May 2011 Events
May 1-5
El Taco Grande - Cinco dias de Cinco de Mayo!
From May 1 - May 5, El Taco Grande is celebrating FIVE days of Cinco de Mayo. Join them for the best margaritas in the valley.
El Taco Grande
6 N River St, Batavia
(630) 406-8415
eltacogrande.com
May 1
11th Annual Motorcycle Sunday
Hundreds of Motorcycles and their riders from all over the world congregate at Phillips Park for this event every year for this free event. Live music, vendors, and fun.
9:30 a.m. 4 p.m.
Phillips Park
900 Montgomery Road, Aurora
(630) 859-0600
info@motorcyclesunday.com
motorcyclesundayaurora.com
May 1
Loyalty Day Parade
The parade route starts at Raddant Road & Wilson Street and follows Wilson Street west to Route 25. From there, the parade travels south to the VFW Post.
1:30pm
For more information, visit the Batavia VFW Web Site
bataviavfw.org/loyaltyday.htm
May 1
What's It Worth? Antique & Appraisal Fair
This year's fair will feature a number of appraisers - including Fred & Renee Mitchell, Mike Mosk, Michael Murphy and Bonnie Otte - each with specialites in a variety of materials. Raffle: all proceeds benefit the Aurora Historical Society.
10 am-3pm
Gray's Mill
River & Mill Streets, Montgomery
ahs@aurorahistory.net
aurorahistory.net
May 1
Spring at the Farm
Free family event featuring lots of farm animals presented by local FFA/4H kids. Refreshments, free hayrides, antique tractors, and more!
10 am-3pm
Dickson-Murst Farm
2550 Dickson Rd., Montgomery
(630) 272-0686
merrielyn@aol.com
May 1
Annual Concerto Concert
Fox Valley Phil plays Vivaldi's Duo Flute Concerto, Haydn's Military Symphony, & Dvorak's Slavonic Dances.
3-4pm
Fox Valley Philharmonic Orchestra
Our Savior Lutheran Church
420 W. Downers Pl., Aurora
(630) 476-9072
MusicDirector@FVAcademy.org
FVAcademy.org
May 4
Mother/Daughter Spa Time
Celebrate Mother's Day by spending time together and have daughters pamper their mothers with a facial, pedicure and manicure at the Eola Community Center. They will be treated to an avocado mask, a crystal bracelet made for them, a pedicure with polish application and manicure complete with nail decals and glitter touches. A complimentary spa bag is given to each mom. This program is taught by Glitzy Girlz. (KW)
Couples: $38(R) / $57 (N)\r\nAddl. child: $29(R) / $44(N)
6-7:30pm
Eola Community Center
555 S. Eola Road, Aurora
(630) 851-8990
foxvalleyparkdistrict.org
May 5
Learn From a Pro: Digital Photography
Photographer John Dziekan invites participants to bring their cameras and learn how to take photos to a new level. Registration required.
7-8:30 p.m.
Aurora Public Library Eola Road Branch
555 S. Eola Road
(630) 264-3400
afroth@aurora.lib.us
aurora.lib.il.us
May 5
Golem: The Monster of Prague
Written by Riverfront Co-Founder David Morris (Aurora), "Golem: The Monster of Prague" was originally produced at the Playhouse in 1979 during its first season. Now, 32 years later, Morris will restage his play with several original cast members involved in the production.
The Riverfront Playhouse
11-13 S. Water St. Mall, Aurora,
Running May 6th to June 11th, Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm.
(630) 897-9496
jack@riverfrontplayhouse.com
riverfrontplayhouse.com
May 6
The Fue
This Friday, Daniel's Den will be hosting Fue! They are an Indie/Alernative band that always draws a crowd. This band is really fun for people of all ages, so come on down, and join us for a night of fellowship and worship with The Fue starting at 7:30 p.m.
Daniel's Den Christian Concert and Events Center
115 E South Street (Rt. 34), Plano
daniels-den.org
May 6
Dueling Pianos
Dueling Pianos provided by Dueling Pianos International: A high energy, all request, sing along, clap along, Rock n Roll, Comedy Piano show where the audience is just as much a part of the show as the entertainers. www.duelingpianoshows.com!
8-11 pm
Best Western Timber Creek Inn & Suites & Convention Center
3300 Drew Ave., Sandwich
(630) 273-6000
(866) 99-CREEK
timbercreekinnandsuites.com
May 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 20 & 21
An Act Of Imagination
Is life imitating art or vice versa? When author Arthur Putnam takes a detour from his best-selling Mystery Novels, everyone becomes suspicious. Is this new novel a work of Fiction? Or is it a confession? Blackmail, murder, conspiracy and a series of unexpected twists will keep you guessing until the very end of this dry-witted mystery. Rated PG 14
Albright Theatre
100 N. Island Ave., Batavia
(630) 406-8838
albrighttheatre.com
May 6,7
Comedy Comedy
Back by popular demand! MIKE STANLEY, recently named Chicago's top stand-up by the Chicago Reader, headlines with special guest DENISE RAMSDEN and host BERT BORTH. Don't miss this one!
