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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250306T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250306T103000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170149Z
CREATED:20250829T153022Z
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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
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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
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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
END:VEVENT
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
END:VEVENT
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
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
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
END:VEVENT
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
END:VEVENT
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
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250224T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250224T193000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170226Z
CREATED:20250829T153542Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170226Z
UID:10000196-1740418200-1740425400@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Learn to Bake Scones
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nLevel up your coffee and teatime and Learn to Bake Scones on Monday\, Feb. 24 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Mansion Carriage House.\nScones are the perfect companion for warm beverages\, and in this workshop Chef Leah Bodine will lead students through the process of mixing batter for two different flavors of scones. Students will take home recipes\, instructions and dough to bake their scones at home.\n$45/person. Register here by Feb. 17. 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-learn-to-bake-scones/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/scones2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250222T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250222T120000
DTSTAMP:20251208T162008Z
CREATED:20250829T154554Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T162008Z
UID:10000233-1740218400-1740225600@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Beginning Mountain Dulcimer
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner \nLooking for an easy-to-learn and fun instrument to keep your mind active? Then enroll in Beginning Mountain Dulcimer on Saturdays\, Feb. 22 through March 22 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in The Studio. \nPlaying the dulcimer requires only a love of music and a desire to create beautiful sound. It is a simple instrument that requires little musical knowledge. In this course\, instructor Lou Ann Koebel will lead students through basic chords and strum patterns that will give them the ability to play rounds\, fiddle tunes and much more! \nDulcimers are available for rent by emailing Lou Ann Koebel at koebel@illinois.edu. \n$225/person (Ages 12+; 12- to 15-year-olds must be accompanied by a registered adult.) Register here by Feb. 19. 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 \nLou Ann Koebel currently leads a weekly dulcimer jam for the East Central Dulcimer Illinois Dulcimer Club at Lincoln Square. She also plays in a local band that visits and performs at local assisted living facilities. \nKoebel has taught beginning dulcimer classes for The Farms\, where she has had a wonderful time teaching the group and realized her love of teaching and passing on the tradition of playing a mountain dulcimer. Lou Ann also plays at area music festivals. \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-mountain-dulcimer-2/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/dulcimer-beginner.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250221T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250223T110000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170226Z
CREATED:20250829T153907Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170226Z
UID:10000204-1740150000-1740308400@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:Weekend Wind Down — Feb. 21-23
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. 21-23 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\, Feb. 21\n— *Intro to Birding and eBird\, 9 a.m.-12 p.m.\n— Weaving a Mantel Basket\, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.\n— Solarium Bar\, 5-10 p.m. (open to the public)\n— Talking & Tasting: An Intro to Wines of the World\, 6-8 p.m. \nSaturday\, Feb. 22\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— Dulcimer Jam Session\, 12:30-2 p.m.\n— Solarium Bar\, 5-10 p.m. (open to the public)\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-feb-21-23/
CATEGORIES:Special Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/solarium-GOLDEN-ROOM_8035-3-scaled-SyHgLs.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250221T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250221T160000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170236Z
CREATED:20250829T154355Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170236Z
UID:10000231-1740132000-1740153600@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:(SOLD OUT) The Farms: Weaving a Mantel Basket
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nEnjoy a day of weaving at Weaving a Mantel Basket on Friday\, Feb. 21 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Greenhouse Auditorium.\nIn this workshop\, instructor Bonnie Rideout will start students off with a ‘D’ handle and a woven\, filled base and teach the techniques of twining\, start/stop weaving\, decreased weaving and the use of an overlay.\nAll students will go home with a useful Mantel-style basket with an accent color of black.\n$90/person. Register here by Feb. 6. 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\nBonnie Rideout wove her first basket in 1994 and quickly caught the “basket bug.” She created a business — Bonnie’s Baskets in Decatur — in 2006 to teach others to weave. She is also a traveling instructor and has taught weaving in 18 states.\nFind out more about Bonnie on her website\, Facebook\, Instagram and Etsy pages.\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-weaving-a-mantel-basket/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Bonnie-Rideout-Mantel-Basket-Photo.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250221T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250221T120000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170235Z
