Join us this year for a wide variety of special events and programs that are great for families and friends to enjoy together. From art shows and gardening classes to concerts and military re-enactments, we have events to help you learn, let you relax and enrich your lives. We hope you will spend some time with us--under the oaks.

If you are unable to attend the program for which you registered, please call the registrar at least 48 hours prior to the class at 630 260 8162. If you provide 48 hours notice, you may transfer program fees to another class this year or receive a refund. Cancellations received less than 48 hours prior are not transferable or refundable. Courses cancelled by Cantigny will be fully refunded.

February

ABC’s Of Nature- Animals Love Cantigny!
Friday, February 8
10:00 -11:00 am- Visitors Center
Let’s learn about the animals who call Cantigny home.  What do the animals love?  Through a story, fingerplay and craft we will discover what is most important to our furry friends. Age level: 2-5 years.  Registration required at 630 260 8162, no program fee, parking fee applies.

Arianna Duo
Sunday, February 10
3:00 -4:00 pm- Freedom Hall
Lottery call-in dates: January 22 and 23
Enjoy a selection of romantic songs by this flute and harp duo. Arianna renders the finest in classical music and are equally at home with popular compositions. Arianna are Carlyn Lloyd and Laura Fako Utley. Tickets are free, but the parking fee applies. Seating is limited and ticket distribution is by lottery only. Lottery call-in dates are scheduled in advance beginning promptly at 8 am and ending at 4 pm. To be eligible for tickets, you must call 630-260-8162 during the call-in date and time. Cantigny will draw 35 names for each performance and contact the winning recipients.

Boxed Roses & Chocolate
Tuesday, February 13
6:30 pm- Greenhouse
Create a fancy chocolate colored box filled with fresh tawny colored roses and artificial chocolate hearts you learn to craft yourself!  Tied with a lovely coordinated ribbon, it's a perfect gift for a special valentine.  $40.00

ABC’s Of Nature- Building Snowmen
Friday, February 22
10:00 -11:00 am- Visitors Center
Stack up three snowballs and what do we see?  A round and friendly snowman waiting to play with me!  We will make our very own special snowman craft after we hear a story and learn a fingerplay.  Age level: 2-5 years.  Registration required at 630 260 8162, no program fee, parking fee applies.

First Division Punch Bowl Ceremony
And Spirit Sampling
February 22, Friday
7:30 pm- First Division Museum
$18.00 per person
Join the First Division Museum for a glimpse into the pageantry that precedes a formal dinner in the military. The ceremony includes formal toasts and preparation of a 1st Infantry Division Punch made of beverages selected from its historic campaigns around the world. The punch and its individual ingredients will be available for sampling. Hors d’oeuvres and nonalcoholic options will be available. Attendees must be 21 or over. Immerse yourself in a military culture few are lucky to experience.

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March

Folk Art Easter Eggs- Lithuanian Style
Wednesday, March 5
6:30 pm- Greenhouse
Create Lithuanian folk designed Easter eggs and learn the history behind this traditional artwork from one of Cantigny's volunteers, Irena Gintilas, of Lithuanian descent.  Each attendee will create two eggs of their own to take home.  All materials are included, please bring an apron or smock to wear to protect your clothing.  Registration required at 630 260 8162. $15.00

Finding the Lost Battalion:
Beyond the Rumors, Myths, and Legends
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
7:30 pm- First Division Museum
Date with History.
Come hear Robert Laplander, author of Finding the Lost Battalion: Beyond the Rumors, Myths and Legends of America's Famous WW1 Epic and The Lost Battalion: Return to the Charlevaux, speak on one of the most famous events of American participation in WWI.
Teacher CPDU credit available.

ABC’s Of Nature- Catch the Wind!
Friday, March 7
10:00 -11:00 am- Visitors Center
My, how the wind blows!  See it catch my kite?  Come join us and make your very own high-flying kite out of recycled materials.  We will be exploring what wind is and what it can do through stories and songs.  Age level: 2-5 years.  Registration required at 630 260 8162, no program fee, parking fee applies.

Metropolis Quartet
Sunday, March 9
3:00 -4:00 pm- Freedom Hall
Lottery call-in dates: February 19 and 20
Listen to a selection of baroque masterpieces and contemporary works by this quartet who define chamber music for a new age. Tickets are free, but the parking fee applies. Seating is limited and ticket distribution is by lottery only. Lottery call-in dates are scheduled in advance beginning promptly at 8 am and ending at 4 pm. To be eligible for tickets, you must call 630-260-8162 during the call-in date and time. Cantigny will draw 35 names for each performance and contact the winning recipients.

Folk Art Easter Eggs- Lithuanian Style
Sunday, March 9
1:00 pm- Greenhouse
Create Lithuanian folk designed Easter eggs and learn the history behind this traditional artwork from one of Cantigny's volunteers, Irena Gintilas, of Lithuanian descent.  Each attendee will create two eggs of their own to take home.  All materials are included, please bring an apron or smock to wear to protect your clothing.  Registration required at 630 260 8162.  $15.00

Teaching Military History 101
Saturday, March 15
9:00 am - 2:00 pm- First Division Museum
Participate in this specialized educators’ workshop to enhance competency and comfort in teaching American military history. The workshop will include a presentation by Colonel Paul Herbert PhD, Executive Director of the Cantigny First Division Foundation, explanations of military weapons and technology along with artifacts as examples, and a look at the First Division Museum’s educational resources. A tour of the tank park will also be available if the weather is agreeable.
Teacher CPDU credit available.

Rabbits Hiding in the Grass
Wednesday, March 19
6:30 pm- Greenhouse
Kids, design Mom's Easter centerpiece!  You'll have rabbits hiding in real grass and tiptoeing through the tulips!  See where he keeps his carrots hidden, and find his rabbit hole!  All will be revealed as bunnies play under the fresh pussy willows.  Easy to maintain through Easter.  Please plan to have an adult helper available to assist child.  Registration required at 630 260 8162.  $25.00

ABC’s Of Nature- Do You See a Rainbow?
Friday, March 21
10:00 -11:00 am- Visitors Center
How are rainbows made?  What colors make up the rainbow?  These questions, and many others, will be answered through a story, craft and colorful treat.  Age level: 2-5 years.  Registration required at 630 260 8162, no program fee, parking fee applies.

Exploring Art at the Robert R. McCormick Museum
Friday, March 28
4:30- 6:30 pm- Robert R. McCormick Museum
A tour highlighting the diverse art that graces the walls of the Robert R. McCormick mansion will provide inspiration for your own masterpieces.  Learn about the use of color, line and space while painting a portrait.  A colorful snack will be provided. (Please note any food allergies in registration.) Please bring a smock or old shirt to wear. Ages: 8-12, Cost: $15  For more information or to register, please call, 630 260 8162.

