The Idle Hour, a new cigar lounge, and RILY, a raw bar and live jazz venue, are expected to open later this year.

Cantigny in Wheaton will host a dueling piano performance and Valentine's Day dinners this winter.

Historians will recreate some of Poe’s most famous tales, including “The Cask of Amontillado,” “Annabel Lee,” “The Pit and the Pendulum” and “The Fall of the House of Usher.”

The Alba Quintet features a flute with four string players to perform all “Four Seasons” by Antonio Vivaldi. The concert is Sunday, Jan. 25.

Additional shows at the downtown Aurora theatre include "A Christmas Carol" and "Sunday in the Park with George."

The 31st annual Winterfest is Jan. 28-Feb. 1 in downtown Lake Geneva. It is free to attend.

Bret Michaels will bring his Loud & Amplified 2026 Tour to St. Charles on Friday, Feb. 13.

Aurora's second annual Restaurant Week is Jan. 20 through Feb. 3.

Check out these beer festivals happening in northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin this winter.