From Barrels to Birria: Aurora’s Newest Taproom Has It All

It’s not too early to start planning our fall activities and what better way to celebrate the season than by heading out for some classic apple picking?In Northern Illinois, apple season runs from late August through October, with different varieties ripening at different times. Fall in Aurora isn’t complete without crisp mornings, cider donuts, and the satisfying crunch of a freshly picked apple. Whether you're planning a family outing, a cozy date day, or a scenic drive, these orchards near Aurora, Illinois offer some of the best apple-picking experiences in the Midwest.And there’s even better news for local residents: soon, you won’t have to leave Aurora at all!🌳 Big News: Apple Picking Is Coming to Aurora! Abbey Farms – Aurora, ILAbbey Farms has planted a new apple orchard right here in Aurora, and it's expected to offer U-pick apples in the near future! The trees have been maturing since 2021, and while they haven’t officially launched full public apple picking yet, it’s a promising step toward making apple season closer to home than ever.Why this matters:No more long drives to pick fresh applesLocally grown, family-friendly atmosphereAlready home to cider donuts, pumpkin patches, and fall funCheck their website or social media for updates - a local orchard experience is just around the corner!Best Orchards Near Aurora (Until Then!)1. Kuipers Family Farm – Maple Park, ILWith 20+ apple varieties and lots of fall extras (like hayrides and cider house treats), Kuipers is one of the most popular picks for Aurora-area families.2. All Seasons Orchard – Woodstock, ILLarge and lively, All Seasons offers both U-pick and pre-picked apples, plus a huge fall festival with activities galore.3. Royal Oak Farm Orchard – Harvard, ILKnown for their apple tree maze, Royal Oak has over 30 varieties and a charming family-run vibe.4. Jonamac Orchard – Malta, ILThis cozy orchard has U-pick apples, hard cider tastings, and a haunted corn maze - great for a fall date or adult day out.What to Bring for Apple PickingSturdy shoes or bootsReusable bags or baskets (check policies)Water & sun protectionA cooler (for cider, pies, and apples)A camera or phone for fall photo opsAurora’s Fall Future Looks SweetWhile you still need to take a short drive for apple picking this season, the future of fall fun is looking bright for Aurora. With Abbey Farms growing into a full-fledged orchard destination, soon your favorite apples will be just a few miles from your front door.

Hey food lovers and plant-based pals! If you’re looking for a fun, tasty way to celebrate summer, Veggie Fest is back in Lisle, Illinois and it’s bigger and better than ever.Happening August 9-10 at Danada South Park in Lisle IL, this festival is a weekend full of delicious vegan and vegetarian eats, awesome live music, inspiring wellness talks, and fun activities for the whole family.Here’s what makes Veggie Fest so special:Mouthwatering Food: Expect to find over 100 vendors serving up everything from vegan comfort food like loaded nachos and buffalo cauliflower wings, to innovative dairy-free ice creams and fresh-pressed juices. Whether you’re fully plant-based, exploring, or just looking for some healthy options, Veggie Fest delivers.Cooking Demos & Classes: Want to learn how to whip up your own plant-based meals? The festival features cooking demonstrations from top vegan chefs and nutrition experts sharing tips on easy, tasty recipes and healthy eating.Live Entertainment & Music: The stage is buzzing all weekend with live bands, DJs, and cultural performances that add a festive vibe. Bring your dancing shoes!Health & Wellness Workshops: Beyond food, Veggie Fest hosts sessions on mindfulness, yoga, sustainability, and eco-friendly living, helping you embrace a holistic, vibrant lifestyle.Family Fun Zone: Kids get to enjoy face painting, crafts, games, and interactive educational activities that make this a true family-friendly event.Vendors & Market: Explore an amazing selection of local and national vendors selling everything from cruelty-free beauty products and eco-friendly household goods to unique artisan crafts.Community & Cause: Veggie Fest isn’t just about food, it’s about celebrating compassion, sustainability, and making choices that help the planet. It’s a great way to connect with like-minded people passionate about positive change.If you live in Aurora, you’re in for a treat, Lisle is just a quick and easy drive away, making Veggie Fest the perfect summer day trip.Here’s why Aurora folks should pack up and head to Lisle this August:Discover New Flavors: Whether you’re fully plant-based or just looking to add more veggies to your diet, Veggie Fest offers a variety of delicious vegan and vegetarian options that will excite your taste buds.Bring the Whole Family: Kids 12 and under get in free! Plus, there’s plenty of fun activities and games to keep your little ones entertained.Get Inspired: With cooking demos, health talks, and wellness workshops, you’ll leave with fresh ideas to improve your lifestyle and feel great.Meet Great People: Connect with other food lovers and plant-based enthusiasts, it’s a fantastic way to make new friends or enjoy time with your crew.Affordable & Convenient: Tickets are only $10 for adults, free for kids under 12, and there’s free parking on site, making this a budget-friendly, hassle-free outing.So, Aurora friends, if you want to enjoy a weekend of sunshine, flavorful eats, and good vibes, Veggie Fest in Lisle is the place to be this August!

