Hiking teens.
By Brian R. Brown
Turn off the TV and game system, put away the phone! Summer is for fun and adventure, and our Summer Camps Guide for McHenry County is your map for summer memories.
Kids and adults sledding on the hill at Veteran Acres Park.
By Brian R. Brown
If the thought of packed snow and big hills brings out the kid in you, or makes you want to bring your kids outside, then you'll love our Sledding Hills Guide... as much as the thought of how tuckered out those kids will be after a few hours sledding!
Group of people ice skating.
By Brian R. Brown
If you've been itching to lace up those skates and get out on the ice, then you're in luck. Before you head out, be sure to check our guide for local McHenry County ice skating rinks.
Gazebo and park trees decorated with Christmas lights.
By Brian R. Brown
Looking for Christmas Tree Lighting near you? Craving a holiday light display or show? We've got you covered...at least if you're in McHenry County. Check out our guide to the Christmas tree lighting events & holiday light displays around McHenry County.
Antique fire engine.
By Brian R. Brown
Bundle up the little ones and head for your closest parade route to welcome in the Christmas season! Here's our guide to the local Christmas parades happening around McHenry County.
Girl sitting on Santa's lap.
By Brian R. Brown
He knows whether you've been naughty or nice, but here's a last chance to put in a good word! Grab the kids and check our guide for snapping some pictures with Santa.
Girl sitting in back of car with netted tree for Christmas.
By Brian R. Brown
Whether you've ever had a real Christmas tree or not, our guide is here to help you navigate the challenges of having real trees. Be sure to check out our list of local Christmas tree farms.
Skeleton trick-or-treaters.
By Brian R. Brown
Grab your costume and your treat bag! Before you head out though, be sure to check our annual McHenry County Trick-or-Treating hours list for your local treating times and events.
Trunk or treat event with people in costumes.
By Brian R. Brown
Looking for Trunk-or-Treat fun in McHenry County? Look no further as our guide details trunk or treat, as well as other treating fun events all across the county.
2022 Cary Summer Celebration fireworks.
By Brian R. Brown
Get all your McHenry County July 4th fireworks show information in our newest guide. We've also added parade and festival information. We have details on dates, times, locations, maps, and more. Plan your Independence Day festivities now!
Movie in the Park.
By Brian R. Brown
Round up the family, grab chairs and blankets, and head to the movie in the park! Enjoy watching the stars on the screen under the stars in the sky with your favorite movies.
Beautiful bouquet of alstroemeria in a vase with water, white cup of tea, greeting card with the inscription happy mother's day.
By Brian R. Brown
Looking for Mother's Day brunches and other ideas for Mother's Day? Be sure to check out our special McHenry County Mother's Day Guide for ways to celebrate that special someone called mom.
Plastic Easter eggs on lawn.
By Brian R. Brown
Grab your Easter baskets and get ready to hunt Easter eggs, snap a photo with the Easter Bunny, or even have breakfast with the Bunny! And we're here to help you find those eggs with our Easter Egg Hunt Guide for McHenry County!
Mrs. Claus talking to children while Santa poses for pictures.
By Brian R. Brown
Like a Christmas tale straight out of a storybook or a holiday movie, Richmond served up small town holiday charm during Richmond's Cocoa Walk and the Richmond Christmas of Yesteryear events.
Decorated Village of Algonquin snow plow.
By Brian R. Brown
Our first attendance to the Village of Algonquin's Miracle On Main tree lighting event was about as perfect as it could get. Between the great weather, lots to see, festive crowd, and grabbing dinner without a reservation or a wait on a Saturday night, I'm not sure what more you
Crowd thinning after the tree lighting ceremony.
By Brian R. Brown
Come along as we journey to the McHenry Christmas Tree Lighting in Veteran's Memorial Park. It was a great afternoon and evening with pretty perfect weather!
Crowd surrounds the bonfire.
By Brian R. Brown
Wonder Lake's Fall Fest was the place to be for all kinds of fun, from a trunk or treat to a huge bonfire! Take a peek!
Trick-or-treaters.
By Brian R. Brown
A whole lot of fun was happening at Crystal Lake Plaza's annual Halloween Family Fun Event. Did you make it into any of the photos? Check and see!
Beast costume.