CREATED:20250829T154015Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170235Z
UID:10000212-1740128400-1740139200@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Intro to Birding and eBird
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner (all ages)\nLearn more about birdwatching at an Intro to Birding and eBird on Fridays\, Feb. 21 and 28 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. in The Studio and outdoors.\nAllerton Natural Areas Manager Nate Beccue will help students learn about bird identification during the cooler months\, when fewer species are on the landscape. Participants will learn how to identify year-round residents as well as winter visitors by focusing on distinctive features like plumage patterns\, feeding behavior and vocalizations.\nWinter species at the Park typically include woodpeckers\, nuthatches\, owls and finches\, each adapted to survive the harsher conditions.\nA key aspect of the course will be learning to use eBird\, a tool for birders developed by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology\, which allows users to log their sightings\, track seasonal patterns\, access local checklists and help anticipate which species are likely be seen. The app also includes real-time data to help birders identify hot spots within the Park\, making it easier to locate wintering birds. It also helps in global conservation efforts by compiling valuable data about bird populations and trends.\nEach class will be split between learning in the classroom and birding in the field. A limited number of binoculars will be available on a first-come basis. At times the hikes will leave the trails\, so please dress accordingly.\n$20/person (all ages). Register here by Feb. 17. All sales are final.\nIf you will need disability-related accommodations in order to participate\, please email Nate Beccue at nbeccue@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-intro-to-birding-and-ebird/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Birding-and-ebirdBANNER.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250219T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250219T200000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170237Z
CREATED:20250829T153707Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170237Z
UID:10000200-1739988000-1739995200@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Wines of the World
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nTake part in a delicious series at Wines of the World on Wednesdays\, Feb. 19\, March 12\, March 26 and April 9 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Mansion Solarium.\nRenowned wine educator and television personality Mike Lee will lead this delightful and delectable wine class\, where he takes students on an enchanting journey through the vineyards both domestically and across the globe. With a wealth of knowledge and passion for introducing students to tasting\, talking\, and understanding wine\, Mike’s engaging style immerses students in wines of the world.\nMike’s class is for beginners and wine lovers alike\, from the refined elegance of Bordeaux to the inspiring hills of Tuscany\, the bold flavors of Rioja and the full\, rich vintages of California. Each class will include tastings of 5 to 6 wines (see below for details on varieties).\n$200/person for the entire series* or $60/class (Ages 21+). Register by Feb. 12 or one week before each class. All sales are final.\nRegistration links:\n— Feb. 19: Navigating Blends/The Art of Winemaking — discover the world of blended wines and why winemakers choose to blend\n— March 12: Sense of Place — a class contrasting wines from regions across the globe\n— March 26: Oregon and Washington — exploring American winemakers outside of California\n— April 9: Choosing Wines for Any Occasion — Match wines to seasons and occasions\n*Sign up for all four classes individually and use the promo code “WINE40” to get $40 off at checkout.\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\nMike Lee is an accomplished wine\, spirits\, and beer educator with 9+ years in the alcohol industry. Having achieved the Wine and Spirit Education Trust (London) Certified Educator achievement in Wine\, Lee is certified to teach levels 1 and 2 internationally. With experience with class sizes large and small\, he is known for his ability to adapt to any learning environment with excellent facilitation skills.\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-wines-of-the-world/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Wines-of-the-World.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250216T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250216T150000
DTSTAMP:20260820T193325Z
CREATED:20251208T161934Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260820T193325Z
UID:10000892-1739714400-1739718000@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Public Mansion Tours
DESCRIPTION:Have you ever wandered around Allerton and wondered what the inside of the historic Mansion looks like? Would you like to hear more about the unique history of Robert Allerton and the creation of his estate? Learn all of this and more during our Public Mansion Tours\, which are conducted throughout the year*.\nTours last about 60 minutes and will primarily cover the first floor of the home with an optional trip to the second and third floors when available.\n$10/person (5 and under free and do not require a ticket). Register here. All sales are final.\n*2025 tour dates:\n— Sunday\, Jan. 19\, 2-3 p.m.\n— Sunday\, Feb. 16\, 2-3 p.m.\n— Sunday\, March 16\, 2-3 p.m.\n— Sunday\, April 20\, 2-3 p.m.\n— Sunday\, May 18\, 2-3 p.m.\n— Sunday\, June 15\, 2-3 p.m.\n— Sunday\, July 13\, 2-3 p.m.\n— Sunday\, Aug. 17\, 2-3 p.m.\n— Sunday\, Sept. 14\, 2-3 p.m.\n— Saturday\, Oct. 4\, 11 a.m.-12 p.m.\n— Sunday\, Oct. 26\, 2-3 p.m.\n— Friday\, Oct. 31\, 4-5 p.m.\n— Sunday\, Nov. 16\, 2-3 p.m. \nIf you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Sarah at 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 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 Fall schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-public-mansion-tours-feb/
