Where/When: Pleasant Valley, 13315 Pleasant Valley Road, Woodstock. Saturday, Oct. 1 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Why go: Come enjoy the outdoors at McHenry County Conservation District’s Prairie Fest at Pleasant Valley in Woodstock. Attendants will learn all about the prairie, its lore and diversity, plus enjoy guided hikes, kids activities, seed collecting and live music. Participants can also bring their own picnic lunch or purchase food at the festival. This is a free event, drop-in anytime between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Pricing: Free.
Where/When: Prairie Stone Sports & Wellness Center, 5050 Sedge Boulevard, Hoffman Estates. Saturday, Oct. 2 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, October 3 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Why go: Come to the Home Improvement & Remodeling Expo to get inspired, ask questions and visit with experts and contractors in areas like kitchens, baths, pool and spas, windows and doors, heating and air conditioning and more. This family-friendly show also includes a healthy cooking show, floral garden, sewing and decorator’s areas, appraisal/collectables, children’s activities and more.
Pricing: Free admission and parking.
Where/When: , 2615 Three Oaks Road, Cary. Saturday, Oct. 1 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Why go: Learn how to maximize your run at the Cary Physical Therapy & Sports Rehab Runner’s Clinic. Attendants will learn how to decrease pain, choose the right footwear, properly warm-up/cool-down and hydrate, and how to treat or prevent injuries, including exercises and stretches to help reduce their risk. In addition participants will get an individualized injury prevention and running gait screening. Registration is required to attend.
Pricing: $18 per person, registration required.
Where/When: , 11419 S. Il Route 47, Huntley. Saturday, October 1 at 12 p.m.
Why go: This free festival celebrates all thing dog. Local pet retail vendors, services and rescue/shelter organizations will be on hand to answer questions, plus attendants can look at dogs available for adoption, enjoy agility and trick demonstrations, watch the Windy City K-9 Disc Dogs, take part in a pet blessing in celebration of St. Francis of Assisi Day, enter raffles and much more. Well-behaved pets welcome to attend.
Pricing: Free admission and parking.
Where/When: Freier Farm, 23685 Kelsey Road in Lake Barrington. Saturday, Oct. 1 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Why go: Nothing says fall like a good ol’ fashion hoe-down! Enjoy dancing to live music, hayrides, a bonfire with marshmallow roasting, kids activities including a storyteller and food and drinks. Beer and wine are also available for purchase.
Pricing: $5 per vehicle.
Where/When: , 6200 Berkshire Drive, Crystal Lake. Sunday, Oct. 2 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Why go: Browse the adoptable Dobermans and other dog breeds the Illinois Doberman Rescue Group has available, all in one location. There will be dozens of dogs to meet at the event, plus approved adopters can take home their new forever friend that day. All attendants should RSVP to SLakics@comcast.net.
Pricing: Free, RSVP requested.