By Brian R. Brown
Great day for a Halloween Walk in Fox River Grove with the Cary-Grove Chamber of Commerce. Check out the smiles and the great costumes.
Trick or treater running to the next stop.
By Brian R. Brown
Another successful Truck or Treat with the Crystal Lake Park District on a glorious, if not chilly, fall day at Main Beach.
Corn maze entrance at Cody's Farm and Orchard.
By Brian R. Brown
It's our favorite time of year and there are so many things to do in McHenry County during fall! In fact, with so many options, it's hard to keep track, so we decided we should create a guide!
Kids and parents riding in the pumpkin barrels.
By Brian R. Brown
Perfect weather marked the 30th annual Johnny Appleseed Festival, and what may have been the one of the biggest ones yet.
Pivot steer loader on top of the hill.
By Brian R. Brown
Did you make out to play on the big hill at the Nunda Township Road District's annual Touch-A-Truck? Hope so, but if not, we've captured some of the fun.
Sarah and Josh Hagen of Remington Farm chatting with Carl Kamienski, McHenry County Board Member.
By Brian R. Brown
There's a new farmers market in town, Johnsburg specifically, so come along and have a look from my recent walk thru.
Computers for card catalog and applications.
By Brian R. Brown
Head west with us as we venture out to Marengo to visit and tour the Marengo-Union Library District.
Vintage Ford Model A and a line of tractors.
By Brian R. Brown
Hop on board as we head up to the Village of Hebron for their annual Independence Day Parade.
Fireworks display.
By Brian R. Brown
If you didn't make it out to this year's Cary Summer Celebration, we saved some photos for you. And if you were there, take a look...you might be in one of those photos.
Custom made display cabinet featuring the collection of Harriet Ayer Towne, daughter of one of Harvard's founders.
By Brian R. Brown
Never underestimate the tenacity of children or the value of a penny. Come check out this unique library that was built, in part, with a million pennies and houses a 100-plus-year-old butterfly collection.
Wauconda Library's Kid City spaceship.
By Brian R. Brown
Buckle up because this Library Lovers Expedition visit is heading beyond our boundaries...county that is, but it will be an adventure you won't want to miss our exploration of the Wauconda Library.
The basement room in the library is more about fun, games, and hanging out.
By Brian R. Brown
River East Public Library may be the smallest library in the county, but they also have a few things that no other library in the area has to offer.
Library stacks and seating.
By Brian R. Brown
As libraries evolve, they have taken on more services and offerings to meet the needs of patrons. One of the newest areas of expansion areas can be seen in Algonquin's Makerspace.
Large, open, and inviting space in the library.
By Brian R. Brown
The Huntley Library underwent a tremendous renovation over a year ago and what has come out on the other side is more than just a physical transformation.
Rows of chairs line the magazine and periodicals area.
By Brian R. Brown
Journey up, or down, Route 31 to the McHenry Public Library for a tour of the resources they have to offer as well as some unique programs.
Sparky Butterscotch, the Johnsburg Public Library mascot.
By Brian R. Brown
Join me as we journey to the Johnsburg Public Library for a tour, a little Library Lovers Expedition scratch-and-win activity, and a chance to meet Sparky Butterscotch, a real character.
Large open space in the library.
By Brian R. Brown
The Woodstock Public Library has some pretty amazing sights to see that might make you forget for a second that you are in a library.
Large interactive play space for children.
By Brian R. Brown
The Cary Area Public Library continues to reshape what they offer to better suit their patrons. From the Seed Library to the Library of Things, they are about more than just books.
By Brian R. Brown
Just a stone's throw away from the Metra station, the Fox River Grove Memorial Library has something for all ages. Come along as I tour the library and learn about how they serve the Fox River Grove community.
Young girl playing a mini-golf game in the library.
By Brian R. Brown
Explore the Crystal Lake Public Library and learn about the origins of the popular Library Lovers Expedition, as well as discover materials, programs, and services you had no idea the library offered.
Ski jumper in the air over the knoll at the 118th Annual Norge Ski Club Winter Tournament.
By Brian R. Brown
What's that up in the sky? Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Well, it might just be a ski jumper with the ski jump tower in the background...and yes, that actually is a plane in the background! Join us on this exciting adventure of ski jumping at the
Elisa Whiting of Blackhawk at the 118th annual Norge Ski Club, winter tournament, 2023.
