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X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Allerton Park & Retreat Center
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250524T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250524T120000
DTSTAMP:20260818T165914Z
CREATED:20250829T152952Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T165914Z
UID:10000152-1748082600-1748088000@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Dulcimer Jam Sessions
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: All\nLearn to play as a group and share the joy of playing dulcimer at Dulcimer Jam Session on Saturdays\, May 24\, June 28 and Aug. 23 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. in The Studio. This relaxed environment is perfect if you need a quick refresher on songs you learned in a recent – or not so recent! – dulcimer class.\n$5/class. Register one day prior to each jam session.\n— May 24\n— June 28\n— Aug. 23\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\, 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-dulcimer-jam-sessions/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/dulcimer-playing_0968-seh7@illinois.edu_.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250520T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250520T200000
DTSTAMP:20260818T165915Z
CREATED:20250829T152107Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T165915Z
UID:10000126-1747760400-1747771200@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Learn to Spin Yarn
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nLearn the basic mechanics of using a spinning wheel to make your own yarn at Learn to Spin Yarn on Tuesdays\, May 20\, June 10\, July 8 and Aug. 19\, from 5 to 8 p.m. in The Studio. (Each date covers the same material.)\nAfter a brief introduction from instructor Stephanie Block\, students will have time for hands-on spinning practice and the opportunity to spin alpaca fiber into yarn using Ashford scotch tension Traditional or Traveler wheels. Discussion of fiber production and preparation methods will also be included.\n$130/person. Register three days before each workshop. All sales are final.\n— May 20\n— June 10\n— July 8\n— Aug. 19\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\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\, 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-learn-to-spin-yarn-2/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/spinning-yarn-3-scaled-G4FXhM.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250518T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250518T143000
DTSTAMP:20250829T152813Z
CREATED:20250829T152813Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250829T152813Z
UID:10000140-1747573200-1747578600@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Flower Arranging
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: BeginnerLearn how to arrange flowers like a pro at Flower Arranging on Sunday\, May 18 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. in The Studio. \nGather with friends and friendly folks to learn about a variety of spring flowers and bouquet-making elements from instructor Maggie Taylor. Students will experiment with fresh-cut flowers grown on Delight Flower Farm\, including tulips\, ranunculus\, snapdragons and more. Vases are included so attendees can design their own bouquet to take home or gift to someone. \n$65/person (16+). Register here by May 12. 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 \nMaggie Taylor is a farm owner who has been growing flowers and leading workshops since 2011. Trained as an artist\, she loves turning natural materials into objects of joy and empowering others to as well. Depending on the time of year she may be teaching about fresh flowers or winter evergreen wreaths. Maggie’s teaching style is accessible\, informative\, encouraging and often humorous! Other capable farm crew members assist in teaching large groups. \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-flower-arranging-2/
CATEGORIES:Gardening,The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/flower-arranging_0187-BbRW8J.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250517T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250517T160000
DTSTAMP:20260818T165916Z
CREATED:20250829T152842Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T165916Z
UID:10000145-1747490400-1747497600@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Springtime Cyanotype & the Magic of Light
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nExperience camera-less photography and the joy of recording the beauty of nature at Springtime Cyanotype & the Magic of Light on Saturday\, May 17 from 2 to 4 p.m. in the Greenhouse Auditorium.\nInstructor Crystal Hartman will guide students through a fun\, straightforward process of creating beautiful prints with the magic of light. She will share a bit of history on cyanotype\, one of the oldest known photo processes that was originally used to document botanical specimens by treating a surface – paper or cloth – with iron salts which then react to ultraviolet light. (Paper will be pre-coated with the cyanotype chemistry prior to the workshop.)\nEach student will practice observing nature and creating compositions inspired by what they see\, creating several prints as they experiment with various timings and placements.\n$85/person. Register here by May 14. 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\nCrystal Hartman is an artist and jewelry designer whose work explores interconnectivity through lines and layers. Utilizing traditional and experimental practices in metalsmithing\, drawing and artists books\, she explores possibilities of harmonious living to advocate for the natural world.\nHartman shows her work in galleries and public art spaces across the United States and abroad. As an artist-in-residence at Delight Flower Farm in Champaign\, she developed a series of cyanotypes celebrating the native plants and flowers of Eastern Illinois. She works on ecological principles through local land-based sources and through community.\nHer work is featured in publications like Ponder Review\, La Piccoletta Barca and CutBank Literary Journal. Crystal maintains a studio in Urbana.\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-springtime-cyanotype-the-magic-of-light/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/cyanotype-scaled-bsfNIh.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250517T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250517T120000
DTSTAMP:20251208T161819Z
