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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261201T170000
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CREATED:20260804T172931Z
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UID:20007408-1796144400-1796151600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Holiday Felt Ornaments
DESCRIPTION:Turn felt scraps into festive treasures in this creative holiday workshop. Give colorful wool offcuts a second life while making handmade ornaments you’ll enjoy for years. Create unique decorations your tree\, gift wrapping wreaths or seasonal displays around your home.  \nThis beginner – friendly class introduces simple needle felting techniques in a relaxed  and and welcoming setting. First\, you’ll learn how to shape and layer wool fibers. Then\, you’ll add details and texture to bring each ornament to life. Mix colors\, experiment with designs and create4 decorations that reflect your personal style.  \nAlong the way\, you’ll discover how small felt scraps can become beautiful holiday keepsakes. Whether you prefer classic ornaments or whimsical designs\, you’ll leave with several one-of-a-kind creations. All materials are provided. Just bring your creativity and enjoy a cozy afternoon of festive crafting.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/holiday-felt-ornaments/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Age,Art,Classes
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261202T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261202T180000
DTSTAMP:20260820T121456Z
CREATED:20260820T121206Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260820T121456Z
UID:20007231-1796221800-1796234400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Kids Only Holiday Shop 2026
DESCRIPTION:Special shopping from 2:30-3 pm for kids who need a low sensory experience!\nGive your child a chance to surprise the whole family this season \nA beloved community tradition\, the Kids Only Holiday Shop invites children ages four to ten to shop for loved ones – all on their own! This cherished tradition sparks independence and lets kids feel the joy of giving. \nRegister your child for this event and arrive during your timed entry slot. Shoppers arriving outside of their time slot should expect to wait until a spot opens. Check-in at the Glore Solarium where your child will receive a shopping bag. Cheerful Elves escort each child through the boutique. Along the way\, kids explore booths from local vendors and artisans. \nYour child is able to shop independently\, with the assistance of Elves helping young shoppers manage their money and make thoughtful choices. Finally\, the Wonder Wrappers wrap and label each purchase – so every gift is ready to be placed under the tree. \nSign up today and make holiday memories that last! \n \nImportant Information:\n\nHave your child bring a gift list indicating each person for whom they are to buy and how much to spend on each individual.\nKeep gift lists to eight people max\nA good guideline for budgeting is between $5-15 per person you are buying for. Please be sure to send your child with enough money for the gifts on their list.\nShoppers should bring a ziplock bag with cash only in small bills for payment\nMost items are priced between $5-$15\n2:30-3 pm is a special shopping time for kids with sensory needs only!\n3-6 pm are regular shopping hours\nPlease register and choose a 15-minute entry window\n\nInterested in being a vendor for this event? Please contact Ann Wildman at ann@nullgortoncenter.org. Space is limited and vendors must be approved. \nPlease note: While your little ones shop\, parents and caregivers should wait in the lower level Card Room\, which will be well-marked. Please do not leave this area – we rely on you being here so we can reunite you with your shopper!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/kids-only-holiday-shop-2026/
LOCATION:Gorton Center – Stuart Community Room
CATEGORIES:Community,Events,Family & Kids
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261202T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261202T170000
DTSTAMP:20260818T182931Z
CREATED:20260818T182931Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260818T182931Z
UID:20007474-1796225400-1796230800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:After School Art Club with Lezlie
DESCRIPTION:Do you have a budding artist in the family? Give their creativity room to grow in this engaging after-school art class designed specifically for students in Grades 1–4! \nEach class is thoughtfully structured to balance artistic freedom with meaningful learning. We begin with a free-draw session\, allowing students time to warm up\, express themselves\, and get their creative energy flowing. From there\, we dive into the world of art history by introducing an “Artist of the Day”—a renowned or influential figure whose work provides the inspiration for that day’s project. \nStudents will explore various artistic movements\, mediums\, and styles from around the world\, helping them gain a broader understanding of art and its cultural significance. With guidance and encouragement\, they’ll create their own artwork inspired by the featured artist\, putting their personal spin on classic techniques while developing new skills and confidence. \nThe class wraps up with group clean-up\, an age-appropriate art discussion that encourages observation and expression\, and a fun “draw-a-long” activity to reinforce what they’ve learned in a playful and supportive way. \nMore than just an art class\, this is a space where young artists can explore\, reflect\, and connect with the wider world through creativity. It’s a perfect opportunity for self-expression\, experimentation\, and cultivating a lifelong appreciation for the arts and global perspectives.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/after-school-art-club-with-lezlie-december-2/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Classes,Youth
