At one time, nearly half of the residents of Geneva could claim ancestry from Sweden. While that’s not so much the case these days, the Swedes have left an indelible mark on this community, and it’s on full display during the annual Swedish Days Festival. Now going 72 years strong, this event is the best of traditions new and old. ...

Every spring brings with it the arrival of new life. This miracle of nature comes in shapes big and small, and always right on time. Nature photographer David Olson has spent many years capturing the innocent moments between animals and their tender young, and here he displays some of his favorite aww-worthy scenes. ...

From busy cityscapes to quiet countryside, tidy subdivisions and bedroom communities to major thoroughfares, our region is an amazing patchwork of places, each with its own culture, its own identity and its own fascinating history. Take a tour through six communities that really put the Windy City into perspective. ...

The past few years have enabled Brad Nordlof a fresh chance to explore the wild landscape of the southwestern United States. Here, the Rockford photographer shares some of the most captivating aspects of the Arizona landscape. ...

It was a cold, but not very snowy winter when a Hollywood crew converged on Woodstock to produce what became a cult classic in cinema. Thirty years later, Groundhog Day is far more than a beloved film. It’s the heart of a family-friendly winter festival, the inspiration for a stage play and a chance for Woodstock to repeat its 15 ...

Just because the fields are bare in winter doesn’t mean our local farmers have nothing to do. Step inside any of our region’s top indoors markets and you’ll be tempted by a wide array of fresh produce, meats, eggs, baked goods, and much, much more – all of it offered by local businesses that pride themselves on offering fresh-from-the-farm goodness. ...

Caring for the miniature horses, dogs and other animals of SOUL Harbor Ranch is an act of love for this Barrington nonprofit’s volunteers. But what they really enjoy is the win-win-win for the people who find healing, the animals that receive love and the people who love to share generously with hospital patients, veterans and many others. ...

For 80-plus years, Boy Scouts (and now Girl Scouts) have spent part of their summers at outdoor camps in our area. Today, despite a pandemic, opportunities for such adventures continue. ...

Derek King has spent decades building to this point, first as a player, then as a coach, with many stops along the way. Now, as the Chicago Blackhawks’ newest head coach, he's reveling in his moment. ...

There's a big advantage to the shopper who's well prepared – and even more so this year. So, why not get a head start and support local businesses in the process? Our latest guide has more than 100 ideas to get you started. ...