CREATED:20250829T152303Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T161819Z
UID:10000127-1747476000-1747483200@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:(SOLD OUT) Picnic With the Peonies
DESCRIPTION:Enjoy a picnic and a stroll through our beautiful\, expansive Peony Garden at Picnic With the Peonies on Saturday and Sunday\, May 17-18 (see times below). \nCheck in at the Meadow for your reserved table (seats up to 8)\, which includes a charcuterie board from The Charcuterie Company to share and two bottles of wine (or champagne and orange juice!*). A cash bar will be available so you can sip as you savor the season at Allerton! Purchase additional items for your picnic at the Greenhouse Cafè\, or bring your own additions (no outside alcohol is permitted). And of course\, be sure to leave time to check out the picturesque Peony Garden! (Find information about reserving our power chairs here.) \nRegister for one of the following time slots: \nSaturday\, May 17: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. or 1-3 p.m. \nSunday\, May 18: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. or 1-3 p.m.  \nEnjoy live music from Billy Galt (Saturday) and Lisa & Tom (Sunday) during the 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. time slots. \n$100/table (seats up to 8). Register here by 5 p.m. on May 5. All sales are final. \n*Mimosas are only an option for 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. time slots. \nIf you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Claire Bryant at cduewer2@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.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/sold-out-picnic-with-the-peonies/
CATEGORIES:Gardening,Special Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/peonies-with-people_8449-u9qvXK.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250516T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250516T110000
DTSTAMP:20250514T164615Z
CREATED:20250514T164615Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250514T164615Z
UID:10000001-1747386000-1747393200@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:Spring Migration Bird Hikes
DESCRIPTION:Join Allerton Natural Areas staff on a unique bird-focused hike each Friday in April and May. As spring migration progresses\, the species of birds that can be seen changes almost daily. \nHikes are open to anyone and are free for Allerton Park Bird Club members. Registration is required to participate. \nEach week the hike will leave from the Allerton Main Parking Lot at 9 a.m. A different area of the park will be featured each week. Binoculars will be available on a first-come basis. \n$5/person\, free for Allerton Bird Club members. Register here. Become a Bird Club member here. All sales are final. \nIf you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Alex Lourash at lourash2@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.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/spring-migration-bird-hikes/
LOCATION:McCraw Family Visitor Center\, 515 Old Timber Road\, Monticello\, IL\, 61856\, United States
CATEGORIES:The Farms,Tours/Hikes
ORGANIZER;CN="Allerton Park":MAILTO:allertoninfo@illinois.edu
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250510T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250510T170000
DTSTAMP:20260818T165916Z
CREATED:20250829T152854Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T165916Z
UID:10000147-1746867600-1746896400@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:(SOLD OUT) 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\, May 10-11 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 I\, but instead of everyone doing the same article (like in Beginning Weaving I)\, 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 May 2. 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\, 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/sold-out-the-farms-beginning-weaving-ii/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/weaving-hands-lvhE2K.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250510T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250510T170000
DTSTAMP:20251208T161827Z
CREATED:20250829T152810Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T161827Z
UID:10000137-1746867600-1746896400@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:GREENHOUSE CAFÉ: Sangria Social
DESCRIPTION:Celebrate spring with live music\, a tasty meal and a glass of sangria at the Greenhouse Cafès Sangria Social on Saturday and Sunday\, May 10-11 at the Greenhouse Cafè. Order from the menu between cafè hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. In addition\, house-made sangria will be available along with the regular beer and wine menu beginning at 10 a.m. \nLive music will include: \n— Saturday\, May 10: 1 to 3 p.m: Luke Rund on the Greenhouse Patio \n— Sunday\, May 11: 1 to 3 p.m.: Leighton Ewers and Jack Daniel in the Meadow \nThere will be limited seating inside the cafè\, on the patio and at picnic tables in the Meadow. Lawn chairs and blankets are encouraged. There will also be a bar and food tent (limited menu) in the Meadow on May 11 from 12 to 3 p.m. \nFree\, but please RSVP here so we can plan accordingly.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/greenhouse-cafe-sangria-social/
CATEGORIES:Food & Drink
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/greenhouse-patio-MAY-2024_9734-cTRG5p.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250509T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250511T150000
DTSTAMP:20251208T161921Z
CREATED:20250829T153338Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T161921Z
UID:10000191-1746781200-1746975600@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:(SOLD OUT) The Farms: Art Retreat
DESCRIPTION:Artists of all levels are invited to experience art in a new way at The Farms: Art Retreat on May 9-11 (Friday\, 9 a.m. through Sunday\, 3 p.m.) in the Mansion. Get creative and learn something new in a wide variety of workshops by choosing what appeals to you\, including watercolor\, printmaking\, drawing\, Ikebana\, and more! See the full schedule (subject to change) here . \nThere will also be plenty of downtime to relax and enjoy the company of fellow art lovers over food and drink. (Including enjoying the art of music – bring your favorite instrument if you have one for impromptu jam sessions!) \nRegistration includes all materials and meals* (Friday lunch through Sunday breakfast). A bar will be available Friday and Saturday evenings. \nThis memorable weekend is a great opportunity to spend quality time with a special family member\, gather a group of friends to inspire each other\, or recharge with a solo getaway. Art Educators can earn up to 13 professional development hours (PDH)! \n$295/person. Register here by May 2. All sales are final. \nRetreat participants can also stay overnight in the Mansion or other guesthouse for a discounted rate of $100/night. View rooms here and make your reservation by calling 217-333-3287. \n*If you have any dietary restrictions\, please indicate it at the time of registration or email Christina Calcagno at clc@illinois.edu by April 25. \nIf you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Christina Calcagno at clc@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. \nFind the complete Summer Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/sold-out-the-farms-art-retreat/
