District 214 Community Education

Celebrate the season at Fort Atkinson’s Fireside Dinner Theatre with the hilarious holiday classic, A Christmas Story: The Musical. Follow young Ralphie Parker’s nostalgic quest for a Red Ryder BB gun, featuring a heartwarming score by Pasek and Paul and all your favorite movie moments. Before the show, explore The Fireside’s gift shops for unique treasures, festive decor, and bakery treats. Then, savor an exceptional matinee meal in a beautifully decorated setting. Don’t miss this spectacular blend of fine dining and Broadway-quality theater!

Morton Arboretum’s, “Illumination: Tree Lights at the Arboretum" is a spectacular holiday lights display using amazing new technology. On our early-evening trip, walk along a paved path to see the beautiful Christmas lights glowing with dazzling LED lights in the trees. You will not only see them, but you interact with them as well! Enjoy a cozy fire and some hot chocolate, and stop in at the Visitor’s Center to see other themed displays. Dinner is at the landmark White Fence Farm Restaurant where we’ll feast on its acclaimed "World's Greatest Chicken"! Beautifully decorated for the holidays, the restaurant has served travelers on old historic U.S. Route 66 since 1926! (Illumination requires walking along a relatively level outdoor pathway about ¾ to 1 mile in length.)

Relive Chicago’s iconic holiday tradition with “Remembering Marshall Field’s at Christmas” at the Jacob Henry Mansion Estate in Joliet. Historian Leslie Goddard brings the magic to life, tracing the store’s history through rare photos, the Walnut Room’s Great Tree, and Uncle Mistletoe. Your afternoon begins with a self-guided tour of the 1873 National Historic Landmark, followed by a homemade holiday luncheon and the main presentation. Conclude your visit at the historic Old Central Church as we celebrate the season with a perfect day of history and charm!