Take a look at some of the fun, January events happening across the state.
Winter Passport on the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail
Jan. 2-Feb. 29, 2024, Pomona
Explore Illinois wine country this winter with the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail passport program. With a purchase of a winery passport for $15, you’ll receive discounts on wine, food and merchandise at member wineries on the trail throughout January and February. Collect stamps at each winery along the way and leave your completed passport at the last winery you visit by Feb. 28 to be entered for the chance to win prizes like overnight stays, event tickets, wine trail merchandise and more. In addition, those who visit all the wineries will receive a souvenir Shawnee Hills Wine Trail corkscrew. To learn more about the wine trail passport program, visit shawneewinetrail.com/passport-program or call (800) 248-4373.
Polar Adventure Days
Jan. 20-Feb. 17, 2024, Chicago
Celebrate winter in Chicago with a variety of exciting outdoor activities for the whole family at the annual Polar Adventure Days at Northerly Island. This free event takes place from noon to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 21. Activities include touring the Northerly Island Natural Area, watching husky teams sled around the peninsula, exploring the island on snowshoes (weather permitting), making nature-inspired winter crafts, roasting marshmallows over a campfire and much more. For more details, visit chicagoparkdistrict.com/polar-adventure-days.
Illinois Snow Sculpting Competition
Jan. 24-27, 2024, Rockford
Snow sculpting teams from around the state compete for the honor of representing Illinois in the U.S. National Snow Sculpting Competition in 2025. Visitors will have the opportunity to drive or walk through the park to view the impressive sculptures and vote for their favorites. In addition to the state competition, the event hosts a Rockford area high schools division. For more details or to see photos of past years’ winning sculptures, visit ilsnowsculpting.com.
Chicagoland Fishing, Travel & Outdoor Expo
Jan. 25-28, 2024, Schaumburg
Outdoor lovers won’t want to miss a visit to this annual four-day event, which includes exhibitors and activities across a range of outdoor industries, from boating and fishing to hiking, camping, water sports and more. Try out rods and reels at the casting pond, check out the 5,000-gallon fish tank, or book your next outdoor adventure or family vacation. To learn more, purchase tickets or view a complete lineup of exhibitors, visit chicagoland.sportshows.com.
Great River Eagle Days
Jan. 27-28, 2024, Quincy
Head to Quincy to celebrate our national bird, the bald eagle, during the annual Great River Eagle Days hosted by the Standing Bear Council. The family-friendly event honors Native American traditions with various ceremonies, activities, food and entertainment both days. Enjoy Native American educators, flute playing, demonstrations, children’s crafts, authentic Native American foods (including delicious fry bread) and much more. Visitors can also take part in riverfront eagle viewing at Lock and Dam No. 21. Visit seequincy.com/events or call (800) 978-4748 to learn more.
The Morton Arboretum’s Enchanted Railroad
Select dates Jan. through Feb. 2024, Lisle
All aboard! The Morton Arboretum’s Enchanted Railroad will enchant both adults and children alike.
During the months of January and February, visitors can enjoy the intricate designs of the miniature model railroad as it winds through carefully crafted scenery. The display features two levels of tree collections from around the world and 10 model trains winding in and out through the course.
The Enchanted Railroad is included in the cost of admission at The Morton Arboretum, but visitors must get timed tickets, available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Visitor Center’s Information Desk. Because of the display’s popularity, time slots can become full, so please secure your tickets upon arrival.
To learn more about the Enchanted Railroad and The Morton Arboretum, visit mortonarb.org or call (630) 968-0074.