Events Calendar

Return to Macomb, IL, to Celebrate the Annual WIU Homecoming

Saturday October 24th:
- Spencer Student Recreation Center - open 6 a.m. - 8 p.m. ($7 day pass)

$5 per lesson or $15 bundle 

Join us for a guided, 4-part book discussion of Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer. Robin Kimmerer is a mother, scientist, decorated professor, and enrolled member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. Her book explores reciprocal relationships between humans and the land. Robin weaves storytelling and environmental knowledge throughout this poetic read. We will discuss lessons from the book as well as expand on scientific concepts such as prairies. There will be assigned reading sections for each meeting. You are invited to attend all or just a few lessons.

​Register and pay below:

Connect with the educators shaping tomorrow's workforce at the Area Educator Expo on October 30, from 11 am – 12:30 pm at Burlington Community High School in the high school gym. Hosted in partnership with the Des Moines County Educator Conference, this event gives your business the opportunity to connect with approximately 575 local educators, showcase your brand, and highlight career opportunities within your organization.

You're invited to our next Lunch ala Art at the Fort Madison Area Arts Association!
Enjoy a creative midday break surrounded by art, conversation, and community. This monthly event offers an inspiring presentation or featured artist alongside the option to enjoy a delicious lunch in the gallery.

Lunch is optional—but the experience is priceless!

Lunch is included with registration, but purchasing a lunch is not required to attend the artist's gallery talk

Mahler's Symphony No. 6 is one of the most monumental works in the orchestral canon — presented here in a unique way, as four distinct musical journeys under one magnificent umbrella. We are also pleased to feature a talented young artist from our regional competition as part of this extraordinary evening.
Mahler - Symphony No. 6 in A MinorMarilyn Minford McCoid Young Artist Winner - TBA

The University of Illinois Extension Master Naturalists invite community members, gardeners, and native habitat enthusiasts to the Native Seed Share on October 31, 2026, at 11:30 AM. This welcoming, hands‑on event offers participants the chance to exchange native seeds, learn practical techniques, and connect with others who care about restoring Illinois’ natural landscapes.

Locally collected seeds from a variety of prairie and woodland habitats will be available, and attendees are encouraged to explore, ask questions, and gather inspiration for their own native plantings. Expert Master Naturalists will be on site to share seed‑collecting tips, planting techniques, and guidance on choosing species that support pollinators and local ecosystems

Participants are invited to bring their collected native seeds to share, but participation does not require bringing seeds — everyone is welcome to join, learn, and take home native seeds to start or expand their landscape. Participants are encouraged to bring a sack lunch to enjoy while talking with other seed enthusiasts. Registration is required at go.illinois.edu/SeedShare. We will send the address and directions to registrants before the event.

Mahler's Symphony No. 6 is one of the most monumental works in the orchestral canon — presented here in a unique way, as four distinct musical journeys under one magnificent umbrella. We are also pleased to feature a talented young artist from our regional competition as part of this extraordinary evening.
Mahler - Symphony No. 6 in A MinorMarilyn Minford McCoid Young Artist Winner - TBA

Mahler's Symphony No. 6 is one of the most monumental works in the orchestral canon — presented here in a unique way, as four distinct musical journeys under one magnificent umbrella. We are also pleased to feature a talented young artist from our regional competition as part of this extraordinary evening.
Mahler - Symphony No. 6 in A MinorMarilyn Minford McCoid Young Artist Winner - TBA

OPS is proud to offer the R.A.D. Women's Program - a comprehensive 12-hour, four-day self-defense course designed to build real-world skills and confidence. Two sessions are available to sign up for Fall 2026!

Session 1: Monday, Aug. 24, Wednesday, Aug. 26, Monday, Aug. 31, and Wednesday, Sept. 2.
Session 2: Monday, Nov. 2, Wednesday, Nov. 4, Monday, Nov. 9, and Wednesday, Nov. 11.

All classes will be held from 5-8 p.m. at the University Union-Capitol Room.
If interested, contact OPS at (309) 298-1949.

$5 per lesson or $15 bundle 

Join us for a guided, 4-part book discussion of Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teachings of Plants by Robin Wall Kimmerer. Robin Kimmerer is a mother, scientist, decorated professor, and enrolled member of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. Her book explores reciprocal relationships between humans and the land. Robin weaves storytelling and environmental knowledge throughout this poetic read. We will discuss lessons from the book as well as expand on scientific concepts such as prairies. There will be assigned reading sections for each meeting. You are invited to attend all or just a few lessons.

​Register and pay below: