Northwest suburban family calendar

To have an event listed in this calendar, e-mail the details at least two weeks in advance of the event or registration deadline to nbrcalendar@dailyherald.com. Please put "Kids, teens, family" in the subject line.

October

Pumpkin Patch: The Kingswood Pumpkin Patch at Kingswood United Methodist Church, 401 W. Dundee Road, Buffalo Grove is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily up to Halloween. Call (847) 398-0770.

Land of Oz Corn Maze: Noon-dusk, Saturdays and Sundays through Oct. 26; 3262 E. 1951 Road, Ottawa, Ill. Benefits Campfire Girls. Cost: $5. Night hikes available by reservation only for $7 per person. (815) 488-5000.

Kitsch Garden Center's Autumn Fun Fest: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday through Oct. 26, 301 W. Johnson St., Palatine. Children's activities and crafts, entertainment, family fall photo area, concessions and picnic area, haunted house, more. Admission $6 per child ages 1-12 years; adults, free. For a complete listing of activities, visit kinschflorist.com.

Oct. 13

Magic with Derek & Kevin: 6:30-7:15 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 30; Rolling Meadows Library, 3110 Martin Lane. Magic performed by local boys who performed at the summer show. Free tickets will be available beginning Monday, Oct. 13. (847) 259-6050.

Bubble Wonders: 11 a.m. Oct. 13, Palatine Public Library, 700 N. North Court, Palatine. Geoffrey Akins, premier bubble artist will teach the art and science of bubbles with his creations. Tickets are available at the Reader Assistance desk for Palatine Public Library cardholders. (847) 358-5881 or palatinelibrary.org.

Chat & Chew: 1-2 p.m. Monday, Oct. 13; Mount Prospect Public Library, 10 S. Emerson St. Children in grades 4 - 6 eat and chat about author Cathy Cassidy's "Scarlett." Rebellious twelve-year-old Londoner Scarlett Flynn wants to run away after being sent to live with her father in rural Ireland. Books are available at the Youth Services Desk. To register, visit mppl.org/events or call (847) 253-5675.

Tea Tasting and Scone Baking: 4-5:30 p.m., Monday, Oct. 13; Mount Prospect Public Library, 10 S. Emerson St. Students and teens in grades 6 - 12 will celebrate a social and culinary staple of British culture by sampling a variety of specially brewed teas and discover how to prepare and serve a favorite scone recipe. To register, visit mppl.org/events or call (847) 253-5675.

Field trip to Rink Side: 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday, Oct. 13, meet at the South Barrington Community Center, 3 Tennis Club Lane, South Barrington. For children in grades K-five. Registration due Thursday, Oct. 9. $40; $48, nonresidents. (847) 381-7515 or sbpd.net.

Fall II Storytime Registration: Parents may register their children for fall storytime programs between Monday, Oct. 13 and Thurdsay, Oct. 23 at the Mount Prospect Public Library, 10 S. Emerson St. The series, which will take place weekdays, Nov. 3 - Dec. 12, offers a variety of programs at different times that are suitable for children ages six and under. Registration is determined by lottery and is reserved for Mount Prospect cardholders. Register in person. Call (847) 253-5675.

Oct. 14

Drop-in play group: 12:15-1:45 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14, Woodland Heights Early Learning Center, 900 S. Park Blvd., Streamwood. Children ages birth-5 years can play with other children without leaving the security of their parent's side. Hosted by Parents as Teachers.

Pajama-Rama:. 7 p.m. Tuesdays Oct. 14 and 28, Bartlett Public Library District, 800 S. Bartlett Road. Special evening storytime for families. Children are welcome to wear their pajamas and must be accompanied by a caregiver. No registration required. For information, call (630) 837-2855 or bartlett.lib.il.us.

Open Storytimes: 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 14; 9:30 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 15 and 10:30 a.m., Friday, Oct. 17; Mount Prospect Public Library, 10 S. Emerson St. Stories and songs for children ages six and under during these 30-minute sessions. An adult must accompany children under three. No registration is required. Call (847) 253-5675.

United Synagogue Youth Sukkah Hop: 7-9 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 14; Beth Judea, Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. Cost: free for members; $10 for Jewish nonmembers. Bring money for the HAHA Box. Dinner and desserts will be provided. Call (847) 634-0777 ext. 114 or e-mail YouthDirector@BethJudea.org.

Adventure Club: 4-4:45 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 14, Indian Trails Public Library District, 355 S. Schoenbeck Road, Wheeling. The theme will be birthdays. Celebrate the library's 50th Anniversary with stories, games and a snack. Registration required. Visit ww.indiantrailslibrary.org or call (847) 459-4100.

Oct. 15

Spooky Little Chefs: 5-6 p.m. for ages 4-6; 6-7 p.m. for ages 7-10 Wednesday Oct. 15 and Wednesday Oct. 29, Bartlett Community Center, 700 S. Bartlett Road. Create traditional Halloween goodies, come in costume. Registration required. $19, residents; $26, nonresidents. www.bartlettparks.org or (630) 540-4800.

What's Cookin?: 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 15, Bartlett Public Library District, 800 S. Bartlett Road. Stories and food related activities for children in grades K-2. Registration required. Call (630) 837-2855 or www.bartlett.lib.il.us.

Macaroni Soup with Carole Peterson: 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 15, Bartlett Public Library District, 800 S. Bartlett Road. Fun music-filled family program. No registration required. For information, call (630) 837-2855 or www.bartlett.lib.il.us.

Cyber bullying: 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 15 Blackwell School, 345 N. Walnut, Schaumburg. Learn about the warning signs and prevention techniques. Presented by Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital therapist Geanie Walsh. (847) 357-555.

Fright Fest drive-in movie for teens: 7-9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, South Barrington indoor pool, 3 Tennis Club Lane, South Barrington. Movie, games, pizza and swim for teens in grades five-eight. Registration required by Oct. 15. Call (847) 381-6515 or sbpd.net.

Oct. 16

Drop-in play group: 9-10:30 a.m., Thursday, Oct. 16, Independence School, 200 Taylor St., Bartlett. Children ages birth-5 years have the opportunity to play with other children without leaving the security of their parent' side. Hosted by Parents as Teachers.

Halloween Family Ball: 6:30-9:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 17, Meineke Recreation Center, 2203 E. Weathersfield Way, Schaumburg. Come dressed in costume ready for dinner, dancing, games, pictures, prizes. Registration deadline is Thursday, Oct. 16. $13; $20, nonresidents. (847) 490-7015 or parkfun.com.

Slimy Stories and Gooey Games: 3:30-4:30 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 16; Rolling Meadows Library, 3110 Martin Lane. Icky stories and poems, games, crafts, and a snack. Open to grades 1-3. (847) 259-6050.

Celebrate Kirsten, An American Girl: 4-5 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, Schaumburg Township District Library, 130 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg. Crafts, activities highlighting Kirsten, who's story is set in 1854. For children ages 6-14. To register, call (847) 923-3439.

Oct. 17

Great America Fright Fest: 4 p.m.-midnight Friday, Oct. 17; Sponsored by the Des Plaines Park District. Open to grades 5-10. Fee includes transportation and supervision. Depart from and return to the Leisure Center, 2222 Birch St. Residents, $12, nonresidents, $15 - with a ticket. Residents, $52, nonresidents, $65 without a ticket. For details or to register, call (847) 391-5700 or visit desplainesparks.org

Drop in Crafts: 9 a.m., Friday, Oct. 17; Rolling Meadows Library, 3110 Martin Lane. (847) 259-6050.

"The Magical Halloween Express": 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; Saturday, Oct. 25; Round trip train ride to Ogilvie Transportation Center, hosted by the Des Plaines Park District. Train 712 departs the Des Plaines station at 10:44 a.m. Activities include games, prizes, magic tricks, storytelling, wizardry, and treats. Come dressed as your favorite Harry Potter character or wizard. Registration is due by 5 p.m., Oct. 17, but space is limited and seats go fast. Call (847) 391-5700 or visit desplainesparks.org.

Oct. 18

Drop-In Toddler Time: 10:30 a.m. Saturdays, Oct. 18, Nov. 8 and Dec. 13, Bartlett Public Library District, 800 S. Bartlett Road. Story program for 2-year-olds and their caregivers. Please no older brothers or sisters. No registration required. For information, call (630) 837-2855 or bartlett.lib.il.us.

Science in Action: 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, Bartlett Public Library District, 800 S. Bartlett Road. Children in grades three-six make a science-related craft. Registration required, call (630) 837-2855 or bartlett.lib.il.us.

Wheels Rallye Team Halloween road rallye: 6 p.m. registration Saturday, Oct. 18, Woodfield Mall parking lot, light pole B, Schaumburg. $15 per vehicle. Event ends at Barnaby's in Schaumburg. For information, call Dennis, (847) 446-2904.

