Aurora

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.

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.

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.

The fall season is creeping in, and you know what that means.. Yorkville’s beloved Scarecrow Walk is back, and it’s shaping up to be the biggest one yet! From September 26 to October 31, 2025, Bicentennial Riverfront Park will transform into a whimsical (and slightly spooky) trail filled with the most creative, quirky, and festive scarecrows you’ve ever seen. And guess what? You can be part of the magic!Whether you’re a DIY dynamo or just in it for the fall fun, the Scarecrow Walk is your chance to shine. All ages and experience levels are welcome to submit their own scarecrow display. From funny to frightening (but family-friendly!), every scarecrow adds to the community spirit that makes this event such a fall favorite.👉 Submit your scarecrow here: https://bit.ly/YPRDscarecrowwalkThis year, the competition is heating up! Each scarecrow will feature a custom sign with a QR code that allows park visitors to vote for their top 3 favorites. It’s interactive, fun, and adds a whole new layer of excitement to your scarecrow-making mission.🗳️ Winners will be announced on the United City of Yorkville Parks and Recreation Department Facebook page, so make sure your entry turns heads!Each participant receives a personalized sign created by the Yorkville Parks and Recreation Department, perfect for showcasing your name, group, or business. Want to rep your brand? You can even include a logo!📅 Dates: September 26 – October 31, 2025📍 Location: Bicentennial Riverfront Park 301 E. Hydraulic St. Yorkville, IL 60560So grab your straw, gather your glue guns, and get your scarecrow on. This is your chance to be part of something unforgettable and a little spooky! Let’s make the 2025 Scarecrow Walk the best one yet. 🍂

Looking for an authentic farm adventure this fall? Step away from the screens, slow down, and make unforgettable memories with your family and friends at Pumpkin Daze at Abbey Farms.This annual event transforms the scenic 40-acre farm into a celebration of all things autumn, packed with outdoor fun for visitors of all ages.Whether you're in search of the perfect pumpkin, eager to test your navigation skills in a corn maze, or simply looking for a peaceful day surrounded by nature, Abbey Farms offers a little something for everyone.Open every Wednesday through Sunday, Pumpkin Daze is a must-visit destination for fall lovers throughout the region.At the heart of Pumpkin Daze is a wide range of attractions designed to get kids and adults active, laughing, and connecting with the outdoors. Here are just a few of the highlights:Corn Maze – Wind your way through this seasonal staple and see who can find the exit fastest.Bouncing Cow Train & Pedal Track – A hit with the little ones and just as fun for the grown-ups.Zip Lines & Rope Maze Challenge – Great for adventure-seekers looking to test their balance and agility.Combine Slide, Tractor Tire Mountain & Megadrop Slide – Unique structures built for climbing, sliding, and exploring.Corn Cannon & Lasso Challenge – Perfect for friendly competitions with a country twist.Jumping Pillow, Tractor Tire Tunnel, and Antique Tractors – Fun meets nostalgia across the farm.Families can also enjoy a classic Tractor/Hay Wagon Ride, try their luck at Water Pump Duck Races, or experience the quirky Hamster Wheel Race. There’s even a Grain Bin Basketball Experience for sports lovers.On weekends and holidays, the Petting Zoo opens its gates, giving kids a chance to interact with friendly farm animals. Animal feed is available for purchase, adding to the hands-on experience. This feature is especially popular, so plan accordingly if it’s a must-see for your group.Beyond the activities, Pumpkin Daze is about more than just entertainment it's about creating cherished moments in a setting that feels miles away from city life. The peaceful landscape and wide-open spaces offer a welcome retreat during the busy fall season.Abbey Farms is located at:2855 Hart Rd., Aurora, IL 60502September 20 – October 30, 2025 Pumpkin Daze runs weekly on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.Whether you’re hunting for pumpkins, challenging your kids to a race, or simply soaking up the crisp autumn air, Abbey Farms is the perfect place to make memories this fall.Don’t miss your chance to experience Pumpkin Daze, your authentic farm adventure awaits.