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April

Intersection of Presidential Campaigns
and National Security
April 2, 2008, Wednesday
7:30 pm- First Division Museum
Date With History.
Mr. Richard E. Friedman, President and Chair of the National Strategy Forum, and Professor John Allen (Jay) Williams of Loyola-University Chicago, will present an analysis of the leading presidential candidates' national security strategies and teams.
Teacher CPDU credit available.

Birds of a Feather
Saturday, April 5
10:00 am- 12:00 pm- Visitors Center
Can you name a bird that cannot fly?  Is a bat a bird?  How do birds keep from getting cold?  Learn the answers to these questions and more while playing Clever Catch, inspecting bird feathers and making an official Audubon bird call whistle.  We will complete our time together with a short bird watching hike.  Please dress for the weather. Ages 6-10, Cost: $5  To register, please call 630 260 8162.

ABC’s Of Nature- Exploring Rain
Friday, April 11
Two offerings: 10:00 -11:00 and 11:30-12:30
Red Bandshell- If rain-Visitors Center
Puddle jumping and rainy umbrella pictures await you! Through stories and songs, we will discover how rain is made.  Age level: 2-5 years.  Registration required at 630 260 8162, no program fee, parking fee applies.

Spring Bird Migration Hike
Saturday, April 12
8:00 am- Golf Course
Cantigny is a great spot to see birdlife. Join Bob Andrini, (a local high school teacher for over 33 years, he has also taught birding classes at the College of DuPage and led field trips for Kane County Audubon Society), in a walk through Cantigny’s Golf Course woodlands during peak migration time.  Not only sights, but sounds help to identify the birds that we search for, and in our walk, you will not only see them, but also hear them give their special calls.  Please dress for the weather and bring binoculars if you have them.  No registration required. No program fee.

Woodcarving Show
Saturday & Sunday, April 12 & 13
10:00 -4:00 pm- Visitors Center
Parking fee applies.

A Night at the Mansion Family Overnight
Friday, April 18- Saturday, April 19
6:30 pm- 7:30 am-  Robert R. McCormick Museum
Sleep over at the Mansion!  Create one-of-a-kind pillowcases, take a special flashlight tour and enjoy a snack.  Settle into your sleeping bag to watch “A Night At The Museum” on the big screen.  Rise and shine for a light breakfast before heading home.  Ages: 5-10 (1 adult per 4 children required) Cost: $35 per person, space is limited, registration required at 630 260 8162.  To download a registration form click here; to download a list of FAQ's please click here.

ABC’s Of Nature- Flowers Are Coming!
Friday, April 25
Two offerings: 10:00 -11:00 and 11:30-12:30
Red Bandshell- If rain-Visitors Center
April showers bring May flowers! After a story and some discussion, we will create a craft that will show us, and let us show others, how plants grow.  Age level: 2-5 years.  Registration required at 630 260 8162, no program fee, parking fee applies.

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May

Moms* with Tots Stroller Tour
Friday, May 2
9:30 am- Visitors Center
*Or dads, or grandparents, or aunts and uncles, or…If you’ve got small children at home and you’d like to get out and meet and mingle with a few other adults with small children, this is for you!  With Ann Sutherland, Cantigny volunteer, you’ll get to take a peek about a garden or two and chat a bit with the adults and their charges.  We hope the children get to make a few new friends (as well as the adults) on these informal jaunts (this tour meets for the first Friday every month from May thru August).  Suggestion:  Don’t forget to bring sippys and snacks and wear comfortable walking shoes for the tour. No program fee, parking fee applies.

Perspectives of the Tet Offensive
May 2, 2008, Friday
7:30 pm- First Division Museum
Date With History
Jim Willbanks author and historian will present the historical context of the Tet Offensive. Veterans of the Offensive will also share their experiences. 2008 marks the 40th anniversary of the Tet Offensive.
Teacher CPDU credit available.

Greenhouse Open House
Sunday, May 4
10:00 -3:00 pm- Greenhouse
The Cantigny Production Greenhouse will be open to the public at its best time of year. The 18,000 square foot greenhouse is filled to capacity with about 160,000 annuals, perennials, and collections of jade, succulents, and topiary creations. Special displays will be set up and staff will be available to assist the gardening public in viewing our activities and facilities. No parking fee, enter at the Shaffner Road entrance.

How to Choose the Perfect Pot
Sunday, May 4
10:00 am- Greenhouse
Have you become a potaholic?  Buying any (and every) pot that stands between you and the exit of the garden center?  And maybe you've made a few poor choices?  In this short and complimentary demo, Liz Omura, Idea Garden curator, will point out the pros and cons of a variety of pot materials such as:  terra cotta, glazed terra cotta, fiberglass, metals, and concrete/cast stone. No program fee, parking fee applies.

Spillers, Thrillers and Fillers Container Demo
Sunday, May 4
10:30 am- Greenhouse
Jill Weiss, Cantigny Grower, will conduct a short demonstration in how to plant a great container.  Jill will take you from start to finish discussing the soil medium, plants and the know-how to keep your container blooming pretty! No program fee, parking fee applies.

How to Choose the Perfect Pot
Sunday, May 4
1:00 pm- Greenhouse
Have you become a potaholic?  Buying any (and every) pot that stands between you and the exit of the garden center?  And maybe you've made a few poor choices?  In this short and complimentary demo, Liz Omura, Idea Garden curator, will point out the pros and cons of a variety of pot materials such as:  terra cotta, glazed terra cotta, fiberglass, metals, and concrete/cast stone. No program fee, parking fee applies.

Spillers, Thrillers and Fillers Container Demo
Sunday, May 4
1:30 pm- Greenhouse
Jill Weiss, Cantigny Grower, will conduct a short demonstration in how to plant a great container.  Jill will take you from start to finish discussing the soil medium, plants and the know-how to keep your container blooming pretty! No program fee, parking fee applies.

Garden Tips & Tastes in the Idea Garden
Wednesday, May 7
12:00 pm- Idea Garden
You've got questions.  You've got ideas.  And tips.  And suggestions.  Come and join this casual forum in the Idea Garden on the first and third Wednesdays from May through September.  Each Wednesday we will have a theme:  there will be demonstrations, handouts, tastings and maybe even a guest speaker or two.  We're sure to have a lot of fun!  Bring a fellow gardening friend and bring a brown bag lunch as we dish and dine out in the Idea Garden.  Liz Omura, Idea Garden Curator, will be the facilitator and hostess, but please bring your thoughts and suggestions for future topics. No program fee, parking fee applies.

Battlefield Nursing
May 7, 2008, Wednesday
7:30 pm- First Division Museum
Date with History.
Captain Jody Schroeder and Lieutenant Colonel John Groves will speak on their experiences as Battlefield Nurses in Iraq.
Teacher CPDU credit available.