Home alone Red Cross class: 10:45-11:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 18; Prairie Lakes Community Center, Des Plaines. Teaches children grades K-3 how to handle being home alone including how to answer the phone and door, proper use of house keys and how to deal with strangers. Residents, $15; nonresidents, $20. For details, or to register, call (847) 391-5711 or visit desplaineparks.org

Oktoberfest: 6:30 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 18; Faith Lutheran Church, 431 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights. Pork loin dinner, concertina band, singalong and more. Tickets: $15. Benefits Faith Men's Club ministries. Call (847) 253-4839.

Beth Judea's United Synagogue Youth: 6:45 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 18; trip to Comedy Club Cost: $15 for members, $25 for Jewish nonmembers. (847) 634-0777, ext. 114 or e-mail YouthDirector@BethJudea.org.

Halloween Costume Exchange: 9 a.m.-noon, Saturday, Oct. 18; American Legion Post 208 at 121 N. Douglas Ave., Arlington Heights. Bring children's or adults' Halloween costume and exchange it for a costume of your choice. Complimentary refreshments. A donation of $2 for the war veteran's fund is requested. (847) 253-6632.

Haunted House Tour: 5-10 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 18. Sponsored by the Des Plaines Park District. Open to grades 3-10. First stop is the Palatine Jaycees Haunted House, then the Eleventh Hour in Elk Grove village where there are four haunted houses with 17,000 square feet of haunts. Depart from and return to the Leisure Center, 2222 Birch Street. Residents: $40; nonresidents, $50. For details, or to register call (847) 391-5700 or visit desplainesparks.org

Make it, eat it: 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, Community Center kitchen, 1919 Walnut Ave., Hanover Park. Children ages 6-12 can make candy, and chocolate covered treats. $22; $33 nonresidents. To register, (630) 837-2468 or hpparks.org.

Howlin' Halloween Fest: 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 18; Lions Recreation Center, 411 S. Maple, Mount Prospect. Ages 3-8 Games, Halloween Hayride, face painters, Express train and live entertainment, pumpkin patch and craft-making. Fee is $4 per child. Adults are free.

Call (847) 632-9333.

Pumpkin Fest: 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, Sunderlage Farmhouse, Vista Lane and Volid Drive, Hoffman Estates. (847) 781-2606.

Oct. 19

Character Counts Week: Oct. 19 through 25; Elk Grove Village. Character Coalition events -

• The annual Elk Grove Village Character Counts Foot Rally will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Friday, Oct. 24, starting at the Pavilion Gazebo, 1000 Wellington Ave. The Foot Rally celebrates the six pillars of good character. Teens in grades 6, 7 and 8 are invited to join in this free event that travels through several familiar locations that are walking distance within the area.

• Character Coalition Kids Raffle is 5-8 p.m., Oct. 24; part of the Elk Grove Park District Halloween Fest at the Pavilion, 1000 Wellington. Features children's items. The Halloween Fest features a costume parade and contest along with pumpkin decorating, storytelling, hayrides, crafts, games and prizes.

• Make a Difference Food Pantry Drive will be 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 25; five Elk Grove Village sites, including Walgreen's Stores, Jewel, Wal-Mart and Food 4 Less. CCC volunteers will be at these sites with lists of items that are needed by those less fortunate in our community.

For additional information on these events, call (847) 364-7224.

Oct. 20

Halloween Fest: 5-8 p.m., Friday, Oct. 24; Elk Grove Park District Pavilion, 1000 Wellington. Hot dogs, scary stories, games, a family costume parade and contest, pumpkin decorating, crafts and hayride. The Carousel and Jumps N' Jiggles will be open. Cost: $5 per child; $4 per adult if preregister by Oct. 20; after that date, cost is $10 per child and $8 per adult. Senior admission is $3 and $8. Proceeds from the silent auction benefits the Community Character Coalition. Register in person or at elkgroveparks.org. For details, call (847) 437-9494.

Family Fall Festival: 4:30-6 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, Southy Barrington Community Center, 3 Tennis Club Lane, South Barrington. Seed spitting contest, games, crafts, face painting and pumpkin picking for children ages 3-8 and their family. Registration required before Monday, Oct. 20. (847) 381-2570.

