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Welcome to Aurora Buzz! Your Guide for Things to Do in Aurora IL

Welcome to Aurora IL's ultimate guide to things to do! Whether you're a local resident or just visiting, Aurora IL has a wealth of activities and attractions to offer. From outdoor adventures and cultural experiences to shopping, dining, and entertainment, this website is your one-stop-shop for discovering the best things to do in Aurora IL. We've handpicked the most popular and unique experiences to bring you an extensive list of activities to suit every interest, age group, and budget. Whether you're looking to have a family day out, a romantic getaway, or an exciting solo adventure, you'll find it all right here. Get ready to discover Aurora IL like never before, and make your next trip to this amazing city unforgettable!

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Today's Events & Things to Do | Aurora IL Region

Welcome to Aurora IL's one-stop-shop for today's events! This website is your go-to source for finding the latest and greatest happenings in Aurora IL. Whether you're looking for a fun family activity, a night out with friends, or a unique cultural experience, you'll find it all right here. We've handpicked a variety of events to suit every interest and budget, so you can easily plan your day and make the most of your time in Aurora IL. From festivals and concerts to exhibitions and workshops, there's always something exciting happening in this vibrant city. So check out our calendar of events and get ready to experience Aurora IL like never before!

Full Events Calendar

Today's Lunch, Dinner, & Drink Specials | Aurora IL Region

Welcome to Aurora IL's guide to today's lunch, dinner, and drink specials! If you're looking for the best food and drinks in town, you've come to the right place. Here, you'll find a comprehensive list of the latest specials and promotions offered by Aurora IL's top restaurants and bars. Whether you're in the mood for a delicious lunch, a romantic dinner, or a night out with friends, you'll find the perfect meal or drink to suit your taste and budget. From classic comfort food to gourmet cuisine, and from refreshing cocktails to local brews, Aurora IL has something for everyone. So check out our list of specials and get ready to indulge in the best that Aurora IL has to offer!

Altiro Latin Fusion

Altiro Latin Fusion

Happy Hour 3-5pm

Happy Hour 3-5pm

Always Available

Hours Today: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

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Altiro Latin Fusion

Altiro Latin Fusion

Late Night Happy Hour

Late Night Happy Hour

Always Available

Hours Today: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

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Miller's Ale House

Miller's Ale House

ALL DAY DEALS

ALL DAY DEALS

Always Available

Hours Today: 6:00 PM - 6:00 PM

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Aura Holistic & Metaphysical Wellness

Aura Holistic & Metaphysical Wellness

Aura Holistic

Aura Holistic

Always Available

Hours Today: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM

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Arthouse Aurora

Arthouse Aurora

Taco Tuesday

Taco Tuesday

Always Available

Hours Today: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

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Chelsy's Toys

Chelsy's Toys

$10 off Chelsy's Website

$10 off Chelsy's Website

Always Available

Hours Today: 24 Hours

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Black Door Pub

Black Door Pub

Wednesday Specials!

Wednesday Specials!

Every Wednesday

Hours Today: 4:00 PM - 1:00 AM

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Altiro Latin Fusion

Altiro Latin Fusion

Pour Wednesdays

Pour Wednesdays

Every Wednesday

Hours Today: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

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Miller's Ale House

Miller's Ale House

Wednesday Special

Wednesday Special

Every Wednesday

Hours Today: 6:00 PM - 6:00 PM

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the PIAZZA - Aurora

the PIAZZA - Aurora

Wednesday Special

Wednesday Special

Every Wednesday

Hours Today: 11:00 AM - 12:00 AM

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Kathryn's Place

Kathryn's Place

$10 Acai Bowls

$10 Acai Bowls

Every Wednesday

Hours Today: 6:00 PM - 6:00 PM

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Aurora Buzz Logo

Aurora Buzz

Missing Special

Send Us Your Lunch/Dinner/Drink Special

Don't see your favorite special? Please send us an email with the details and we'll add it to the website ASAP!

