Oswego is located on the Fox River in Kendall County, Illinois. Some people may remember Oswego as having a town drag-strip from 1955-1979 that attracted muscle car racers from all over the Midwest. The drag-strip is now closed, but Oswego still races ahead with a boost in population growth and jobs. Oswego has a variety of festivals like Drag Strip Days, Wine on the Fox, Christmas Walk, and others. Oswego is an all-American city, with a lot of potential to give a lasting impression on any visitor. Oswego is a hidden gem in Kendall County. With beautiful parks, a welcoming atmosphere, and family-friendly activities everyone can enjoy what Oswego has to offer.

1. Fox Valley Winery

Fox Valley Winery creates handcrafted, award-winning wines. They’re made in small batches made from a small vineyard of Illinois grapes. Vines were first planted in 2000 by the Faltz Family in a vineyard near Sheridan, Illinois. The Faltz family carefully tends to their grapes and harvest them at the right moment to make the most delicious wines. Fox Valley Winery has a tasting room decorated with artwork from local artists and where visitors can taste dessert wines, dry wines, and sweet wines. Wines can also be purchased online. 

The Tasting Room is open Monday-Thursday from 12 pm-6 pm, Friday and Saturday from 11 am-7 pm, and Sunday from 11 am-5 pm. Tours of the winery are by appointment only. An event room can be rented for a private party. 

Address: 5600 US-34, Oswego, IL 60543

Website: Fox Valley Winery

2. Emerson Creek Pottery and Tearoom

Located inside a 100-year-old house the shop sells more than just pottery. The shop does sell exclusive, hand-crafted pottery pieces, but it also sells handmade candles, artisan spreads and preserves, home decor, fashion accessories, and more. There is also a tearoom that serves a weekly lunch menu made with fresh ingredients. The tearoom takes reservations, and the property can be rented out for special events. The shop is open from 10 am-3 pm. The tearoom is open from 10:45 am-2 pm. An event calendar can be found online.

Address: 5126 Stephens Rd, Oswego, IL 60543

Website: Emerson Creek Pottery and Tearoom

3. Little White School Museum

The Little White School Museum is located in downtown Oswego. It is owned by the Oswegoland Park District. The museum includes a research and records area that is open to anyone interested in Oswego history. The museum has changing exhibits and a calendar of presentations online. Group tours can be arranged by emailing the staff through its website. Research hours are Thursdays 10 am-5 pm, Saturdays 10 am-12 pm, or by appointment. The museum can also be rented for events.

Address: 72 Polk St, Oswego, IL 60543

Website: Little White School Museum

4. Downtown Oswego

Downtown Oswego started a project to boost the downtown area. The project included street improvements, sidewalks, landscaping improvements, and decorative lights and benches. The downtown area has dining, shopping, and historic buildings and homes.

Address: Main Street, Oswego, IL 60543

Website: Downtown Oswego

5. Fox Bend Golf Course

Fox Bend Golf Course is a demanding par 72 golf course with 34 bunkers and water on 11 holes. It was voted a 5-star golf course by Chicagoland Golf Magazine. Fox Bend Golf Course has a pro-shop and restaurant, Pearce’s. Fox Bend has league play for men and women, as well as junior golf programs. Lessons are offered for individuals and groups. Tee times can be booked online and Fox Bend can be reserved for a wedding or banquet. Rates for golf can be found online as well.

Address: 3516 US-34, Oswego, IL 60543

Website: Fox Bend Golf Course

The post Let’s Go: 5 Fun Activities in Oswego, Illinois appeared first on Farmington Lakes Apartments Blog.

Go Outdoors

Places to Roam
In Oswego, the Fox Valley and up and down the river are connected by more than 40 miles of trails that are maintained by the Oswegoland Park District. Mountain bikers should check out Saw Wee Kee Park, where they can outfit themselves at the independent Oswego Cyclery. Ride more leisurely by following the Fox River Trail, which hugs the Fox River for more than 40 miles from Oswego north to Algonquin.

The greatest time to see bald eagles and other native birds breeding along the river is in the months of January through March when the trees are bare. Or you may go fishing with the eagles in the Fox, which has a wide variety of sport fish like bass, walleye, and muskie.