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261202T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261202T173000
DTSTAMP:20260824T164101Z
CREATED:20260824T164101Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260824T164101Z
UID:20007499-1796227200-1796232600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Teen Draw & Paint with Joalida Smit
DESCRIPTION:THEMES: HOLIDAY MAGIC\nCome hang out in a space where creativity comes alive. Artist and educator Joalida Smit invites teens to join her ongoing art class at the Gorton Center. This class is all about exploring\, experimenting\, and finding your own artistic voice. From the start\, the studio feels welcoming\, inspiring\, and full of possibility. \nFirst\, students ages 11 to 17 get to try out a wide mix of materials. They might begin with drawing or painting\, and then move on to mixed media. As they experiment\, they gain confidence. Little by little\, they start developing a style that feels uniquely their own. \nOn top of that\, Joalida’s teaching style makes this class stand out. Instead of rigid\, step-by-step lessons\, her approach is flexible and student-focused. She meets each young artist right where they are. Maybe your teen sketches all the time. Maybe they’ve never touched a paintbrush before. Either way\, Joalida gives encouragement and guidance to help them grow. \nHands-On Experience\nNext\, comes hands-on practice. Students work with graphite\, charcoal\, acrylics\, watercolor\, ink – you name it. They mix materials\, test new techniques\, and see what happens. Because of this\, every class feels fresh and exciting. \nAnd here’s the best part: the goal isn’t to finish identical projects. Instead\, the focus is on exploration\, creativity\, and storytelling. Students learn how to express themselves\, share their ideas\, and bring imagination to life. As a result\, they walk away with more than just artwork. They leave with stronger skills\, bigger confidence\, and a deeper connection to their creativity. \nFinally\, this class gives teens a safe\, supportive space to take risks\, try new things\, and grow as artists. Step by step\, they discover the joy of creating something that’s truly their own. \nSo\, why not join Joalida in the studio? It’s a place where individuality is celebrated\, creativity flows\, and every teen has a chance to shine. \nAll materials are provided\, so students can fully immerse themselves in the process without the need to bring supplies. Ages: 11 – 17 \nSkill Level: Intermediate to advanced – Prior art experience and a sincere interest in art are required. \nNote: This is an art development class\, not a recreational after-school club. Students are expected to take their art practice seriously and to respect the shared studio space. Teens who cannot adhere to the expectations of the class may be asked to leave. \nJoalida Smit is a Clinical Psychologist and Neuropsychologist who lived and worked in London (UK) and Cape Town (SA) for the past 20 years. She pivoted to full time artist during COVID and now runs an art studio at The Gorton Center working on large scale canvases. Currently she is exploring innovative ways to incorporate art in the psychology work of personal transformation.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/teen-draw-paint-with-joalida-smit-december-2/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Classes,Youth
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DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261203T161500
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261203T173000
DTSTAMP:20260817T154038Z
CREATED:20260807T183701Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260817T154038Z
UID:20007438-1796314500-1796319000@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Everything Can Be Art with Vee Gunn
DESCRIPTION:Each week\, children discover a world of mixed-media materials. They’ll work with upcycled clothing and fabrics\, pre-loved crockery\, beads\, buttons\, ribbons\, and more. Then\, they’ll transform these unexpected materials into artworks and keepsakes they’re proud of. \nTo begin\, every session includes a friendly\, guided lesson. That way\, no one ever feels stuck. After that\, there’s plenty of room to experiment\, make choices\, and follow their imagination. There’s no single “right” way to create – and that’s the whole point. \nMost importantly\, our club is relaxed and encouraging. Mess is welcome\, and every idea is worth exploring. Along the way\, children build real confidence. They learn not only how to make things\, but also how to trust their own creativity. \nAs a result\, they begin to see the world a little differently. Suddenly\, an everyday object can be full of possibility. Something old or forgotten can become something beautiful and new. \nIt’s creative\, hands-on\, and a little bit magical. At the same time\, it introduces big ideas about imagination\, resourcefulness\, and caring for our planet. By giving old things new life\, children discover just how much can be created from what we already have. \nEach week\, your child will leave with something they made themselves. Even better\, they’ll leave with a growing belief that they are an artist. \nNo experience needed. No pressure to be “good.” Just bring curiosity – we’ll supply the rest. \nAges 7 – 13
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/everything-can-be-art-with-vee-gunn-december/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Art,Classes,Youth
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261203T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261203T180000
DTSTAMP:20260722T154834Z