Things that go Bump in the Night- A story telling event: 7-8:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, South Barrington Community Center, 3 Tennis Club Lane, South Barrington. Gather around the campfire and listen to profession story teller, Leah R. Danoff, present family friendly stories for all ages. Refreshments. Registration required by Oct. 20. (847) 381-2570.

Oct. 21

Mixin' in the Kitchen: 4-5:30 p.m. Tuesday Oct. 21, Tuesday, Nov. 11 and Tuesday Dec. 2, Bartlett Community Center, 700 S. Bartlett Road. Children ages 6-10 prepare simple nutritious recipes that will be eaten in class. Bring your own apron. Registration required. $21, residents; $25, nonresidents. www.bartlettparks.org or (630) 540-4800.

Drop-in play group: 12:15-1:45 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 21, Woodland Heights Early Learning Center, 900 S. Park Blvd., Streamwood. Children ages birth-5 years can play with other children without leaving the security of their parent's side. Hosted by Parents as Teachers.

Flag procession and taffy apple party: 7 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 21; Congregation Beth Judea, Route 83 and Hilltop Road, Long Grove. Call (847) 634-0777.

Halloween Spooktaculare at: 3-5:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, Hanover Park District Community Center, 1919 Walnut Ave., Hanover Park. Creepy games, costume contest, prizes, crafts and a mini pumpkin hunt. For ages 6 and under. Registration required by Tuesday, Oct. 21. $4: $6 nonresidents; parents free. (630) 837-2468 or hpparks.org.

Oct. 22

Boo 2U Fest: 7-10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, Community Recreation Center, 505 N. Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg. Dj, games, snacks, haunted house for children in grades four-six. Participants in costume will receive a parting gift. Registration deadline, Wednesday, Oct. 22 before 5 p.m. $12; $18 nonresidents. Parents need to sign-in and out children. (847) 490-7015.

Twilight Saga Party: 6:30-8 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 22; Prospect Heights Public Library, 12 North Elm St. open to grades 6-12. Bloody snacks and fun. To register, call (847) 259-3500, ext. 35 or visit phpl.info.

Oct. 23

Drop-in play group: 9-10:30 a.m., Thursday, Oct. 23, Independence School, 200 Taylor St., Bartlett. Children ages birth-5 years have the opportunity to play with other children without leaving the security of their parent' side. Hosted by Parents as Teachers.

Oct. 24

Haunting in the Valley: 5-9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24 and Saturday, Oct. 25, Spring Valley Nature Sanctuary, Schaumburg. Haunted trail wagon ride, bonfire, refreshments. Come in costume. Matinee rides for younger children from 5-6 p.m.; night rides begin at 6:30 p.m. Advance ticket purchase suggested. $4 per person. Wagon rides, on a first-come, first-served basis, limited space available. For information, (847) 985-2100.

Muppet Madness: 3:30 p.m., Friday, Oct. 24; Rolling Meadows Library, 3110 Martin Lane. Rated G; 88 minutes. Register at the Ask Me Desk or call (847) 259-6050, ext. 140.

Grossology: 3:30-5 p.m., Friday, Oct. 24; 3:30-5 p.m., Prospect Heights Public Library, 12 North Elm St. open to grades 4-8. Concoct gross things to make the stomach turn. Register at the information desk or call (847) 259-3500, ext. 35, or register online at phpl.info

Five-Alarm Chili Cook-Off: 7-8:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, One Illinois Blvd., Hoffman Estates. Hoffman Estates Jaycees hold chili cook-off event to determine which branch of the Hoffman Estates Fire Department makes the best chili. For a $3 donation residents will be able to judge. Proceeds will benefit the fire department for community training programs. For information, call (847) 385-8265.

Timber Trails Fall Festival: 6-8:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24, Timber Trails Elementary School, 1675 McDonough Road, Hoffman Estates. Carnival, games, moon walks, concessions, raffle baskets and silent auction. (847) 742-9550.

Oct. 25

Palatine Park District's Halloween Party: 10 a.m.-noon, Saturday, Oct. 25, Community Center, 250 E. Wood St., Palatine. Includes crafts, games, treats, puppet show and Jum Nesci returns with his cold blooded creatures. $4; $5 nonresidents; $6 day of event. Purchase tickets at the Community or Birchwood recreation centers. Tickets can also be purchased by mail with checks made payable to the Palatine Park District, 250 W. Wood St. Palatine, IL 60067, enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Call (847) 991-0333.