With parking and convenient put-ins at Violet Patch and Saw Wee Kee Parks, bring your boat and kayak or canoe down the Fox River. Start further upstream and arrange to exit at Hudson Crossing Park in Downtown Oswego, where you may cool off with a beverage from the Tap House Grill or Oswego Brewing Company, which offers Detox/Retox yoga every Sunday in the taproom.

Go as a Group.

Run, cycle, or kayak on the paths. then go get a meal.
Playgrounds and open areas to run around in can be found at more than 40 parks. Stay near to the city center and explore the river banks at Hudson Crossing Park, or get wet at the splash pad at Prairie Point where the older kids may also skateboard.

Gloomy days? At Bounce Town or Altitude Trampoline Park, let them bounce off the walls. The Potter's Place team will bring Mexican cuisine and live music to Main Street in the early 2020s, which older children and teenagers will enjoy.

Visit Keller's Farmstand in the late summer or early fall for fresh food, a cornstalk maze, apple picking, and a pumpkin patch. Additionally, mark your calendars for a number of family-friendly occasions occurring in downtown Oswego over the summer, such as Main Street celebrations and Movies in the Park. Most are no cost.

Go with your Friends.

Imaginative excursions for your upcoming girls' night out.
Start the day with a discussion at The Village Grind in the quaint downtown Oswego neighborhood while enjoying hand-crafted coffee, tasty food, and treats.
Shop at the beautiful and trendy Hudson Design House, Stonehouse Market, Aroma Roots, and Velvet Grace for one-of-a-kind discoveries. Or, if you're feeling handy, join one of the make-and-take furniture lessons at A Lady and Her Tools, the pottery and painting programs at Studio 60, or the wood sign workshops at Board & Brush to build it yourself. Or spend the summer browsing a variety of fresh-air farmer's, handcrafted, and vintage markets.

Enjoy a lunchtime Flower Pot Salad at the Emerson Creek Shop & Tea Room, which is open from May to October. Or visit Sarabella for a spa pedicure and a glass of champagne.

Learn more or check out other outdoor activities

The post How to Enjoy the Summer Without Overheating: Fun Things to Do In Oswego appeared first on Farmington Lakes Apartments Blog.

As blankets are unrolled, frisbees fly, and picnic baskets overflow with fruit, potato salad, and sandwiches, the breeze flutters.
In the beer garden, drinks are yanked from iced coolers, and beer flows from kegs. As laughter echoes through parks and children play on playgrounds, you can almost feel the joy on your skin. You can hear the cheers as the Kane County Cougars take the field and the sun sets over the Chicago skyline. Suddenly…

Over the lakes, the night sky explodes with the most vibrant reds, blues, yellows, and greens.
Crowds applaud as sparks fly, fizzle, and whirl, creating a brilliant light show against the moon and stars. As hundreds of people stare in awe, the energy skyrockets and you can feel the buzz.

This is the setting for one of our most enjoyable American holidays and events –

Fourth of July Fireworks Displays Nearby

We at Farmington Lakes want to show you the best fireworks displays near Oswego, Illinois so that you have a fantastic time this Independence Day.

The links are provided below, so spread out your lawn chair and take a seat – or leap for joy – for the best fireworks displays our area has to offer:

1. The Naperville Salute

   The Naperville Salute, just east of us, features food, beer, local bands, and a salute to our beloved veterans. On July 1-4, there will be a pre-show festival at Rotary Hill (440 Aurora Ave.). Frontier Park will light up with fireworks on July 4th (3380 Cedar Glade Drive). First Responders, Active Military, their families, and others will be recognized, and the festival will take place on the Riverwalk and in downtown Naperville. The fireworks on Sunday are free, and tickets for the Salute are $5 Friday and $15 on other days here.

2. Yorkville Fireworks Display
   
   On July 4th, the town of Yorkville is planning a weekend Fourth of July celebration, which will include a parade starting on Game Farm Road and ending on Church Street at the water tower. Beginning at 9 a.m., there will be family activities in Town Square (301 N. Bridge) until 1 p.m. Fireworks begin around 9 p.m. at the intersection of Route 47 and Countryside Parkway.

