9408
Storytime every Monday morning

Join us for LEGO® fun!
November 06, 2010 2:00 PM

Peoria - Borders
5201 West War Memorial Drive
Peoria, IL 61615

Join the quest for the Lost City of Atlantis! Check out all of the cool LEGO® items Borders has to offer and play some fun games. Giveaways available while supplies last. Best for ages 8 to 12.

Release Party
November 09, 2010 6:00 PM

Peoria - Borders
5201 West War Memorial Drive
Peoria, IL 61615

Are you a Wimpy Kid fan? Join us for a special event featuring all things Wimpy! We'll have a book discussion, games, art activities and Wimpy giveaways (while supplies last). Best for ages 8 to 12. Note: the author will not be present at this event.

Holly & Hal Moose
November 13, 2010 11:00 AM

Peoria - Borders
5201 West War Memorial Drive
Peoria, IL 61615

Borders is teaming with Build-A-Bear Workshop to bring the popular teddy bear to life in Borders superstores nationwide. Borders will feature the Build-A-Bear Workshop book Holly & Hal Moose: Our Uplifting Christmas Adventure, Holly & Hal Moose: Our Uplifting Christmas Adventure DVD and Hal Moose, a Build-A-Bear Workshop plush toy, in stores for the holidays. NOTE: This is not a costume character event.

Borders Bookstore
5201 W War Memorial Dr, Peoria, IL
309-692-3082
Enjoy stories, a craft, music, and a snack. Ongoing Tuesdays.

Borders Bookstore
5201 W War Memorial Dr, Peoria, IL
309-692-3082
Enjoy stories, a craft, music, and a snack. Ongoing Tuesdays.

Borders Bookstore
5201 W War Memorial Dr, Peoria, IL
309-692-3082
Enjoy stories, a craft, music, and a snack. Ongoing Tuesdays.

Borders Bookstore
5201 W War Memorial Dr, Peoria, IL
309-692-3082
Enjoy stories, a craft, music, and a snack. Ongoing Tuesdays.

Borders Bookstore
5201 W War Memorial Dr, Peoria, IL
309-692-3082
Enjoy stories, a craft, music, and a snack. Ongoing Tuesdays.

From project basics to giving your child the opportunity to say, "I built it!", our Build and Grow kid's clinics are a great way to help build confidence! Bring the kids into any Lowe's store and build a FREE wooden project. Each participant also receives a free apron, goggles, a project themed patch, and a certification of merit upon completion of their project..

The clinic is open to the first 50 kids grades 2-5 who sign up and arrive at the store by 10am..

Register online

From project basics to giving your child the opportunity to say, "I built it!", our Build and Grow kid's clinics are a great way to help build confidence! Bring the kids into any Lowe's store and build a FREE wooden project. Each participant also receives a free apron, goggles, a project themed patch, and a certification of merit upon completion of their project..

The clinic is open to the first 50 kids grades 2-5 who sign up and arrive at the store by 10am..

Register online

Luthy Botanical Garden

Don't miss the annual Chrysanthemum Show--Friday, 10/15--Sunday, 11/7
Regular Conservatory admission and hours, Closed Mondays

Bring the kids to enjoy a spectacular showing of fall color, and challenge them to spot "The Great Pumpkin" amidst hundreds of colorful mums and tropicals! This event makes a great esape from the fall chill and offers a peaceful respite before the holiday season begins. The Garden Shop will have selected merchandise marked down.

Luthy Botanical Garden

Visit our Conservatory, where our tropical collection blends with hundreds of poinsettias to create a wonderland unmatched anywhere in Peoria. Come visit us to pick out a special gift, get into the holiday spirit or enjoy the festive feeling in the air.

Luthy Botanical Garden
Candlelight Walks Fridays and Saturdays, 11/19-12/18 (except 12/4), 7-9 pm

Continue a holiday tradition or start a new one--come visit our Poinsettia Show at night, under the warm glow of hundreds of candles, while enjoying live performances of holiday music. As our gift to you, Conservatory admission will be waived during the holidays, although we always accept donations.

Luthy Botanical Garden
Candlelight Walks Fridays and Saturdays, 11/19-12/18 (except 12/4), 7-9 pm

Continue a holiday tradition or start a new one--come visit our Poinsettia Show at night, under the warm glow of hundreds of candles, while enjoying live performances of holiday music. As our gift to you, Conservatory admission will be waived during the holidays, although we always accept donations.