Artists' Studio Day: 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 25; Faith Lutheran Church, 431 S. Arlington Heights Road, Arlington Heights. Young artists to learn about the techniques of famous artists to create their own masterpieces. All materials will be provided. Snack and "Jesus Time." Different groups will meet for age 3 through third grader. Suggested donation, $5 per child to cover materials. Advance registration appreciated. Call (847) 253-4839.

Fright Fest at Great America: Depart 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25 from Lions Recreation Center, 411 S. Maple, Mount Prospect. Return at 11 p.m. Open to grades 8 through 12. Fee is $70 for residents and $75

for nonresidents and includes transportation and park entry. Season pass holders may pay for transportation only. Bring extra cash for food and souvenirs. Call (847) 640-1000

Spooky Skating Special: Saturday, Oct. 25 during open and family skate hours; Central Community Center, 1000 W. Central Road, Mount Prospect

Halloween decorations, special lighting and music. $1 off regular fees.

Studio Spooktacular/Halloween Happenings: Saturday, Oct. 25; The Studio, 1326 W. Central Road, Mount Prospect. Crafts for boys and girls age 3-6 (Halloween Happenings 10 a. m. noon), and age 7-11 (Studio Spooktacular 1-4 p.m.). One-day class includes age-appropriate projects. Fee: $25 resident/$25 nonresident. Call (847) 640-1000.

Halloween Pooch Parade: Noon Saturday, Oct. 25, Bartlett Park, Oak and North avenues, Bartlett. Bring your pooch in costume, dog parade, prizes, doggie trick-or-treat. $8; $12 nonresident. Advance registration. (630) 540-4834.

Schaumburg Teen Center Red Ribbon Week: The Schaumburg Teen Center will host its annual drung prevention/intervention program, Red Ribbon Week, from Oct. 25-31m at 231 S. Civic Drive, Schaumburg. For information on the types of activities planned, call (847) 524-3388.

Oct. 26

Sand Bluff Bird Observatory and Macktown day trip: 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 26. Sponsored by the Des Plaines Park District. See small bird banding operations, lunch at the Elderberry Tea Room and tour the oldest settlement in Winnebago County. Trip departs from and returns to the Lake Park Club House. Residents, $50, nonresidents, $61. For details, or to register, call (847) 391-5700 or visit desplainesparks.org

Holy Ghost Night: 5:30 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 26; First United Methodist Church of Des Plaines, 668 Graceland. Pumpkin decorating, games crafts, prizes and treats. Call (847) 827-5561, ext. 12.

Airplane rides for kids: 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 26; Aurora Municipal Airport, U.S. Hwy. 30 and IL Route 47. This is a Young Eagles program offered by the EAA to introduce young people to general aviation. Flights usually last between 15 and 20 minutes. For details, call (630) 466-4579.

Halloween Hoopla: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 25; Metro Square in downtown Des Plaines. Safe day of Halloween activities. Kick Off Parade followed by a Day of the Dead drop-in with crafts and a visit to an indoor graveyard at the Historical Society, magic and illusion and crafts at the Des Plaines Library and safe trick or treating at local businesses. Free. Call (847) 391-5700 or visit desplainesparks.org

Kadinkers and Kadima youth groups trip: Noon, Sunday, Oct. 26; Congregation Beth Judea's youth groups, Kadinkers (3rd-5th graders) and Kadima (6th to 8th graders) will be going to the American Academy of Gymnastics. Pizza will be provided. Cost: $15 for members; $25 for Jewish nonmembers. Call (847) 634-0777, ext. 114 or e-mail YouthDirector@BethJudea.org.

Trunk 'n Treat: 3-4 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 26; Church of the Incarnation, United Methodist, 330 W. Golf Road, Arlington Heights. Church members will be in the parking lot with their car trunks open and decorated, filled with goodies. Prizes for prettiest, scariest, most clever. Coffee and doughnuts for moms and dads. Free.

Oct. 27

Fairy tale Theatre: 1-2 p.m. Monday, Oct. 25 -Monday, Dec. 15, Bartlett Community Center, 700 S. Bartlett Road. Children ages 3-5 will act out a weekly story with some of their favorite fairy tale characters. Includes creative movement and pantomime. Registration required. $65, residents; $73, nonresidents. www.bartlettparks.org or (630) 540-4800.

