Coffee and Conversation
Thursday, Nov. 14, 9:30 a.m., Nineteenth Century Charitable Association
Join Chuck Stone of Braver Angels for a timely discussion on reducing polarization in political conversations. This program will delve into how we can approach conversations about people on the opposite side of the political spectrum with respect and without stereotyping or contempt. Learn ways to intervene constructively when conversations drift toward hostility. Invite friends and family to join this open, public event, free of charge. 178 Forest Ave., Oak Park
Jazz Prayer: Courage to Love the “Other”
Friday, Nov. 15, Doors Open 7:10 p.m., Good Shepherd Lutheran Church
End the week with an uplifting Jazz Prayer experience. Join us for live jazz by professional musicians, along with inspiring readings and prayers exploring the theme “Courage to Love the ‘Other.’” Together, we will reflect on bridging divides, fostering unity, and strengthening community. Refreshments are served at 7:10 p.m., with the service following at 7:30. Children are welcome, and the evening concludes by 8:30. Cannot attend in person? Join our livestream on our website or on Facebook. 611 Randolph St., Oak Park
Coding Fun For Kids
Saturday, Nov. 16, 10-11 a.m., Oak Park Public Library
Dive into the world of coding in a bilingual (English and Spanish) setting with Codifica + Code. This engaging session for kids in grades 3-5 includes fun brain breaks and introduces coding basics, cybersecurity, AI, and more. Register at oppl.org/calendar. 834 Lake St., Oak Park
Terry Sullivan Jazz Quartet in Concert – The Best Is Yet To Come: Music Of Cy Coleman
Saturday, November 16, 7:30-9:15 p.m., Grace Episcopal Church
Join Forest Park resident and jazz vocalist Terry Sullivan, along with Chicago’s top jazz musicians—pianist Tom Muellner, bassist Scott Mason, and drummer Jon Deitemyer—for a tribute to Broadway composer Cy Coleman. Known for hits like “Witchcraft” and the score for Sweet Charity, Coleman’s music continues to shine. Tickets: $25 per person, available at www.ticketsource.us/terrysullivanjazz or cash at the door. For more information: 708-488-1701 (phone only; no text). 924 Lake St., Oak Park
The Real Elf Holiday Experience
Saturday, Nov. 16, 12-4 p.m., Art Studio 928
Join us for a festive afternoon with ornament decorating, elf-themed face painting, DIY holiday cards, and a holiday gift shop. Enjoy a performance by Tommy Holl as “The Real Elf,” spreading joy and laughter. Free for children 12 and under with a paying adult. Donations welcome to support youth art programs. 451 South Blvd., Oak Park
Heritage Chorale 40th Anniversary Fall Concert
Saturday, Nov. 16, 7:30 p.m., Grace Lutheran Church
Heritage Chorale is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a fall concert. The program features “Norb: Life as an Art Form,” a commissioned piece by Emmy Award-winner Alex Wurman that honors the artistic journey of Heritage Chorale founder Norbert Teclaw. The concert also includes John Leavitt’s “Missa Festiva,” Paul Carey’s “The Whole World Is Glad of the Wind” (dedicated to pianist Tehra Hiolski), and selections by Leonard Bernstein, Eleanor Daley, and Franz Schubert. Tickets available online at heritagechorale.com or at the door. 7300 W. Division St., River Forest
‘The Drowsy Chaperone’
Saturday, Nov. 16, 7:30 p.m., Percy Julian Middle School Auditorium
Join CAST for this Tony Award-winning musical farce. When a theater fan plays his favorite cast album, the characters come to life. Tickets: $8 for students and seniors, $12 for adults. Available at castatjulian.org or at the door. 416 S. Ridgeland, Oak Park
Sunday Funday at Friendly Community
Sunday, Nov. 17, 12 p.m., Friendly Community
Join in on Sunday Funday, where there’s something for everyone: enjoy Sports & Brews in the Tap, Games & Crafts in the Coffee Shop, and Family Yoga in the Community Room. Mary Yoga will lead mindful movement sessions focused on social-emotional learning and nervous system regulation, perfect for all ages. Afterward, make a themed craft or try out Friendly’s board games during Open Play. Entry is free, yoga available for an additional fee. 6731 Roosevelt Road., Oak Park.
Monday Enrichment
Monday, Nov. 18, 1:15 p.m., Nineteenth Century Charitable Association
Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jonathan Eig presents an exploration of Martin Luther King Jr. as depicted in his biography King: A Life. Hailed as the “definitive” biography by the New York Times, this National Book Award-nominated work provides a profound look into King’s life and legacy. King: A Life also received the 2024 Barbara and David Zalaznick Book Prize from the New York Historical Society. Join us for this thought-provoking talk. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. 178 Forest Ave., Oak Park
Running Through History
Tuesday, Nov. 19, 7-8:30 p.m.,
Oak Park River Forest Museum
As the running season comes to a close, join the Historical Society of Oak Park-River Forest for a special program on the history of running in the community. This panel discussion will feature stories from local runners about how the sport has impacted their lives, along with a small exhibit of local running artifacts, many donated by longtime runner and coach Paul Oppenheim. Regular admission rates apply ($5 residents, $7 nonresidents, $3 students, free for members). Visit oprfmuseum.org for more information. 129 Lake St., Oak Park