For an ongoing list of other Fourth of July shows and events in the Chicago area, check out the Chicago Tribune’s article on where to see fireworks here.

Leave us a comment if you have questions or know of other displays in the area!

The post Two of the Best Fourth of July Fireworks Displays Near Farmington Lakes 2022 appeared first on Farmington Lakes Apartments Blog.

Whether she’s your mama, mum, or mommy, most names for mother sound similar no matter which language you’re speaking. This isn’t by chance! One of the easiest sounds to make when we’re born is “ma,” which means the first thing we all want to do is say hello to our moms.

The physical, mental, and emotional connection we share with our mothers before we’re even born is one of the most beautiful bonds we could ever form in life. If you want to remind your mom how much you love and appreciate her, Mother’s Day is the perfect opportunity.

Want to know some creative ways to make your mom feel special? Keep reading to learn about 20 unique Mother’s Day ideas for activities and gifts that she’s sure to love.

Mother’s Day Ideas for Activities

Moms appreciate anything you give them, but if you have the ability to spend time with yours, then you’ll be her best gift. Do you live nearby or plan on visiting your mom for Mother’s Day? If so, treat her to loads of fun with any one of these 10 activities.

1. Treat Her to Breakfast in Bed or Brunch

Lots of kids try to make their moms a nice breakfast in bed on Mother’s Day. If you didn’t get help from an older sibling or parent, you probably wound up serving her burned toast, soggy cereal, or raw pancakes. Even if the food wasn’t good, breakfast in bed was an event she looked forward to each year because the gesture was sweet.

If your cooking skills have improved, you could treat her to a gourmet breakfast in bed. However, if you want to relax and enjoy your time with your mom, a more practical activity would be taking her out for brunch. After you’ve filled your bellies, you can keep the fun going by taking her for a walk in a nearby park or go window shopping.

2. Do Some Scrapbooking

Did your mom always have the camera out when you were a kid? Take your mom on a walk down memory lane by revisiting all of your childhood photos and try scrapbooking together. If she enjoys shopping, you can even take her out to an arts and crafts store to stock up on supplies you like best.

Not only is this a wonderful way to remember all of the special moments you’ve had with your mom, but you can give the finished product to her as a gift. Don’t forget to write sweet captions under each photo to express how much your mom means to you.

3. Pack a Picnic and Enjoy the Great Outdoors

Was your mom a fan of planning family picnics when you were growing up? Is she the type of person who enjoys going outside for some fresh air and exercise? If so, you can make her special day more memorable by planning a delicious picnic in a scenic spot outdoors.

If your mom likes being active, then you should scout around for some local hiking, biking, or walking trails that are suitable for her fitness levels. If you think she’d rather relax and soak up some sunshine, a local park or meadow works great, too. Once you find the perfect spot, your picnic will feel magical.

The good news is you don’t have to worry about preparing an extravagant meal. If you’re not much of a cook, head over to the grocery store and stop by the deli to pick up some sandwiches. Don’t forget to grab some drinks and snacks while you’re there.

4. Explore Your City Like Tourists

Some people can live in the same city for years without ever getting to know their surroundings. When you fall into a comfortable routine, you can forget that your city has lots of fun things to do. One silly activity to do with your mom is to pretend you’re tourists and explore your city as you’ve never been there before.

Be sure to check out travel guides like TripAdvisor or Yelp to learn about the top attractions that draw in other visitors. Map out an itinerary that’ll keep you busy all day. Don’t forget to try a new restaurant during lunchtime, too!

5. Buy Tickets to Her Favorite Event

Moms do everything they can for their children so that usually means they don’t have a lot of time to go out and have fun. Thank your mom for all that she gave you by giving her tickets to her favorite event. This could be a concert, a sporting event, or any other form of entertainment.

Be sure to make a whole day of it! You can grab drinks or have a sit-down meal before or after the event. Since it’s her special day, make sure she feels spoiled. The event is sure to be a treat, but spending quality time with you is the best gift of all.