If you’re in Aurora, IL and looking for a fresh new place to satisfy your sweet tooth or cool off with something refreshing, there’s a hidden gem you need to check out, Melt N Dip.Melt N Dip opened its doors in May 2025, this dessert café is the newest treat spot in town, and trust me, it’s one you’ll want to visit.Known for its indulgent desserts and fun, modern vibe, Melt N Dip has been making waves in other cities and now it’s finally here in Aurora. This new location brings all the signature sweets and icy drinks that dessert lovers can’t get enough of: molten chocolate creations, fresh-made waffles, crêpes, brownies, and refreshing smoothies.Whether you're stopping in for an afternoon cool-down or a late-night dessert run, Melt N Dip has something for every kind of craving.Here’s a taste of what you can expect:Chocolate Dips & Drizzles: As the name promises warm, melted Belgian chocolate poured generously over all kinds of goodies.Crêpes & Waffles: Made fresh to order and loaded with your choice of fruits, sauces, and of course, chocolate.Brownie & Cookie Skillets: Served hot in mini skillets, topped with melted chocolate and often a scoop of ice cream.Smoothies: Fresh, fruity, and blended to perfection. Great for cooling off in the summer or pairing with a rich dessert.Customizable Treats: Build your own dessert with your favorite toppings, dips, and mix-ins.Melt N Dip isn’t just another dessert shop it’s a full experience. With a cozy, modern interior and fun dessert presentation, it’s the perfect place to hang out with friends, go on a casual date, or bring the family for a sweet outing.Plus, they’re open late, making it your new go-to for evening dessert cravings or a quick smoothie run.Melt N Dip is still one of Aurora’s best-kept secrets since it just opened in May and not many people know it’s even here. If you're reading this, take it as your sign to swing by and try it for yourself. And if you love it... share it, tag them, and help get the word out!📍 Melt N Dip – Aurora, IL4416 E New York St, Aurora, IL 60504 Open daily, including evenings!Follow them on Instagram or Facebook for updates, specials, and a daily dose of dessert inspo!

Aurora is full of secret spots that locals LOVE, now it’s time for YOU to pick the best hidden gem in town!From cozy lounges to vintage shops and tasty treats, which one gets your vote?Vote for your favorite Aurora secret and cast your vote now!

Nestled on the second floor of Fox Valley Mall, Calla Lily Cosmetics + CL Kids is more than a beauty store—it’s a feel-good destination for skincare lovers of all ages.Founded by beauty industry veteran Tonya, Calla Lily is built on 40+ years of spa wisdom and an unwavering passion for clean, conscious self-care. Every product is handcrafted in small batches, blending botanical ingredients with a touch of joy—think goat milk soaps, blueberry scrubs, tamanu oil serums, and glittery bath bombs your kids will actually be excited to use.And speaking of kids—CL Kids is where the magic really shines. From fizzy bath bombs to foaming unicorn soap, it’s skincare designed to make bath time fun and safe. Perfect for sensitive skin, and even better for busy parents looking for a reliable, local option.What sets them apart? It’s the vibe. The store radiates warmth, playfulness, and the kind of welcoming energy that makes you want to stay and sample everything. Whether you’re picking up a gentle cleanser for yourself or a rainbow scrub for your little one, every purchase supports a woman-owned business rooted right here in Aurora.So next time you’re at the mall, skip the big box and head to Calla Lily Cosmetics + CL Kids near Macy’s. Your skin—and your spirit—will thank you.🛍️ Open daily inside Fox Valley Mall🌐 clkidsstore.com📱 @calla.lily.cosmetic on Instagram and TikTok