CATEGORIES:Retreats,The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Art-REtreat-2025-scaled-2N1doC.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250507T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250507T193000
DTSTAMP:20260818T165918Z
CREATED:20250829T152103Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T165918Z
UID:10000122-1746637200-1746646200@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:(SOLD OUT) The Farms: Intro to Mosaic Art
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nLearn a unique art form at Intro to Mosaic Art on Wednesdays\, May 7 and June 4 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. in The Studio. Each workshop will cover the same material.\nInstructor Kari Keller will teach students the basics of mosaic art\, from selecting tesserae to assembly and grouting. All will take home a unique\, hand-decorated terracotta flowerpot at the end of the workshop.\n$80/person. Register two weeks prior to each workshop. All sales are final.\n— May 7\n— June 4\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\nKari Keller has been a Champaign/Urbana resident since 2008\, originally hailing from the tiny community of St. Anne. Illinois. She has had a passion for art since she could hold a crayon and loves to experiment with many different styles\, rarely sticking to one theme for long.\nKeller has dabbled in cartoons\, acrylic pouring\, zentangles\, patterns\, logo design\, pottery painting and other art forms. Her influences include Alphonse Mucha\, HR Geiger and the art of Northwest coastal Native Americans. She also has a thriving side business as a face painter.\nKari is happiest when immersed in a new project and can’t imagine life without art!\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-intro-to-mosaic-art/
CATEGORIES:Art,The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Mosaic-Art.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250504T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250504T160000
DTSTAMP:20260818T165928Z
CREATED:20250829T153131Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T165928Z
UID:10000166-1746352800-1746374400@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:(SOLD OUT) The Farms: Granny Squares: Beginning Crochet
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nLearn about crocheting at Granny Squares: Beginning Crochet on Sunday\, May 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in The Studio. In this workshop led by fiber artist Billie Theide\, students will learn the basics of crochet\, create basic stitches\, change colors\, read work\, fix mistakes and bind off.\nEach student will leave with at least one\, uniquely designed crocheted “granny square” that can serve as a start for a bigger blanket\, scarf\, bag\, and more!\nThis class takes place during our annual Bluebell Festival\, which features the Plant Sale Fundraiser\, Spring Market\, workshops\, food\, drinks\, and more! Find details here.\n$75/person* (Ages 13+; 13-17-year-olds must be accompanied by an adult\, who does not need to register.) Register here by April 30. All sales are final.\n*Students should bring:\n— 2 skeins Lilly Sugar ‘n Cream 100 percent cotton yarn (1 each of two different contrasting solid colors)\n— 1 U.S. H/8 crochet hook\n— 1 small sharp scissors\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\, 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-granny-squares-beginning-crochet/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Granny-Squares.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250504T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250504T103000
DTSTAMP:20260818T165928Z
CREATED:20250829T152811Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T165928Z
UID:10000138-1746349200-1746354600@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:Blooming Brunch
DESCRIPTION:Finish out Bluebell Festival weekend with a Blooming Brunch on Sunday\, May 4 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the Mansion Carriage House.\nEnjoy brunch\, complimentary juice\, coffee and hot tea and sip on mimosas or Bloody Mary’s from our cash bar during this springtime event. After brunch\, head over to the Plant Sale Fundraiser (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) on the Gatehouse Lawn.\nThe menu for brunch includes fresh fruit salad\, feta and chive frittata\, brown sugar pepper bacon\, individual yogurt parfaits\, a waffle station with whipped butter\, honey butter\, whipped cream\, syrup and jam; and pastries.\n$35/person*. Register here by April 18 at 5 p.m. All sales are final.\n*Includes one complimentary drink.\nSeating will be assigned; for seating requests\, contact Kirstin Mindiola at 217-333-3287 or mindiola@illinois.edu. (Tickets purchased together will automatically be seated together.)\nIf you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Christina Calcagno at clc@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.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/blooming-brunch/
CATEGORIES:Special Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/1655634_666088166763311_1395635506_o-QcsUff.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250503T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250503T200000
DTSTAMP:20260818T165929Z
CREATED:20250829T152104Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T165929Z
UID:10000123-1746295200-1746302400@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:(SOLD OUT) The Farms: Watercolor Bluebells