All Things Food

Deals, Sales, & Shopping | Aurora IL Region

Welcome to Aurora IL's ultimate shopping guide! We're your one-stop-shop for the latest deals, sales, and shopping experiences in Aurora IL. Whether you're looking for a unique gift, a stylish outfit, or just a great deal, you'll find it all right here. From trendy fashion and home goods to electronics and toys, Aurora IL has something for every shopper. So check out our list of deals and get ready to hit the shops in Aurora IL!

All Shopping Deals & Sales

Local Businesses & Cool Places | Aurora IL Region

Welcome to Aurora IL's Random Adventure Generator! Every time you refresh the page, you'll be presented with a new set of four randomly selected destinations, each offering its own unique experience. Whether you're a local resident or just visiting, these random draws will inspire you to explore Aurora IL in new and exciting ways. From outdoor adventures and cultural experiences to shopping, dining, and entertainment, there's always something new to discover. So join us on this journey and get ready to explore Aurora IL like never before!

Blac Xcellence Clothing Brand

Blac Xcellence Clothing Brand

Blac Xcellence Clothing Brand

Today: 6:00 PM - 6:00 PM

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Downtown Geneva

Downtown Geneva

Downtown Geneva

Today: 6:00 PM - 6:00 PM

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Kendall County Fair Grounds

Kendall County Fair Grounds

Kendall County Fair Grounds

Today: 6:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Enjoy live music, truck and tractor pulls, a western speed show, livestock competitions, and more. All events are free with admission! Don’t miss the biggest event of the year!

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Yetee Station

Yetee Station

Yetee Station

Today: 6:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Yetee Station is the rootin'-st tootin'-st admission based arcade this west of Chicago. $15 gets you in the door, where you can play arcade, pinball, and rhythm games all conveniently set to FREE PLAY, no quarters needed! Your admission is good for the entire day, re-entry is allowed and encouraged!

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Current Poll & Positive Aurora IL News

Our goal is to shed light on the Aurora IL's rich history, vibrant culture, and bright future. From local events and attractions to restaurant reviews and positive movements, this website has got you covered. Take part in our polls and have your voice heard, and stay informed with our articles written by us. Join us in celebrating everything that makes Aurora IL the incredible place that it is.

What's your favorite way to experience football season in Aurora?

What's your favorite way to experience football season in Aurora?

It’s that time of year. Crisp air, tailgates, and touchdowns. Whether you’re cheering for your hometown high school, bleeding navy and orange for Da Bears, or playing in a fantasy football league, What does football mean to YOU in Aurora.

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Alice’s Corner: Aurora’s Hidden Gem for Authentic Bolivian Flavor

Alice’s Corner: Aurora’s Hidden Gem for Authentic Bolivian Flavor

Aurora, IL — Right in downtown Aurora at 37 W New York Street, a family-owned restaurant is bringing the rich, bold tastes of Bolivia to the heart of our city. Alice’s Corner Bolivian Cuisine isn’t just another spot to grab lunch—it’s a place where flavor, community, and culture meet.What Makes Alice’s Corner SpecialFamily & Authenticity: Alice’s Corner is locally owned and operated. Their Bolivian family roots shine through each dish, made from scratch with high-quality ingredients.Wide, Vibrant Menu: From empanadas and tamales, to steak sandwiches, yuca con queso, stuffed plantains, and quinoa salad, the menu offers both comfort and adventure. And don’t skip the desserts—flan and alfajores get rave reviews.Welcoming Atmosphere: Diners say the ambiance is cozy and inviting, it’s like walking into someone’s home with warm service, bilingual staff, and genuine friendliness.Why Alice’s Corner is Impactful for AuroraAlice’s Corner strengthens the cultural fabric of Aurora. Here’s how:Fills a Unique Culinary Niche: Bolivian food is rare in Illinois, especially authentically made homeland-style. Alice’s brings South American flavors that many locals haven’t had access to before.Supports Local Economy: As a small family-owned business, it contributes to downtown foot traffic, supports local jobs, and keeps money circulating locally.Community Building: For many customers, whether Latino/Hispanic or not—eating here is about more than food: it’s about connection, culture, and welcoming diversity in Aurora. Also, their online presence is strong: great reviews on Yelp, TripAdvisor, Google, and social media.Top Menu Highlights & What Locals LoveEmpanadas & Arepas with cheese or chicken—crispy, flavorful, and satisfying.Steak Sandwich / Steak Empanada — many mention these as stars.Passionfruit Lemonade / Agua de Maracuyá — refreshing & perfect side drink.Desserts like flan and alfajores—subtle, sweet, and loved by many.How to Experience Alice’s CornerVisit them in downtown Aurora: 37 W New York StreetHours: Open Monday–Saturday 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, closed Sundays.Can order online via their website; deals like free dessert or salad for online orders over certain amounts (check current promos).Final Thoughts: Why Aurora Should Celebrate Alice’s CornerAlice’s Corner embodies what a great local restaurant should be, it’s authentic, community-minded, and full of flavor. For Aurora residents, it’s a chance to explore new tastes, support family-run business, and build cultural diversity. If you haven’t been yet, this is your invite. Your taste buds and community will thank you.Want more? Check out menus, reviews, and photos here:Website: alicescorner.com TripAdvisor & Yelp for guest feedback.

