By Anna Hughes

Nothing’s better than a hot chocolate by the fireplace on a cold winter day, but we’ve rounded up a list of events that certainly come close. For a couples date night, family weekend, or unexpected snow day, check out these local events that are sure to bring warmth and fun to the season.

Burns Field Ice Rink
Village of Hinsdale.org

The Village of Hinsdale Parks and Recreation Department sets up an ice rink at Burns Field Park, located at 320 N. Vine St., for families to enjoy all winter long. The rink will be open in accordance with weather and village safety requirements. Signs at the park and updates via social media will notify interested skaters throughout the season on whether or not the rink is open.

Snowshoeing at
Fullersburg Woods

Snowshoeing at Fullersburg Woods
DuPageForest.org

Explore Fullersburg Woods in a new and unique way: by snowshoe! When there’s snow on the trails, visitors can rent a pair at the Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center until Feb. 22, 2025 (excluding Dec. 25) from Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (rentals end at 2 p.m.). Visit the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County website for more information on snowshoeing and other fun winter activities.

Downers Grove Ice Festival
Photo by 726 Visuals

Downers Grove Ice Festival
Jan. 31 – Feb. 2, 2025
Downers.us

Join the Village of Downers Grove for live ice carving demonstrations on Saturday and Sunday at the Main Street Train Station. A stroll through downtown Downers Grove during this annual event will give residents and visitors a chance to admire the stunning sculptures, stop into local shops, and visit popular restaurants for a delicious, warm meal.

Oak Brook Park District’s “Tackle the Tri”
Feb. 9, 2025, 7:15-11:15 A.M.
OBParks.org

Put your family’s fitness to the test with the Oak Brook Park District’s “Tackle the Tri.” Participants ages 12 and up will compete in three areas: a 2000-meter row, 2.5 miles on an Assault Air Bike, and 1.25 miles walking or running on a treadmill. Participants will be assigned to a group based on age and gender. Visit the park district’s website to sign up.

Westmont Winter Beer Festival
Photo courtesy of Westmont Winter Beer Festival

Westmont Winter Beer Festival
Feb. 15, 2025
WestmontParks.org

Warm up with a cold one at Westmont’s 2025 Winter Beer Festival. Participants will receive 20 four-ounce pours of various craft beer selections. The event will also have heated and lighted tents, bonfires, outdoor seating, and food trucks: all the makings of a brew-tiful day! This event is 21+, and tickets can be purchased online or at the door.

Waitress: the Musical
Feb. 12 – March 30, 2025
ParamountAurora.com

Jenna, a baker and waitress at a local diner, dreams of escaping her small town and unhappy marriage. With the help of her friends, a new love interest, and her passion for baking, Jenna grapples with the news of an unexpected pregnancy – something that puts all her plans to leave on hold. Based on the 2007 movie of the same name, this Tony-nominated musical is one you don’t want to miss. Showtimes vary by date.

No Frills Fun Run
Feb. 23, 2025
NoFrillsFunRun.org

The No Frills Fun Run is an annual charitable run that was started in 2012 by two moms in Elmhurst. Each year, a local family in need is selected to receive 100% of the proceeds from all the funds raised from the event. Participants can run or walk the 5K path (or do it twice for a 10K)! Brave the cold (and maybe the snow) to show your support for neighbors in a time of need.