In the heart of Downtown Aurora, Leilani Asian Fusion wasn't just a restaurant, it was a celebration of culture, connection, and community. From the moment it opened its doors, Leilani embodied the values of love, loyalty, and legacy, values reflected not just in its menu but in the relationships it built with customers and staff alike.But on a recent day, everything changed.Due to a decision made, Leilani closed abruptly with just a single day’s notice.. leaving dozens of devoted staff without jobs, paychecks, or time to prepare.A GoFundMe campaign titled Stand with Leilani – Staff Job Loss Aid to support the employees affected by this unexpected closure was set up by a server Angela, who unexpectedly lost her job. Every dollar raised will be evenly distributed among the staff, servers, cooks, bartenders, and kitchen crew.. who suddenly found themselves without income.Your support will help cover basic necessities like:Rent and utilitiesGroceries and transportationJob search costs (like childcare or resume prep)Even a small donation can make a huge difference during this uncertain time.Leilani Asian Fusion brought a unique culinary voice to Aurora, blending flavors, cultures, and stories in a way that left a lasting impression. For many of us on staff, it was the best job we’d ever had. While the restaurant's doors may have closed, the love and community Leilani built live on.This isn’t the end of the Leilani story. But until they find their next chapter, the former employees are asking for a bit of help from the town they were proud to serve.Ways to Support💵 Donate here📣 Share the campaign with friends, coworkers, and on social media🤝 Know of job openings for front or back of house staff? Please reach out they are actively seeking opportunities💬 Offer words of encouragement to lift up those affected

Get ready for the biggest celebration of the summer in North Aurora! The annual North Aurora Days festival is back and better than ever, bringing the community together for two days of music, food, and family-friendly activities.📅 Dates: Friday, August 1 – Saturday, August 2, 2025 📍 Location: North Aurora Riverfront Park, 25 E State St, North Aurora, IL 🎟️ Admission: Free (food and activities available for purchase)Live Music LineupEnjoy a variety of musical performances throughout the weekend:Friday, August 1:Nashville Electric Company (5:30–7:30 PM): Experience down-home country music energy.90’s Pop Nation (8:30–11:00 PM): Dance to the biggest pop hits and one-hit wonders from the '90s.Saturday, August 2:Sparks Fly (5:30–7:30 PM): A tribute to Taylor Swift’s chart-topping anthems.Blooze Brothers (8:30–11:00 PM): A tribute to the original Blues Brothers, blending blues, soul, and classic rock.🍔 Food, Drinks, and MoreIndulge in a variety of food options from local vendors, offering everything from BBQ to international cuisine. The North Aurora Lions Club beer tent will be serving refreshing beverages for those 21 and over.👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Fun ActivitiesThere's something for everyone:Inflatable Obstacle Courses & Giant Slide: Fun for all ages.Face Painting & Balloon Art: Free for kids.Video Game Truck: Multiple large screens for gaming enthusiasts.Petting Zoo & Reptile Show: Get up close with animals.Touch-a-Truck: Explore various vehicles up close.Fishing Derby & Softball Tournament: Friendly competitions for all skill levels.🎆 Fireworks FinaleCap off the weekend with a spectacular fireworks display on Saturday night, lighting up the Fox River and bringing the community together to celebrate.For a detailed schedule and more information, visit the official North Aurora Days website. Don't forget to bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and a spirit of community!Whether you're a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, North Aurora Days 2025 promises a memorable experience filled with music, food, and fun. See you there!

There’s something new sprouting at the Marie Wilkinson Community Garden and it’s not just tomatoes and basil.Tucked between rows of sunflowers and raised garden beds is a space where kids aren’t just digging in the dirt, they’re discovering math through play.Welcome to the Playful Learning Landscape, a vibrant outdoor exhibit designed to bring numbers, shapes, and patterns to life in the most joyful way possible.Installed in summer 2025, the Playful Learning Landscape is a series of five interactive math stations nestled into the garden across from the Marie Wilkinson Food Pantry. Created in collaboration with the Chicago Children’s Museum, SPARK Early Childhood Collaboration, and Metropolitan Family Services, this space is all about turning everyday moments into learning opportunities.Kids can hop through geometric grids, count garden treasures like stones and leaves, and explore puzzles that encourage spatial thinking, sorting, and problem-solving.The best part? It’s free, open to the public, and made for all ages.This exhibit isn’t just a drop-in playground. It’s the result of a community-driven design process, where local parents, educators, and kids helped shape what they wanted to see.Aurora was selected as one of just three Illinois communities to launch a Playful Learning site alongside Little Village and North Lawndale in Chicago. It’s a major step toward ensuring equitable access to early learning, especially in spaces that families already visit.“This is more than a math station,” said one volunteer from SPARK. “It’s about meeting kids where they are and empowering caregivers to teach and connect, no classroom required.”Why It MattersEarly math skills like sorting, comparing, counting, and spatial reasoning are critical building blocks for future success. But too often, these skills are tied to formal school settings.By embedding learning tools into a garden that’s already buzzing with family life, the Marie Wilkinson exhibit helps turn math into something that’s fun, approachable, and rooted in everyday curiosity.When to VisitThe Playful Learning area is open year-round from sunrise to sunset, no appointment or fee needed. Whether you’re dropping off donations at the food pantry, harvesting your garden plot, or just out for a stroll, it’s the perfect stop for an impromptu learning moment.Pair It with a Garden VisitWant to make a day of it? Families can explore the garden’s educational zones, take part in free cooking demos, or check out upcoming events like the Garden Harvest Dinner (August 9, 2025) all while encouraging kids to count peas and measure garden rows.You can even volunteer to help maintain the garden or support the learning stations!Learn more at: mariewilkinsonfoodpantry.orgOr follow the garden team at charityblooms.orgIn a city that continues to grow in heart and innovation, this new math exhibit is planting more than just knowledge, it’s nurturing confidence, curiosity, and connection. Next time you're in the neighborhood, stop by the garden and let your little ones lead the way.After all, math is everywhere and now, it's growing right here in Aurora.

