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X-WR-CALNAME:Allerton Park & Retreat Center
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Allerton Park & Retreat Center
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250328T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250330T110000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170044Z
CREATED:20250829T153334Z
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UID:10000187-1743174000-1743332400@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:Weekend Wind Down — March 28-30
DESCRIPTION:While lodging is available throughout the year based on availability\, you can now plan ahead\, book a room and get away for a weekend. Spend the night (or two!) in the Mansion or a guesthouse during our March 28-30 Weekend Wind Down!\nAll Weekend Wind Down dates feature a discounted rate of $110/night (+tax) and include two drink tokens per room\, per night.\nOptional activities include (pre-registration required\, click on links for info):\nFriday\, March 28\n— Solarium Bar\, 5-10 p.m. (open to the public)\n— Zoo Improv Show\, 7-8:30 p.m. (open to the public)\nSaturday\, March 29\n— Teen Art Studio: From Realism to Abstraction\, 1-4 p.m. Register by March 15\n— Foraging Walk\, 1-3 p.m. Register by March 26\n— Solarium Bar\, 5-10 p.m. (open to the public)\nSunday\, March 30\n— Foraging Walk\, 1-3 p.m. Register by March 27\nView guestrooms and make your reservation here or by calling 217-333-3287.\nNOTE: There is no food service available on-site during the winter season. Feel free to pack a cooler and bring your own or patronize the restaurants in Monticello just five miles away!\nCan’t make this Weekend Wind Down? Find additional dates here.\nIf you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Jordan Zech at jmgiffor@illinois.edu.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/weekend-wind-down-march-28-30/
CATEGORIES:Special Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250325T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250325T210000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170103Z
CREATED:20250829T152814Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170103Z
UID:10000141-1742931000-1742936400@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:(SOLD OUT) Candlelight Concert
DESCRIPTION:Experience the music of artists-in-residence Tania Arazi-Coambs and Larisa Chasanov at a Candlelight Concert on Tuesday\, March 25 at 7:30 p.m. in the Mansion Gallery.\nJoin this talented piano/vocal duo and experience music that reflects nature and art through music that was composed during Robert Allerton’s time at his estate from 1900 to 1946.\nArazi-Coambs and Chasanov will also be performing two min-recitals at Music in the Mansion on March 17 and 20.\nCome hear these phenomenal musicians\, who are living and creating Allerton as part of the Joan and Peter Hood Residency program.\n$5/person. Register here by March 24. All sales are final.\nIf you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Olivia Bunting at owarren@illinois.edu.\nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.\nAbout the artists\nTania Arazi Coambs is a Champaign-Urbana native and a professional vocalist who has performed with the Chicago Symphony and at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts. She is a four-time recipient of the American Prize competition—including the winner of both The American Prize Professional Art Song Division and the winner of The American Prize Chicago Music Theater Award.\nLarisa Chasanov studied piano at the Belorussian State Conservatory and has been a lecturer at the Polish Academy of Music. After moving to Central Illinois she has been the accompanist for several area groups including the Champaign Oratorio Society\, University of Illinois Opera Studio and Illinois Summer Youth Music.\nCoambs and Chasanov have performed together frequently over the past 20 years and look forward to continuing their collaboration at Allerton.\n“To have the opportunity to be inspired by nature\, inspired by Allerton\, I think it’s going to be an absolutely incredible experience\,” Coambs said. “And to spend time with my dear friend and colleague to make music together — what a joy it will be!”
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/sold-out-candlelight-concert/
CATEGORIES:Concerts,Special Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/AdobeStock_1204574395-scaled-ZKf7Ft.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250324T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250324T170000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170104Z
CREATED:20250829T154017Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170104Z
UID:10000216-1742806800-1742835600@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Woodcarving for Beginners
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginners\nJoin us for Woodcarving for Beginners Monday through Friday\, March 24-28 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in The Studio.\nExperienced woodcarver Lance Noone will lead this week-long course on the basics of woodcarving. Students will learn about the proper tools\, safety measures and carving techniques to be successful. By the end of the course\, students will have carved a small turtle or bear and raccoon figurine.\nWood and patterns will be provided.\n$450/person*. Register here by March 19. All sales are final.\n*Students should bring their own beginner woodcarving tool sets (palm carving or regular handle) and carving gloves. Suggested kits:\n— Ramelson Basic Set\n— Ramelson Basic Palm Set\n— Cut-Resistant safety gloves\nStudents will also need:\n— KN13 Detail Knife – Flexcut\n— KN14 Roughing Knife – Flexcut\n(Sets of the same brand can be found here.)\nCourse participants can also stay overnight in the Mansion or other guesthouses for a discounted rate ($80/night + tax). View rooms here and call 217-333-3287 to make a reservation.\nLearn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations in order to participate\, please email owarren@illinois.edu.\nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.\nAbout The Farms\nThe Farms: An Allerton Folk School\, offers classes\, workshops\, and gatherings focusing on art\, health & wellness\, history\, nature & outdoor education\, or science. All experiences value hands-on\, experiential teaching and learning\, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community.\nSee the complete Spring Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-woodcarving-for-beginners/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Woodcarving-GRAPHIC-scaled-4tuZuw.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250322T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250322T170000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170105Z
CREATED:20250829T154017Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170105Z
UID:10000215-1742634000-1742662800@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Beginning Weaving II
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Some weaving experience needed\nContinue your journey into the world of weaving at Beginning Weaving II on Saturday and Sunday\, March 22-23 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Greenhouse Auditorium.\nThis 2-day class with instructor Sharon Bowles will be a continuation of Beginning Weaving 1\, but instead of everyone doing the same article\, students will pick their own project\, measure the warp\, beam the warp\, thread the heddles to their selected pattern\, thread the reed\, tie the warp to the cloth beam rod\, wind bobbins and weave a sample of their selected yarn. Students will then weave samples from the other looms\, giving them a wide variety of weave structures they can try out.\nThis course is a great way to continue your weaving journey!\n$235/person. Register here by March 15. All sales are final.\nLearn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations in order to participate\, please email owarren@illinois.edu.\nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.\nAbout the instructor\nSharon Bowles began weaving in 1990 and started teaching shortly after. She was taught to weave in a one-on-one class and wove two table runners in 12 (approximately) 2-hour lessons\, and she teaches the same method when she teaches. Sharon has experience in weaving with silk\, lace weaving\, 8-shaft pattern weaving\, parallel weaving\, block weaves\, and Shaker reproduction towels.\nSharon has experience in weaving with silk\, lace weaving\, 8-shaft pattern weaving\, parallel weaving\, block weaves\, and Shaker reproduction towels. She has taught many workshops and classes to weavers’ guilds in Florida\, Ohio\, and Champaign-Urbana. She earned her Journeyman certification from the Weavers Guild of Boston in 2021 and a master’s certification in April of 2022.\nMost recently\, Sharon taught Beginning Weaving I & Weaving II at The Farms\, and a 2-day workshop in 4 shaft patterns for the Champaign-Urbana Spinners and Weavers Guild.\nAbout The Farms\nThe Farms: An Allerton Folk School\, offers classes\, workshops\, and gatherings focusing on art\, health & wellness\, history\, nature & outdoor education\, or science. All experiences value hands-on\, experiential teaching and learning\, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community.\nSee the complete Spring Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-beginning-weaving-ii-2/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/weaving-loom_8946.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250319T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250319T180000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170106Z