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nLearn some easy and fun painting techniques at Watercolor Bluebells on Saturday\, May 3 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Mansion Carriage House.\nInstructor Emily Tackitt will walk students through the process of creating a beautiful watercolor painting featuring one of our spring favorites: bluebells! The flowers will be sketched on paper beforehand to make this a fun and creative experience. Materials will be provided but students are welcome to bring their own paint palettes and brushes.\nThis class takes place during our annual Bluebell Festival\, which features the Plant Sale Fundraiser\, Spring Market\, workshops\, food\, drinks\, and more! Find details here.\n$70/person. Register here by April 30. 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\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\, 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-watercolor-bluebells/
CATEGORIES:Art,The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/watercolor-bluebells-TAeKLT.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250503T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250503T170000
DTSTAMP:20251208T161850Z
CREATED:20250829T153126Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T161850Z
UID:10000162-1746270000-1746291600@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Spring Market
DESCRIPTION:Do some shopping\, support local makers and learn about Allerton’s folk school at our Spring Market on Saturday\, May 3 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Mansion. \nBesides selling their handmade creations\, instructors from The Farms will share information about their craft and do informal demonstrations. Find a list of vendors here. \nIt’s all part of the annual Bluebell Festival\, which will feature our Plant Sale Fundraiser\, workshops\, food\, drinks\, and more! Find details here. \nNo registration is required. \nIf you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email owarren@illinois.edu. \nConsider making a weekend out of it and stay overnight with our Weekend Wind Down. View discounted rooms ($110/night + tax) here and book online or by calling 217-333-3287. Find out more about our weekend Wind Down series here. \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. \nFind the complete Summer Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-spring-market/
CATEGORIES:Gardening,Special Events,The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/the-market_94241-3Nt1S9.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250503T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250503T130000
DTSTAMP:20260818T165930Z
CREATED:20250829T153130Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T165930Z
UID:10000165-1746259200-1746277200@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:(SOLD OUT) The Farms: Barn Quilt Painting
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nNo barn? No problem! Join the barn quilt movement by creating your own painted quilt block to use on the inside or outside of your home at Barn Quilt Painting on Saturdays\, May 3\, May 17 or Aug. 2 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Greenhouse Auditorium. (Each class covers the same material.)\nThis workshop will start with a pre-primed board with a design already drafted. Students will tape and paint at their own pace\, choosing from a wide variety of colors.\nInstructor Jane Cade will also share a brief history of barn quilts\, techniques\, tips\, and discuss how to properly seal your finished piece after the paint has dried for 48 hours. Leave with a 20×20″ wooden ‘quilt block’ to keep for yourself or share your talents and give someone a handmade gift.\n$90/person. Registration closes 10 days before each class begins\, or when capacity is reached. All sales are final.\n— SOLD OUT May 3 (This class takes place during our annual Bluebell Festival\, which features the Plant Sale Fundraiser\, Spring Market\, workshops\, food\, drinks\, and more! Find details here.)\n— SOLD OUT May 17\n— SOLD OUT Aug. 2\nLearn more about the space where your course will take place here. If you will need disability-related accommodations 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\nJane Cade is a retired teacher from Clinton Junior High School. She has been painting barn quilts for eight years and sells her work online and at craft festivals. She teaches classes at Parkland Community College and will be teaching classes at her workshop beginning next year.\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-barn-quilt-painting/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/may-3-moyiTk.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250502T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250502T210000
DTSTAMP:20260822T212930Z
CREATED:20250829T154934Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260822T212930Z
UID:10000252-1746208800-1746219600@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:(SOLD OUT) Supper Club — May 2
DESCRIPTION:Chefs Doug Hodge and Ian Nutting return to Allerton to create a delicious\, memorable meal at the Supper Club on Friday\, May 2 in the Mansion Carriage House. The evening is part of the five-dinner 2025 Supper Club series.\nDoug and Ian began by slinging singularly unique hot sauces and condiments in 2021 as The Weird Meat Boyz\, and then started serving “elevated drinkin’ food” out of the bar Collective Pour in 2022. Now they run a new fine dining establishment in Downtown Champaign: The Space. View the menu here.\nThe cash bar will open at 6:30 p.m. (Supper Club members will have access at 6 p.m.)\, followed by dinner at 7 p.m.\n$100/person. Register here by April 18. All sales are final.\nIf you have specific dietary requirements\, please email Christina at clc@illinois.edu by Friday\, April 18.\nFind info and registration links for other Supper Club dinners here.\nComplete your visit with an overnight stay in the Mansion or one of our guesthouses ($100/night + tax). View rooms here and book online or by calling 217-333-3287. \nOther Information\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-supper-club-may-2/
CATEGORIES:Food & Drink,Special Events,Supper Club
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/March-Supper-Club-scaled-e1722454208870-KgZ6Ze.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250502T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250502T200000
DTSTAMP:20260317T223236Z
CREATED:20250829T153128Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260317T223236Z
UID:10000164-1746205200-1746216000@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Bluebell Festival