6. Plan a Wellness Day

Did you know that by the time you turned one, your mom gave up 44 days of sleep to take care of you? Although the first year can be the most challenging, motherhood at any age requires lots of self-sacrifices. To give thanks, you can spend Mother’s Day taking care of your mom with some wellness activities.

In the morning, you could go to a fitness class together like yoga or kickboxing. After you build up an appetite, refuel with some nutritious smoothies and other healthy eats.

Then, you can spend the rest of the day doing anything else that will help recharge your mom. This could mean getting a pedicure, relaxing at the beach, or getting a massage. Ask your mom what will make her feel her best and do it.

7. Host a Cozy Movie Night at Home

Who doesn’t love to curl up on the couch with some good snacks and watch their favorite show or movie? If your mom is laid-back, a movie night could be the perfect Mother’s Day treat. You’ll need to have a nice selection of films she enjoys, good snacks, and cozy blankets for the perfect evening.

Popcorn is an obvious must-have movie snack. Other fun ideas could include setting up all of the fixings to build ice cream sundaes or buying a bunch of classic movie theater candies so you can have an at-home concession stand. Don’t forget to stock up on soda, wine, or any other beverage she drinks while she enjoys herself.

8. Go Shopping at the Farmers’ Market (Then Cook Together!)

Does your mom enjoy the simple things in life? Spend some quality time with her on Mother’s Day by taking her to the farmers’ market. With so many fresh ingredients and other unique products there, you’ll have a blast exploring everything together.

After you’re done, the fun doesn’t have to stop. Head back to the kitchen and try to create a new recipe that combines all of the ingredients you bought. Whether the food turns out good or bad, you’ll share lots of laughs while you get creative and work as a team.

9. Go Bar-Hopping, Bakery-Hopping, or Any Other Fun Hopping

If your mom is free-spirited, then she’ll love going out on the town and sampling the best food or drinks around. You can keep things classic by going bar-hopping or you can use that method and apply it to any other type of attraction. The goal is to spend the day visiting different places that offer some of her favorite things.

Does she have a sweet tooth? Take her on an adventure by stopping at every bakery in town and picking out the most exciting treat there. Once you’ve collected all of your goodies, you can sit down somewhere scenic and enjoy your treasures.

If she’s a coffee lover, you could also hop around local cafés to sample unique creations at each 

location. Just be sure to throw some decaf into the mix so you don’t get too jumpy!

10. Try Something New

Is your mom the adventurous type? If so, she’ll have a blast trying a new activity with you. 

Whether it’s taking a painting class, going kayaking, or skydiving, you only have one rule to follow. The activity that you choose has to be something both of you have never done before.

If you need some help deciding what to do, Groupon is the perfect site to find local activities at a discounted price. You can scroll through the offers together and pick something that sounds exciting to both of you.

The post 10 Fun Ways to Show Mom You Care this Mother’s Day appeared first on Farmington Lakes Apartments Blog.

Halloween House Decorating Contest

Oct 21, 2021

Description

Whether you like tricks or treats, we want to see your best Halloween House Decorating this fall. Register by 10/20 for your house to be included in the contest. Oswegoland Park District staff will visit each home between 6-9pm on 10/21 to evaluate and take pictures of the decor that will be posted on Facebook. The two Hallo-winners will be the Most Spooktacular (as evaluated on by staff) and the People’s Choice (voted for via Facebook until 10/27). Winners will be announced on 10/28 and will receive a yard sign and gift card. Maps to all participating homes will be provided online for families to take a drive to see them in person. This contest is open to residents only. 

SAW WEE KEE FALL TRAIL RUN

The soft path, with its twists and turns, ups and downs, makes for a great natural run whether the weather makes it a muddy mess or a fragrant wildflower-filled dash. Runners are bib-timed and sent in every few minutes Each race features a different course and different pieces of the medal. Attend each of the four runs in the series and complete the 2021 medal! Each run features different seasonal swag. There are no refunds for athletic events.
Register

Contact information 

Event contact  Zack Donati

Email  [email protected]

Phone  630-554-4482

Monster Mash Bash

Oct 30, 2021

OHS – Fieldhouse

Description

There's a frightening amount of things to do at this year's Bash! Crafts, candy games and more wear your Halloween costume, and join the fun at Oswego High School. New this year, pre-register for $5 or pay $8 at the door. Registration is per child. Adults are free. Registration closes Thursday, October 28. 

Date

Oct 30, 2021

Sat 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Oswegoland Barrel Nights

Nov 4, 2021

Description

Barrel Nights is back on the greens of the Fox Bend Golf Course. This autumn's line up features Whiskey and small plates. Savor five unique whiskeys paired with amuse-bouche bites, all that can be enjoyed locally. Enjoy a beautiful night in the outdoor pavilion. Sip something that warms you matched with flavors that will fill you. Reserve your spot today.

Date
Nov 4, 2021

Thu 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM

The post 4 of the Best Fall Events Happening in Oswego appeared first on Farmington Lakes Apartments Blog.

That being said, there is still time to get to the Oswego Country Market!

Farmers Markets like this one have a huge impact. Fresh and local is what people crave, and there’s nothing better than knowing where your food comes from when it comes to shopping in Oswego. The Oswego Country Market features vendors from all over the area, including those selling meats, eggs, cheese, baked goods, honey, fruits, and vegetables. Plus much, much more.

Market Information

The Oswego Country Market runs every Sunday from 9 am to 1 pm and goes through September 26th. With only two markets left, it is a great time to stock up on foods for the fall, fruits and veggies for canning and preserving, meats to freeze for the winter, and more. This open-air market is a great way to shop local, and you can take pride in knowing your money is going directly to the community and local businesses. 

Our vendors include the following and more:

Produce

Plants

Specialty Foods like hot peppers and spices

Meats

Cheese

Eggs

Breads

Pastries and Sweets

Handcrafted items such as essential oils, jewelry, games, headbands, soaps, diffusers, and more

Concessions are also available. Biking or walking to the market is encouraged as parking is limited.

Location: 10 Main Street, Oswego, IL 60543

Contact: 630-554-1010

Come support the Oswego Community and see all the amazing produce and goods that people have to offer! Questions or comments? Let us know below!

The post Shop Local and Buy Fresh Produce at the Oswego Country Market Through September appeared first on Farmington Lakes Apartments Blog.

This annual tradition is a fantastic place to enjoy a fun summer event and get outside in the open air. It’s a four-day community event and is sponsored by people like Groot Industries, Oswego Brewing Co., Ron Westphal Chevrolet, and more.

Over 75,000 visitors come through Prairie Fest every year, with hundreds of volunteers helping this awesome event take place. Events happen throughout Oswego, with the main events happening at PrairieFest Park – 91 Plank Road, Oswego, IL.

The Events

There is a ton of main stage entertainment happening, with live music all weekend. There is also entertainment from acts like the Flippenout Trampoline Show, a Laser Light Show, and main event bands like Uncle Cracker. A full list of the events can be found here.

Carnival

The carnival has fun for everyone with rides, daily tickets, and unlimited wristbands, and special times.

Friday, September 3, 6, – 10 pm

Saturday, September 4,  Noon – 10 pm

Sunday, September 5,  Noon – 10 pm

Monday, September 6, 1 – 6 pm

Unlimited ride wristbands are available for purchase and these times are as follows:

Friday, September 3, 6 – 10 pm  $30

Saturday, September 4, noon – 4 pm  $25, 5-9pm $30

Sunday, September 5, noon – 4 pm $25, 5-9pm $30

Monday, September 6, 2 – 6 pm $25

There are other children’s performers, an expo village with local businesses, pony rides, a petting zoo, and more. Access to all of this is free of charge besides the rides. 

Parade

At 1 pm on Sunday, September 5th, the parade will take place. We are celebrating over 30 years of this wonderful festival, and the parade is always a favorite. It starts at East View Elementary and heads down Jefferson, to Main St., down to Tyler and then over to the 308 Center. 

Provided by Oswegoland Parks District.

For more information, go to https://www.prairiefest.com/

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