ABC’s Of Nature- Guess Whose Nest?
Friday, May 9
Two offerings: 10:00 -11:00 and 11:30-12:30
Red Bandshell- If rain-Visitors Center
Mama Woodpecker and her babies will introduce us to bird families.  Through a special story and craft we will learn about what birds eat, where they live and the songs they sing. Age level: 2-5 years.  Registration required at 630 260 8162, no program fee, parking fee applies.

Scout-O-Rama
Saturday, May 10
9:00 -4:00 pm- Cantigny

Patriotic Celebration: Armed Forces Day
Saturday, May 17
9:00 -4:00 pm- Cantigny
Celebrate America's men and women in uniform and explore the 'tools of their trade' with outdoor displays, period re-enactors and special programming. Free parking the entire day.

Bring Your Favorite Pot Summer Container Workshop
Saturday, May 17
9:30 am- 11:30 am (sold out) or 1:30-3:30 pm- Greenhouse
Create & Take
Jill Weiss, Cantigny Grower, will instruct you in potting up the prettiest little summer container you ever saw! Bring in a container of your choosing (minimum width of 14"/maximum of 24") and she will supply the soil medium, approximately one flat of plants and the know-how to keep your container blooming pretty!  Registration required at 630 260 8162.  $40.00

Keni Thomas and Cornbread
Saturday, May 17
3:00 pm- 5:00 pm- Outside the First Division Museum
Concert is free. Seating is on the lawn for all outdoor concerts. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Rain or Shine.

Garden Tips & Tastes in the Idea Garden
Wednesday, May 21
12:00 pm- Idea Garden
You've got questions.  You've got ideas.  And tips.  And suggestions.  Come and join this casual forum in the Idea Garden on the first and third Wednesdays from May through September.  Each Wednesday we will have a theme:  there will be demonstrations, handouts, tastings and maybe even a guest speaker or two.  We're sure to have a lot of fun!  Bring a fellow gardening friend and bring a brown bag lunch as we dish and dine out in the Idea Garden.  Liz Omura, Idea Garden Curator, will be the facilitator and hostess, but please bring your thoughts and suggestions for future topics. No program fee, parking fee applies.

1st Division Army Band*
Thursday, May 22
7:00 pm- 9:00 pm- Outside the First Division Museum
Concert is free, parking fee applies. Seating is on the lawn for all outdoor concerts. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Rain or Shine. *Military bands are subject to change.

ABC’s Of Nature- High In The Sky, A Cloud Floats By
Friday, May 23
Two offerings: 10:00 -11:00 and 11:30-12:30
Red Bandshell- If rain-Visitors Center
Is it a bear? A unicorn? A heart? No, it’s a cloud! Clouds can look like so many things, but what are clouds? Let’s discover how clouds form and what types of weather they bring through a story and craft. Age level: 2-5 years. Registration required at 630 260 8162, no program fee, parking fee applies.

Chicago Brass Band
Sunday, May 25
3:00 pm- Bandshell
Concert is free, parking fee applies. Seating is on the lawn for all outdoor concerts. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Rain or Shine.

Steve Cooper Orchestra
Monday, May 26
3:00 pm- Bandshell
Concert is free, parking fee applies. Seating is on the lawn for all outdoor concerts. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Rain or Shine.

90th Anniversary of the Battle of Cantigny
Wednesday, May 28
9:00 -4:00 pm- Cantigny

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June

Die Lustigen Musikanten
Sunday, June 1
3:00 pm- Bandshell
Concert is free, parking fee applies. Seating is on the lawn for all outdoor concerts. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Rain or Shine.

Garden Tips & Tastes in the Idea Garden
Wednesday, June 4
12:00 pm– Idea Garden
You've got questions.  You've got ideas.  And tips.  And suggestions.  Come and join this casual forum in the Idea Garden on the first and third Wednesdays from May through September.  Each Wednesday we will have a theme:  there will be demonstrations, handouts, tastings and maybe even a guest speaker or two.  We're sure to have a lot of fun!  Bring a fellow gardening friend and bring a brown bag lunch as we dish and dine out in the Idea Garden.  Liz Omura, Idea Garden Curator, will be the facilitator and hostess, but please bring your thoughts and suggestions for future topics.  No program fee, parking fee applies.

The 2nd Battle of the Marne
June 4, 2008, Wednesday
7:30 pm- First Division Museum
Date with History.
Dr. Michael Neiberg will speak on his newly released book on the Second Battle of the Marne. Dr. Michael Neiberg is a professor at the University of Southern Mississippi and has written several books on the First World War.
Teacher CPDU credit available.

Moms* with Tots Stroller Tour
Friday, June 6
9:30 am- Visitors Center
*Or dads, or grandparents, or aunts and uncles, or…If you’ve got small children at home and you’d like to get out and meet and mingle with a few other adults with small children, this is for you!  With Ann Sutherland, Cantigny volunteer, you’ll get to take a peek about a garden or two and chat a bit with the adults and their charges.  We hope the children get to make a few new friends (as well as the adults) on these informal jaunts (this tour meets for the first Friday every month from May thru August).  Suggestion:  Don’t forget to bring sippys and snacks and wear comfortable walking shoes for the tour. No program fee, parking fee applies.

1858 rules Vintage Base Ball
Saturday, June 7
2:00 – 4:00 PM – Parade Field
Discover how baseball was played and enjoyed in 19^th century America. Be a crank (fan) and cheer for aces (runs) as the Lockport Sleepers challenge the Oregon (IL) Ganymedes to Cantigny Park’s inaugural vintage base ball game. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy what inspired our modern White Sox and Cubs! Registration not required, no program fee, parking fee applies.

Steve Meisner
Sunday, June 8
3:00 pm- Bandshell
Concert is free, parking fee applies. Seating is on the lawn for all outdoor concerts. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Rain or Shine.

ABC’s Of Nature- I Spy a Yellow Flower!
Friday, June 13
Two offerings: 10:00 -11:00 and 11:30-12:30
Visitors Center
In the garden, we will find many colors. Do you see a red flower?  A purple flower? Let’s see how many different flowers we can find, and through our story, learn how to plant a garden. (Also come see our caterpillars forming their chrysalises!) Age level: 2-5 years. Registration required at 630 260 8162, no program fee, parking fee applies.

Flag Day/Army Birthday
Saturday, June 14
9:00 -5:00 pm- Cantigny
Parking fee applies.

Fine Arts Festival
Saturday, June 14
9:00 -5:00 pm- Cantigny
An annual Cantigny event of over 175 world-class artists displaying and selling their artwork. This event is an Amy Amdur Production. For more information go to www.amdurproductions.com. Parking fee applies.