Are you ready to step into your calling as a healer and lightworker? This summer, Aura Holistic & Metaphysical Wellness in Aurora invites you to a powerful, heart-centered journey through the energy of Usui Holy Fire Reiki. Over the course of two immersive days, you’ll be guided, attuned, and empowered to become a certified Reiki practitioner with tools and confidence to begin (or expand) your healing path.Whether you’re completely new to energy work or already exploring spiritual practices, this transformative certification opens doors to deep personal healing and aligned service.What Makes Holy Fire Reiki Unique?Holy Fire Reiki is known for its high-frequency energy, clarity, and profound spiritual connection. It brings a sense of divine peace while igniting inner transformation healing at the physical, emotional, and soul level.Unlike traditional Reiki training, Holy Fire attunements (known as Ignitions) come directly from Source, bypassing the ego to create deep and lasting energetic shifts.This two-day, in-person certification blends lecture, discussion, and hands-on practice in a nurturing and sacred space. You’ll receive:✨ Level 1 TrainingUnderstanding Reiki: What it is & how it worksHistory of Usui Reiki & hand positions for healingSelf-healing & giving Reiki to othersMeditation techniques: Gassho, Reiji-ho, Byosen scanningThe Holy Love Experience: Receiving Divine Love into your heartReiki for pets, plants, crystals & sacred spaces✨ Level 2 TrainingAttunement to sacred Reiki symbols for deeper healingHow to offer distant Reiki healingAdvanced tools: Koki-ho (breath healing), Kenyoku (energy clearing), Dr. Hayashi’s Healing GuideEnergy protection & clearing for empathsPracticing intuitive Reiki as a sensitive soulYou'll also receive a printed manual and official certificate upon completion.After the Training: Your Reiki Journey BeginsReiki attunement activates a 21-day energetic cleanse, which may include emotional releases and deep spiritual shifts. You are encouraged to support your body and spirit with:Nourishing rest & hydrationNature walks or quiet reflectionJournaling & mindful movementCompassion toward yourself during integrationThis isn’t just a course it’s an initiation into the path of a lightworker.Secure Your SpotThis course fills quickly, and space is limited to maintain a sacred and personalized experience. Call 630-219-8546 to register and avoid online booking fees.Date: July 26 & 27, 2025Time: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM (both days)Location: Aura – 1242 N Eola Rd, Aurora, ILInvestment: Level 1 – $225 | Level 2 – $275 | Both – $450Register by Phone (No Fees): 📞 630-219-8546

Aurora is turning up the lights, the music, and the neighborly vibes once again for National Night Out an annual celebration of community spirit and public safety that brings neighbors, law enforcement, and city leaders together in one festive evening.📅 Date: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 📍 Across all 10 Wards in Aurora, IL 🎟️ Cost: Free & open to the public!What Is National Night Out?National Night Out (NNO) was designed to promote police–community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. Today, it’s a beloved tradition in thousands of towns across the U.S. and Aurora goes all in.This year, every ward in the city will host its own celebration, featuring:🍔 Cookouts & potlucks🎶 Live music & DJs🎈 Games for kids & families🚒 Public safety demos + fire & police vehicles to explore🤝 Meet your local officers, alderpersons, and Mayor LaeschEach of Aurora’s 10 wards hosts a block party-style event. Common spots include:📍 Phillips Park Pavilion (Ward 2)📍 Blackhawk Park (Ward 4)📍 West Aurora Plaza (Ward 5)📍 LaSalle Street & Root (Ward 6)🔍 Full map of all event locations → Click here for the 2025 NNO Neighborhood Map (PDF)💡 Pro tip: Some wards feature raffles, free food, games, and special guests so plan your visit ahead!In a time when connection matters more than ever, National Night Out is more than just a block party it’s a reminder that safe, welcoming neighborhoods are built together.So bring your lawn chair, meet someone new, and help make Aurora stronger one night at a time.