CREATED:20250829T153336Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170106Z
UID:10000189-1742400000-1742407200@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:Walk-In Interviews
DESCRIPTION:Apply to work at Allerton Park this summer as a Summer Day Camp Leader\, Grounds Worker or Horticulture Intern during Walk-In Interviews on Wednesday\, March 19 from 4 to 6 p.m. in The Studio.\nThese positions are great resumé builders for high school (ages 16+) and college students and provide lifelong skills\, including teamwork\, communication and time management.\nView individual job descriptions here. Come to the interview with a resumé and be prepared to have an approximately 20-minute conversation with Allerton staff about your interest and qualifications.\nFor more information or if you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Sarah Putman at sputman2@illinois.edu.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/walk-in-interviews/
CATEGORIES:Gardening,Special Events,Youth Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/EXTRA-HELP-2024_2636-m50IEm.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250318T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250318T200000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170107Z
CREATED:20250829T152812Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170107Z
UID:10000139-1742322600-1742328000@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Environmental Art
DESCRIPTION:Learn more about the creative processes of current artist-in-residence Dodd Holsapple at Environmental Art on Tuesday\, March 18 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Mansion Library.\nHolsapple’s work bridges the gap between environmental science and art expression\, creating a contemporary visual artwork that explores climate change\, environmental science and landscape. Using innovative painting techniques\, layered color theory and a thoughtful approach to spatial design\, he brings a unique approach portraying a sense of place.\nAt this presentation\, Holsapple will present works he has created at Allerton within the themes of architecture\, sculpture\, landscape and scenic gardens.\nSee more about this talented artist and his work on his website.\n$5/person. Register here. All sales are final.\nIf you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Olivia Bunting at owarren@illinois.edu.\nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.\nAbout The Farms\nThe Farms: An Allerton Folk School\, offers classes\, workshops\, and gatherings focusing on art\, outdoor education\, science\, storytelling\, and wellness. All experiences value hands-on\, experiential teaching and learning\, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community.\nSee the complete Spring Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-environmental-art/
CATEGORIES:Art,The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Dodd-Holsapple-Atmospheric-Series-Event-8-MpSajS.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250318T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250318T150000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170122Z
CREATED:20250829T154236Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170122Z
UID:10000226-1742299200-1742310000@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Introduction to Pastel Painting
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Ages 10+\nLearn about soft pastels and ways to use them through basic mark-making techniques at Introduction to Pastel Painting on Tuesday\, March 18 from 12 to 3 p.m. in the Mansion Library.\nArtists ages 10 and older can sign up for this course\, where award-winning artist Mandy Roeing will help students learn about pastels and paint to create a simple still life to take home. More than just a one-time painting project\, this class in intended to give you basic pastel painting skills and knowledge that you can build on to continue creating.\n$115/person (Ages 10+. Ages 10-15 need to be accompanied by a registered adult). Register here by March 13. All sales are final.\nLearn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Olivia Bunting at owarren@illinois.edu.\nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.\nAbout the instructor\nAward-winning artist Mandy Roeing resides in Downs with her husband and their two daughters. Inspired by the beauty and tranquility of nature\, Roeing creates color-filled landscapes and beachscapes that go beyond representation to capture the emotion of a place.\nAll of Roeing’s paintings are done in soft pastels\, a beautiful and versatile medium that she is passionate about sharing with others through both her work and classes. She is an instructor at the McLean County Arts Center and the Peninsula School of Art and holds regular classes in painting and drawing at her own studio and gallery space in downtown Bloomington.\nMandy earned her BFA in Studio Art from the University of North Carolina in 2004. She is the Vice President of the Illinois Prairie Pastel Society and an active member of the Peoria Art Guild. Her work has been published in The Pastel Journal magazine and the IAPS Globe and is in numerous private collections throughout the country and abroad.\nAbout The Farms\nThe Farms: An Allerton Folk School\, offers classes\, workshops\, and gatherings focusing on art\, health & wellness\, history\, nature & outdoor education\, or science. All experiences value hands-on\, experiential teaching and learning\, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community.\nSee the complete Spring Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-introduction-to-pastel-painting/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/pastel-box.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250317T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250317T193000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170124Z
CREATED:20250829T153156Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170124Z
UID:10000168-1742232600-1742239800@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Irish Baked Goods: Barmbrack & Soda Bread
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nCelebrate St. Patrick’s Day by taking part in Irish Baked Goods: Barmbrack & Soda Bread on Monday\, March 17 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Mansion Carriage House.\nIn this workshop\, Chef Leah Bodine will teach the basics of creating the batter needed for these Irish favorites. Students will take home recipes\, instructions and the batter to bake these treasured treats!\n$45/person. Register here by March 10. All sales are final.\nLearn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Olivia Bunting at owarren@illinois.edu.\nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.\nAbout the instructor\nLeah Bodine calls herself the ‘accidental chef’ with years of experience in the food industry. She started her catering company\, Blue Dragonfly Catering\, to express her creative mind in food preparation and cultivating recipes. She loves sharing her skills with others and seeing the fascination on students’ faces when they realize how creative they can be and how easy it is to do so.\nHer experiences in the food industry have led her to live in Paris and cater for rock and country legends.\nAbout The Farms\nThe Farms: An Allerton Folk School\, offers classes\, workshops\, and gatherings focusing on art\, health & wellness\, history\, nature & outdoor education\, or science. All experiences value hands-on\, experiential teaching and learning\, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community.\nSee the complete Spring Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-irish-baked-goods-barmbrack-soda-bread/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Irish-Soda-Bread-j4u4xa.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250317T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250317T153000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170123Z