Art & Kids in the Garden: Pastels
Saturday, June 14
1:00 pm- Visitors Center
Create & Take
Being outside, with kids, having fun--creating art how much more fun can it be?!  Come and join artist, Catie Barron, as you learn how to create a masterpiece with pastels in the colorful Cantigny Gardens.  Kids--don't forget to bring your imagination, we'll supply the rest of the materials.  Suggested for children ages 8-14 years. Registration required at 630 260 8162.  $20.00

Opera -Luciano Laurentiu (accompanist), Paul Radlescu (Baritone) & Lauren Curnow (Soprano)
Saturday, June 14
6:00 pm - 7:15 pm Parade Field
Concert is free, parking fee applies. Seating is on the lawn. Bring a blanket or lawn chair.

Fine Arts Festival
Sunday, June 15
9:00 -5:00 pm- Cantigny
An annual Cantigny event of over 175 world-class artists displaying and selling their artwork. This event is an Amy Amdur Production. For more information go to www.amdurproductions.com. Parking fee applies.

Grand Opening of the Rose Garden & Prairie
Sunday, June 15
1:00 pm– Rose Garden/Prairie
We're very proud of our newly renovated prairie and rose garden at Cantigny.  Please join us in our Grand Opening festivities.  We'll have refreshments, music, and tours by Cantigny staff.  We will also have a floral demonstration on:  Garden Roses Artfully Arranged.  All of the activities start at 1pm and are complimentary. No program fee, parking fee applies.

Garden Tips & Tastes in the Idea Garden
Wednesday, June 18
12:00 pm– Idea Garden
You've got questions.  You've got ideas.  And tips.  And suggestions.  Come and join this casual forum in the Idea Garden on the first and third Wednesdays from May through September.  Each Wednesday we will have a theme:  there will be demonstrations, handouts, tastings and maybe even a guest speaker or two.  We're sure to have a lot of fun!  Bring a fellow gardening friend and bring a brown bag lunch as we dish and dine out in the Idea Garden.  Liz Omura, Idea Garden Curator, will be the facilitator and hostess, but please bring your thoughts and suggestions for future topics.  No program fee, parking fee applies.

Teddy Bear Tea Party
Wednesday, June 18
2:00-4:00 pm- McCormick Museum, Jefferson Portico (porch)
Dress for tea and bring your favorite teddy bear or stuffed animal to the Robert R. McCormick Museum. After a brief tour of the museum and etiquette lesson, we will share tea and treats with our furry friends, and paint our very own tiny tea cups. Ages 5-8, Cost $10. Registration required at 630 260 8162, parents welcome.

Storytimes in the Garden
Thursday, June 19
10:30 am– Visitors Center
(Warrenville Public Library Event)
Meet at the Visitors Center and explore some of your favorite stories and other activities with the Warrenville Public Library staff.  Please contact Ms. Sue Larson, at the library for further details and reservations (630)-393-7098- x110. No program fee, parking fee applies.

Storytimes in the Garden
Friday, June 20
10:30 am– Visitors Center
(Winfield Public Library Event)
Meet at the Visitors Center and explore some of your favorite stories and other activities with the Winfield Public Library staff.  Please contact Ms. Nuccia Choate, at the library for further details and reservations (630)-653-7599. No program fee, parking fee applies.

West Suburban Symphony -Cinema Classics
Saturday, June 21
8:00 pm- Outside the First Division Museum
Individual evening concert tickets are available for $15 per person. A special 3-concert package is available for $36 per person. Tickets can be purchased in advance over the phone, at the parking booth, through the mail (click here for the ticket form), or the night of the event. For additional information or to order tickets call Brett Olson at (630) 260-8164 during normal business hours. Seating is on the lawn throughout the Military Park. Bring a blanket or a lawn chair and enjoy our Ravinia style symphony concert.

Chicago Children's Choir
Sunday, June 22
3:00 pm- Military Park
Concert is free, parking fee applies. Seating is on the lawn for all outdoor concerts. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Rain or Shine.

Gone Buggy!- Children’s Craft
Tuesday, June 24
10:00 am-12:00 pm- Red Bandshell
Learn about different types of insects, and create three creepy crawly crafts: a racing bug on wheels, glowing firefly and magic flying butterfly or crawling spider. Ages: 5-10, Cost: $5. Registration required at 630 260 8162.

Twilight Walk of the Gardens with Refreshments
Wednesday, June 25
6:30 pm- Visitors Center
Twilight is one of the best times of day to see the gardens at Cantigny. Bob Waterman, Cantigny's Director of Gardens and Grounds, will lead a one-hour tour of the formal gardens at Cantigny. Following the tour, we invite guests to share in a variety wines and conversation with other Cantigny Horticulture staff. One of our most popular events! Registration required at 630 260 8162.  $25.00

Storytimes in the Garden
Thursday, June 26
11:00 am– Visitors Center
(West Chicago Public Library Event)
Meet at the Visitors Center and explore some of your favorite stories and other activities with the West Chicago Public Library staff.  Please contact Ms. Chris Waite, at the library for further details and reservations (630)-231-1552 x3. No program fee, parking fee applies.

ABC’s Of Nature- Just Fluttering By!
Friday, June 27
Two offerings: 10:00 -11:00 and 11:30-12:30
Visitors Center
Our caterpillars have formed their chrysalises and are ready to hatch! Let’s discover how a caterpillar becomes a butterfly. We’ll each make our own butterfly life cycle craft to take home. (If our butterflies have hatched already, we will release them in the garden!) Age level: 2-5 years. Registration required at 630 260 8162, no program fee, parking fee applies.

Grand Avenue Big Band
Sunday, June 29
3:00 pm- Bandshell
Concert is free, parking fee applies. Seating is on the lawn for all outdoor concerts. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Rain or Shine.

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July

Cantigny 50th Anniversary Celebration
Tuesday thru Friday, July 1 thru 4
10:00 -5:00 pm- Cantigny
Free parking each day.

Fresh Flower Designs in Red, White & Blue
Tuesday, July 1
11:00 am– Visitors Center
Just in time for your Fourth of July barbeque! Nancy Hollmeier and Margaret Walkington are two women from the Fox Valley area that specialize in floral designs for weddings and other special occasions. They will be demonstrating some very simple yet attractive floral designs that you can accomplish at home to give a bit of a patriotic touch to your fourth of July festivities. No program fee.

Fresh Flower Designs in Red, White & Blue
Tuesday, July 1
1:00 pm– Visitors Center
Just in time for your Fourth of July barbeque! Nancy Hollmeier and Margaret Walkington are two women from the Fox Valley area that specialize in floral designs for weddings and other special occasions. They will be demonstrating some very simple yet attractive floral designs that you can accomplish at home to give a bit of a patriotic touch to your fourth of July festivities. No program fee.