DESCRIPTION:Celebrate spring at our Bluebell Festival on May 2-4! This festive community event will feature our visitor-favorite Plant Sale Fundraiser (May 2-4)\, Spring Market (May 3)\, live music\, workshops\, food (food trucks + Greenhouse Café)\, drinks and more! Come for a day or make a weekend of it and stay overnight for a discounted rate! (Learn more and make your lodging reservation here). \nFriday\, May 2 will feature the opening of the annual Plant Sale Fundraiser from 5 to 8 p.m.\, along with live music\, food trucks and a bar. For a special treat\, make reservations for Supper Club* in the Mansion Friday evening! \nThe fun continues Saturday\, May 3 with the Plant Sale (9 a.m.-5 p.m.)\,  food trucks (9 a.m.-5 p.m.)\, and the Spring Market (11 a.m.-5 p.m.) in the Mansion – featuring goods for sale\, demonstrations from our fabulous Folk School instructors\, live music and a cash bar! \nWrap up your weekend Sunday\, May 4 with Blooming Brunch in the Mansion (9-10:30 a.m.)\, yoga* (10-11 a.m.)\, the Plant Sale (10 a.m.-4 p.m.)\, or learn to crochet* (10 a.m.-4 p.m.)! \nNo registration is required to attend the Bluebell Festival. Some activities\, noted with an asterisk\, require separate registration and space is limited. \nBluebell Festival Schedule (subject to change) \nFriday\, May 2 \n5:00-8:00 p.m. Plant Sale Fundraiser + Bar + Patty Daddy’s food truck (Gatehouse Lawn); Greenhouse Café (open until 7 p.m.) \n6:00-8:00 p.m. Live Music by The Sweet Nothings (Gatehouse Lawn); BYO chair or blanket \nSOLD OUT 6:00-9:00 p.m. Supper Club* (Mansion) \nSaturday\, May 3 \nSOLD OUT 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.  Barn Quilt Painting* (Greenhouse Auditorium) \n9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.    Plant Sale Fundraiser (Gatehouse Lawn) \n9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.   Daro Coffee Co. + Mini Bronuts Food Truck (Main Parking Lot); Greenhouse Café open \n11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.  Beer tasting at the Greenhouse Café with Riggs Beer Company \n11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.   Spring Market (Mansion) (Pre-register for workshops from Mack Glass and Berries & Flour. Other workshops/demos are walk-up\, learn more here.) \n11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.   Pastamania Food Truck (Main Parking Lot) \n11:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m.   Bar (Mansion) \n5:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.    Burrito King Food Truck (Mansion Courtyard) \n6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.   Live Music by Bossy Novas (Library Terrace; enter through Mansion); Limited seating\, consider bringing your own chair \nSOLD OUT 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.   Watercolor Bluebells* (Mansion Carriage House) \nSunday\, May 4 \nSOLD OUT 9:00 a.m.-10:30 a.m.    Blooming Brunch* (Mansion) \n9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.     Greenhouse Café open \nSOLD OUT 10:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.  Stretch ‘n Sip Yoga* (Meadow) \n10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.   Plant Sale Fundraiser (Gatehouse Lawn) \nSOLD OUT 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.   Granny Squares: Beginning Crochet* (The Studio) \n10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.   Four American Grill Food Truck (Main Parking Lot) \n*Requires separate registration. Space is limited. \nIf you need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Olivia Bunting at owarren@illinois.edu. \nConsider making a weekend out of it and stay overnight with our Weekend Wind Down. View discounted rooms ($110/night + tax) here and book online or by calling 217-333-3287. Find out more about our weekend Wind Down series here. \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. \nFind the complete Summer Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-bluebell-festival/
CATEGORIES:Gardening,Special Events,The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/BLUEBELLS-GATEHOUSE_1459-scaled-iHQX8j.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250502T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250502T200000
DTSTAMP:20251208T161851Z
CREATED:20250829T153127Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T161851Z
UID:10000163-1746205200-1746216000@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Plant Sale Fundraiser
DESCRIPTION:Get ready for gardening season at our annual Plant Sale Fundraiser on May 2-4 on the Gatehouse Lawn. (Friday\, May 2\, 5-8 p.m.; Saturday\, May 3\, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday\, May 4\, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.) \nPurchase your annuals\, herbs\, veggies\, perennials\, natives\, arranged hanging baskets\, Allerton Bluebells (limited supply!) and more. (Cash or check preferred; credit accepted.) Piatt County Master Gardeners will be available to answer gardening and plant questions. \n100% of the profits made from the Plant Sale will go directly towards maintaining the Park and public programs. Get your quality plants to spruce up your home\, garden\, or as a gift while also supporting a local business! \nPre-order your plants using our Online Plant Sale (before April 26 at 5 p.m.) and they will be sorted and ready for you to pick-up during Plant Sale hours! Learn more here. \nKids can bring their own pot to our Kids’ Potting Corner during Plant Sale hours\, purchase a plant\, and use our potting soil to pot it up with volunteers to assist with proper planting techniques! \nThis is no ordinary Plant Sale – it’s part of our Bluebell Festival\, which includes a Spring Market (Saturday)\, food\, drinks\, workshops\, live music and more! Find details here. \nNo registration is required. \nIf you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Micah Putman at putman@illinois.edu.  \nConsider making a weekend out of it and stay overnight with our Weekend Wind Down. View discounted rooms ($110/night + tax) here and book online or by calling 217-333-3287. Find out more about our weekend Wind Down series here. \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. \nFind the complete Summer Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-plant-sale-fundraiser/
CATEGORIES:Gardening,The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/plant-sale_78941-1-MdTXtw.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250502T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250504T110000
DTSTAMP:20260818T165930Z
CREATED:20250829T153300Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T165930Z
UID:10000177-1746198000-1746356400@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:Weekend Wind Down — May 2-4