Power Monday Night for teens: Oct. 27-Nov. 24, Schaumburg Townshgip District Library 130 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg. Participate in a Writing Club from 6:30-7:30 p.m., or the Drawing Club from 7:30-9:30 p.m. Free, registration required. (847) 923-3191. x

Oct. 28

Pajama-Rama:. 7 p.m. Tuesday Oct. 28, Bartlett Public Library District, 800 S. Bartlett Road. Special evening storytime for families. Children are welcome to wear their pajamas and must be accompanied by a caregiver. No registration required. For information, call (630) 837-2855 or bartlett.lib.il.us.

Halloween Happenings: 10:30-11:30 a.m., Tuesday, Oct. 28, 10:30-11:30; Prospect Heights Public Library, 12 North Elm St. Open to all ages. Features storyteller Paddy Lynn; wear costumes for a trick-or -treat parade around the library. To register, visit the information desk or call (847) 259-3500 ext. 35, or visit phpl.info

United Synagogue Youth Corn Maze: 6:30-9:30 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 28; Meet at the Beth Judea Youth Lounge; transportation and snacks will be provided. Cost: free to members and $15 for Jewish nonmembers. Call (847) 634-0777 ext. 114 or e-mail YouthDirector@BethJudea.org.

Drop-in play group: 12:15-1:45 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 28, Woodland Heights Early Learning Center, 900 S. Park Blvd., Streamwood. Children ages birth-5 years can play with other children without leaving the security of their parent's side. Hosted by Parents as Teachers.

Oct. 29

Spooky Little Chefs: 5-6 p.m. for ages 4-6; 6-7 p.m. for ages 7-10 Wednesday Oct. 29, Bartlett Community Center, 700 S. Bartlett Road. Create traditional Halloween goodies, come in costume. Registration required. $19, residents; $26, nonresidents. bartlettparks.org or (630) 540-4800.

"Dirty Dancing," trip: 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29, bus departs from the Palatine Park District Community Center, 250 W. Wood St., Palatine. Timeless story of first love, full of heart pounding music. Arrive in downtown Chicago's theater district with time for lunch on your own before the 2 p.m. performance at the Cadillac Palace Theatre. Seats are in the balcony. $65, residents; $98, nonresidents. For all ages, under 17 with an adult. Reservations required, (847) 991-0333.

Edible haunted houses: 5:30-6:30 p.m. or 7:309-8:30 p.m., Wednesday Oct. 29, Schaumburg Township District Library, 130 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg. Children ages 6-14, with the help of a parent, can decorate a graham cracker house with icing, sprinkles, candy and other treats. No older or younger sibling may attend. Registration required. $10. (847) 923-3439.

Oct. 30

Drop-in play group: 9-10:30 a.m., Thursday, Oct. 9, Independence School, 200 Taylor St., Bartlett. Children ages birth-5 years have the opportunity to play with other children without leaving the security of their parent' side. Hosted by Parents as Teachers.

Dramatic Expressions: 5-6 p.m. Thursday Oct. 30-Thursday Dec. 15, Bartlett Community Center, 7 S. Bartlett Road. Children in grades one-four can learn the fundamentals of theater while being introduced to theater games, stage directions and movements, theatrical terms and character development. $81, residents; $89, nonresidents. Registration required. bartlettparks.org or (63) 540-4800.

Bram Stoker's Dracula: 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30, Bartlett Public Library District, 800 S. Bartlett Road. A one-women-show portraying highlights of the famous horror classic will be performed for adults and teens No registration required. For information, call (630) 837-2855 or bartlett.lib.il.us.

Magic with Derek & Kevin: 6:30-7:15 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 30; Rolling Meadows Library, 3110 Martin Lane. Magic performed by local boys who performed at the summer show. Free tickets will be available beginning Monday, Oct. 13. (847) 259-6050.

Halloween party: 5-5:45 p.m. or 5:45-6 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 30; Hosted by Salt Creek Park District, Hat Trick Hockey, 647 Consumers Ave., Palatine. Face painting, games with prizes, a coloring station and a fun maze. Please bring a bag/bucket for prizes. Fee: $6 for non-residents; $4 for residents. Adults are free but must accompany children. Open to ages 10 years and under. Pre-registration is required. Call (847) 259-6890.

Halloween Boonanza: 6-9 p.m. Oct. 31, Community Recreation Center and Safety Park, 505 N. Springinsguth Road, Schaumburg. Carnival atmosphere with a variety of themed activities including hay rides, prizes, crafts, trick-or-treating, games, entertainment, more. Registration deadlines in Thursday, Oct. 30, by 5 p.m. $5 in advance; $7 at the door.