Garden Myth Busters
Tuesday, July 1
2:00 pm– Visitors Center
Are your gardening practices based on fact or fiction? There are quite a few gardening myths out there that just keep on getting passed down--but we know you’re curious to know the truth! Bob Waterman, Director of Gardens at Cantigny and Mrs. Wellin Tentioned, renowned garden myth creator, will bring the truth to light in this light-hearted presentation. No program fee.

Garden Tips & Tastes in the Idea Garden
Wednesday, July 2
12:00 pm– Idea Garden
You've got questions. You've got ideas. And tips. And suggestions. Come and join this casual forum in the Idea Garden on the first and third Wednesdays from May through September. Each Wednesday we will have a theme: there will be demonstrations, handouts, tastings and maybe even a guest speaker or two. We're sure to have a lot of fun! Bring a fellow gardening friend and bring a brown bag lunch as we dish and dine out in the Idea Garden. Liz Omura, Idea Garden Curator, will be the facilitator and hostess, but please bring your thoughts and suggestions for future topics. No program fee.

144th Army Band*
Friday, July 4
3:00 pm- Outside the First Division Museum
Concert is free, parking fee applies. Seating is on the lawn for all outdoor concerts. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Rain or Shine. *Military bands are subject to change.

Patriotic Celebration: Independence Day
Friday, July 4
10:00 -5:00 pm- Cantigny
Celebrate the birth of our nation's independence with various free activities, a free picnic and free parking all day.

Navy Band Great Lakes*
Sunday, July 6
3:00 pm- Outside the First Division Museum
Concert is free, parking fee applies. Seating is on the lawn for all outdoor concerts. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Rain or Shine. *Military bands are subject to change.

A Leisurely Stroll Thru the Gardens with Refreshments
Wednesday, July 9
6:30 pm- Visitors Center
We’ll start off at the Visitors Center where you’ll have an opportunity to select a glass of wine and a morsel or two to snack on. Bob Waterman, Director of Gardens and Grounds at Cantigny, will offer a verbal, historical snapshot of Cantigny and the gardens. We will have two other wine stations set up in the gardens with Cantigny staff and docents available to discuss the plantings and answer questions. Relax… enjoy one of the premium times of day to be in the gardens…leisurely move from station to station at your own pace. Registration required at 630 260 8162.  $25.00

Moms* with Tots Stroller Tour
Friday, July 11
9:30 am- Visitors Center
*Or dads, or grandparents, or aunts and uncles, or…If you’ve got small children at home and you’d like to get out and meet and mingle with a few other adults with small children, this is for you!  With Ann Sutherland, Cantigny volunteer, you’ll get to take a peek about a garden or two and chat a bit with the adults and their charges.  We hope the children get to make a few new friends (as well as the adults) on these informal jaunts (this tour meets for the first Friday every month from May thru August).  Suggestion:  Don’t forget to bring sippys and snacks and wear comfortable walking shoes for the tour. No program fee, parking fee applies.

ABC’s Of Nature- Kitchen in the Garden!
Friday, July 11
Two offerings: 10:00 -11:00 and 11:30-12:30
Visitors Center
Join us for a garden picnic! Let’s walk through the Idea Garden to see how fruits and vegetables are grown, then enjoy some delicious fresh berries. Not only will we eat the berries, we will use them for art! Age level: 2-5 years. Registration required at 630 260 8162, no program fee, parking fee applies.

Wheaton Symphony Orchestra -The American Musical
Saturday, July 12
8:00 pm- Outside the First Division Museum
Individual evening concert tickets are available for $15 per person. A special 3-concert package is available for $36 per person. Tickets can be purchased in advance over the phone, at the parking booth, through the mail (click here for the ticket form), or the night of the event. For additional information or to order tickets call Brett Olson at (630) 260-8164 during normal business hours. Seating is on the lawn throughout the Military Park. Bring a blanket or a lawn chair and enjoy our Ravinia style symphony concert.

West Suburban Concert Band
Sunday, July 13
3:00 pm- Military Park
Concert is free, parking fee applies. Seating is on the lawn for all outdoor concerts. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Rain or Shine.

Garden Tips & Tastes in the Idea Garden
Wednesday, July 16
12:00 pm– Idea Garden
You've got questions. You've got ideas. And tips. And suggestions. Come and join this casual forum in the Idea Garden on the first and third Wednesdays from May through September. Each Wednesday we will have a theme: there will be demonstrations, handouts, tastings and maybe even a guest speaker or two. We're sure to have a lot of fun! Bring a fellow gardening friend and bring a brown bag lunch as we dish and dine out in the Idea Garden. Liz Omura, Idea Garden Curator, will be the facilitator and hostess, but please bring your thoughts and suggestions for future topics. No program fee, parking fee applies.

Storytimes in the Garden
Thursday, July 17
10:30 am– Visitors Center
(Warrenville Public Library Event)
Meet at the Visitors Center and explore some of your favorite stories and other activities with the Warrenville Public Library staff.  Please contact Ms. Sue Larson, at the library for further details and reservations (630)-393-7098- x110. No program fee, parking fee applies.

Storytimes in the Garden
Friday, July 18
10:30 am– Visitors Center
(Winfield Public Library Event)
Meet at the Visitors Center and explore some of your favorite stories and other activities with the Winfield Public Library staff. Please contact Ms. Nuccia Choate, at the library for further details and reservations (630)-653-7599. No program fee, parking fee applies.

Gary Sinise and the Lt. Dan Band
Saturday, July 19
7:30 pm- Parade Field
All proceeds from the concert will benefit Illinois' efforts to support our troops and our returning veterans. The concert will be lawn seating.  Ticket prices are $25 and will go on sale May 2, 2008. Limited parking at Cantigny for $10 and there will also be free off-site parking with shuttle service.  For more information please visit: "Rockin' For The Troops".

The Hip Noz
Sunday, July 20
3:00 pm- Bandshell
Concert is free, parking fee applies. Seating is on the lawn for all outdoor concerts. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Rain or Shine.

Shakespeare in the Park
Sunday, July 20
6:00 pm- 7:30 pm- Gardens
Produced by the “Midsummer Theatre Troupe”.
Bring a blanket or a lawn chair; tickets are $10 per person. Free parking with ticket purchase.  Rain date August 3, 2008 at 6:00 pm. For additional information or to order tickets call Brett Olson at (630) 260-8164 during normal business hours.

Mother-Daughter Tea
Tuesday, July 22
2:00-4:00 pm- McCormick Museum, Jefferson Portico (porch)
Tour the museum’s reception hall and dining room, and get a sneak peek “behind the scenes” at the kitchen and servant’s areas before sitting down to tea. Please come dressed to impress- gloves, hats and boas are encouraged! After a brief discussion of tea etiquette and enjoying the treats, we will hand-paint miniature tea cups and string handmade paper bead necklaces. Ages 5-12, Cost $16 (per couple). Registration required at 630 260 8162. Grandmothers, aunts etc. welcome.