CREATED:20250829T152839Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170123Z
UID:10000142-1742220000-1742225400@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:Music in the Mansion
DESCRIPTION:Join our current artists-in-residence Tania Arazi-Coambs and Larisa Chasanov for Music in the Mansion on Monday\, March 17 and Thursday\, March 20 at 2 p.m. in the Mansion Gallery.\nThis talented piano/vocal duo will perform music inspired by Robert Allerton\, John Gregg and their life on the estate\, as well as discuss some of the pieces they are working on for their Candlelight Concert on March 25. \nThe March 17 mini-recital will feature French social-life pieces that would have been performed around the time that Allerton went to France for his art studies\, while the March 20 performance will preview some pieces about nature\, spring\, and the woods.\nThere will be a question-and-answer time after the recital.\nCome hear these phenomenal musicians\, who are living and creating at Allerton as part of the Joan and Peter Hood Residency program.\n$5/person. Register here one day prior to each concert. All sales are final.\nIf you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Olivia Bunting at owarren@illinois.edu.\nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.\nAbout the artists\nTania Arazi Coambs is a Champaign-Urbana native and a professional vocalist who has performed with the Chicago Symphony and at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts. She is a four-time recipient of the American Prize competition—including the winner of both The American Prize Professional Art Song Division and the winner of The American Prize Chicago Music Theater Award.\nLarisa Chasanov studied piano at the Belorussian State Conservatory and has been a lecturer at the Polish Academy of Music. After moving to Central Illinois she has been the accompanist for several area groups including the Champaign Oratorio Society\, University of Illinois Opera Studio and Illinois Summer Youth Music.\nCoambs and Chasanov have performed together frequently over the past 20 years and look forward to continuing their collaboration at Allerton.\n“To have the opportunity to be inspired by nature\, inspired by Allerton\, I think it’s going to be an absolutely incredible experience\,” Coambs said. “And to spend time with my dear friend and colleague to make music together — what a joy it will be!”
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/music-in-the-mansion/
CATEGORIES:Concerts,Special Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/gallery-piano_6576-HE44j8.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250315T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250315T150000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170124Z
CREATED:20250829T154016Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170124Z
UID:10000214-1742040000-1742050800@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Spring Cookie Decorating
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nLearn how to decorate cookies for spring at Spring Cookie Decorating on Saturday\, March 15 from 12 to 3 p.m. in the Greenhouse Café.\nLearn to decorate spring-themed cookies with royal icing\, crusting butter cream and rolled buttercream! Instructor Jennifer Holhubner will demonstrate and explain wet-on-wet technique\, outlining and flooding and make flowers. Each participant will receive directions to decorate five cookies.\n$75/person*. Register here by Feb. 28. All sales are final.\n*Students should bring a take-home container.\nLearn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Olivia Bunting at owarren@illinois.edu.\nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.\nAbout the instructor\nChampaign-Urbana native Jennifer Holhubner taught herself how to decorate cakes when she was 16 years old and took up cookie decorating in 2019.\n“Although they intimidated me\, I forged on and got better with each order. I still have room to grow as we all do in whatever task we take on\,” she said. “But I love to share the aspects of baking and decorating. I can actually now say\, I am cookier!”\nJennifer also teaches decorating classes at Parkland College.\nAbout The Farms\nThe Farms: An Allerton Folk School\, offers classes\, workshops\, and gatherings focusing on art\, health & wellness\, history\, nature & outdoor education\, or science. All experiences value hands-on\, experiential teaching and learning\, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community.\nSee the complete Spring Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-spring-cookie-decorating/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Spring-Cookies-scaled-rZIlyU.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250314T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250316T110000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170140Z
CREATED:20250829T153906Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170140Z
UID:10000203-1741968000-1742122800@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:Weekend Wind Down — March 14-16
DESCRIPTION:While lodging is available throughout the year based on availability\, you can now plan ahead\, book a room and get away for a weekend. Spend the night (or two!) in the Mansion or a guesthouse during our March 14-16 Weekend Wind Down!\nAll Weekend Wind Down dates feature a discounted rate of $110/night (+tax)\, and include two drink tokens per room\, per night.\nOptional activities include (pre-registration required\, clink on links for info):\nFriday\, March 14\n— Puzzles and Pi(e)\, 3:14-5 p.m.\n— Solarium Bar\, 5-10 p.m. (open to the public)\n— Burrito King food truck\, 5-9 p.m. (open to the public)\n— Talking & Tasting: An Intro to Wines of the World\, 6-8 p.m.\n— Full Moon Yoga\, 6:30 p.m. \nSaturday\, March 15\n— *Beginning Mountain Dulcimer\, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.\n— *Beginning Weaving I\, 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. or 2-5 p.m.\n— Spring Cookie Decorating\, 12-3 p.m.\n— Solarium Bar\, 5-10 p.m. (open to the public)\n— Supper Club: Wild Game & Wine Dinner\, 6-9 p.m.\n*Multi-week course. Registration for the entire course is required.\nView guestrooms and make your reservation here or by calling 217-333-3287.\n(NOTE: There is no food service available on-site during the winter season. Feel free to pack a cooler and bring your own or patronize the restaurants in Monticello just five miles away!)\nCan’t make this Weekend Wind Down? Find additional dates here.\nIf you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Jordan Zech at jmgiffor@illinois.edu.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/weekend-wind-down-march-14-16/
CATEGORIES:Special Events
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250314T151500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250314T170000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170139Z
CREATED:20250829T153541Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170139Z
UID:10000195-1741965300-1741971600@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Puzzles and Pi(e)