Aurora and Kane County residents can expect safer, faster emergency responses thanks to a newly signed Illinois law that changes how emergency vehicles move through intersections.The Law: House Bill 2442Governor J.B. Pritzker recently signed House Bill 2442, which allows local and county emergency management agencies to install and operate traffic signal preemption devices. These devices give fire trucks, ambulances, and other emergency vehicles the ability to change or extend traffic lights while responding to emergencies.For residents, this means quicker response times, smoother passage through busy intersections, and most importantly — reduced risks of collisions when seconds matter most.Why It Matters for AuroraAurora, as Illinois’ second-largest city, sees its share of congested intersections and high-traffic roadways. In life-or-death situations, every second counts. By empowering emergency responders with this technology, Kane County officials have addressed what they called an “unacceptable risk” under the old system, where first responders were often left vulnerable to accidents while crossing red lights.With this law, emergency teams can:Improve safety for drivers and pedestrians by reducing confusion at intersections.Cut down response times for fires, accidents, and medical emergencies.Save lives by ensuring faster arrival of critical services.Local Leadership and AdvocacyKane County Emergency Management Director Scott Buziecki helped push for the change, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing responder and public safety. Aurora stands to benefit directly from this legislative win, as it further strengthens the region’s emergency infrastructure.Looking AheadThe law is a technical upgrade; It’s a step toward a smarter, safer Aurora. As these devices are implemented across intersections in the coming months and years, residents can expect a stronger layer of protection whenever emergencies arise.Aurora Buzz will continue to follow developments and share updates on how this new technology is being rolled out in our community.

Struggling with pain, recovering from injury, or simply looking to move better?Pinpoint Physical Therapy in Montgomery, IL specializes in one-on-one, hands-on physical therapy designed to restore mobility, reduce pain, and help you live stronger—without the confusion or unpredictability of traditional clinics.What Makes Pinpoint Physical Therapy Different?Individualized, Patient-Driven Care: Unlike high-volume clinics, Pinpoint prioritizes your goals. You determine how many sessions you need, and costs are transparent and known upfront.Direct Access in Illinois: You don’t need a doctor’s referral to start—just schedule an initial evaluation, and they’ll coordinate with your physician if needed.Affordability & Transparency: For those without insurance or with high deductibles, Pinpoint offers clear pricing and payable packages. They also provide superbills to help you seek reimbursement via insurance networks or HSA/FSA.BCBS PPO acceptedLowers cost for insured patients and simplifies access to careComprehensive Services OfferedPinpoint offers a suite of evidence-based physical therapy and wellness services tailored to each individual:Physical Therapy Evaluation: A deep-dive, one-on-one assessment uncovering the root of your pain or limitation. Includes strength and mobility testing, functional movement screening, and a custom treatment plan featuring manual therapy, cupping, dry needling, electrical stimulation, massage, and kinesiotaping.Physical Therapy Wellness Visits: Ideal for proactive health maintenance—even if you’re not in pain. Includes posture/movement assessments, assisted stretching, guided home exercise plans, and injury-prevention coaching.PT Treatment Sessions: Hands-on interventions such as joint mobilizations, massage, cupping, dry needling, kinesiotaping, and more to restore function and get you moving confidently again.Golf Fitness Assessment: A 30-minute, one-on-one session that evaluates 16 physical characteristics critical for an efficient golf swing (based on Titleist Performance Institute standards). Designed to optimize performance and reduce injury risk through personalized corrective exercises.Run Coach & Online Fitness Training: PT-led, personalized running coaching and fitness programs. Includes in-person assessment, video-guided exercise programs via app, weekly check-ins, two-month reassessments, and free inclusion in the Pinpoint Pacers Run Club for community support.Ergonomic Consultation: Workplace wellness for small businesses. On-site assessments help staff reduce injury risk and improve productivity through simple ergonomic adjustments.Online Personal Training: Structured fitness programs (home or gym) tailored to your goals, led by an experienced PT—whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned athlete. FeatureBenefitOne-on-one carePersonalized, attentive support from goal-setting to recoveryTransparent pricingNo surprises—clear costs, packages, and superbills if neededPreventative & performance focusOptions for wellness, sports performance, and injury preventionDirect Access in IllinoisNo referral needed—schedule first evaluation directlyWide range of modalitiesManual therapy, cupping, dry needling, kinesiotaping, and more