America's Historic Roundhouse
205 N. Broadway, Aurora
(630) 264-BREW
rh34.com
May 7
White Horse
White Horse will be putting on a show at the den on Saturday night!! They have a great fan base and always draw a crowd. If you're looking to make some new friends, come on down and check out White Horse at 7:30 p.m.
Daniel's Den Christian Concert and Events Center
115 E South Street (Rt. 34), Plano
daniels-den.org
May 7
Plant Sale
Come join us in welcoming our lambs in our annual Mother’s Day Celebration. Take a picture with a lamb, feed the sheep, take a farm tour, purchase fresh produce and more. Tours will be at 11, 12, 1, 2, & 3 o’clock, and there will be complementary lunch and homemade baked goods to enjoy. The fun starts at the shop, and be sure to wear your farm shoes!
Bethany Luthern Church
8 S Lincoln Street, Batavia
(630) 879-7578
http://dir.gardenweb.com/directory/bpdg/
May 7-8
5th Annual Spring Open House
Come join us in welcoming our lambs in our annual Mother’s Day Celebration. Take a picture with a lamb, feed the sheep, take a farm tour, purchase fresh produce and more. Tours will be at 11, 12, 1, 2, & 3 o’clock, and there will be complementary lunch and homemade baked goods to enjoy. The fun starts at the shop, and be sure to wear your farm shoes!
Esther's Place
201 W. Galena St. (Route 30), Big Rock
(630) 556-9665
esthersplacefibers.com
May 8
Fermilab Barn Dance
The Fermilab Folk Club presents a Barn Dance on the second Sunday of every month except July and August with music and calling by the Chicago Barn Dance Company. We do a variety of traditional American dances. Everyone is welcome.
Kuhn Village Barn
Sauk Blvd & Che Che Pinqua, Batavia
(630) 840-2061
folkclub@fnal.gov
fnal.gov/orgs/folkclub/
May 8
Mother's Day Brunch @ America's Historic Roundhouse
For more information click here.
America's Historic Roundhouse
205 N. Broadway, Aurora
(630) 264-BREW
rh34.com
May 8
Mother’s Day Celebration
Sunday (May 8) will feature live music in the town square from 1 to 3 p.m., with the first 50 mothers receiving a complimentary flower upon paid admission. Unlimited rides on the train, carousel and hay wagon are included with admission.
11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Blackberry Farm
100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora
(630) 892-1550
foxvalleyparkdistrict.org
May 8
Mother's Day Brunch!
Give your mom a real treat and bring her over for our Fabulous Mother's Day Brunch. Reservations Required. $17.95 per person/$10.95 for 10 & under/3 & under Free!
10 am - 2 pm
Best Western Timber Creek Inn & Suites & Convention Center
3300 Drew Ave., Sandwich
(630) 273-6000
(866) 99-CREEK
timbercreekinnandsuites.com
May 9
Seniors - - Wii Gaming
Come join the fun: bowling, golf and more. Beginners welcome. Registration requested.
10-11 a.m.
Aurora Public Library Eola Road Branch
555 S. Eola Road
(630) 264-3400
afroth@aurora.lib.us
aurora.lib.il.us
May 10 - October 16
Settler's Cottage Historical Museum
New local history museum featuring photos and exhibits from Montgomery's past. Call for specific dates the museum will be open.
200 N. River Street, Montgomery
(630) 896-8080
vomadmin@ci.montgomery.il.us
ci.montgomery.il.us
May 10
Downtown Aurora Taste
Downtown Aurora Taste, our major fundraiser, provides funding for Exchange Club of Aurora philanthropy and youth scholarships. It is a fun event that benefits our community in many ways.
Downtown Aurora
(630) 415-1263
auroraexchange.org
May 10
Provence - - France's Ancient Paradise
Explore the heart of Provence with veteran traveler Al Popowits (Europe the Easy Way) and discover the cities of Aigues-Mortes, Nimes, and Orange. Learn about food, recreation, and history. Registration requested.
7-8:30 p.m.
Aurora Public Library West Branch
233 S. Constitution Drive, Aurora
(630) 264-3600
afroth@aurora.lib.us
aurora.lib.il.us
May 10
Downtown Aurora Taste
Several downtown eateries will participate in the annual Taste hosted by the Exchange Club of Aurora. To purchase tickets call (630) 415-1263.