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 May 2-4 Weekend Wind Down\, which coincides with our annual Bluebell Festival!\nAll Weekend Wind Downs feature a discounted rate of $110/night (+tax)\, and include two drink tokens per room\, per night.\nThere will be plenty to keep you busy during this festive Spring weekend – find details and registration links for the Bluebell Festival here.\nView guestrooms and make your reservation here or by calling 217-333-3287.\nNOTE: Find hours and menu for the Greenhouse Café here. You are also welcome to pack a cooler and bring your own food\, 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-may-2-4/
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:20250427T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250427T150000
DTSTAMP:20251208T161835Z
CREATED:20250829T152841Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T161835Z
UID:10000143-1745758800-1745766000@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:(SOLD OUT) Springtime Afternoon Tea
DESCRIPTION:Dress up in your garden party finest and join us for a Springtime Afternoon Tea on Sunday\, April 27 from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Mansion. Guests will enjoy sipping a variety of tea\, as well as a glass of champagne (21+) or sparkling grape juice at their table while indulging delicious treats\, both sweet and savory. \nA bar will be available. \nAfternoon tea is a British food tradition of sitting down for an afternoon of tea and light food items. When it became fashionable in the early 19th century\, it helped fill the long gap between lunch and dinner\, the latter of which could be served as late as 8 p.m. \n$50/person ($35/person 10 & under). Register here by April 14. All sales are final. \nIf you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Christina Calcagno at clc@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.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/sold-out-springtime-afternoon-tea/
CATEGORIES:Food & Drink,Special Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/tea_9087-1200x750-150-res2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250426T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250426T210000
DTSTAMP:20260818T165940Z
CREATED:20250829T152505Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T165940Z
UID:10000135-1745694000-1745701200@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: José Gobbo Trio featuring Mitch Towne
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an evening of jazz at a concert by the José Gobbo Trio featuring Grammy-nominated keyboardist Mitch Towne on Saturday\, April 26 from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Music Barn.\nGobbo\, a Brazilian-born guitarist and past Allerton artist-in-residence\, has used Illinois as his home base since 2014 and has traveled extensively with his trio and other combos. He won the popular vote at the Chicago Luminarts Jazz Competition in 2018\, has coordinated two Brazilian Tours\, and in 2020 performed on 52 consecutive weekly live streams as part of The House Trio.\nOrganist Mitch Towne earned a Grammy nomination in 2016 as part of a recording of “Push” for the album “Velvet Portraits” by Terrace Martin. Towne is known for his ability to move seamlessly between diverse styles that has made him a sought-after musician playing with J.R. Robinson\, Buddy Miles\, Aloe Black\, Tom Scott\, Ryan Kisor\, Matt Wilson and Eric Gales. An album with his trio SRT (with Andrew Synowiec and Robinson) was released in 2023.\n$25/person\, $15/person for students (college included). Register here by April 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 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-jose-gobbo-trio-featuring-mitch-towne/
CATEGORIES:Concerts,The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Music-Barn-inside.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250419T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250419T160000
DTSTAMP:20260818T165942Z
CREATED:20251208T161958Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T165942Z
UID:10000893-1745071200-1745078400@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Beehive Observation
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner (all ages)\nGet a first-hand look at how honey bees manage hive activity at Beehive Observation on April 19* and 27\, May 11 and 25\, June 8 and 22\, July 6 and 20 and Aug. 3\, 17 and 31 from 1 to 3 p.m. in The Studio and outside at the beehives. (Each class will cover the same material).\nInstructor Maggie Wachter will provide an overview of seasonal influences\, followed by a peek inside the hives to observe honeybees at work. Traditional and Flow Hives will also be discussed.\n$100/person for the series or $20/person/class. Register here three days prior to each class. All sales are final.\nStudents should wear loose-fitting long sleeves and pants\, close-toed shoes and bring a protective bee veil and unscented rubber gloves.\n*The April 19 session will be from 2 to 4 p.m.\nRegistration links:\n— April 19\n— April 27\n— May 11\n— May 25\n— June 8\n— June 22\n— July 6\n— July 20\n— Aug. 3\n— Aug. 17\n— Aug. 31\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\nWhen Maggie Wachter began her social work degree at the University of Illinois in 2008\, she had no idea that she would become a beekeeper. As for honey\, she kept a single jar in the back of her kitchen cabinet for recipes. Today she is a master beekeeper who never eats sugar.\nMaggie received her first hive as a gift in 2008. By 2010\, she was enrolled in the Master Beekeeper course at the University of Florida. From there\, things happened quickly to turn her life around. In 2012\, she started teaching beekeeping for Parkland Community Education and today she is a beekeeping teacher\, honey judge\, mead maker and master beekeeper.\nShe has also participated in honeybee research at the University of Illinois and the USDA.\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-beehive-observation-4/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/HIVE-OBSERVATION-THIS-ONE-scaled-dwByVK.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250419T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250419T110000
DTSTAMP:20260818T165943Z
CREATED:20251208T162431Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T165943Z
UID:10000896-1745056800-1745060400@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Third Saturday Garden Tours
