Local Events in Elgin and Kane County this October

World Premiere of ‘The Years Between Us’

The Lodge Performing Arts Center in Elgin becomes the venue for the world premiere of “The Years Between Us,” a play by Liana Sonenclar. Show timings are 8 p.m. on Thursday, October 15 and Friday, October 16, with a matinee at 2 p.m. on Sunday, October 18. The venue can be found at 18 Villa Court, Elgin. Described as a comedy with heart, the play captures the journey of three young individuals transitioning from childhood to adulthood. Sonenclar, originally from New York City, returns to the Chicago area where her theatrical career began at the age of 18. Ticket prices are set at $20 for adults and $15 for students and seniors. Tickets are available at ticketstripe.com/yearsbetweenus.

Two Elgin Church Craft Show Fundraisers

On Saturday, October 17, two churches located at the crossroads of Randall Road and Highland Avenue in Elgin host fundraising events. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., St. Hugh of Lincoln Episcopal Church (located at 36W957 W. Highland Ave.) will hold “Treats & Treasures.” Visitors will find holiday gifts, seasonal decor, handcrafted items, jewelry, vintage collectibles, and baked desserts. From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Journey of Hope United Methodist Church will organize its “Gingerbread Bazaar,” showcasing handcrafted gifts from local artisans. Free gingerbread slices and a light lunch are available to attendees. Visit sthugh.net and johumc.org for further details.

Presentation on Bobcats in Kane County

Creek Bend Nature Center in St. Charles hosts a presentation on bobcats in Illinois by Stefanie Fitzsimons, a biologist with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Scheduled from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, October 17, the event at 37W700 Dean St. will cover bobcat history and their presence in Illinois. Fitzsimons will share insights on how these animals impact regional ecosystems and highlight research centered on Kane County bobcats. Registration can be done by calling 630-444-3190, emailing [email protected], or visiting kaneforest.com/register.

Matt Bishop Memorial Concert and Fundraiser

East Dundee’s River Street Tavern hosts the third annual Matt Bishop Memorial Concert and Fundraiser. The event features performances from 4 to 6 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, October 17, at 102 N. River Street. Celebrating Matt Bishop, who passed away in February 2024, the Wooden Elephant Foundation presents this benefit. Bishop, a music teacher at Dundee Middle School, an R&B bandleader and contributor to local theater and music organizations, is memorialized through this event. Open to all ages, admission is free, but donations are appreciated to fund scholarships for School District 300 students pursuing music degrees. Reservations can be made by calling or texting 630-777-1856.