Warehouse 55: A Curated Marketplace for Creators and EntrepreneursWarehouse 55 has become one of the Midwest’s most respected vintage showrooms, known for blending modern, contemporary, and antique furnishings with curated home décor and fashion. Originally launched in Aurora in 2019, the venture was founded by Mark Allen Shouldeen, who saw an opportunity to transform a historic downtown space into a collaborative retail hub.What began with 30 vendors quickly grew to nearly 50 curated dealers, spread across two floors in Aurora and later into a second boutique shop in Chicago. The growth underscored the appetite for thoughtfully selected vintage and modern décor—and the ability of Warehouse 55 to serve as more than just a store. It’s a platform for independent dealers, artisans, and curators to showcase their craft and build viable small businesses.A Move to BataviaIn Fall 2025, Warehouse 55 is relocating from its Aurora flagship to an 8,000-square-foot one-story historic warehouse in downtown Batavia (160 1st Street). This new space brings all vendors together on a single floor—a long-time goal for the team. Their last day in Aurora is October 5, with a grand reopening in Batavia on October 18, complete with Christmas décor and followed by their popular holiday market on October 24.According to manager Mindy Schloss, “For years, we’ve needed all one floor. The building is gorgeous.” The Batavia location not only solves that need, but also offers room for future growth while maintaining Warehouse 55’s signature charm.Impact on Creators and EntrepreneursWarehouse 55 is more than a retail destination—it’s a launchpad for creators. By providing vendor spaces in a highly curated, design-forward environment, it gives dealers access to foot traffic, brand credibility, and a customer base they might not attract on their own. The model allows small businesses and individual curators to:Build profitability without the overhead of a standalone storefront.Test and refine their offerings in a collaborative, supportive setting.Connect with design-savvy customers, including HGTV’s Windy City Rehab host Alison Victoria, who featured Warehouse 55 in multiple episodes.Participate in themed events like holiday markets that generate consistent buzz and sales opportunities.This cooperative approach empowers local entrepreneurs—many of them creatives, pickers, and designers—to turn passion into profit while helping Warehouse 55 remain a premier shopping destination.What They OfferWarehouse 55’s mix is diverse and dynamic, including:Vintage and antique furnitureMid-century and retro collectiblesRepurposed and upcycled home décorArt, clothing, and fashion piecesCarefully selected new home accentsTheir ever-changing inventory keeps the shopping experience fresh and ensures return visits from both locals and destination shoppers across Chicagoland.Looking AheadAs Warehouse 55 plants new roots in Batavia, it’s poised to continue its dual role:A curated retail destination that brings character and charm to downtowns.A business incubator for creatives, proving that artistry, design, and entrepreneurship can thrive together.For those looking to support independent creators—or even become one—Warehouse 55 represents both a marketplace and a movement.Learn more: warehouse55.shop

Get ready, Aurora! The holiday season is about to sparkle a little brighter as Monarch Academy of Dance brings a bold and dazzling twist to a holiday favorite,The Nutcracker: CITY LIGHTS. If you’ve ever dreamed of dancing under the spotlight, this is your chance!Auditions are OPEN TO THE PUBLIC and will be held on Saturday, September 6th at 3:00 PM at Monarch Academy of Dance right here in Aurora.Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just starting out, there’s a role for everyone. From classical ballet soloists to jazz dancers, tumblers, and young dreamers.📍 Audition Location:Monarch Academy of Dance3682 Prairie Lake Ct, Aurora, IL 60504Audition Schedule – Saturday, September 6:3:00–3:30 PM – Ages 3–43:40–4:10 PM – Ages 5–64:20–5:00 PM – Ages 7–95:10–5:50 PM – Ages 10–126:00–7:00 PM – Ages 13+Casting notifications will be sent by September 10th and Full rehearsal schedule to follow.Performance Date: December 21, 2025 at the Batavia Fine Arts Centre.This is more than just a show — it’s a magical experience!Whether you're looking to perform or cheer on friends and family, The Nutcracker: CITY LIGHTS is a modern, vibrant twist on a cherished holiday tradition, and Aurora is proud to host its rising stars.Register now https://app.gostudiopro.com/online/mymonarch

The City of Aurora, in partnership with the Aurora Hispanic Heritage Advisory Board, will host Fiestas Patrias 2025 with a full weekend of events, including a free all-day celebration on Saturday, September 6, and the return of the parade to downtown Aurora on Sunday, September 7—its first since 2019.Saturday Festival at Wilder ParkThe festivities begin on Saturday at Wilder Park (350 N. River Street) from 12:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. This event is free and open to the public. The festival features seven live performances including:12:00–12:45 p.m. – Ballet Folklórico Quetzalcóatl1:00–1:45 p.m. – Dragones Rock3:00–3:45 p.m. – Juan Diego4:00–4:45 p.m. – Sonora Santanera5:00–5:45 p.m. – Banda Portillos6:00–6:40 p.m. – El Grito de Independencia ceremony7:00–7:45 p.m. – Jose Luis Duval e Irma Infante con Mariachi8:00–9:00 p.m. – Los Sementales De Nuevo LeónIn addition to the performances, guests can enjoy some of the area’s finest food vendors and experience the traditional El Grito de Independencia ceremony commemorating Mexican Independence Day.Sunday Parade in Downtown AuroraAfter a six-year pause, the vibrant and much-anticipated Fiestas Patrias Parade makes its return to downtown Aurora on Sunday, September 7, at 11 a.m. The parade kicks off at the intersection of Broadway (IL Route 25) and Benton Street, drawing residents and visitors alike to celebrate Mexican Independence Day and the rich Hispanic culture that flourishes in the city.Following a public nomination process, longtime community member and East Aurora School District Board Member Saúl Olivas has been named the Parade Grand Marshal for 2025.