CREATED:20260722T154834Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260722T154834Z
UID:20007383-1796317200-1796320800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Learn To Make Cannoli
DESCRIPTION:Learn to Make Cannoli from Scratch\nStep into the kitchen and learn how to make delicious\, homemade cannoli! \nIn this fun and interactive class\, you’ll discover the secrets behind creating perfectly crisp shells and luscious\, creamy ricotta filling. Guided by Tony Volpentesta\, you’ll roll dough\, fry shells to golden perfection\, and master classic and creative flavor variations. \nTony “Cannoli” Volpentesta learned the art of dessert-making in the heart of his Italian grandmother’s kitchen\, where flour dusted the air and tradition was the secret ingredient in every bite. Driven by a lifelong passion and a relentless pursuit of perfection\, Tony has dedicated himself to crafting the perfect cannoli shell – each one a golden\, crispy vessel for his luscious\, creamy fillings. \nAt Tony Cannoli\, he combines old-world techniques with modern creativity. The result? A fun variety of cannoli-inspired treats that go beyond the classic. Try the bite-sized Cannoli Bites. Scoop into his signature Cannoli Chips ‘n Dip. Or celebrate with a rich\, decadent Cannoli Cake. Each one is a playful twist on the timeless Italian dessert. \nLocated in the heart of downtown Mundelein\, Tony’s dessert shop is a must-visit for anyone craving a sweet escape. Whether you’re a lifelong cannoli lover or just discovering them for the first time\, there’s something for everyone. \nCome hungry and ready to roll – sweet satisfaction guaranteed! \nAges: 7 and up – because it’s never too early (or too late) to fall in love with cannoli!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/learn-to-make-cannoli-december-3/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Cooking
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261204T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261204T200000
DTSTAMP:20260812T182211Z
CREATED:20260812T181926Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260812T182211Z
UID:20007448-1796410800-1796414400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Palette & Pours: Paint Your Pet
DESCRIPTION:Settle in for Palette & Pours – a relaxed\, adults-only painting class where creativity and connection come easy. In this coastal-inspired session\, we’ll paint a lighthouse scene\, capturing the glow\, color and calm of the shoreline. \nThis isn’t your typical art class. It’s a chance to unwind\, sip\, and enjoy a creative night out. As you paint\, you’ll ease into the rhythm of the brush\, letting go of the day and enjoying the process as much as the finished piece. \nWhether you’re new to painting or have some experience\, you’ll feel right at home. Local artists Sandie Bacon and Lezlie Lenz guide you step by step\, offering tips and encouragement while leaving room for your personal style. \nBy the end of the evening\, you’ll head home with your own lighthouse painting – a peaceful reminder of a night well spent. \n \nOf course\, no Palette & Pours night would be complete without a glass in hand. All painting materials are included\, along with complimentary wine to enjoy while you work. Prefer something else? Bring your favorite beverage and sip as you create. \nSo grab a friend\, bring a date\, or come solo and make new connections. Either way\, you’ll leave with more than just a painting – you’ll walk away with memories\, laughter\, and maybe even a brand-new hobby. \n*All wine will be included. Guests are also welcome to bring their own if they would like!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/palette-pours-paint-your-pet-december/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261205T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261205T130000
DTSTAMP:20260624T182628Z
CREATED:20260624T182628Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260624T182628Z
UID:20007324-1796457600-1796475600@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Babysitting and Child Safety
DESCRIPTION:Prepare for babysitting success with the Child and Babysitting Safety (CABS) program from MEDIC First Aid—an engaging and informative course designed specifically for teenagers and young adults who want to build confidence in caring for children. \nWhether you’re looking to start a babysitting business or simply want to be a more responsible sibling\, this course covers everything you need to know to babysit safely\, responsibly\, and professionally. From how to get started and communicate with parents\, to caring for infants and young children\, this class teaches critical skills in a fun and relatable format using a magazine-style student guide and vlogger-inspired videos. \nParticipants will learn important topics including: \n\nStarting and marketing a babysitting business\n\n\nUnderstanding the expectations of parents and caregivers\n\n\nBasic child development and age-appropriate play\n\n\nFeeding\, diapering\, and bedtime routines\n\n\nSafety and emergency preparedness\n\n\nBasic first aid and how to respond to common injuries and emergencies\n\nHands-on training and practice are central to this course. Through realistic scenarios and interactive learning\, students will gain the knowledge and experience needed to handle babysitting situations with calmness and confidence. To successfully complete the class and earn a certificate\, students must demonstrate competency in all required skills without assistance. \nThis class offers an excellent opportunity for participants to strengthen their leadership skills and gain practical experience in babysitting. Students will also learn valuable safety techniques and build a strong sense of responsibility. \nAges 12+\nPlease feel free to bring lunch\, a snack\, a water bottle\, and wear comfortable clothes!