CATEGORIES:The Farms,Tours/Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/bowling-lawn-view_2322-e1773168599490-mY2maN.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250215T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250215T210000
DTSTAMP:20251208T161940Z
CREATED:20250829T153956Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T161940Z
UID:10000209-1739644200-1739653200@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:(SOLD OUT) Valentine’s Dinner for Two
DESCRIPTION:Get away for a romantic evening in the elegant ambiance of the Allerton Mansion at a Valentine’s Dinner for Two on Saturday\, Feb. 15 at 6:30 p.m. in the Gallery. After a cocktail half-hour\, sit down at your table for two* to enjoy a delicious four-course meal\, served with a bottle of wine. A cash bar will also be available. See the full menu here. Formal attire is encouraged but not required. \n$80/person ($160/couple\, please purchase two tickets). Register here by Jan. 26. All sales are final. \n*If you would like to be seated with another party contact Kirstin Mindiola at mindiola@illinois.edu. \nConsider making a weekend of it and register for Paint Your Partner here. Complete your visit with a discounted 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.  \nOther information \n— If you have dietary restrictions\, please email Kirstin Mindiola at mindiola@illinois.edu. \n— If you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Christina Calcagno at clc@illinois.edu. \n— By 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-valentines-dinner-for-two/
CATEGORIES:Seasonal,Special Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/valentines-day-setup_8475-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250215T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250215T170000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170241Z
CREATED:20250829T154354Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170241Z
UID:10000229-1739628000-1739638800@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:(SOLD OUT) The Farms: Beginning Weaving I (Afternoon)
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nLearn the basics of working with a loom at Beginning Weaving I (Afternoon) on Saturdays\, Feb. 15 through March 15 from 2 to 5 p.m. in the Greenhouse Auditorium.\nThis 5-week class led by Sharon Bowles will encompass all aspects of beginner weaving as students create a table runner. Participants will become familiar with weaving terminology\, parts of the loom\, figuring the weaving pattern for the width of the loom and project\, measuring out the warp\, beaming the warp back to front\, threading heddles\, threading the reed\, tying on the warp\, and winding bobbins.\n$250/person*. Register here by Feb. 8. All sales are final.\n*Students should bring a 4-shaft loom if they have one. All other supplies will be provided\, including a loom if needed.\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.\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.\nShe 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. Most recently\, Sharon taught Beginning Weaving I at The Farms\, and a 2-day workshop in four 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/sold-out-the-farms-beginning-weaving-i-afternoon-3/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/WEAVING-NEW-ONE_8975.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250215T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250215T140000
DTSTAMP:20251208T162431Z
CREATED:20251208T162431Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T162431Z
UID:10000897-1739624400-1739628000@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:New Volunteer Orientation
DESCRIPTION:You can become an important part of Allerton by volunteering! Allerton’s generous volunteers help serve visitors\, preserve the natural areas and improve the spectacular park for future generations. If you want to know more\, take part in a New Volunteer Orientation from 1 to 2 p.m.* on one of the following Saturdays in The Studio: Feb. 15\, May 17\, Aug. 2 or Nov. 1. \n*The Aug. 2 class will be from 2 to 3 p.m. \nThis volunteer orientation will acquaint potential new volunteers with the many ways they can give their time and effort to make Allerton the magical place it is. Questions can be referred to Sarah Putman at sputman2@illinois.edu or by calling 217-333-3287\, ext. 127. \nFree. Register here. All ages are welcome. A Zoom link can be shared upon request. \nIf you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Sarah Putman at sputman2@illinois.edu.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/new-volunteer-orientation-2/
CATEGORIES:Featured,Gardening,Special Events,Tours/Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/volunteer_8037.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250215T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250215T150000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170242Z
CREATED:20250829T154756Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170242Z
UID:10000241-1739620800-1739631600@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Wedding Cookie Decorating
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nLearn about decorating wedding-themed cookies at Wedding Cookie Decorating on Saturday\, Feb. 15 from 12 to 3 p.m. in the Mansion Carriage House.\nCookie decorator Jennifer Holhubner will walk students through decorating with royal icing\, crusting butter cream and rolled buttercream as they learn wet-on-wet techniques\, outlining\, flooding how to make flowers. Each student will receive directions for five different cookies.\n$75/person*. Register here by Feb. 9. 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-wedding-cookie-decorating/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/WEDDING-COOKIES-THIS-ONE-1-scaled-E4KqHg.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250215T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250215T133000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170239Z
CREATED:20250829T154354Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170239Z
