Five Things To Do in the Northern Suburbs: Jan. 9 to 11, 2026

New year, fresh plans. Bundle up and make the most of a winter weekend near you.

Lace up for Skate in the Park.
This event opens with a professional figure skating demonstration before transitioning into open skate, where attendees are invited to bring their own skates and hit the ice. Off the rink, there's a shoot-the-puck contest, a bonfire, and classic cold-weather treats like hot chocolate and s'mores.

Date: Jan. 10
Time: 12–3 p.m.
Cost: $36+
Location: Gelatin Park, 250 Library Ln., Grayslake
More Info: grayslakevillagecenter.com

Bundle up for WinterFest at Volo Bog.
This outdoor winter festival pairs live music with hands-on seasonal activities throughout Volo Bog. Visitors can explore the preserve through guided hikes, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing, while snow sculpting and nature crafts offer creative breaks along the way. Enjoy live performances from local musicians, including Brandon Reisdorf and The Southwick Johnson, and a photo contest to end the afternoon.

Date: Jan. 11
Time: 1–4 p.m.
Cost: $10 Suggested Donation
Location: Volo Bog State Natural Area, 28478 W. Brandenburg Rd., Ingleside
More Info: friendsofvolobog.org

Have some fun at Winterfest.
Century Park Arboretum hosts this all-ages winter celebration packed with classic cold-weather attractions. Highlights include sled dog demonstrations, horse-drawn carriage rides, and fire pits for warming up with s'mores. If conditions allow, guests can sled down the hill, while a new iceless skating rink adds another option for some fun without the blades.

Date: Jan. 10
Time: 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Century Park Pavilion, 1400 Indianwood Dr., Vernon Hills
More Info: facebook.com 

Drop in at Community Day.
This open-house-style event invites families to stop by and explore what Art Makers Outpost has planned for the year ahead. Visitors can learn about upcoming summer camps and the CIT program while kids dive into bracelet making and winter-themed crafts.

Date: Jan. 10
Time: 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Art Makers Outpost, 609 South Blvd., Evanston
More Info: artmakersoutpost.com

A beloved tradition returns at Red Rose Jazz 2026.
The Red Rose Jazz Band returns to the Gorton Center for another year of ragtime, Dixieland, and early jazz standards. Known for lively arrangements and familiar tunes, the group brings an upbeat energy in a setting that makes it easy to settle in and enjoy the rhythms.

Date: Jan. 11
Time: 4–5:30 p.m.
Cost: $25
Location: Grofton Center, 400 E. Illinois Rd., Lake Forest
More Info: gortoncenter.org