DESCRIPTION:Whether you like eating pie or factoring pi\, we’ve got you covered with Puzzles and Pi(e) on Friday\, March 14 from 3:14 to 5 p.m. in the Mansion.\nJoin us for puzzles\, pie and coffee starting at (approximately) 3:14 p.m. An optional Mansion tour will also be offered at 4 p.m.\nIn addition to traditional jigsaw puzzles\, we will have a collection from Philip Nyman\, a local curator who has been collecting and studying mechanical puzzles since he was 7 years old.\n$10/person (ages 2 and under free but registration required). Register here by 5 p.m. March 13. All sales are final.\nStick around for our Weekend Wind Down! The Burrito King food truck (5-9 p.m.) and Solarium bar (5-10 p.m.) are open to the public\, and discounted hotel rates ($110/night + tax) are available. View rooms here and book online or by calling 217-333-3287. Find out more about our weekend Wind Down series here.\nLearn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Jordan Zech at jmgiffor@illinois.edu.\nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.\nAbout The Farms\nThe Farms: An Allerton Folk School\, offers classes\, workshops\, and gatherings focusing on art\, health & wellness\, history\, nature & outdoor education\, or science. All experiences value hands-on\, experiential teaching and learning\, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community.\nSee the complete Spring Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-puzzles-and-pie/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/puzzle-scaled-GIRlhL.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250312T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250312T170000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170140Z
CREATED:20250829T154805Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170140Z
UID:10000243-1741784400-1741798800@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:(SOLD OUT) The Farms: Colorful Coiled Fabric Bowls and Jewelry
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nLearn the techniques of spiral coil weaving at Colorful Coiled Fabric Bowls and Jewelry on Wednesday\, March 12 from 1 to 5 p.m. in The Studio.\nAt this workshop\, instructor Billie Theide will walk students through the process as they make colorful coiled fabric bowls\, vases\, placemats\, coasters and jewelry. Students will be introduced to a variety of materials and edge finishes.\n$100/person (Ages 13+; 13- to 17-year-olds must be accompanied by a registered adult). Register here by March 5. All sales are final.\nLearn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations in order to participate\, please email owarren@illinois.edu.\nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.\nAbout the instructor\nBillie Theide is a former chair of the Crafts Program at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign\, where she is Professor Emerita. Theide is a metalsmith\, jeweler and ceramicist. Her work is in public art collections around the world including the Smithsonian\, Museum of Arts & Design in New York City\, Nelson Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City and the Racine Art Museum\, among others.\nShe is the recipient of a Visual Arts Fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts and five Artists Fellowship Grants from the Illinois Arts Council. Theide has been recognized for her excellence in teaching and is a Distinguished Member and Past-President of the Society of North American Goldsmiths.\nAbout The Farms\nThe Farms: An Allerton Folk School\, offers classes\, workshops\, and gatherings focusing on art\, health & wellness\, history\, nature & outdoor education\, or science. All experiences value hands-on\, experiential teaching and learning\, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community.\nSee the complete Spring Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/sold-out-the-farms-colorful-coiled-fabric-bowls-and-jewelry/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Colorful-Coiled-THIS-ONE.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250308T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250308T150000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170140Z
CREATED:20250829T154805Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170140Z
UID:10000242-1741438800-1741446000@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Foraging Walks
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nFormer Allerton In-Residence naturalist Michael Baker will conduct Foraging Walks on March 8\, 9\, 29\, 30;  April 12\, 13\, 26\, 27 and May 10\, 11\, 24 and 25 from 1 to 3 p.m. March 8 and 9 will start from the Sun Singer. For other hikes\, locations will be emailed to students.\nBaker\, a professional forager\, will give demonstrations of the uses of edible plants and mushrooms during the walk. In addition to introducing a variety of wild edible plants and mushrooms\, participants will be instructed on which plants to avoid.\n$35/person (all ages). Register three days before each workshop. All sales are final.\nRegistration links:\n— March 8\n— March 9\n— March 29 (meet at the Sun Singer)\n— March 30 (meet at the Sun Singer)\n— April 12  (meet at the Sun Singer)\n— April 13 (meet at the Sun Singer)\n— April 26\n— April 27\n— May 10\n— May 11\n— May 24\n— May 25\nLearn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations in order to participate\, please email owarren@illinois.edu.\nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.\nAbout the instructor\nMichael Baker is a professional foraging educator and podcaster in the Chicago suburbs. His show\, the Wild Edible World podcast\, seeks to educate anyone who will listen on edible plants and fungi\, what they taste like\, and where you can find them. He is also a co-founder of Remnant Roots non-profit which seeks to adopt vacant lots and turn them into native plant sanctuaries.\nAbout The Farms\nThe Farms: An Allerton Folk School\, offers classes\, workshops\, and gatherings focusing on art\, outdoor education\, science\, storytelling\, and wellness. All experiences value hands-on\, experiential teaching and learning\, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community.\nSee the complete Spring Session schedule here. Find the complete Summer Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-foraging-walks/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/foragingTHIS-ONE.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250307T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250307T193000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170141Z
CREATED:20250829T154754Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170141Z
UID:10000239-1741368600-1741375800@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Circular Weaving
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nCreate your own unique wall hanging at Circular Weaving on Friday\, March 7 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in The Studio.\nMacy McCall of TwinFringe will share beginner weaving techniques and students will create their own weaving on a steel circular frame. A variety of colors and fibers will be available to help make each take-home piece unique!\n$75/person. Register here by March 5. All sales are final.\nLearn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations in order to participate\, please email owarren@illinois.edu.\nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.\nAbout the instructor\nMacy McCall\, a fiber artist in Champaign\, started her fiber art journey in 2018 when she first learned about macramé. By 2020 she started her small business\, TwinFringe\, in which she sells her artwork and teaches a variety of workshops.\nShe has taught in many different locations such as Parkland Community College\, Allerton Park\, local plant shops\, and private events. Besides macramé\, Macy is learning how to weave as well\, which has been an exciting endeavor as she continues to explore the beautiful world of fiber art.\nAbout The Farms\nThe Farms: An Allerton Folk School\, offers classes\, workshops\, and gatherings focusing on art\, health & wellness\, history\, nature & outdoor education\, or science. All experiences value hands-on\, experiential teaching and learning\, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community.\nSee the complete Spring Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-circular-weaving/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/CIRCULAR-WEAVING1-scaled-Z5eyzM.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250306T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250306T180000
DTSTAMP:20251208T161934Z
CREATED:20250829T153707Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T161934Z
UID:10000201-1741280400-1741284000@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: History Happy Hour: Before the Allertons
