Arboretum sets Fall Color Festival events
At the Morton Arboretum in Lisle, a glance skyward reveals a symphony of color - fiery oranges catch a crisp breeze alongside ruby reds, rich purples and gleaming golds. The arboretum's 1,700 acres of woodlands, wetlands and prairie boast a world-renowned collection of trees from more than 40 countries, allowing for a long-lasting fall color palette that can be enjoyed along 16 miles of hiking trails.
Each year, guests from around the Midwest visit the arboretum's Fall Color Festival, a month of events that complement the season's beauty.
The festival opens Sunday, Oct. 1, with the Fall Color 5K Run and Walk. Participants race through the East Woods during the annual event, which includes a kids dash and post-race party.
Adding to the fall tapestry will be the hundreds of real pumpkins of all shapes and sizes displayed throughout the arboretum grounds. Glass versions will draw the spotlight during the seventh annual Glass Pumpkin Patch from Wednesday to Sunday, Oct. 11 to 15, which features demonstrations from some of the country's top glassblowers and unique, handcrafted designs for sale.
At the 1950s-themed Mystery Dinners on Thursday and Friday, Oct. 26 and 27, adults can put together clues to a caper loosely based on arboretum history. The grown-up fun includes the Cider and Ale Festival Saturday, Oct. 21, when visitors can sample flavorful ciders and beers from dozens of craft breweries while enjoying the splendor of the season.
Families can get into the Halloween spirit with costumed characters at the BOO Breakfast Sunday, Oct. 29. And all month, kids are invited to the four-acre Children's Garden for the games and crafts of the Trick-or-Trees program.
Throughout the month, visitors can take in a performance of "Nightfall with Edgar Allan Poe." Walk along with the action of the chilling tale during a Theatre-Hikes performance Oct. 7 to 29.
Less spooky but no less fun are the whimsical creations of the Scarecrow Trail. Bordering Meadow Lake, the handmade scarecrows are the work of Chicago-area Scout troops.
Every weekend, visitors also can enjoy seasonal fare including taffy apples and kettle corn.
All event dates and times are subject to change. For information about the Morton Arboretum's fall festivities, visit mortonarb.org/fallcolorfest.
Arboretum admission is $14 for adults, $12 for seniors 65 and older, $9 for ages 2 to 17 and free for younger children and members. On Wednesdays, admission is $9 for adults, $8 for seniors and $6 for children. Parking is free with admission.