Happier for the Holidays

Tried and true tips to help you maintain or reclaim peace and joy during the most wonderful – but often stressful – time of the year BY VALERIE HARDY ‘Tis the season to be jolly, but for many, November and December are far from merry and bright. This time of year often brings increased stress,…

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Keep the Wreath Red

A light reminder to decorate safely this season By Valerie Hardy Many local fire departments are giving the green light to keeping the red lights lit on their wreaths this season. They are participating in the “Keep the Wreath Red” program, an annual fire prevention awareness campaign that serves as a reminder for the community…

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Santa’s Local Workshop

DuPage nonprofit builds holiday toys for kids BY ANNA HUGHES | PHOTOS COURTESY OF DUPAGE WOODWORKERS While a student at the University of Illinois in the late 1970s, Western Springs resident George Rodgers was inspired by his dormmate’s classwork. “I thought, ‘Boy, this looks like fun,’” Rodgers recalled. That’s when he first picked up woodworking,…

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Season of Sparkle

Where to experience dazzling holiday displays this season By Hinsdale Magazine Group Staff From glowing gardens to festive zoo trails, Chicagoland comes alive with holiday lights each winter. Bundle up for magical walks, drive-thru wonderlands, and indoor attractions that sparkle with the season’s spirit. Dates and times are subject to change—please confirm details with each…

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Keeping It Classic

Kevin Conner’s music strikes a chord with audiences across and beyond the western suburbs By Valerie Hardy As summer fades into memory, we’re reminded of its hallmark sights, sounds, and smells: the scent of funnel cakes wafting through the afternoon air, the sight of a Ferris wheel spinning against the backdrop of a cerulean sky,…

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Summer Concert Series

Photos by Madeline Craig The Downers Grove Park District’s Summer Concert Series lit up Fishel Park every Tuesday evening, where families and neighbors flocked to the Veterans Memorial Pavilion for some summer fun—featuring food trucks, beverage tents, and energetic bands performing from all different genres, including rock, country, blues, and oldies. The free, festive series…

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Coming Soon

Photos courtesy of The Rec League The owners of The Rec League, a food and entertainment concept coming to Downtown Downers Grove in 2026, celebrated at a groundbreaking ceremony in early June.

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End of an Era

Three radio towers in Downers Grove were recently demolished after nearly a century of service By Valerie Hardy It was a dramatic sign-off to Downers Grove’s historic role in Chicago radio broadcasting when three towering structures located at the 100-block of 39th Street were demolished in early June. The three radio towers – once the…

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Music to Our Ears

The harmonious history and ongoing offerings of the Downers Grove Music Club By Valerie Hardy For nearly a century, the Downers Grove Music Club (DGMC) has been striking a chord within the community. Founded in 1927, this nonprofit promotes music education, brings live music to the public, and supports local musicians. Concerts After the DGMC…

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Inspired Giving Events

Creative fundraising abounds for local area not-for-profit organizations By Dave McGowan The necessity to raise funds brings out the creativity of our area not-for-profit organizations. Here are a few examples: Hinsdale’s own Assistance League of Chicagoland West hosts its Books & Brunch every November, and it’s a community favorite featuring interesting conversations with book authors.…

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