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LUMENAURA Lights Up Aurora: 3 Days of Music, Flavor & Community Vibes — October 10–12

LUMENAURA Lights Up Aurora: 3 Days of Music, Flavor & Community Vibes — October 10–12

Get ready to feel the energy, Aurora! LUMENAURA is back and brighter than ever!From October 10 to 26, downtown Aurora will glow with interactive art, immersive light displays, and community-powered celebration.But the real buzz begins the weekend of October 10–12, when the festival launches its new IBEW Locals 461 & 701 Main Stage at Benton & River Streets and trust me, it’s going to be epic.This isn’t just another weekend. It’s a celebration of who we are as a city bold, creative, and united under the lights.The expanded Main Stage area means more room to dance, more food trucks, more beer vendors, and yes, even more community fun.Here’s what’s lined up for opening weekend:🔥 Friday, October 10 – Soul & Retro NightMotown Nation brings the smooth, timeless sounds of classic soul.Then, party like it’s 1989 with Sixteen Candles, Chicago’s favorite ‘80s tribute band.🎉 Saturday, October 11 – Hispanic Heritage CelebrationKick off the night with the powerful rhythms of Sin Anestesia (Spanish Rock).Then experience a vibrant tribute to a music icon with Selena The Show — a must-see for fans of Tejano and Latin pop.🌈 Sunday, October 12 – Pop Icons & Rock LegendsCalling all Swifties: Fearless – A Tribute to Taylor Swift will have you singing your heart out.Close out the weekend with Hairbangers Ball, delivering an over-the-top ‘80s rock experience that’s pure fun.LUMENAURA is more than a music festival - it’s a multi-sensory celebration of light, sound, and art, unique to Aurora’s identity as the original City of Lights.From October 10–26, downtown streets, alleys, and buildings come alive with:Projection mappingInteractive light art installationsLive performancesFamily-friendly activitiesAnd new this year: community-led pop-up displays!It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that’s free, inclusive, and 100% Aurora-made.Aurora is showing off our city's culinary chops too! Expect:Rotating food trucks and vendors from Aurora and neighboring communitiesCraft beer and beverage tents featuring local brewersSweet treats, snacks, and global flavors to keep you energized all weekendDon’t forget to explore local businesses, many of which will be hosting LUMENAURA specials and extended hours.LUMENAURA is designed for all ages and abilities. The festival grounds are:Walkable and ADA accessibleFree to attend — no tickets needed!Designed with sensory-friendly hours and zones for those who need a calmer environmentVisit LUMENAURA.com for full schedules, artist lineups, and event maps.Aurora residents know: this city is special. From our diverse communities and rich history to our growing arts scene and thriving downtown LUMENAURA is a celebration of it all.Whether you're a lifelong resident or new to town, this is your moment to connect, create memories, and show off what makes Aurora shine.

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Aurora’s Scariest Tradition Returns: Basement of the Dead Is Back for 2025!

Aurora’s Scariest Tradition Returns: Basement of the Dead Is Back for 2025!