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/babysitting-and-child-safety-december-5/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Classes,Wellness,Youth
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261205T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261205T110000
DTSTAMP:20260817T155338Z
CREATED:20260814T175601Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260817T155338Z
UID:20007469-1796461200-1796468400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Holiday Crafting: Centerpiece and Velvet Garland
DESCRIPTION:Festive Holiday Crafting\nGet into the holiday spirit with a fun and creative morning of festive crafting! Make two beautiful handmade decorations to bring warmth and color to your home all season long. \nStart by creating a charming wooden centerpiece for your holiday table. Fill it with fresh seasonal greens and add your own creative touches. The finished centerpiece holds a candle and makes a beautiful addition to your holiday décor. You can also give it as a thoughtful handmade gift. \nNext\, create a luxurious velvet chain garland in rich\, vibrant colors. Choose a style that fits your holiday décor and add a festive touch to your mantel\, staircase\, doorway\, or another favorite space. \nThis workshop offers a relaxed and creative way to celebrate the season. Follow along with easy guidance\, enjoy time with fellow makers\, and have fun bringing your ideas to life. \nNo experience is needed\, and we provide all materials. Just bring your holiday spirit and creativity! Leave with two beautiful decorations you can enjoy throughout the winter. \nLouise is an Irish textile designer with over 30 years of experience in the fabric world. A self-proclaimed textile guru\, she loves creating\, teaching\, and sharing the creative process with others. Always learning and exploring new ideas\, Louise is passionate about inspiring others to discover the joy of textiles and creativity.  \n 
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/holiday-centerpiece-and-velvet-garland/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Art,Classes
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261205T133000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261205T160000
DTSTAMP:20260623T192758Z
CREATED:20260623T192758Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260623T192758Z
UID:20007318-1796477400-1796486400@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:CPR\, AED and Optional First Aid Course
DESCRIPTION:* THIS IS A HYBRID COURSE!  1.5 or 4.5 HOURS ONLINE @ HOME AND 2.5 HOURS IN-PERSON!\nThis blended learning style Basic CPR and AED class with optional First Aid is a must have basic skill everyone should learn. This class will not satisfy a BLS requirement. You will learn how to perform life-saving skills such as rescue breathing\, CPR\, and managing an obstructed airway for all ages. Also\, learn how to use an AED (Automatic External Defibrillator). \nThis course is designed by the Health Safety Institute\, a worldwide leader in CPR\, AED and First Aid emergency care training programs. Students will receive a certification valid for two years\, upon successful completion of the course. Class materials include a digital reference book and digital certification card issued upon successful completion of the in-person skills class. \nONLINE\nThe on-line prerequisite class is self-paced. It is best to use a PC to complete. We will send you the link for the online portion once we reach our registration minimum. If you have not received your learning link by 1 week prior to class\, please contact instructor (Tanya 847-989-7056). CPR and AED only will take approximately 1.5  hour.  CPR\, AED\, and optional First Aid will take up to 4.5 hours. The instructor will send you an email with the class options. A learning link can not be assigned until you choose your option. \nIN-PERSON (At Gorton Center)  \nIn-Person skills class is the same for both options and will take approximately 2.5 hours. Wear comfortable clothing. Most of the practice will take place on the floor. A kneeling pad is provided but students may also want to bring a yoga mat or towel to lie on floor. Please inform instructor prior to class if accommodations are needed to explore options. Students must be able to properly compress the chest of the manikin to successfully complete the class. \nAges 12+ \n*Please reach out to Libby Johnson with any questions! 