DESCRIPTION:Have you ever wondered who lived on the land that now makes up Allerton Park prior to the Allerton family? Learn more about the prehistory and early history of the area at a special\, increased capacity History Happy Hour: Before the Allertons on Thursday\, March 6 from 5 to 6 p.m. in the Mansion Library.  \nUniversity of Illinois archaeologist Brian Adams will speak about the Native Americans and early settlers who lived on the land that is now Allerton and highlight the sites of archaeological significance within the Park’s borders\, including pre-contact burial mounds and the Frontier Cemeteries. \nA cash bar will be available. \n$5/person. Register here. All sales are final. \nLearn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations in order to participate\, please email sputman2@illinois.edu. \nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken. \nAbout the instructor \nBrian Adams is an Associate Research Scientist in Archaeology at the Illinois State Archaeological Survey\, Prairie Research Institute. Adams has conducted archaeological research all over the State of Illinois — including at Allerton Park — as well as around the world. \nHe is also active in local historic preservation efforts and has successfully nominated historic buildings for local landmark status as well as inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places. \nAbout The Farms \nThe Farms: An Allerton Folk School\, offers classes\, workshops\, and gatherings focusing on art\, health & wellness\, history\, nature & outdoor education\, or science. All experiences value hands-on\, experiential teaching and learning\, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community. \nSee the complete Spring Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-history-happy-hour-before-the-allertons/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/forest-cropped.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250306T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250306T103000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170149Z
CREATED:20250829T153022Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170149Z
UID:10000159-1741251600-1741257000@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Rats\, Bats\, & Mice of Illinois
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nLearn the difference between a shrew and a mole; a mole from a vole; a rat from a mouse; and a weasel from a mink — and more — at Rats\, Bats\, & Mice of Illinois on Saturday May 31 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in The Studio. (Each class covers the same material.)\nInstructor Fran Harty of the Land Conservation Foundation will bring a collection of study skins and skulls to help students learn how to identify wild mammals in Illinois by their appearance\, skulls\, furs and habitats. All students will receive a hand lens and a copy of a field guide to mammals.\n$45/person. Register here. All sales are final.\nLearn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations in order to participate\, please email owarren@illinois.edu.\nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.\nAbout the instructor\nFran Harty has taught dendrology at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale and similar classes for Allerton Park Corps of Discovery in 2009 and the Illinois Audubon Society in 2015. Fran currently works with the Land Conservation Foundation.\nAbout The Farms\nThe Farms: An Allerton Folk School\, offers classes\, workshops\, and gatherings focusing on art\, outdoor education\, science\, storytelling\, and wellness. All experiences value hands-on\, experiential teaching and learning\, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community.\nFind the complete Summer Session schedule here.\n 
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-rats-bats-mice-of-illinois/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/WINTER-BOTANY_6377-2f5eml.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250306T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250306T180000
DTSTAMP:20251208T161844Z
CREATED:20250829T152955Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T161844Z
UID:10000155-1741248000-1741284000@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:(SOLD OUT) The Farms: Beginner Sourdough Breadmaking
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner \nLearn about the process of making sourdough bread at Beginner Sourdough Breadmaking on Sunday\, June 29 and Aug. 10 from 2 to 5 p.m. in the Mansion Kitchen and Carriage House. (Each class covers the same material.) \nInstructor Hannah Fink will cover the basic biology of a ferment and what it means to a sourdough culture\, how to mix sourdough\, how to maintain a healthy starter in your home and the importance of baking with regionally grown grains. Students will also get hands-on experience as they learn to mix sourdough. \nPrepared dough will be available to showcase baking and for students to prepare a snack toward the end of class. Students will take home their own jar of sourdough culture\, a sample of gains from Janie’s Mill\, as well as printouts of everything covered\, simple recipes and a thorough list of resources. \n$75/person. Register 10 days before each course. All sales are final. \n— (SOLD OUT) June 29 \n— (SOLD OUT) Aug. 10 \nLearn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations in order to participate\, please email owarren@illinois.edu. \nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken. \nAbout the Instructor \nHannah Fink — a baker and local food enthusiast — started Tooth Butter Cottage Bakery in Urbana so she could be at home with her son and still keep her hands in dough. She revels in naturally leavened bread and quality pastries and focuses on organic whole grains\, mostly stone milled from Janie’s Mill in Ashkum. \nShe is of the firm belief that a “toothy dose of good butter” is the best start\, which led to the name of her business that bakes for special orders and pop-up collaborations with fellow creators. \nHannah started baking about 10 years ago while working in the music industry in Nashville and ended up falling in love with enough to change careers. She started as a bread delivery driver\, then worked as a kitchen manager at Pear Tree Estate in Champaign and as a pastry manager in Michigan. \nFink is a member of the Artisan Grain Collaborative and is looking forward to passing on the knowledge she has gained on breads and grains. \nAbout The Farms \nThe Farms: An Allerton Folk School\, offers classes\, workshops\, and gatherings focusing on art\, outdoor education\, science\, storytelling\, and wellness. All experiences value hands-on\, experiential teaching and learning\, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community. \nFind the complete Summer Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/sold-out-the-farms-beginner-sourdough-breadmaking/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/sourdough-breadmaking.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250306T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250306T180000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170148Z
CREATED:20250829T152857Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170148Z
UID:10000150-1741248000-1741284000@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:(SOLD OUT) The Farms: Beginning Mushroom Foraging
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nLearn about the magical world of mushrooms at Beginning Mushroom Foraging on Sundays\, July 6\, 13 & 20 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in The Studio and outdoors.\nInstructor Lee Schuler will start each class with a short slide presentation\, sharing how to identify various types of wild mushrooms\, including some of the most popular and common edible mushrooms\, and information on safety and sustainability. Students will then move into the woods for hands-on training. Question and answer periods will also be included.\n$100 for the entire series or $45/class. Register here by July 4 or one day prior to subsequent classes. All sales are final.\n— July 6\n— (SOLD OUT) July 13\n— (SOLD OUT) July 20\nPLEASE NOTE: Foraging at Allerton is not allowed except as part of this Farms class.\nLearn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email owarren@illinois.edu.\nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.\nAbout the instructor\nLee Schuler recently moved from Illinois from Pennsylvania\, where she taught fungal identification and edibility at environmental education centers for the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and for private land owners. She is certified as a wild edible mushroom expert and licensed to harvest and sell to restaurants and markets in the State of Pennsylvania. Schuler is also a contributing culinary author for a wild mushroom trade journal.\nA graduate of East Stroudsburg University in Pennsylvania\, Lee has worked as a field biologist and environmental educator\, and currently works in public health. She is an artist and cook and enjoys acquiring new and useful skills as much as she loves sharing them.\nAbout The Farms\nThe Farms: An Allerton Folk School\, offers classes\, workshops\, and gatherings focusing on art\, outdoor education\, science\, storytelling\, and wellness. All experiences value hands-on\, experiential teaching and learning\, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community.\nFind the complete Summer Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/sold-out-the-farms-beginning-mushroom-foraging/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/muhrooms.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250306T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250306T180000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170147Z