DESCRIPTION:Allerton Park has 14 formal gardens\, created by Robert Allerton between 1899 and 1946. Join us for one of our Third Saturday Garden Tours (April through October*) and experience the beauty of each garden while learning the history behind its creation.\n*This year’s tour dates are April 19\, May 17\, June 21\, July 19\, Aug. 16\, Sept. 20 and Oct. 18.\nGarden tours start at 10 a.m. at the Greenhouse Patio and last between 45 and 60 minutes.\n$5/person (5 and under are free and do not require a ticket). Register here. All sales are final.\nIf you will need disability-related accommodations to participate\, please email Sarah Putman 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 Spring Session schedule here. Find the complete Summer Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-third-saturday-garden-tours-2/
CATEGORIES:Gardening,The Farms,Tours/Hikes
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/SATURDAY-GARDEN-TOURS-scaled-7WTDvg.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250419T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250419T120000
DTSTAMP:20260818T165941Z
CREATED:20250829T153908Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T165941Z
UID:10000206-1745049600-1745064000@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:(SOLD OUT) The Farms: Barn Quilt Painting (April)
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nNo barn? No problem! Join the barn quilt movement by creating your own painted quilt block to use on the inside or outside of your home at Barn Quilt Painting on Saturday\, April 19 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Studio.\nStudents will begin the workshop with one of two options on a pre-primed board with a design already drafted. Students will tape and paint at their own pace\, choosing from a wide variety of colors.\nInstructor Jane Cade will also share a history of barn quilts\, techniques\, tips\, and discuss how to properly seal your finished piece after the paint has dried for 48 hours. Leave with a 20×20″ wooden ‘quilt block’ to keep for yourself or share your talents and give someone a handmade gift.\n$90/person. Register here by April 12. 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\nJane Cade is a retired teacher from Clinton Junior High School. She has been painting barn quilts for eight years and sells her work online and at craft festivals. She teaches classes at Parkland Community College and will be teaching classes at her workshop beginning next year.\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-barn-quilt-painting-april/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Barn-Quilt-April.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250417T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250417T203000
DTSTAMP:20260818T165953Z
CREATED:20250829T152506Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T165953Z
UID:10000136-1744916400-1744921800@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Painting the Four Seasons (An Artist-in-Residence Outreach Event)
DESCRIPTION:Hear about the artistic process of artist-in-residence Patrick Neal and view some of his work at Painting the Four Seasons on Thursday\, April 17 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Mansion.\nJoin us for a presentation from this New York-based painter\, whose oil and watercolor landscape paintings are centered around the four seasons\, 12 months\, elements of earth\, air\, fire and water\, and night and day. They take into consideration his explorations of parks in New York City\, travels in update New York and past residencies including time spent in Monteverde\, Costa Rica.\nNeal’s talk will include a question-and-answer period\, as well as a show-and-tell presentation of new pieces he will complete while at Allerton.\nA cash bar will be available.\nNeal’s residency is thanks to the generosity of art lover and University of Illinois alum Len Lewicki.\n$5/person. Register here by April 16. 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.\nFind the complete Summer Session schedule here.
URL:https://allerton.illinois.edu/event/the-farms-painting-the-four-seasons-an-artist-in-residence-outreach-event/
CATEGORIES:Art,The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/east-river-triptych-scaled-CI23fo.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250417T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250417T170000
DTSTAMP:20260818T165951Z
CREATED:20250829T152505Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T165951Z
UID:10000134-1744898400-1744909200@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Knitting 101 (April)
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nWhether you want to learn to knit or just need a refresher\, enroll in Knitting 101: Knitting for Beginners on Thursdays\, April 17 and 24 from 2 to 5 p.m. in The Studio.\nLed by fiber artist Billie Theide\, participants will learn the basics of knitting\, including needle and yarn selection. Students will learn how to cast on\, basic stitches\, how to read work\, fix mistakes\, cast off and make fringe and pom poms. No previous experience is necessary.\n$80/person* (Ages 13+; 13-17-year-olds must be accompanied by an adult\, who does not need to register.) Register here by April 14. All sales are final.\n*Students should bring one of these two supply options (and are advised to purchase them as soon as possible\, since availability can change):\nOPTION 1:\n— 2 skeins of Lion Brand Re-Spun Thick & Quick yarn. This is classified as a Super Bulky 6 yarn made of 100% recycled plastic. There are 223 yards per skein; the two skeins must be of the same dye lot. It is hand washable; lay flat to dry. Avoid purchasing a dark colorway.\n— 1 pair of Clover Takumi 9″ Bamboo Knitting Needles\, US 13 single pointed straights.\nOPTION 2:\n— 3 skeins of Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick Yarn. This is classified as Super Bulky 6 yarn made of 80% acrylic and 20% wool. There are 106 yards per skein; the three skeins must be of the same dye lot. It is machine washable. Choose a solid colored yarn and avoid purchasing a dark colorway.\n— 1 pair of Clover Takumi 9″ Bamboo Knitting Needles\, US 13 single pointed straights.\nAdditional Supplies Required:\n— pair of sharp scissors\n— laptop\, iPad\, or smartphone\n— pencil\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 was a 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\, 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-knitting-101-april/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/knitting-101.jpeg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250417T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250417T160000
DTSTAMP:20260818T165954Z
CREATED:20250829T154353Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T165954Z
UID:10000227-1744894800-1744905600@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Knitting 201: Mittens