The Twilight Trio Tour
Wednesday, July 23
6:30 pm- Visitors Center
Bring a few friends with you to enjoy a glass of wine and see what's new at Cantigny! Our Prairie and Savannah, complete with new sculpture, "The Spirit of Commitment", was just finished late last fall. Our Rose Garden has been renovated and is now planted with more than 1200 roses as well as our recently built pergola. The Idea Garden, with newly installed Sensory Garden, is always a delight with new ideas. We will have a variety of wines and soft drinks available for you to sample and on-going tours of the three areas all evening long. Registration required at 630 260 8162.  $25.00

Storytimes in the Garden
Thursday, July 24
11:00 am– Visitors Center
(West Chicago Public Library Event)
Meet at the Visitors Center and explore some of your favorite stories and other activities with the West Chicago Public Library staff. Please contact Ms. Chris Waite, at the library for further details and reservations (630)-231-1552 x3. No program fee, parking fee applies.

ABC’s Of Nature- Long Legs and Little Wings- Let’s Learn About Bugs!
Friday, July 25
Two offerings: 10:00 -11:00 and 11:30-12:30
Visitors Center
With magnifying glasses in hand, we will set out on a Bug Safari! What type of bug has spots on their back? How many legs does a centipede have? Through a nature walk, story and craft, we will learn a lot about our creepy crawly friends. Age level: 2-5 years.  Registration required at 630 260 8162, no program fee, parking fee applies.

Rose Garden Fête
Saturday, July 26
6:30 pm- Rose Garden
Come and help us celebrate our newly designed Rose Garden. Partake of a warm summer evening abloom with the heady fragrance of roses. Our keynote speaker, Stephen Scanniello, of the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens’ Cranford Rose Garden and author of several books on roses, will discuss his trials and tribulations of working with American’s favorite flower. Then Glen Ellyn String Quartet will enhance the evening as you enjoy a glass of sparkling wine. Why not invite a few friends and make it a lovely garden party at our place? Registration required at 630 260 8162.  $40.00

Angel Melendez's Latin Street Music
Sunday, July 27
3:00 pm- Bandshell
Concert is free, parking fee applies. Seating is on the lawn for all outdoor concerts. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Rain or Shine.

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August

Moms* with Tots Stroller Tour
Friday, August 1
9:30 am- Visitors Center
*Or dads, or grandparents, or aunts and uncles, or…If you’ve got small children at home and you’d like to get out and meet and mingle with a few other adults with small children, this is for you!  With Ann Sutherland, Cantigny volunteer, you’ll get to take a peek about a garden or two and chat a bit with the adults and their charges.  We hope the children get to make a few new friends (as well as the adults) on these informal jaunts (this tour meets for the first Friday every month from May thru August).  Suggestion:  Don’t forget to bring sippys and snacks and wear comfortable walking shoes for the tour. No program fee, parking fee applies.

Banjo Buddies Dixieland Band
Sunday, August 3
3:00 pm- Bandshell
Concert is free, parking fee applies. Seating is on the lawn for all outdoor concerts. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Rain or Shine.

Garden Tips & Tastes in the Idea Garden
Wednesday, August 6
12:00 pm– Idea Garden
You've got questions. You've got ideas. And tips. And suggestions. Come and join this casual forum in the Idea Garden on the first and third Wednesdays from May through September. Each Wednesday we will have a theme: there will be demonstrations, handouts, tastings and maybe even a guest speaker or two. We're sure to have a lot of fun! Bring a fellow gardening friend and bring a brown bag lunch as we dish and dine out in the Idea Garden. Liz Omura, Idea Garden Curator, will be the facilitator and hostess, but please bring your thoughts and suggestions for future topics. No program fee, parking fee applies.

Prisoner of War Perspectives
August 6, 2008, Wednesday
7:30 pm- First Division Museum
Date with History.
Arnold Krammer, professor from Texas A&M University will speak on Prisoners of War as he has recently released his book Prisoners of War: a Reference Handbook. Following Krammer there will be a panel led by former prisoner's of war.
Teacher CPDU credit available.

A Walk Thru Our Prairie with Joel Greenberg
and Bob Waterman
Wednesday, August 6
6:00 pm– Prairie
Joel Greenberg, author of A Natural History of the Chicago Region, takes readers on a journey that begins in 1673 with Father Jacques Marquette and Louis Joliet—the first Europeans known to have visited the Chicago region—and that we're still on today. This is a fascinating story, told with humor and passion, of forests battling prairies for dominance; of grasslands plowed, wetlands drained, and species driven to extinction in the settlement of the Midwest; and of caring conservationists fighting to preserve and restore the native plants and animals. Join Bob Waterman, Director of Gardens at Cantigny and Joel Greenberg, as they walk Cantigny's prairie and chat about how our urban landscapes have changed over time. There will be a book signing and talk about Joel Greenberg's new book in the Gold Theater, following the prairie walk. No program fee, parking fee applies.

ABC’s Of Nature- My Little Pond
Friday, August 8
Two offerings: 10:00 -11:00 and 11:30-12:30
Visitors Center
Who lives in the ponds at Cantigny? Let’s walk to Gold and Silver Ponds and take a closer look! Will we see frogs, turtles or ducks? Join us and find out! Age level: 2-5 years. Registration required at 630 260 8162, no program fee, parking fee applies.

United States Air Force Band*
Sunday, August 10
3:00 pm- Military Park
Concert is free, parking fee applies. Seating is on the lawn for all outdoor concerts. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Rain or Shine. *Military bands are subject to change.

Illinois State Amateur Championship
Tuesday thru Thursday, August 12 thru 14
Cantigny Golf Course.

A Summer Evening at Cantigny
Wednesday, August 13
6:30 pm- Visitors Center
You'll think that you've been invited to a private party by Colonel McCormick himself, and he's just stepped out for a moment… Spend a splendid summer's evening touring the formal gardens at Cantigny followed by an indoor tour of the mansion. The evening will conclude with a sampling of wines from California and light refreshments on the south porch of the mansion. Bob Waterman, Director of Gardens and Grounds, and Diane Gutenkauf, Director of the Robert R. McCormick Museum will be your hosts for the evening. Registration required at 630 260 8162.  $30.00

Sun-Painted T-Shirts- Children’s Craft
Saturday, August 16
10:00 am-12:00 pm- Red Bandshell
Paint with the sun! Using a special sun sensitive paint, create your own one-of-a-kind t-shirt. Please bring a white t-shirt. (in case of clouds or rain- we will tie-dye.) Ages: 6-12, Cost: $5. Registration required at 630 260 8162.