Oct. 31

Trunk or Treat: 4-6 p.m., Friday, Oct. 31; Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, 1111 N. Elmhurst Road, Prospect Heights. Toddlers and Teens stop at the decorated trunks to get a treat. Call: (847) 537-4353.

Halloween Adventure 2008: 3-5 p.m. Oct. 31, Alden Estates of Barrington Rehabilitation and Health Care Center, 1420 S. Barrington Road, Barrington. Free and open to the public, the event features pumpkin decorating, face painting, magician, trick-or-treating, refreshments, more. Children must be accompanied by an adult. For information, call (847) 382-6664.

Nov. 1

Drop-In Baby Talk: 10:30 a.m. Saturdays, Nov. 1 and Dec. 6, Bartlett Public Library District, 800 S. Bartlett Road. Storytime for babies age 3-23 months and a caregiver. No registration required. For information, call (630) 837-2855 or bartlett.lib.il.us.

Nov. 2

Young Eagles Rally: 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 2, Schaumburg Airport, Irving Park Road and Wright Blvd., Schaumburg. :Children ages 8-17 can meet the pilots, see the different types of aircraft and take a flight. Sponsored by EAA Chapter 101, weather permitting. For information or to register, call Churck at (708) 788-6390 or e-mail Youngeagles101@aol.com.

Nov. 3

Stage Combat: 7-9 p.m. Mondays, Nov. 3-Dec. 15, Noble Fool Theatricals, St. Charles. Perform basic unarmed hand-to-hand stage fighting techniques with an emphasis on safety and storytelling. Taught by a member of the Society of American Fight Directors. For ages 15-21. $175. Register at (630) 540-4800 or bartlettparks.org.

Make a Holiday Gift Platter: 7-8 p.m., Nov. 3; Clayground Art Studio, 505 Business Center Drive, Mount Prospect. Sponsored by the River Trails Park District. Prepare a platter with underglaze colors. Students press their fingerprints to make patterns or paint designs. Assistance with hand lettering. All supplies included. Ages 4 and up. Cost: $50. (847) 255-1200

Nov. 8

Streamwoods Cultures of Our Community celebration: 2-4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 4, Park Place Family Recreation Center, 550 S. park Blvd. Sponsored by the Community Relations Commission, the event includes the many different cultures represented in Streamwood including African, Albanian, Chinese, Columbian, Iranian, Jamaican, Mexican, Native American and Polish. Presentations, question and answer, snacks. For Streamwood residents. Call Jennifer, (630) 736-3816.

Drop-In Toddler Time: 10:30 a.m. Saturdays, Nov. 8 and Dec. 13, Bartlett Public Library District, 800 S. Bartlett Road. Story program for 2-year-olds and their caregivers. Please no older brothers or sisters. No registration required. For information, call (630) 837-2855 or bartlett.lib.il.us.

Nov. 11

Mixin' in the Kitchen: 4-5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11 and Tuesday Dec. 2, Bartlett Community Center, 700 S. Bartlett Road. Children ages 6-10 prepare simple nutritious recipes that will be eaten in class. Bring your own apron. Registration required. $21, residents; $25, nonresidents. bartlettparks.org or (630) 540-4800.

Nov. 13

Read to Starr: 6-8 p.m. Thursdays, Nov. 13 and Dec. 4, Bartlett Public Library District, 800 S. Bartlett Road. Kids in grades one-three can schedule a 15 minute appointment to read with a certified therapy dog. Registration required, call (630) 837-2855 or bartlett.lib.il.us.

Internet Safety: 7 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 13; Prospect High School Theatre, 801 W. Kensington Road, Mount Prospect. Parents are encouraged to attend this program with their children, but all interested community members are welcome. Call (847) 718-5205.

Nov. 15

Family Fun: 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15, Bartlett Public Library District, 800 S. Bartlett Road.

Stories and a crafts for the family. No registration required. For information, call (630) 837-2855 or bartlett.lib.il.us.

Junior Historians: 10 a.m.-noon, Saturday, Nov. 15; Arlington Heights Historical Museum, 110 W. Fremont. Hands-on activities, visiting speakers and discussions focus on interesting topics that relate to our community and its heritage. Open to third through eighth graders. $15 for residents; $18 for nonresidents. non-res., November topic: Transportation and U.S. History. Pre-register at ahpd.org

Dec. 1

Battle of the Bands: 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 17, Schaumburg Township District Library, 130 S. Roselle Road, Schaumburg. Deadline to register Dec. 1. For eligibility requirements and submission instructions, call Amy, (847) 923-3191 or e-mail aalessio@stdl.org.

