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5 Things to Do: Frosty on First festival; Shop, Sip & Sparkle in Ottawa and more this weekend!

An aerial view of Washingtown Park all lit up for Christmas on Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2024 downtown Ottawa.

Kick off the holiday season in downtown Ottawa at the Shop, Sip & Sparkle event Nov. 7-8. (An aerial view of Washingtown Park all lit up for Christmas on Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2024 downtown Ottawa). (Scott Anderson)

By 5 Things to Do in Illinois Valley
  1. Frosty on First Winter Festival (La Salle): This winter celebration kicks off at 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7 and continues from 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8 in La Salle. Enjoy family friendly activities, games, bounces houses, music and much more at this beloved holiday event. Click here for a full lineup and schedule of events.
  2. Shop, Sip & Sparkle (Ottawa): Kick off your holiday shopping at this open house event in downtown Ottawa Friday, Nov. 7 and Saturday, Nov. 8. Shop at local businesses and enjoy holiday activities. Click here for more information.
  3. Polka Brunch (Tonica): Boutique campground Camp Ararmoni’s monthly brunch has a Polka theme! The event has several seatings available on Sunday, Nov. 9. Polish food will be served and a cash bar will be available. Click here for more information or to make a reservation.
  4. Oil Painting Workshop (Ottawa): Open Space Gallery in Ottawa will host an oil painting workshop at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9. This event is open to all ages and will be led by artist Marjorie Myers. The cost is $55. Click here to register or for more information.
  5. Up By Noon live music (Princeton): Up by Noon will perform in the Grace Theatre as part of the Festival 56 Sound Stage series at 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8. Tickets are $15. Visit festival56.com for more information.
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