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/cpr-aed-and-optional-first-aid-course-december-5/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Adults,Classes,Wellness
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261205T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261205T150000
DTSTAMP:20260820T205254Z
CREATED:20260806T163619Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260820T205254Z
UID:20007418-1796479200-1796482800@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:Sing at Gorton - Holiday Classics with Mr. V
DESCRIPTION:Come sing with us at this all-ages Holiday Classics sing led by Bill Vaananen. This special Sing at Gorton gathering brings people together through songs we know and love. And\, just this month\, we will meet on a Saturday afternoon. \nFirst\, we’ll warm up! Next\, we will sing a selection of familiar holiday favorites.  No experience is necessary\, and there’s no future commitment – just a chance to share music in a welcoming\, low-pressure setting. \nThe event runs about 45–60 minutes\, followed by time to connect. And\, this month\, we are also going to try to offer an optional add-on time to go carol at a community organization following the SING. \nGood to know:\n\nOpen to all ages – bring the whole family\nNo experience or vocal knowledge necessary\nOne-off event with no future commitment\nLed by Bill Vaananen\n\nBill Vaananen is an award-winning music educator and composer who has taught and directed elementary-aged students for over 45 years. Originally from Oklahoma\, “Mr. V.” was general music teacher at Wescott School in Northbrook for 37 years. He has written hundreds of songs and dozens of original theater works that have been performed across Chicago’s northern suburbs. Recipient of the Golden Apple Award\, IEA Human Rights Award\, National-Louis Distinguished Alumni Award for Social Justice\, and Star of Teaching Award for the State of Illinois\, Vaananen continues to perform classes and presentations for children\, weaving his original music into inspiring lessons on Nature\, history\, culture\, and adventure. \nSing at Gorton is a welcoming community sing series that brings people together in a fun\, informal way. Each event is themed around a different style of music\, led by local hosts and open to everyone — no experience or vocal knowledge necessary. These one-off gatherings last about 45–60 minutes and end with refreshments\, making it easy to join in\, connect and sing.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/sing-at-gorton-holiday-classics-with-mr-v/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Community,Events,Live Music
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Chicago:20261205T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Chicago:20261205T211500
DTSTAMP:20260518T200939Z
CREATED:20260518T200813Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260518T200939Z
UID:20007216-1796499000-1796505300@gortoncenter.org
SUMMARY:The Second City's Nut-Cracking Holiday Revue
DESCRIPTION:A fresh take on holiday comedy.\nThe Second City returns to Gorton Center. And they’re bringing their Nut-Cracking Holiday Revue. \nIt’s festive. It’s playful. And it’s full of surprises. \nFirst\, the fun.\nThis lively show blends sketch comedy\, improv\, and music. As a result\, every performance feels a little different. \nYou’ll see quick\, clever scenes. You’ll hear original songs. And you’ll experience the kind of humor that feels both timely and familiar. \nThen\, the twist.\nBecause the holidays aren’t always picture-perfect. \nThey’re joyful. But they’re also busy. And sometimes overwhelming. \nThat’s where The Second City shines. \nThey take everyday holiday moments—family gatherings\, shopping stress\, travel plans—and turn them into something funny. And relatable. \n \nWhat makes it special.\nThe Second City has been a leader in comedy for decades. In fact\, many well-known performers got their start on its stages. \nSo\, you can expect sharp writing. Strong performances. And confident\, quick-thinking performers who know how to connect with an audience. \nA night to enjoy together.\nThis is a great night out with friends. Or a fun date. Or simply a chance to take a break during a busy season. \nSo\, start your evening with dinner nearby. Then\, head to Gorton and settle in. \nLaugh a little. Relax a little. And enjoy something different. \nJoin us.\nThe holidays go by quickly. So take a moment to enjoy them. \nThis show is a chance to do just that—with humor\, energy\, and a fresh perspective. \n\nTickets are on sale now. Plan ahead and reserve your seats.  \nThis show may contain content for mature audiences.
URL:https://gortoncenter.org/event/second-city-nut-cracking/
LOCATION:Gorton Center\, 400 East Illinois Road\, Lake Forest\, IL\, 60045
CATEGORIES:Comedy,Events
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