French Connection Day
Sunday, August 17
9:00 am-3:00 pm
Join us for a fun-filled French-style day as we share our connection to France with a French open-air market, French street performers, the movie Ratatouille, story time with Madeline, children's art classes, French word tours for kids and much more. No program fee, parking fee applies.

Special Consensus
Sunday, August 17
3:00 pm- Bandshell
Concert is free, parking fee applies. Seating is on the lawn for all outdoor concerts. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Rain or Shine.

Garden Tips & Tastes in the Idea Garden
Wednesday, August 20
12:00 pm– Idea Garden
You've got questions. You've got ideas. And tips. And suggestions. Come and join this casual forum in the Idea Garden on the first and third Wednesdays from May through September. Each Wednesday we will have a theme: there will be demonstrations, handouts, tastings and maybe even a guest speaker or two. We're sure to have a lot of fun! Bring a fellow gardening friend and bring a brown bag lunch as we dish and dine out in the Idea Garden. Liz Omura, Idea Garden Curator, will be the facilitator and hostess, but please bring your thoughts and suggestions for future topics. No program fee, parking fee applies.

ABC’s Of Nature- Neat-O Bubbles!
Friday, August 22
Two offerings: 10:00 -11:00 and 11:30-12:30
Visitors Center
Pop! Pop! Pop! It’s bubble time! Who can make the biggest bubble? Let’s learn about how bubbles are made in nature and make some of our own! Age level: 2-5 years. Registration required at 630 260 8162, no program fee, parking fee applies.

The Chicago Highlanders
Sunday, August 24
3:00 pm- Bandshell
Concert is free, parking fee applies. Seating is on the lawn for all outdoor concerts. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Rain or Shine.

Jim Guter Band
Sunday, August 31
3:00 pm- Bandshell
Concert is free, parking fee applies. Seating is on the lawn for all outdoor concerts. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Rain or Shine.

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September

Naperville Big Band
Monday, September 1
3:00 pm- Bandshell
Concert is free, parking fee applies. Seating is on the lawn for all outdoor concerts. Bring a blanket or lawn chair. Rain or Shine.

Garden Tips & Tastes in the Idea Garden
Wednesday, September 3
12:00 pm– Idea Garden
You've got questions. You've got ideas. And tips. And suggestions. Come and join this casual forum in the Idea Garden on the first and third Wednesdays from May through September. Each Wednesday we will have a theme: there will be demonstrations, handouts, tastings and maybe even a guest speaker or two. We're sure to have a lot of fun! Bring a fellow gardening friend and bring a brown bag lunch as we dish and dine out in the Idea Garden. Liz Omura, Idea Garden Curator, will be the facilitator and hostess, but please bring your thoughts and suggestions for future topics. No program fee, parking fee applies.

Battle of St. Mihiel
September 3, 2008, Wednesday
7:30 pm- First Division Museum
Date with History.
Steve Fixler will speak on the battle of St. Mihiel in which he will highlight the use and the importance of the tanks. St. Mihiel was the first time that the United States Army used tanks in combat. Fixler will outline the preparations for battle, completely explain the battle and discuss its aftermath.
Teacher CPDU credit available..

Fall Bird Migration Hike
Saturday, September 6
8:00 am- Greenhouse
Cantigny is a great spot to see birdlife. Join Jeff Chapman, (who has lead field trips for the DuPage County Audubon Society), in a walk through Cantigny’s woodlands during peak migration time. Not only sights, but sounds help to identify the birds that we search for, and in our walk, you will not only see them, but also hear them give their special calls. Please dress for the weather and bring binoculars if you have them. Registration required at 630 260 8162.  No program fee.

Have you Tagged a Monarch Butterfly?
Saturday, September 6
1:00 pm– Visitors Center
If you’d like to help solve some unanswered questions about monarchs and their fall migration, join us in this hands-on study. This project is geared for children (ages 6 and up) and their parents to help develop an interest in the conservation of habitats crucial to the survival of the monarch butterfly and their fascinating migrations. At the end of our successful monarch tagging, we’ll conclude with a release ceremony. Lauren Fox, has worked with www.monarchwatch.org in a volunteer capacity. She has previous experience in tagging monarchs and will provide all materials and instruction necessary for this unique and fun experience! No program fee, parking fee applies.

DuPage Symphony Orchestra
Saturday, September 6
7:00 pm- Outside the First Division Museum
Individual evening concert tickets are available for $15 per person. A special 3-concert package is available for $36 per person. Tickets can be purchased in advance over the phone, at the parking booth, through the mail (click here for the ticket form), or the night of the event. For additional information or to order tickets call Brett Olson at (630) 260-8164 during normal business hours. Seating is on the lawn throughout the Military Park. Bring a blanket or a lawn chair and enjoy our Ravinia style symphony concert.

Birds of a Feather
Sunday, September 7
10:00 am- 12:00 pm- Visitors Center
Can you name a bird that cannot fly? Is a bat a bird? How do birds keep from getting cold? Learn the answers to these questions and more while playing Clever Catch, inspecting bird feathers and making an official Audubon bird call whistle. We will complete our time together with a short bird watching hike. Please dress for the weather. Ages 6-10, Cost: $5  To register, please call 630 260 8162.

ABC’s Of Nature- Picking Apples!
Friday, September 12
Two offerings: 10:00 -11:00 and 11:30-12:30
Red Bandshell- If rain-Visitors Center
Fall is coming….it is apple season! How many types of apples are there? After listening to a story, let’s make a craft and taste some homemade applesauce. Age level: 2-5 years. Registration required at 630 260 8162, no program fee, parking fee applies.

Revolutionary War Re-enactment & Emergency Preparedness Weekend
Saturday, September 13
10:00 -4:00 pm- Cantigny
Experience the sights and sounds of the 18th Century. Re-enactors portray the lifestyle and battle techniques of the Revolutionary War. Parking fee applies.

Have you Tagged a Monarch Butterfly?
Saturday, September 13
1:00 pm– Visitors Center
If you’d like to help solve some unanswered questions about monarchs and their fall migration, join us in this hands-on study. This project is geared for children (ages 6 and up) and their parents to help develop an interest in the conservation of habitats crucial to the survival of the monarch butterfly and their fascinating migrations. At the end of our successful monarch tagging, we’ll conclude with a release ceremony. Lauren Fox, has worked with www.monarchwatch.org in a volunteer capacity. She has previous experience in tagging monarchs and will provide all materials and instruction necessary for this unique and fun experience! No program fee, parking fee applies.

Revolutionary War Re-enactment & Emergency Preparedness Weekend
Sunday, September 14
10:00 -4:00 pm- Cantigny
Experience the sights and sounds of the 18th Century. Re-enactors portray the lifestyle and battle techniques of the Revolutionary War. Parking fee applies.

Patriotic Celebration: Constitution Day
Wednesday, September 17
10:00 -4:00 pm- Cantigny
Various free events and free parking all day.