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Knitting experience required; must be proficient knitting garter stitch\nPut your knitting experience to use at Knitting 201: Mittens on Thursdays\, April 17 and 24 from 1 to 4 p.m. in The Studio.\nIn this two-week course\, instructor Billie Theide will help students further their knitting skills by expanding on the Knitting 101 course taught in the fall.\nThose taking part will gauge\, cast on in the round using those mysterious double-pointed knitting needles\, work with stitch markers\, knit rib stitch\, increase\, decrease and slip stitches\, create a gusset\, read knitting patterns\, repair mistakes and cast off.\n$90/person*. Register here by April 14. All sales are final.\n*Students must bring:\n— 1 set of 7-inch long bamboo #5 (3.75mm) Clover brand double pointed knitting needles. There are five needles in a set.\n— 1 set of 7-inch long bamboo #7 (4.5mm) Clover brand double pointed knitting needles. There are five needles in a set.\n— 1 pair of sharp scissors\, laptop\, iPad or smartphone\, pencil\nAlong with one of the following yarn options:\n— 1 Lion Brand Wool Ease Worsted Yarn in solid or heather. This is classified as Worsted Weight 4 yarn made of 80 percent acrylic and 20 percent wool. There are 197 yards per skein. It is machine washable. Avoid purchasing a dark colorway;\nOR\n— 3 Essential Wool Superwash Merino Wool Yarn by K+C. This is classified as Worsted Weight 4 yarn made of 100 percent Merino wool. There are 84 yards per skein; the three skeins must be the same dye lot. It is machine washable. Avoid purchasing a dark colorway.\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/the-farms-knitting-201-mittens/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/KNITTING-201-THIS-ONE.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250416T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250416T200000
DTSTAMP:20260818T165955Z
CREATED:20250829T154753Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T165955Z
UID:10000238-1744822800-1744833600@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Indigo Dyeing with the Environment in Mind
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner (all ages)\nUse plant-based materials in an environmentally-friendly process at Indigo Dyeing with the Environment in Mind on Wednesday\, April 16 from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Mansion Carriage House.\nIn this workshop\, instructor Jenny Knavel will familiarize you with a creative\, multicultural practice that utilizes prominently plant-based materials. Students will prepare an organic\, fermentation dye vat utilizing indigo powder\, an extract prepared from the plant Indigofera tinctoria.\nThe indigo vat-making method is safe for (supervised) children to use. Shibori\, a Japanese\, manual\, resist dyeing technique will be discussed. Utilizing basic shibori-inspired techniques\, students will be able to create unique patterns on their scarves.\n$85/person (Those under 16 years of age must be accompanied by a registered adult). Register here by April 14. 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\nJenny Knavel received her MFA from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1997. She is a professor of art at Western Illinois University in Macomb\, Illinois\, where she teaches primarily design and digital photography classes. In addition to teaching\, she is an active artist. Her work has been juried into numerous regional and national and international juried exhibitions.\nIn 2021\, her artwork was selected to be on the cover of the SAQA Journal (Studio Art Quilt Associates)\, 2021\, Volume 31\, No. 2. Additionally\, she had work included in the Second Biennial of Natural Dye exhibition\, China Silk Museum\, Hangzhou\, China.\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-indigo-dyeing-with-the-environment-in-mind/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/INDIGO-scaled-LnONaZ.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250416T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250416T193000
DTSTAMP:20260818T165955Z
CREATED:20250829T153155Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T165955Z
UID:10000167-1744822800-1744831800@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Intro to Mosaic Art
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nLearn a unique art form at Intro to Mosaic Art on Wednesday\, April 16 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. in The Mansion Library\nKari Keller will teach students the basics of mosaic art\, from selecting tesserae to assembly and grouting. All will take home a unique\, hand-decorated flower pot at the end of the workshop.\n$90/person. Register here by April 14. 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 instructor\nKari Keller has been a Champaign/Urbana resident since 2008\, originally hailing from the tiny community of St. Anne. Illinois. She has had a passion for art since she could hold a crayon and loves to experiment with many different styles\, rarely sticking to one theme for long.\nKeller has dabbled in cartoons\, acrylic pouring\, zentangles\, patterns\, logo design\, pottery painting and other art forms. Her influences include Alphonse Mucha\, HR Geiger and the art of Northwest coastal Native Americans. She also has a thriving side business as a face painter.\nKari is happiest when immersed in a new project and can’t imagine life without 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-intro-to-mosaic-art/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Mosaic-Art.jpeg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20250415T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20250415T200000
DTSTAMP:20260818T170014Z
CREATED:20250829T154556Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T170014Z
UID:10000236-1744736400-1744747200@allerton.illinois.edu
SUMMARY:The Farms: Needlefelt Bumblebee
DESCRIPTION:Experience Level: Beginner\nLearn the art of needlefelting at Needlefelt Bumblebee on Tuesday\, April 15 from 5 to 8 p.m. in The Studio.\nInstructor Stephanie Block will teach students how to make an a needlefelt bumblebee to honor the efforts of this very important pollinator. Participants will work through the step-by-step process and leave with a completed needlefelt bumblebee.\n$65/person. Register here by April 11. 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-bumblebee/
CATEGORIES:The Farms
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://allerton.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/needlefelt2.jpg
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