Ready or not, the holiday season is upon us. Here's a look at what's happening: Lights and more lights Illumination, Tree Lights at The Morton Arboretum: 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. daily through Sunday, Jan. 5, (except Dec. 2, 9, 16, 24 and 25) at The Morto...

Holiday shows of all shapes and sizes are popping up around Chicago and suburbs. From big-name acts and seasonal spectacles to area choral and instrumental performances, we're sure you'll find something that stokes your holiday spirit. "Presley, Pe...

Cosley at Christmastime Take advantage of free seasonal admission during Cosley Zoo's Festival of Lights and Tree Sale. There are special lighted animal figures, plus trees, wreaths and more for sale now at Cosley Zoo, 1356 N. Gary Ave., Wheaton. F...

From holiday choral and musical concerts to career information sessions, the College of Lake County presents more than a dozen December events open to the community. While some are free of charge and others have an admission fee, the sheer variety a...

There are losses, triumphs, battles and dreams come true in the fantastic world of "The Nutcracker," a perennial Christmas ballet favorite. And this season, both Elgin and Batavia play host to two similar but different ways to experience that Tchaik...

The quintessential production of the holiday and family classic, originally presented at Chicago's Arie Crown Theatre from 1965 until 1997, recreates Ruth Page's beautiful and beloved original full-length staging with an elite company and internatio...

Emilie Lynn was about 2 years old when her mom heard her singing along with a Beatles song on the radio. Cute, right? But here's the thing: She was singing the harmony, not the melody. And that's when her mom thought — no, she knew — her daughter ...

Dance companies throughout the city and suburbs are staging their versions of Tchaikovsky's beloved ballet “The Nutcracker.” Here's where you can catch this holiday favorite: Suburbs Barrington Dance Ensemble: 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 22; 2 and 7 p.m. Sa...

Cole tribute Evan Tyrone Martin stars in "An Unforgettable Nat King Cole Christmas," a special Artists Lounge Live touring concert set for Friday, Dec. 6, at the Elgin Community College's Blizzard Theatre, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. $34. (847) 622-0...