Pre-Civil War Quilts: Secret Codes To Freedom On The Underground Railroad
Sunday, Feb. 12, 2 – 3:30 p.m., Forest Park Public Library
Connie Martin, M.A., will present a special multi-media exhibit involving patterns and special stitching were used on quilts to signal routes of escape and survival on the Underground Railroad. This presentation is based on a book by Martin’s mother, Dr. Clarice Boswell, entitled Lizzie’s Story: A Slave Family’s Journey To Freedom. 7555 Jackson Blvd., Forest Park.
Valentine’s Sock Hop
Sunday, Feb. 12, 9 a.m., Wonder Works Children’s Museum
This V-Day sock hop will feature events for kids of all ages, including an indoor skating rink, dance performances, a scavenger hunt, disco ball dancing, valentine crafts and musical instrument making. $13 for members, $26 for non-members, $5 surcharge for tickets purchased on the day of the event. 6445 W. North Ave., Oak Park.
“The Work”: Black History Museum in the Idea Box
Through Feb. 28, select days and hours will be posted on the Idea Box exhibit door, Oak Park Public Library
The Black History of Oak Park will be celebrated through the Idea Box. The struggle for social justice and racial equity are often referred to as “The Work.” In honor of Black History Month, the second annual Idea Box Black History Museum honors Black Oak Park history and the leaders who have defied racial barriers to lay the foundation of this diverse village. This exhibit spotlights not only the pioneers, but contemporary Black Americans as well. Learn more at oppl.org/calendar. 834 Lake St., Oak Park.
Amy LaVere and Will Sexton
Wednesday, Feb. 8, 8 p.m., FitzGerald’s
LaVere, a veteran singer-songwriter, will be joined by producer Will Sexton. The combination of LaVere’s soprano voice and her storytelling gets the point across with precision. $15, 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berwyn.
All Area Chess Tournament
Saturday, Feb. 11, 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., St. Mary School, Riverside
This grade school chess game expo will be split into two divisions: grades K-3 and 4-8. Everyone will play five rounds. The top 10 scorers in each division will receive trophies and medals; the best school team in each division will receive trophies. A guardian must be present for any child 11 and under. The first round begins at 10 a.m. Register no later than Feb. 10. Sign-up info: www.learningmeansfun.com/signup. Enter code SMR2.11.23. No admittance allowed with signs of illness. $58.25, 97 Herrick Road., Riverside.
Rising Stars Valentine’s Concert
Saturday, Feb. 11, 7:30 p.m., Unity Temple Restoration Foundation
A diverse and talented group of musicians share their talents: Yoshihiro Okuyama, Leandro Isaac Motta, Sava Velkoff, Leandro Isaac Motta, Jordan Hiley, Nicholas Reeves, Jesus Linarez, Gabriela Lara, Pedro Mendez, and Lidanys Graterol. 875 Lake St., Oak Park.
Family Event: Hot Chocolate Making
Thursday, Feb. 9, 1-2 p.m., Oak Park Public Library
Winter’s here, and the time is right to start getting cozy with cocoa. Kids and their grown-ups will assemble and decorate a gift-worthy jar of hot chocolate mix, plus whip up their own gourmet cup of cocoa with lots of fun toppings. Please register each child attending to ensure adequate supplies. Best for grades K-5. Register now at oppl.org/calendar. 834 Lake St., Oak Park.
Valentine Card Crafternoon
Friday, Feb. 10, 2-4 p.m., Oak Park Public Library
Drop in to create something beautiful to gift or keep for yourself! Best for kids in elementary school. Younger siblings may participate with caregiver support. Register now at oppl.org/calendar. 834 Lake St., Oak Park.