UID:10000228-1739615400-1739626200@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:(SOLD OUT) The Farms: Beginning Weaving I (Morning)
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nLearn the basics of working with a loom at Beginning Weaving I (Morning) on Saturdays\, Feb. 15 through March 15 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Greenhouse Auditorium.\nThis 5-week class led by Sharon Bowles will encompass all aspects of beginner weaving as students create a table runner. Participants will become familiar with weaving terminology\, parts of the loom\, figuring the weaving pattern for the width of the loom and project\, measuring out the warp\, beaming the warp back to front\, threading heddles\, threading the reed\, tying on the warp\, and winding bobbins.\n$250/person*. Register here by Feb. 8. All sales are final.\n*Students should bring a 4-shaft loom if they have one. All other supplies will be provided\, including a loom if needed.\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\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.\nShe 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. Most recently\, Sharon taught Beginning Weaving I at The Farms\, and a 2-day workshop in four 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/sold-out-the-farms-beginning-weaving-i-morning-3/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/WEAVING-NEW-ONE_8975.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250214T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250214T210000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170242Z
CREATED:20250829T154016Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170242Z
UID:10000213-1739557800-1739566800@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:(SOLD OUT) The Farms: Paint Your Partner
DESCRIPTION:Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Paint Your Partner on Friday\, Feb. 14 in the Mansion from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Inspired by the Paint Your Partner Challenge\, guests will enjoy a casual date night with pizza\, paint\, drinks and laughs.\nEach table will be supplied with paint brushes\, acrylic paints and a canvas. Seated across from their partner\, guests will paint a portrait of them. After both artists have completed their work of art there will be a moment of truth: How much does the canvas look like the person sitting across from them?\n$35/person. Register here by Feb. 11. All sales are final.\nConsider making a weekend of it and register for Valentine’s Dinner for Two here.\nComplete your visit with a discounted 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. \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/sold-out-the-farms-paint-your-partner/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/paint-your-partner.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250213T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250213T200000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170242Z
CREATED:20250829T154236Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170242Z
UID:10000225-1739466000-1739476800@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Needlefelt Ladybug
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nLearn the art of needlefelting at Needlefelt Ladybug on Thursday\, Feb. 13 from 5 to 8 p.m. in The Studio.\nInstructor Stephanie Block will teach students how to make an adorable ladybug in honor of the beneficial insect. Participants will work through the process step-by-step and leave with a completed needlefelt ladybug.\n$65/person. Register here by Feb. 10. 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\nStephanie Block is the co-owner of Sundrop Alpacas near Bement. She has been producing popular yarn from her own alpacas for more than eight years. Stephanie’s spinning style is self-taught\, and she is continuously learning so that she can share that knowledge with others.\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-needlefelt-ladybug/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/needlefelt-ladybug.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250209T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250209T170000
DTSTAMP:20251208T161940Z
CREATED:20250829T153955Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T161940Z
UID:10000207-1739109600-1739120400@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\, Feb. 9 and March 16 from 2 to 5 p.m. in the Mansion Kitchen and Carriage House. (Each class will cover 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 workshop. All sales are final. \nRegistration links: \n— Feb. 9 \n— March 16 \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\, 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-beginner-sourdough-breadmaking-2/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/sourdough-breadmaking.jpeg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250208T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250208T160000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170247Z
CREATED:20250829T154235Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170247Z
UID:10000224-1739008800-1739030400@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:(SOLD OUT) The Farms: Link it! Chainmaille Jewelry
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nLearn how to use the pattern originally used in armor for jewelry making at Link it! Chainmaille Jewelry on Saturday\, Feb. 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in The Studio.\nHistorically\, chainmaille was used as protective armor\, as the linked rings resulted in a strong\, flexible fabric. Jewelers have adopted the repeatable pattern of the rings to make unique pieces of jewelry. In this workshop\, instructor Billie Theide will help students make and source jump rings\, create patterns and make jewelry. Students will receive a toolkit to keep\, along with a folder of instructional materials to take home.\n$100/person. Register here by Feb. 1. All sales are final.\nLearn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need Linkdisability-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-link-it-chainmaille-jewelry/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/CHAINMAILLE-scaled-zIAe30.jpg
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