CREATED:20250829T152856Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170147Z
UID:10000148-1741248000-1741284000@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:(SOLD OUT) The Farms: Sewing a Button-Down Shirt
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Some Sewing Skills Recommended\nLearn the process of making a shirt at Sewing a Button-Down Shirt on Saturday and Sunday\, July 26-27 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in The Studio.\nOver the course of the weekend\, instructor Caitlin O’Donoghue will walk students through cutting a pattern\, assembling a button-down shirt using a commercial pattern and learning a variety of techniques to complete a professional-looking garment.\n$120/person*. Register here by July 12. All sales are final.\n*Students should bring:\n— 3 yards of 45-inch pre-washed cotton\, preferably with a print\n— A sewing machine\, if possible. A limited number of machines are available to rent. For more information email Olivia at owarren@illinois.edu.\nLearn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email owarren@illinois.edu.\nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.\nAbout the instructor\nCaitlin O’Donoghue is the Costume Shop Manager at Millikin University\, where she teaches intro and advanced costume construction\, pattern drafting and stage makeup. She has been working in professional and academic costume shops for 15 years and loves working with beginning stitchers.\nAbout The Farms\nThe Farms: An Allerton Folk School\, offers classes\, workshops\, and gatherings focusing on art\, outdoor education\, science\, storytelling\, and wellness. All experiences value hands-on\, experiential teaching and learning\, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community.\nFind the complete Summer Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/sold-out-the-farms-sewing-a-button-down-shirt/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/sewing-scaled-saCAAV.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250306T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250306T180000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170148Z
CREATED:20250829T152856Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170148Z
UID:10000149-1741248000-1741284000@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Intermediate Mushroom Foraging
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Intermediate\nThose who completed beginner mushroom foraging classes at The Farms or have experience in identification can continue their journey at Intermediate Mushroom Foraging on Saturdays\, Aug. 9\, 16 & 23 from 9 to 11 a.m. outdoors (rain or shine). Meet at the Greenhouse Cafè Patio (in case of rain meet inside the Visitor Center).\nInstructor Lee Schuler will lead two-hour hikes to find\, collect and come together to identify mushrooms from the property. Classes will also cover environmental and growth habit\, morphology\, and edibility for each species that is found. The class will also log every species found to begin a wild fungi survey for Allerton.\n$120 for the entire series or $50/class*. Register here by Aug. 6 or three days prior to subsequent classes. All sales are final.\n— Aug. 9\n— Aug. 16\n— Aug. 23\n*Students should bring a knife or scissors for collecting samples and wear clothing appropriate for walking up to two miles in various weather conditions.\nPLEASE NOTE: Foraging at Allerton is not allowed except as part of this Farms class.\nLearn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email owarren@illinois.edu.\nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.\nAbout the instructor\nLee Schuler recently moved from Illinois from Pennsylvania\, where she taught fungal identification and edibility at environmental education centers for the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and for private land owners. She is certified as a wild edible mushroom expert and licensed to harvest and sell to restaurants and markets in the State of Pennsylvania. Schuler is also a contributing culinary author for a wild mushroom trade journal.\nA graduate of East Stroudsburg University in Pennsylvania\, Lee has worked as a field biologist and environmental educator and currently works in public health. She is an artist and cook and enjoys acquiring new and useful skills as much as she loves sharing them.\nAbout The Farms\nThe Farms: An Allerton Folk School\, offers classes\, workshops\, and gatherings focusing on art\, outdoor education\, science\, storytelling\, and wellness. All experiences value hands-on\, experiential teaching and learning\, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community.\nFind the complete Summer Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-intermediate-mushroom-foraging/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/pexels-julia-volk-5273268-scaled-fmMtwD.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250305T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250305T200000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170150Z
CREATED:20250829T154756Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170150Z
UID:10000240-1741197600-1741204800@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Santorini Stone Painting
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nLearn to paint on a beautiful surface at Santorini Stone Painting on Wednesday\, March 5 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Mansion Solarium.\nMined in Greece\, Santorini stone is a strikingly white and sparkling natural stone. It is often cut and polished for construction and landscape purposes.\nIn this course\, instructor Sara Gentry will show how this smooth and sparkled surface makes it a uniquely wonderful canvas for painting!\n$40/person. Register here by Feb. 26. All sales are final.\nLearn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations in order to participate\, please email owarren@illinois.edu.\nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.\nAbout The Farms\nThe Farms: An Allerton Folk School\, offers classes\, workshops\, and gatherings focusing on art\, health & wellness\, history\, nature & outdoor education\, or science. All experiences value hands-on\, experiential teaching and learning\, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community.\nSee the complete Spring Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-santorini-stone-painting-2/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Santorini-Stone-Painting-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250304T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250304T180000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170202Z
CREATED:20250829T153024Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170202Z
UID:10000161-1741075200-1741111200@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Afro-Brazilian Traditions: Samba-Reggae