By Brian R. Brown
Check out this special edition camera roll with photos from the first day of the 118th Norge Ski Club Winter Tournament.
Antique fire engine.
By Brian R. Brown
Get your dose of Christmas spirit with these photos from downtown Crystal Lake for the Festival of Lights Parade, tree lighting, arrival of Santa, and a stroll down Christmas Tree Lane.
Meadowdale Raceway Silo.
By Brian R. Brown
If you close your eyes, you can almost hear the roar of the engines as the cars worked their way around Meadowdale Raceway. Today though, you'll mostly hear some traffic from Hwy 31, the occasional sounds of mountain bikers, and nature. But you can still explore the old track.
Trick-or-treaters at Crystal Lake Plaza.
By Brian R. Brown
Crystal Lake Plaza was once again home to a party of zombies, princesses, fighter pilots, an array of video game characters, and much more on Saturday as their annual trick-or-treating event returned.
Kids checking out the big and small trucks from Sunset Logistics.
By Brian R. Brown
Amazing weather, two weekends in a row for events at Main Beach in October?! I don't know what the odds are for that, but I do know that it was great to enjoy another fall day where a coat was optional. And these trick-or-treaters definitely enjoyed showing off their costumes!
Spotted by a death eater.
By Brian R. Brown
Explore the magic as Witches & Wizards of Woodstock returns once again to serve up magic, fantasy, and fun for all.
Logrolling competition.
By Brian R. Brown
Crystal Lake Park District brought the Northwoods of Wisconsin to Main Beach for a day with lumberjacks, family fun, food trucks and a beer garden. Thanks to the unseasonably warm, weather, flannel shorts may have been preferred over flannel shirts. Needless to say, from the countless photos taken, no one
Ford pickup.
By Brian R. Brown
What do you get when you combine vintage classic cars with trick-or-treaters? Perhaps the wildest car show or most unique trunk or treat you've ever seen.
Stilts juggler posing for photos.
By Brian R. Brown
Johnny Appleseed made his appearance again in downtown Crystal Lake for the Johnny Appleseed Festival, and brought some amazing weather with him. Until next year, here are some photos to tide you over!
Cliff Hanger ride raised up in the air.
By Brian R. Brown
Closing out summer with a trip to the Lake in the Hills annual Summer Sunset Festival. We checked out the carnival on Sunday and fun times were had! If you didn't make it, check out our photos to see what you missed.
Farmers market vendors and patrons.
By Brian R. Brown
It takes more than a little rain to keep us away. But you can enjoy these photos from the Open Air Farmers Market+ At The Dole from the comfort of your own home, regardless of the weather.
The Zipper ride.
By Brian R. Brown
While you wait...take a walk around the Lakeside Festival. At least that's what I did ahead of Crystal Lake's annual Independence Day Parade, and here are some photos to prove it!
Tebala Shriners Air Squadron.
By Brian R. Brown
It was a near-perfect day for a parade. If you missed this year's Crystal Lake Independence Day Parade, then we've got over 100 photos that will show you some of what you missed, or relive what you experienced if you were there.
2022 Cary Summer Celebration fireworks.
By Brian R. Brown
Celebrate the 4th and the summer kick-off with the Cary Park District's annual Summer Celebration with some music, food, and fireworks! Come along and feast your eyes on some photos from the event.
Auto fans at the Cary Cruise Night.
By Brian R. Brown
Weekly car show fun without all of the hassle and expense! If you're itching for some candy apple red eye candy, then you'll want to check out this glimpse of what you might find at a Cary Cruise Night!
Two Huntley marching band trumpeters playing Taps.
By Brian R. Brown
Sit back and stay awhile as you flip through over 100 photos from Huntley's Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony.
AMVETS Honor Guard salute in honor of the fallen.
By Brian R. Brown
Wonderful weather prevailed for the Fox River Grove Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony, and we've got the photos to prove it. So if you didn't make it out, sit back and enjoy our little recap.
Yellow daffodils and a view of the walking bridge over Crystal Creek and the gazebo and playground in Cornish Park.
By Brian R. Brown
Cornish Park in Algonquin stands out with its clocktower, view of the dam on the Fox River, and wonderful greenspace and playground for the kids. That alone would be great, but it also benefits from being in the heart of old Algonquin within walking distance of two other parks and
Water churning over rocks under the bridge.
