Bourbonnais, IL residents and visitors, here is your week at a glance. Winter routines are back, but there is plenty to do close to home. Bundle up, watch the forecast, and check event status if weather shifts. Below are family friendly picks, learning opportunities, and seasonal notes to keep your week running smoothly.
This Week - Sun Jan 11 to Sat Jan 17
- Sun Jan 11 - Winter Bird Walk at Perry Farm Park - 9:00 am to 10:30 am - A gentle loop to spot overwintering species. Bring binoculars if you have them. Dress for packed snow and icy patches.
- Mon Jan 12 - Cozy Craft Night at the public library - 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm - Simple winter crafts and a warm drop in space for teens and adults. Supplies provided while they last.
- Tue Jan 13 - ONU winter athletics home night - 7:00 pm - Local college hoops atmosphere without the long drive. Arrive early for seating and campus parking.
- Wed Jan 14 - Exploration Station winter STEAM lab - 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm - Hands on mini experiments for grades K to 5. Grownup required to stay on site.
- Thu Jan 15 - Small business coffee hour at Village Hall - 8:00 am to 9:00 am - Meet peers, swap winter operations tips, and hear a short update on licensing timelines.
- Fri Jan 16 - Twilight sledding at the hill by Perry Farm - 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm - Weather and snow depth permitting. Bring a flashlight or headlamp. Helmets encouraged.
- Sat Jan 17 - Indoor winter market pop up - 9:00 am to 1:00 pm - Local makers and cold season produce, plus baked goods. Reusable bags welcome.
Roads, Safety, and Services
Snow routes are in effect during and after measurable snowfall. Avoid parking on posted routes to help plows clear curb to curb. Clear sidewalks within 24 hours of a snowfall where you are able, and consider adopting the nearest fire hydrant with a three foot shovel out for faster emergency access. Salt sparingly near trees and lawns to protect roots.
Waste and recycling crews aim to stay on the regular schedule this week. Set carts out the night before collection and leave three feet of clearance on all sides so the arms can reach around snow berms. Lids closed to keep snow out.
Community Notes
The library has free study tables and quiet rooms as students return to class. Test proctoring and printing are available during regular hours. Card sign ups are open to residents with photo ID and proof of address.
The park district reminds trail users to yield to plows and maintenance vehicles. Microspikes or traction aids are recommended on shaded stretches that refreeze late in the day. Dogs must remain leashed. Please pack out pet waste even in snow.
Looking Ahead - Save the Dates
Mon Jan 19 - Martin Luther King Jr Day - Village offices and the post office will be closed. Some facilities may offer special volunteer or service activities. Plan errands and bill drops ahead of time.
Tue Jan 20 - Village Board meeting in the evening. Agenda typically posted the business day prior. Public comment sign in available before the gavel.
Thu Jan 22 - Community blood drive - Afternoon slots and early evening slots. Eat a good meal and bring photo ID. Walk ins welcome as space allows.
Fri Jan 23 - Family movie night at the community center - Doors 6:00 pm, showtime 6:30 pm. Bring blankets for floor seating. Light snacks available for purchase.
Sat Jan 24 - Winter trail cleanup at Perry Farm - 10:00 am to noon - Dress warm. Gloves, bags, and grabbers provided. Service hour forms available for students.
Sun Jan 25 - Polar 5K and one mile fun run - Late morning start to catch the warmest part of the day. Strollers welcome in the one mile. No pets on course.
Seasonal Help and Resources
Energy bill assistance sign ups continue through the month at partner agencies. Seniors and income qualified households can ask about appointment slots and required documents. The township office can direct you to the right desk.
If you need a warming spot for a midday break, public buildings and the library offer common areas during open hours. Check posted hours before heading out.
Send your club listings, school spotlights, and volunteer opportunities by midweek for inclusion in next week's bulletin. Keep warm, drive gently on black ice mornings, and enjoy the best of winter in Bourbonnais.