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nExpand your musical horizons at Afro-Brazilian Traditions: Samba-Reggae on Tuesdays\, May 20 through June 17 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. in the Music Barn.\nInstructor Mark Becker will introduce students to the fundamentals of Samba-Reggae\, a vibrant musical genre that blends traditional samba rhythms with reggae\, creating an energetic and distinct sound. Students will get hands-on exposure to the diversity of percussion instruments that give this tradition its swing and beauty.\nSamba-Reggae originated in Salvador\, Bahia\, in the 1980s\, from the work of Mestre Neguinho do Samba and the musical groups Ilê Aiyê and Olodum.\n$120 for the series or $35/class. Register here by May 18 or one week prior to subsequent classes. All sales are final.\n— May 20\n— May 27\n— June 3\n— June 10\n— June 17\nIf you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email owarren@illinois.edu.\nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.\nAbout the instructor\nMark Becker\, a student of Capoeira Angola in the tradition of Mestre João Grande\, has studied under Contramestre Denis Chiaramonte for 8 years\, with 19 years of experience in the art of Capoeira. He is also a student of traditional Samba Chula\, an art form from the Recôncavo region of Bahia\, Brazil while also serving as the Director of the Bloco Gavião\, a community drum ensemble focused on Afro-Brazilian drumming traditions such as samba-reggae\, maracatu and afoxé.\nMark has a master’s degree in education from the University of Illinois and enjoys designing learning experiences for all ages to feel belonging in the exploration of Brazilian culture.\nAbout The Farms\nThe Farms: An Allerton Folk School\, offers classes\, workshops\, and gatherings focusing on art\, outdoor education\, science\, storytelling\, and wellness. All experiences value hands-on\, experiential teaching and learning\, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community.\nFind the complete Summer Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-afro-brazilian-traditions-samba-reggae/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/afro-brazilian-conga_3775-9Y2PQH.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250303T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250303T200000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170203Z
CREATED:20250829T153335Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170203Z
UID:10000188-1741024800-1741032000@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Dances of the Gilded Age: A Fancy Dress Ball
DESCRIPTION:You won’t want to miss the final class of Dances of the Gilded Age\, which will be A Fancy Dress Ball on Monday\, March 3 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Mansion.\nLed by instructor Jeanette Watts\, the evening will be devoted to dance party games called “Germans”\, along with mixers\, quadrilles\, set dances and the two most popular dances of the early 1900s — the waltz and the two-step.\nThe dress code? Masks are not required\, but with it being the day before Mardi Gras it would be a great time to wear one! Fancy Dress\, which at one time basically meant Halloween\, refers to attending as a historical figure\, character from literature or other fanciful thing (a peacock\, a butterfly\, even an electric light!). So pull out anything you’ve worn to a Renaissance festival\, or that tuxedo/prom dress at the back of your closet and come join the revelry!\nIf you haven’t attended previous sessions of Dances of the Gilded Age\, you should still get to the Fancy Dress Ball. Class members will be happy to show you the ropes!\nThe evening will also include a potluck; contributions to the table are welcome.\n$30/person. Register here by Feb. 28. All sales are final.\nIt’s also not too late to sign up for other individual classes of Dances of the Gilded Age. Get more information and register here.\nLearn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations in order to participate\, please email owarren@illinois.edu.\nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.\nAbout the instructor\nJeanette Watts has been teaching historical dances for over 20 years. She is the founder of the Terpsichorean Delights Dance Assembly in Dayton\, Ohio\, Queen City Vintage Dance in Charlotte\, North Carolina\, and spent covid writing an 8-volume series of instructional dance manuals for historical museums.\nAbout The Farms\nThe Farms: An Allerton Folk School\, offers classes\, workshops\, and gatherings focusing on art\, health & wellness\, history\, nature & outdoor education\, or science. All experiences value hands-on\, experiential teaching and learning\, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community.\nSee the complete Spring Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-dances-of-the-gilded-age-a-fancy-dress-ball/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/soiree_4324-L3rbmB.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250301T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250301T220000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170204Z
CREATED:20250829T154902Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170204Z
UID:10000248-1740853800-1740866400@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:(SOLD OUT) Murder Mystery Dinner: Out to Sea
DESCRIPTION:Take part in a story of ‘seaside’ suspense and intrigue at our Murder Mystery Dinner: Out to Sea on Saturday\, March 1 in the Mansion Gallery\, presented by the Champaign Urbana Theatre Company’s Seven Corpse Dinner Murder Mysteries. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for a cocktail half-hour\, followed by dinner at 7 p.m.\nCUTC will present the following story: On the maiden voyage of the RMS Titanic\, you are surrounded by the cream of European and American Society. Of course\, the more affluent people are\, the more secrets they have — and a desperation to keep them hidden. There are no icebergs in sight on this evening; just murder and mayhem!\nYour job? Insert yourself into the story\, embrace the suspense and solve the case by questioning suspects and looking for clues (eavesdropping is also allowed and encouraged). Attire reminiscent of the 1910s is recommended but not required to attend this party on the Titanic!\n$60/person. Register here by Feb. 12. All sales are final.\nIf you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Kirstin Mindiola at mindiola@illinois.edu.\nComplete your visit with an overnight stay in the Mansion or one of our guesthouses ($110/night + tax). View rooms here and book online or by calling 217-333-3287. \nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/sold-out-murder-mystery-dinner-out-to-sea/
CATEGORIES:Special Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/titantic.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250228T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250301T110000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170207Z
CREATED:20250829T153322Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170207Z
UID:10000186-1740754800-1740826800@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:Weekend Wind Down — Feb. 28-March 1
DESCRIPTION:While lodging is available throughout the year based on availability\, you can now plan ahead\, book a room and get away for a weekend. Spend the night (or two!) in the Mansion or a guesthouse during our Feb. 28-March 1 Weekend Wind Down!\nAll Weekend Wind Down dates feature a discounted rate of $110/night (+tax) and include two drink tokens per room\, per night.\nOptional activities include:\nFriday\, Feb. 28\n— Solarium Bar\, 5-10 p.m. (open to the public)\n— Live Music by Luke Rund\, 7-9 p.m. (open to the public)\nView guestrooms and make your reservation here or by calling 217-333-3287.\n(NOTE: There is no food service available on-site during the winter season. Feel free to pack a cooler and bring your own or patronize the restaurants in Monticello just five miles away!)\nCan’t make this Weekend Wind Down? Find additional dates here.\nIf you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Jordan Zech at jmgiffor@illinois.edu.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/weekend-wind-down-feb-28-march-1/
CATEGORIES:Special Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250228T123000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250228T140000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170223Z
CREATED:20250829T153537Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170223Z
UID:10000192-1740745800-1740751200@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Writing Habits: In Three Parts