Garden Tips & Tastes in the Idea Garden
Wednesday, September 17
12:00 pm– Idea Garden
You've got questions. You've got ideas. And tips. And suggestions. Come and join this casual forum in the Idea Garden on the first and third Wednesdays from May through September. Each Wednesday we will have a theme: there will be demonstrations, handouts, tastings and maybe even a guest speaker or two. We're sure to have a lot of fun! Bring a fellow gardening friend and bring a brown bag lunch as we dish and dine out in the Idea Garden. Liz Omura, Idea Garden Curator, will be the facilitator and hostess, but please bring your thoughts and suggestions for future topics. No program fee, parking fee applies.

A Night at the Mansion Family Overnight
Friday, September 19- Saturday, September 20
6:30 pm- 7:30 am-  Robert R. McCormick Museum
Sleep over at the Mansion!  Create one-of-a-kind pillowcases, take a special flashlight tour and enjoy a snack.  Settle into your sleeping bag to watch “A Night At The Museum” on the big screen.  Rise and shine for a light breakfast before heading home.  Ages: 5-10 (1 adult per 4 children required) Cost: $35 per person, space is limited, registration required at 630 260 8162. 

Cantigny Car Show
Sunday, September 21
9:00 -3:00 pm- Cantigny
Cantigny's third annual auto show featuring food, entertainment, prizes and a variety of vintage cars. Parking fee applies.  Click here for more information.

Miniature Autumn Garden Landscape Arrangement
Tuesday, September 23
6:30 pm- Greenhouse
Under the guidance of Floral Designer Joyce Grattoni, AIFD, you will create an unusual tabletop arrangement depicting a miniaturized fall garden display. The mini garden design will include all the materials you will need including a scarecrow, mini-trees and flowers, pumpkins and various other fruits and vegetables. Please bring a hand pruner if you have one available. Registration required at 630 260 8162.  $45.00

ABC’s Of Nature- Quick! Where is the Rabbit?
Friday, September 26
Two offerings: 10:00 -11:00 and 11:30-12:30
Red Bandshell- If rain-Visitors Center
Who is hiding in the tree? Does that leaf have legs? Let’s learn about camouflage! Through stories and a craft we will discover how animals hide in their surroundings. Age level: 2-5 years.  Registration required at 630 260 8162, no program fee, parking fee applies.

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October

Fall Festival
Saturday, October 4
10:00 -4:00 pm- Cantigny
Celebrate autumn with harvest-time activities including hayrides, live music, inflatables , face painting, candy-dive and much more. Along with all everything else the Cantigny Production Department will be offering: Bubble Wands (kids assisted in creating a bubble wand, bubble goo and recipe available), pumpkin bowling, pumpkin bean bag toss games to play and pumpkin painting (nominal fee for pumpkin). No program fee, parking fee applies.

ABC’s Of Nature- Super Pumpkins!
Friday, October 10
Two offerings: 10:00 -11:00 and 11:30-12:30
Visitors Center
Let’s explore pumpkins- inside and out! How do pumpkins grow? We’ll visit the Idea Garden to see pumpkins and gourds on the vine, then open a few up to see what is inside! Also enjoy a story, songs and a pumpkin seed treat. Dress for mess! (smocks will be provided)  Age level: 2-5 years. Registration required at 630 260 8162, no program fee, parking fee applies.

Teaching Military History 101
Saturday, October 11
9:00 am - 2:00 pm- First Division Museum
Participate in this specialized educators’ workshop to enhance competency and comfort in teaching American military history. The workshop will include a presentation by Colonel Paul Herbert PhD, Executive Director of the Cantigny First Division Foundation, explanations of military weapons and technology along with artifacts as examples, and a look at the First Division Museum’s educational resources. A tour of the tank park will also be available if the weather is agreeable.
Teacher CPDU credit available.

Hard-Shelled Gourd Jack O'Lantern
Saturday, October 18
9:00 am - 12:00 pm- Greenhouse
Create & Take
This is an introductory class designed to give you hands-on experience with carving a permanent hard-shelled gourd. You will learn how to cut and clean a gourd, use a variety of tools, and apply different stains to create your own jack o' lantern that will last for years! Join Joe Sable, Director of Production at Cantigny, as he helps you to unlock your imagination crafting with this unique medium. Registration required at 630 260 8162.  $40.00

Civil War Symposium and Re-enactment
Saturday, October 18
10:00 -4:00 pm- Cantigny
Parking fee applies.

ABC’s Of Nature- Trees’ Leaves Please!
Friday, October 24
Two offerings: 10:00 -11:00 and 11:30-12:30
Red Bandshell- If rain-Visitors Center
The leaves have fallen- so let’s pick up a few and explore their differences and similarities. What color are they? What shape and size? Let’s listen to a story, then use our leaves for a craft.  Age level: 2-5 years. Registration required at 630 260 8162, no program fee, parking fee applies.

Scout Program/Junior Scouts--Fresh Halloween Centerpiece
Tuesday, October 28
4:00 pm - 5:30 pm- Greenhouse
Create & Take
Transform a ceramic pumpkin into a jack-o-lantern with floral bats flying and floral spiders jumping from its head. Scary centerpieces will last through Halloween. This activity will fulfill a portion of the Art in the Home badge. For class information please contact Beth Whittington 630-260-8178. $15.00

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November

Cantigny 5K Run/Walk
Saturday, November 1
9:00 -10:00 am- Cantigny
Get in shape and run Cantigny’s 5^th Annual Veterans Day 5K Run/Walk. Registrations for the race will be accepted from April 1^st through our website at www.cantigny.org. Race will be limited to the first 700 runners. Race fee is $22 per runner. There will be a youth and tot run with a fee of $8. All proceeds will benefit the Chicago Tribune Charities. For up to date information please reference www.cantignypark.com. Parking fee waived for runners.

Scout Program/Brownies
Earth is Our Home-Recipe for a Mini World (terrarium)
Saturday, November 1
9:00 am - 10:30 am- Greenhouse
Our earth is kind of like one giant terrarium--both plants and animals (humans too) need soil, water, air and light to survive. When one of these things are missing or changed, we can suffer. You will make your own terrarium--a small, enclosed world made up of soil, water, air, and plants in this class. This class fulfills a portion of the badge requirements for Earth is Our Home. Please call Jenny Lund for further information:  630-260-8177. $10.00

Toy Soldier Show
Sunday, November 2
10:00 -4:00 pm- Visitors Center
Toy soldier enthusiasts will display collections of small-scale soldiers and armaments for sale and demonstrate painting techniques. Parking fee applies.

Patriotic Celebration: Veterans Day
Tuesday, November 11
10:00 -4:00 pm- Cantigny
Various free events and free parking all day.

Scout Program/Brownies
Create Your O