Events:

Special Events

Upcoming Events and Programs
For reservations or more information on any of the programs listed below, please contact Sara Buttita at 630-510-4956 or email sbuttita@wheatonparks.org.

Folk Art Exhibit: Now Open

Tour three floors of the museum and view the stunning collection of folk art from across the Prairie state. From coverlets and decoys to weathervanes and whirligigs, discover the tradition of folk art made and used in the 19th and early 20th centuries in Illinois.

Branching Out: Connecting Children with Their Past

Join us for a family workshop where we will “branch out” and engage youth in genealogy. This workshop will teach the basics of genealogy research to youth grades 4th through high school. Youth will learn how to complete basic charts and how to begin genealogical research. Parents, guardians, and grandparents are encouraged to attend. The workshop will be led by Jennifer Holik, professional genealogist and author of numerous genealogy books including the series Branching Out.

Details
Ages: 8 & up |Date: 6/1 | Time: 1-2pm | Fee: $0 | Register Now >

Fun with Folk Art Summer Camp

Do you like exploring new and different kinds of art? This special Folk Art camp is for you as we learn about the history of Folk Art in Illinois. From painting and quilting, to carving and sculpture, each day focuses on a different theme. See how everyday people created unique and wonderful works of art using recycled and creative materials.

Details
Ages: 6-9 | Date: 6/17-6/21 | Day: M-F | Time: 9am-3pm | Fee: $210 | Register Now >

Children & Family Workshop: Scrimshaw Carving

Scrimshaw, or bone carving, was a form of Folk Art that developed near the coastal areas. While Scrimshaw is not a new technique, Americans added their own flair to the historic art form. Learn how to carve your own Scrimshaw art out of soap, while finding out more about this fascinating art form. Lecture 1-2:30pm; workshop 2:30-3:20pm.

Details
Ages: 5 & up | Date: 6/22 | Day: Sa | Time: 1-3:30pm | Fee: $0 | Register Now >

Curious George to Visit the Museum!

Everyone's favorite monkey, Curious George, will be making a special appearance at the museum on June 29 from 1:30-3:30 pm. Take pictures with him and make a Curious George craft. Have a chance to purchase one of George's favorite reads, Curious George Takes the Train or Curious George Visits the Library. All book proceeds benefit the DuPage County Historical Museum.

Event is free, donations appreciated.

Details
Ages: All |Date: 6/29 | Time: 1:30-3:30pm | Fee: $0

Children & Family Workshop: Make a Cross Stitch Sampler

Early Americans learned how to sew out of necessity; they needed to sew clothes, blankets, and other household items. Girls started to sew “samplers” to practice their stitching at a young age. Join us to create your own sampler.

Hands On History Camp

Explore local history through fun, games and field trips. This camp mixes hands-on activities, trips to other historic sites, walking tours of some famous DuPage County landmarks and behind-the-scenes fun at the museum. Kids play pioneer games, explore what life was like for the early settlers and create their own exhibit!

Mark Twain's Music Box

Enjoy an evening of historic music as the History Singers perform Mark Twain’s favorite songs. Registration is requested.

Children & Family Workshop: Paint a Folk Art Portrait

Local resident Sheldon Peck (1797-1868) became one of the most famous itinerant portrait artists of the 19th century. Stop by the Museum to learn how to paint a portrait just like Peck did.

Folk Art Camp

Join us for a learning adventure creating folk art. Kids learn age-old techniques through many exciting projects including leather tooling, quilting, weaving, painting, carving and hold an art show to celebrate their projects.

Trip Under Consideration

DuPage County Historical Museum is tentatively planning a bus trip to Peoria during the week of August 26th. The trip would include a visit to Peoria Riverfront Museum, lunch, and a visit to a historic mansion. If interested, call 630-510-4941 to be placed on a list. Information will be sent as details become available.