Proctor Recreation Center
309 S. DuSable, Peoria
673-9183

Acts from the longest running local talent competition in and around Peoria will
entertain you with singing, dancing, rapping, musical instruments and a style show contest.

Trophies will be awarded to winners in each category.

Sat, 11/6 & Sun, 11/7 • 3-5 pm • $7

Peoria Players Theatre

Community Children’s Theatre presents “Fiddler on the Roof Jr.” 7 p.m. Nov 11-13; 1:30p Nov 13-14. Peoria Players Theater, 4300 N. University. Tickets: General admission/$10; senior citizens and children under 12/$8. Call 681-2861. Tickets available at Glen Oak Pavilion or www.artspartners.net.

Civil War Winter Quarters
11/20/10 10:00AM - 5:00PM

History comes to life at Sommer Park on Saturday, 11/20 as Civil War soldiers construct winter quarters and prepare for their winter encampment.

Living historians in authentic uniforms will use period tools and construction methods to build handmade wooden shelters as protection from the approaching winter weather. Activities include mail call, drill ceremonies and daily camp life.

Commercial buildings in downtown Peoria host various forms of entertainment. Refreshments will be provided in some buildings, an ice carving contest will be held at the Peoria Courthouse Plaza, costumed characters will be walking around, and people can decorate the street lights throughout downtown.

Courthouse Tree Lighting Ceremony at 6:00 p.m.
Complimentary refreshments

Admission is free.

Santa Claus Parade

Candy canes, bright Christmas lights, snow covered trees, the smell of pine and cups of cheer. That magical time of year when spirits are renewed and families come together is almost here. It’s a time for giving, sharing and creating. Yes creating! It’s that time again to start planning your entry for the longest running Santa Claus Parade in the country. The 123rd Annual Santa Claus Parade will step off on Friday, November 26th (the day after Thanksgiving) at 10:15 A.M on Monroe Street in front of Peoria Central Firehouse.

East Peoria

- Parade starts at 5:45 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 27, 2010 (Most roads along the parade route will be closed by 5:15 p.m.)

- Starts at intersection of East Washington Street and Dolans Lane

- Ends just past the Public Safety Building in the 200 block of West Washington Street

Peoria Civic Center

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe YouTheater performance will be held in the Theater on November 4, 2010, at 10 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. Tickets are $6.50 and are on sale now at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, by phone at 1-800-745-3000 and online at Ticketmaster.com. Groups of 15 or more can purchase tickets by calling 309-680-3551.

Times: 5:00pm- 9:00pm
Location: Junction City- Peoria Heights

Come out and join us for our Holiday Walk in Junction City. There will be Christmas carolers, carriage rides for the kids, pictures with Santa Claus, hors d'oeuvres, cocktails and assorted goodies in each of our unique shops. This is an event for the entire family.

Peoria Public Library- Lakeview Branch

Tadpoles Storytime
11/08/10 10:30AM - 11:15AM

Are you looking for a storytime that is just right for your 2 or 3 year old? Join us for stories, songs, activities, and easy crafts that are a perfect fit for little ones who are too big for the baby storytime but not quite ready for the preschool storytime. Children ages 2 – 3 years and their caregivers are welcome. 497-2200 FREE

Peoria Public Library- Lakeview Branch

Tadpoles Storytime
10:30AM - 11:15AM

Are you looking for a storytime that is just right for your 2 or 3 year old? Join us for stories, songs, activities, and easy crafts that are a perfect fit for little ones who are too big for the baby storytime but not quite ready for the preschool storytime. Children ages 2 – 3 years and their caregivers are welcome. 497-2200 FREE

Peoria Public Library– Lakeview Branch
10:30AM - 11:15AM
Tiny Tots Storytime

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with your child and other parents of little ones as you sing, clap, listen, and explore together. Rhymes, stories, songs, and a social time where both children and parents can interact with each other will be part of this lively session. Babies 12 – 23 months and their caregivers are welcome. 497-2200 FREE

Peoria Public Library– Lakeview Branch
10:30AM - 11:15AM
Tiny Tots Storytime

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with your child and other parents of little ones as you sing, clap, listen, and explore together. Rhymes, stories, songs, and a social time where both children and parents can interact with each other will be part of this lively session. Babies 12 – 23 months and their caregivers are welcome. 497-2200 FREE

Peoria Public Library – McClure Branch
11/13/10 2:30PM - 4:00PM
Annual Gingerbread House Craft

Make and take a fun gingerbread house. Registration required. All ages. 497-2700 FREE

Peoria Public Library– Lakeview Branch
11/18/10 7:00PM - 8:00PM
Pajama Storytime

Comfortable library, comfortable books, and comforting home ice cream! Children are invited to come in their pajamas for an even more comfortable evening. Ages 3 to 5 and caregiver. 497-2200 FREE

St. Vincent Holiday Bazaar

Silent & Live Auctions featuring exciting vacation getaways, iPods, and Sporting Event tickets

Raffles featuring TVs, Apple iPad, and CASH!

Gift Baskets, Holiday decor, Crafts, Baked goods

Cafe open for Breakfast and Lunch

North Pole area with carnival games, prizes, story time, shopping with elves and photos with Santa!!

In the Parish Hall and Old Gym of St. Vincent School, 6001 N. University, Peoria

No admission fee. Nominal fee for The North Pole kids area. Proceeds benefit the school & parish.

Visit the John James Audubon: American Artist and Naturalist exhibit, and check out the Discovery Center with the kids.

Visit the John James Audubon: American Artist and Naturalist exhibit, and check out the Discovery Center with the kids.

Visit the John James Audubon: American Artist and Naturalist exhibit, and check out the Discovery Center with the kids.

This fundraiser, held annually in November, is Peoria's largest sale of quality new and used merchandise. This fundraiser has provided a community service and financial foundation for the Junior League of Peoria since 1946. The proceeds from the sale go towards funding the League’s projects.

Mark your calendars for Julep's Closet 2010 at the Peoria Riverplex. Doors open on Friday, November 12 from 5pm-8pm for Twice the Price night. Saturday, November 13 from 8am-4pm all items are regular price. On Sunday, November 14, all items are half price from 10am-1:30pm. The bag sale will occur on Sunday, November 14 from 2pm-4pm. Admission is $1 on Friday and Saturday.

The Shoppes at Grand Prairie
4:00-6:00pm

You're invited for some fun at the Shoppes Holiday Kick-Off. Enjoy some hot chocolate and cookies, holiday music. Santa & Mrs. Claus will arrive by horse and carriage. We'll countdown the lighting of the holiday tree. Our giant rocking horse will be open to ride.

Disney Live! Mickey's Rockin' Road Show will be held in the Peoria Civic Center Theater on November 20, 2010, at 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Tickets are $18, $25, $40 and $52 and are on sale now at the Peoria Civic Center Box Office, all Ticketmaster outlets, by phone at 1-800-745-3000 and online at Ticketmaster.com.

Peoria Civic Center

The 29th Annual Greater Peoria Farm Show will be held in the Exhibit Hall and Arena November 30 - December 2, 2010, from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. each day. Admission is free.

The Quilt Story
November Children's Story Time

Saturday, November 6th
1:15 p.m.
John C. Flanagan House
942 N.E. Glen Oak, Peoria

Patti Erwin of Morton will be our guest reader of The Quilt Story by Tony Johnson. An ABA Pick of the List book, this book's folk art style matches the text perfectly and grabs the attention of young readers. Participants will have the opportunity to make and take home a small paper quilt at the conclusion of the reading.

Flanagan House's Pot-O-Gold Gift Boutique will be open with unique, one-of-a-kind gift items. The boutique also has an extensive display of Peoria historical books that make wonderful holiday presents for family and friends.

Wildlife Prairie State Park

1pm-4pm

Help us Remember the Native Americans who helped the first European Settlers with an event that focuses on their culture. Enjoy drumming, crafts and sample homemade Native American cuisine. This event is free with paid admission to the park.

Admission Price: FREE with paid general admission.
Event Type: Special Event
Area: Log Room

Metro Centre
4700 North University St.
Peoria, IL, 61614
309 692-6690

10am-3pm

Ring in the holiday season on an old-fashioned carriage ride with Santa.

Christmas comes early for kids this year with a FREE reindeer toy when they visit Santa. While supplies last.