Dec. 2

Mixin' in the Kitchen: 4-5:30 p.m. Tuesday Dec. 2, Bartlett Community Center, 700 S. Bartlett Road. Children ages 6-10 prepare simple nutritious recipes that will be eaten in class. Bring your own apron. Registration required. $21, residents; $25, nonresidents. www.bartlettparks.org or (630) 540-4800.

Dec. 4

Read to Starr: 6-8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, Bartlett Public Library District, 800 S. Bartlett Road. Kids in grades one-three can schedule a 15 minute appointment to read with a certified therapy dog. Registration required, call (630) 837-2855 or bartlett.lib.il.us.

Dec. 6

Winter Family Fun Day trip: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 6; Williams Tree Farm in Rockton. Sponsored by the Des Plaines Park District. Cut your own tree or purchase a pre-cut tree, take a winter hike, go on a hayride, see the reindeer and farm animals, and browse the Christmas gift shop. Trip departs from and returns to Prairie Lakes Community Center. Trees will be transported on the Park District trailer. Resident adults: $12; nonresident adults: $15. Resident children, $5;, nonresident children: $6. For details or to register, call (847) 391-5711 or visit desplaineparks.org

Drop-In Baby Talk: 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 6, Bartlett Public Library District, 800 S. Bartlett Road. Storytime for babies age 3-23 months and a caregiver. No registration required. For information, call (630) 837-2855 or bartlett.lib.il.us.

Dec. 7

Young Eagles Rally: 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 7, Schaumburg Airport, Irving Park Road and Wright Blvd., Schaumburg. :Children ages 8-17 can meet the pilots, see the different types of aircraft and take a flight. Sponsored by EAA Chapter 101, weather permitting. For information or to register, call Churck at (708) 788-6390 or e-mail Youngeagles101@aol.com.

Dec. 13

Drop-In Toddler Time: 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13, Bartlett Public Library District, 800 S. Bartlett Road. Story program for 2-year-olds and their caregivers. Please no older brothers or sisters. No registration required. For information, call (630) 837-2855 or bartlett.lib.il.us.

Dec. 17

"Wicked" trip: 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Dec. 17, bus departs from the Palatine Park District Community Center, 250 E. Wood St., Palatine. Join the park district for this last chance to see one of Broadway's most popular musicals before it leaves Chicago. Arrive in downtown Chicago's theater district in time for lunch on your own before the 2 p.m. performance at the Oriental Theatre. Seats are in the balcony. All ages, under 17 with an adult. $80, residents; $120, nonresidents. Reservations required, call (847) 991-0333.

Jan. 25

"Spamalot" trip: 10 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Sunday Jan. 25, bus departs from the Palatine Park District Community Center, 250 W. Wood St., Palatine. Lovingly ripped off form the classic film comedy "Monty Python and the Holy Grail," Spamalot is a new musical directed by Mike Nichols. Arrive in downtown Chicago's theater district with plenty of time for lunch on your own before the 2 p.m. performance in the Auditorium Theatre. Seats are in the balcony, no elevator access in this venue. $70, residents; $105, nonresidents. Reservations required, call (847) 991-0333.

Ongoing

Tutor. com: Youth Services Department at the Prospect Heights Public Library, 12 N. Elm Street, Prospect Heights will have a new online service. Tutor.com connects to a real-time live tutor in an online classroom to work one-on-one on homework, studying, test prep, etc. Available daily from 2- 9 p. m. via the library's Web site phpl.info

Family Adventure: Take a Hike with the Rolling Meadows Adventure Pack; Rolling Meadows Library, 3110 Martin Lane, Rolling Meadows. Group and family activity. Bring your Rolling Meadows Library card and a driver's license to the library and ask to check out a Rolling Meadows Adventure Pack. You will receive a backpack, a GPS unit accurate to 15 feet anywhere in the Northern Hemisphere, a pair of binoculars, and a book of clues and coordinates to begin your adventure.

Before and After School Care program: Weekdays, 6-8:30 a.m. and 3:30-6 p.m.; nonschool days (except major holidays), 6 a.m.-6 p.m.; Lutheran Church of the Cross, 2025 S. Goebbert Road, Arlington Heights. Open to children ages 5 through 12. For details, call (847) 437-5176.