By Brian R. Brown
Come along as we check out this historic park right off the downtown Algonquin area, just blocks from the Fox River.
Easter Bunny with kids at playground.
By Brian R. Brown
What better way to spend a sunny, though windy and chilly, pre-Easter Saturday than with the hardest working bunny around! Enjoy some photos from the Village of Prairie Grove's annual Easter Egg Hunt.
Clown fish and sea anemone.
By Brian R. Brown
Looking for something completely different? A day trip to the Shedd Aquarium may just be the ticket you're looking for. Come along and get a sneek peek of our recent journey outside the county with a day at the Shedd.
Art on the walls to view and at the tables to create.
By Brian R. Brown
A wonderful return to art, The Dole, and life in general. Come along as we enjoy the return of art exhibits at The Dole with the "New Beginnings" show by Creative Arts Inc. students and instructors.
By Brian R. Brown
Grab your green and get your Irish on to celebrate St. Patrick's Day! And what better way to do it than by heading to the McHenry ShamRocks the Fox. If you didn't brave the cold, here are some photos of the parade and the river to tide you over till
House with Christmas lights and outdoor decorations.
By Brian R. Brown
Are you looking for holiday and Christmas light displays? We've pulled together a list spanning McHenry County to help you get started on your journey! And we welcome any that you think should be on our list too!
Peppermint Park Christmas Trees for annual Christmas Tree Lane.
By Brian R. Brown
Get in the holiday spirit with a stroll through downtown Crystal Lake, with a walk down Christmas Tree Lane to Peppermint Park, get in some last minute shopping, and meet up with the jolly man in the red suit.
Luminarias leading past the last campfire.
By Brian R. Brown
The Crystal Lake Park District's Luminaria Walk is truly a wonderful way to experience Veteran Acres Park. It's also a great way to transition into the holiday season.
Santa talking with young parade-goer.
By Brian R. Brown
It was wet, but it was merry and very worth standing out in the cold. If you weren't able to make it out for the Merry Cary Holiday Parade & Festival, click along to see what you missed.
Lights and Christmas tree at the Historic Square in Woodstock, IL.
By Brian R. Brown
Be sure to save a little time in your hectic schedule for a stroll around the Woodstock Historic Square this holiday season to take in the festive light display.
Array of flowers outside the Crystal Lake Park District administration building.
By Brian R. Brown
Whatever you think you know about the Crystal Lake Park District, there is most likely so much more that you are missing. Come along and let's see if we can uncover a few new things.
Halloween graveyard decorations.
By Brian R. Brown
We had fun checking out some of the Halloween decorations and some Trick-or-Treating in Marengo.
ComEd skeleton crew.
By Brian R. Brown
Main Beach park was a buzz with all sorts of goblins, ghouls, and superheroes at this year's Crystal Lake Park District's Truck or Treat.
Vintage McCormick-Deering tractor at 5 Lazy K Ranch.
By Brian R. Brown
If you missed this year's Annual Autumn Drive, come along and enjoy a photo tour of just a little bit of what you missed.
One and only Steve McPhail, portraying Johnny Appleseed.
By Brian R. Brown
Downtown Crystal Lake always knows how to signal the return of fall with the annual Johnny Appleseed Festival; this year celebrating 28 years! If you missed it, we've got a taste for you here!
Cross Lake during sunrise.
By Brian R. Brown
We all, from time to time, need a little getaway to unplug and recharge, not just the batteries, but the soul. Ironically, these kinds of trips are often closer than we think.
Richardson Farm wagon ride
By Brian R. Brown
You'll be amazed at what Richardson Farm can do with a cornfield! Nothing like a day on the farm, picking out pumpkins, navigating a huge corn maze, ziplining across the farm, snacking on some apple cider donuts, and all kinds of fun activities for all ages! Take some time out
Harms Farms pumpkin train at Johnny Appleseed Festival in Crystal Lake, IL
By Jill Kocher Brown
The Johnny Appleseed Festival celebrates the legacy of Johnny Appleseed, a famously kind and generous pioneer nurseryman who traveled the eastern Midwest in the early 1800s spreading apple trees and his religion along the way. We had our own visit from Johnny, a jolly man who talked to all the