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Writers of all skill levels\nWhether you are a writer in the middle of a project or an author who is looking to start a new effort\, enroll in Writing Habits: In Three Parts\, a three-part online course on Fridays\, Feb. 28\, March 7 & 14 from 12:30 to 2 p.m.\nIn this course\, University of Illinois Writers Workshop Assistant Director Azlan Smith will help writers answer three questions: 1) What memories\, intentions\, experiences and connections do you take with you into writing? 2) What feels close to you inside the habit of writing? 3) What do you try to actively forget or let go of through your writing?\n$75/person for the entire series or $30/class. Register for the series here by Feb. 24 or one day prior to each class below. All sales are final.\n— Feb. 28: Using Memories & Experiences in Writing\n— March 7: What Feels Close to You?\n— March 14: Letting Go\nA Zoom link will be sent to students prior to the class.\nIf you will need disability-related accommodations in order to participate\, please email owarren@illinois.edu.\nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.\nAbout the instructor\nAzlan Smith holds an MFA in Creative Writing (Fiction) and is working on a Ph.D. in Writing Studies at the University of Illinois. Their research interests include: 1) collaboration\, storytelling and fiction as research; 2) art research; 3) public art facilitation; 4) the role of storytelling in knowledge creation; 5) multimodal writing; and 6) scholarly communities across departmental boundaries.\nAbout The Farms\nThe Farms: An Allerton Folk School\, offers classes\, workshops\, and gatherings focusing on art\, health & wellness\, history\, nature & outdoor education\, or science. All experiences value hands-on\, experiential teaching and learning\, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community.\nSee the complete Spring Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-writing-habits-in-three-parts/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Writing-SBaBHp.jpg
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250228T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250422T180000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170206Z
CREATED:20250829T153321Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170206Z
UID:10000185-1740729600-1745344800@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:Hike ALLerton
DESCRIPTION:Join us for the second annual Hike ALLerton program!\nSign-up online by Tuesday\, April 22 (Earth Day!) and make the commitment to hike the nine trails at the Park by the end of the calendar year. Hikers will pick up their registration packet at the Bluebell Festival May 2-4. The packet will include a Hike ALLerton t-shirt*\, information on where to take selfies on each trail and a map of trails.\nHow do we know you’ve done all the hikes for real?! We encourage each registrant to show “Proof of Hike” from each of their hikes by taking a selfie at a specific marker on each trail. You’re welcome to share your progress or success by submitting the selfie photos via email to Sarah at sputman2@illinois.edu or posting them online using the hashtag #hikeALLerton2025.\nHike ALLerton is open to all ages\, so sign up with your family\, coworkers\, neighbors and friends. (Pets can join in the hike but doggie tees are not available). Group hikes are also a great way to get some of your trails completed. Find group hike dates on our event calendar.\n$25/person. Register here by April 22. Packet pickup is May 2-4 at the Bluebell Festival. All sales are final.\nFor more information or if you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Sarah Putman at sputman2@illinois.edu.\n*A prompt will come up that asks your t-shirt size after you complete the registration process on Eventbrite. Find sizing specs here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/hike-allerton/
CATEGORIES:Tours/Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/centaur-area_7767.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250227T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250227T153000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170225Z
CREATED:20250829T154753Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170225Z
UID:10000237-1740661200-1740670200@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Beginning Drawing from Nature
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nBring nature to life in your artwork at Beginning Drawing from Nature on Thursdays\, Feb. 27 through March 20 from 1 to 3:30 p.m. in The Studio.\nThis course\, led by Monticello-based artist Emily Tackitt\, is aimed at the beginner who has no drawing experience. Students will learn how to bring items from nature to life with shading and blending.\n$70/person*. Register here by Feb. 24.  All sales are final.\n*Students should bring:\n— Spiralbound mixed media sketchbook in preferred size (9×12 is standard)\n— No. 2 pencil\n— Clear plastic ruler\n— Kneaded eraser\n— Pencil blending tool\nLearn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations in order to participate\, please email owarren@illinois.edu.\nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.\nAbout the instructor\nEmily Tackitt is a mixed-media artist based in Monticello whose passion for creating art began as a young girl. She has taught watercolor classes and also teaches drawing techniques through her YouTube Channel\, where she walks viewers through watercolors\, acrylics and markers to create fun and beautiful artwork.\n“I love using my emotions to create my artwork\, and find it very therapeutic\,” Tackitt said. “In my free time\, I like to exercise\, binge-watch art tutorials and play with my grandchildren.”\nYou can find out more about Tackitt on YouTube\, Bluesky or by emailing her at emilysartjourney@yahoo.com.\nAbout The Farms\nThe Farms: An Allerton Folk School\, offers classes\, workshops\, and gatherings focusing on art\, health & wellness\, history\, nature & outdoor education\, or science. All experiences value hands-on\, experiential teaching and learning\, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community.\nSee the complete Spring Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-beginning-drawing-from-nature/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/drawing-from-nature.jpeg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250227T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250227T120000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170224Z
CREATED:20250829T154554Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170224Z
UID:10000234-1740650400-1740657600@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Beginning Pen & Ink
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nLearn to draw\, shade and create texture at Beginning Pen & Ink on Thursdays\, Feb. 27 through March 20 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in The Studio.\nInstructor Emily Tackitt will teach the basics of hatching\, dots and varied line to help students learn how to create texture and visual interest.\n$65/person*. Register here by Feb. 24. All sales are final.\n*Students should bring:\n— Spiral bound sketchbook or mixed media pad (9”x12”)\n— Pencil\n— Kneaded eraser\n— See through plastic ruler\n— 1 to 3 black roller ball\, gel or felt tip Sharpie-type pens with varying tip sizes.\nLearn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations in order to participate\, please email owarren@illinois.edu.\nBy attending\, you consent to your image being used in Allerton marketing\, social media and publications. Please alert the photographer or videographer if you do not want your image taken.\nAbout the instructor\nEmily Tackitt is a mixed-media artist based in Monticello whose passion for creating art began as a young girl. She has taught watercolor classes and also teaches drawing techniques through her YouTube Channel\, where she walks viewers through watercolors\, acrylics and markers to create fun and beautiful artwork.\n“I love using my emotions to create my artwork\, and find it very therapeutic\,” Tackitt said. “In my free time\, I like to exercise\, binge-watch art tutorials and play with my grandchildren.”\nYou can find out more about Tackitt on YouTube\, Bluesky or by emailing her at emilysartjourney@yahoo.com.\nAbout The Farms\nThe Farms: An Allerton Folk School\, offers classes\, workshops\, and gatherings focusing on art\, health & wellness\, history\, nature & outdoor education\, or science. All experiences value hands-on\, experiential teaching and learning\, and are facilitated by and for the members of the community.\nSee the complete Spring Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-beginning-pen-ink/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/PEN-AND-INK-1-scaled-6W9Z4Y.jpg
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