If you’ve lived in Aurora for more than five minutes, you already know the name Basement of the Dead. It’s not just a haunted house, it’s an experience, a local legend, and a must-do every Halloween season.This fall, the haunt is back, bigger, darker, and scarier than ever.Tucked beneath New York Street in the heart of downtown, Basement of the Dead turns an old, industrial basement into one of the creepiest attractions in the Midwest. Think pitch-black hallways, freakish animatronics, twisted soundscapes, and actors so good you’ll forget they’re not real. (Until you scream. Then it’s real.)The haunt kicks off September 19 and runs through November 8, 2025. Here’s what Aurora locals should know:Locals Nights: Aurora residents get discounted tickets on select weekdays! (Keep an eye on their site or social pages for promo codes.)Off-Season Haunts: Miss the Halloween window? They’ve been known to host bonus haunts — like “Rotten Tails Revenge” around Easter or a creepy Valentine’s Day date night. Yes, seriously.New Scares: Every year, Basement updates scenes, characters, and effects. 2025 brings a new maze section known as The Veil, promising “zero light, zero sound, and zero mercy.”Before you even get inside, street performers, stilt walkers, and DJ beats are waiting to get you hyped (and creeped out). Once you’re in, it’s a relentless mix of:Claustrophobic tunnelsScreaming animatronicsFog, strobe lights, and loud joltsSome of the best makeup and costuming in ChicagolandPro Tip: Not for kids under 13 or anyone with a weak heart. You've been warned.Check basementofthedead.com for the full calendar and to snag your tickets.Local Love“This place isn’t just a haunted house, it’s a rite of passage for anyone in Aurora.” — Marcus J., lifelong East Side resident“I’ve been every year since 2017. They STILL get me. That basement is pure nightmare fuel.” — Carla T., AU studentWhether you’re a haunted house junkie or just looking for something to spice up spooky season, Basement of the Dead is a Halloween essential. And lucky for us? It’s right in our backyard.

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Latest Aurora Buzz Videos

Whether you're a local resident or just visiting, our videos will inspire you to explore Aurora IL like never before. From outdoor adventures and scenic drives to shopping and dining experiences, we've got it all covered. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the latest videos about Aurora IL. Get ready to experience the city in a whole new way!

Blac Xcellence

Limited. Local. Legendary.We linked up with Eddie Larry of @blac_xcellence630, a streetwear brand born in Oswego and now shipping worldwide.Each custom drop lasts 30 days max (but most sell out way faster).From bold prints to meaning-packed designs, these are statements pieces.He even fired up the press and printed a few on the spot.Tap in now, because when the next drop hits… it won’t last long.📍Support the brand📦 Shop the drop🎥 Watch the full Buzz video to see it in action.

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Aurora Yoga Center

🧘‍♀️ Headstands. Core strength. Calm minds.We dropped in on an inversion class at Aurora Yoga Center, and let’s just say—it turned our whole perspective around.From beginners to seasoned yogis (yes, even grandmas doing full-on handstands!), this cozy, alignment-based studio in Aurora is where balance, strength, and community meet.August SpecialDrop-in classes are just $20, and for the rest of the August it’s Bring a Friend Free and flow together.Tag a friend who needs a reset.Or better yet—bring them with you.#AuroraYogaCenter #AuroraIL #IyengarYoga #YogaDeals #AuroraBuzz #WellnessInAurora #BOGOYoga #YogaInversions #StrengthAtAnyAge

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Blank Slate Events

Blank Slate Events in Yorkville transforms a 104-year-old building into a modern, flexible venue for weddings, parties, and community gatherings. With a built-in stage, DJ booth, bar options, and a spacious private patio, they make hosting effortless and stylish. Owned by Earl and Stef Holmes, the space was designed to bring people together in an inclusive, welcoming environment.

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Dapper Brews

Suited vibes. Smooth pours. Serious coffee.Welcome to Dapper Brews in Aurora—a hidden gem where style meets espresso and every detail feels intentional.Whether you’re pulling up for a cold brew or posting up with your laptop, this space is calm, cool, and crafted—just like their drinks.Step inside, meet the team, and see why this spot is called Dapper for a reason.#DapperBrews #AuroraIL #CoffeeWithStyle #HiddenGemAurora #AuroraBuzz #BuzzVideoDrop #CafeCulture

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