5 to 9 p.m.
Aurora Downtown
auroraexchange.org
May 10 - July 15
Volleyball Leagues!
Tuesday Nights- Fun League/Wednesday Nights- Recreational League/Thursday Nights- Competitive League! 2 Beautiful Sand Courts. Sign up Today 630-273-6005
6-10 p.m.
Best Western Timber Creek Inn & Suites & Convention Center
3300 Drew Ave., Sandwich
(630) 273-6000
(866) 99-CREEK
timbercreekinnandsuites.com
May 11
Seniors - - Selling on eBay
eBay expert Gayle Treend will demonstrate how to navigate eBay as sellers in an easy to understand presentation. Registration required.
10-11 a.m.
Aurora Public Library Eola Road Branch
555 S. Eola Road
(630) 264-3400
afroth@aurora.lib.us
aurora.lib.il.us
May 13
Touch a Truck
Children of all ages are invited to climb in on and around a variety of vehicles. This event is free. Don't forget your camera!
Eastside Community Center
14 N. Van Buren St., Batavia
(630) 879-5235
allisonn@bataviaparks.org
bataviaparks.org
May 13
Opening, Luxembourg---USA: A Migration Story
Exhibit on loan from the Luxembourg American Cultural Society
5-8 p.m.
David L. Pierce Art & History Center
20 E. Downer Place, 2nd Floor
(630) 906-0650
ahs@aurorahistory.net
aurorahistory.net
May 13-14
Community-Wide Garage Sale
Friday & Saturday, 9 am to 2 pm
150 W. Illinois Ave., Aurora
(630) 859-8606
fvpd@fvpd.net
foxvalleyparkdistrict.org
May 14
Ice Cream Social
Ice Cream Social
1-2 p.m
Blackberry Farm
100 S. Barnes Road., Aurora
(630) 897-0516
fvpd@fvpd.net
foxvalleyparkdistrict.org
May 14
Sheep to Shawl
A unique spring day is scheduled Saturday, May 14, when the Sheep to Shawl program is held during regular park hours between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Attendees will be able to view live sheep-shearing demonstration at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to learn how pioneers would spin and dye wool, then weave it into clothing.
Blackberry Farm
100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora
(630) 892-1550
foxvalleyparkdistrict.org
May 15
Literary Speed Dating Event
A fun way to meet people, discuss books, and who knows - - meet someone special or start a mixed book group. For age 21 and up. Registration required.
2-4 p.m.
Aurora Public Library Eola Road Branch
555 S. Eola Road
(630) 264-3400
afroth@aurora.lib.us
aurora.lib.il.us
May 17
Taking it from Barn to Beautiful
So what happens to wool after is sheared? Learn to prepare the fibers and spin them into yarn. We start with raw wool, wash, card and drop spin a mini skein of yarn. Learn to appreciate this great resource even better!
Cost: $45 + materials: $15
Esther's Place
201 W. Galena St. (Route 30), Big Rock
(630) 556-9665
esthersplacefibers.com
May 20
Rave On!
A sell-out last season - Rave On! is a must see for rock and roll fans! This electrifying show pays homage to rock n' roll's immortal legend Buddy Holly. The impact of this music will make a lasting impression on audiences of all ages! Billy McGuigan has received national acclaim for his talented and awe inspiring portrayal of the legendary Buddy Holly. Audiences become true believers in the boy from Lubbock who forever changed American music and the world of rock 'n roll.
Tickets: $35.50
The Paramount Theatre
23 E. Galena Blvd. Aurora, IL 60506
paramountarts.com
May 20
Afternoon Tea at the Greenhouse
Stroll the greenhouses, sip a cup of English tea and nibble a delicious scone at this annual afternoon gathering at the FVPD Greenhouse (259 S. Russell Ave., Aurora). See the newest varieties of annuals and ornamental grasses before they are moved to summer displays throughout the Park District.
12:30 - 3:30 p.m.
Fox Valley Park District Greenhouse
259 S. Russell Ave, Aurora
(630) 897-0516
fvpd@fvpd.net
foxvalleyparkdistrict.org
May 21
The Second City
Hilarious, spontaneous, topical and insightful- The Second City is number 1 when it comes to live comedy. Performing a blend of classic scenes, material ripped from the day's headlines and their trademark improvisation, a night with The Second City is a laugh filled, once in a lifetime event.
Tickets: $25.50
The Paramount Theatre
23 E. Galena Blvd. Aurora, IL 60506
paramountarts.com
May 21
Community Open House
Free family event. Visit the Montgomery Police Department for free tours, presentations, refreshments and paper shredding.
9:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Montgomery Police Department
10 Civic Center Avenue, Montgomery
(630) 897-8707
vomadmin@ci.montgomery.il.us
ci.montgomery.il.us
May 21
New!!! Sushi Roll Jewelry
Roll different colors together to form a unique style of bead, then wet felt and slice to reveal a surprising array of designs! We’ll then fashion them into a bracelet. This is a great way to make earrings, trivets, and more! Fun and even great for kids.
Cost: $35
Esther's Place
201 W. Galena St. (Route 30), Big Rock
(630) 556-9665
esthersplacefibers.com
May 22, June 19, July 24, Aug. 21, Sept. 25, Oct. 23
Sandwich Antiques Market
The Sandwich Antiques Market is a one-day a month summer market featuring quality exhibitors held at the park-like Sandwich Fair Grounds, with its beautiful 100-year old trees and plenty of places to sit and rest.
The Dealer Gate opens at 10AM on Saturday and does not close until 9PM on Sunday.
Hours: 8AM to 4PM, Central time. Sunday admission is $5 per person, parking is free and food is available for purchase.
2012 show dates: May 20, June17, July 22, Aug 19, Sep 23, Oct 28
Sandwich Fairgrounds
Sandwich Antique Market
1401 Suydum Road
Sandwich, IL
antiquemarkets.com
May 22
2nd 2 None 5K Run/Walk
Pass by beautiful architecture on a 5K course through downtown Aurora. The Aurora Area Interfaith Food Pantry partners with Communities In Schools for this run that benefits the Food for Thought initiative.
8 a.m.
North River Park (across the street from the old police station.)
Register at active.com.
(630) 256-4500.
May 22
Duke Ellington Orchestra
Duke Ellington was recognized and hailed as "America's Greatest Musical Composer." He and the music of his 'Ellington legacy' live on under the strong, sensitive direction of Paul Ellington. For over three quarters of a century and continuing through today, the Duke Ellington Orchestra is the preeminent group of working jazz professionals in the world.
Tickets: $27.50
The Paramount Theatre
23 E. Galena Blvd. Aurora, IL 60506
paramountarts.com
May 24
Vessels, Bowls and Vases Oh My!
Become a ceramist as we use wool to shape a vessel! Both needle and wet felted, we will use fiber as a sculptural medium. This is a wonderful new world to explore as wool becomes molded to your imagination! Bring two towels with you.
Cost: $50 + materials: $30
Esther's Place
201 W. Galena St. (Route 30), Big Rock
(630) 556-9665
esthersplacefibers.com
May 26
Walk-in Genealogy Assistance
Volunteer Tim Pinnick will help fill in the branches of your family tree. No registration required.
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Aurora Public Library Main Library
1 E. Benton St., Aurora
(630) 264-4100
afroth@aurora.lib.us
aurora.lib.il.us
May 28
Pigs’ Birthday Celebration
Celebrate "oink" style on Saturday, May 28, when the Pigs’ Birthday Celebration is held from 1 to 2 p.m. The barnyard party will feature games, activities and the chance to break open a piñata. Cake will be served afterward.
1-2 p.m.
Blackberry Farm
100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora
(630) 892-1550
foxvalleyparkdistrict.org
May 28,29
Jump Start – 2 Day Workshop
Have you been wanting to learn to spin? This intensive two day workshop will cover basics, from drop spindling to wheels, fiber differences, and technique. Class fee includes overnight accommodations & meals for 2 days.
Cost: 115 + materials: $40
Esther's Place
201 W. Galena St. (Route 30), Big Rock
(630) 556-9665
esthersplacefibers.com
May 30
Memorial Day Parade
Step off at Benton and River streets. Pre-parade ceremony starts at 11:15 at the reviewing stand on Downer across from the GAR building.
Noon
aurora-il.org
Every Monday 7:30 p.m.
Ghost Tours at The Historic Roundhouse
America's Historic Roundhouse
205 N. Broadway, Aurora
(630) 264-BREW
rh34.com
First Sunday of the Month
Sit and Knit
Led by experienced knitter Christina Padilla, this informal club offers an opportunity to share knitting tips, patterns, and stories. Beginners welcome. No registration required.
1-2 p.m.
Aurora Public Library Main Library
1 E. Benton St., Aurora
(630) 264-4100
afroth@aurora.lib.us
aurora.lib.il.us
First Saturday of every Month
Johnny Gray
Great One Man Band! From live dancing to country favorites does it all! No Cover
8-11 p.m.
Best Western Timber Creek Inn & Suites & Convention Center
3300 Drew Ave., Sandwich
(630) 273-6000
(866) 99-CREEK
timbercreekinnandsuites.com