Things To Do This Weekend January 9-11, 2026

By: Stephanie Stang 01/08/2026

The winter chill is in full swing, marking a season often spent hunkered down indoors. Yet as temperatures dip, local parks and nature preserves are calling residents to adventure out and rediscover the beauty of a Midwestern winter. From community bonfires to the  glide of skates on fresh ice, these events give residents and visitors a reprieve from the January gloom. There is a way for every neighbor to celebrate the season this weekend!

Let's look at the top five things to do this weekend, January 9-11, 2026.

1. Gurnee’s Frost Fest at Viking Park

Winter settles in at Viking Park, where one of Gurnee’s most beloved traditions returns. Frosty Fest transforms the park into a winter playground, inviting families to slow down, bundle up and enjoy the season. From outdoor sleigh rides gliding across the park to hands-on games and crafts, the event offers a full slate of activities designed to keep individuals of all ages engaged. Inside the dance hall, guests can thaw out at a hot cocoa bar, while outside, the glow of a fire pit sets the scene for roasting s’mores and sharing stories beneath the winter sky. Frosty Fest remains a warm tradition in the heart of winter. For more information, visit GurneeParkDistrict.com. 

Saturday, January 10; 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Free admission. Viking Park, 4374 Old Grand Ave., Gurnee. 

2. Vernon Hills Park District Winterfest

Winter brings a different kind of magic to Century Park Arboretum, where Vernon Hills Park District’s annual Winterfest takes place. From the thrill of a live sled dog demonstration to the gentle pace of horse-drawn carriage rides, Winterfest offers experiences that feel timeless. The event balances adventure and relaxation, making it an easy and inviting way to celebrate winter in Vernon Hills. In this year’s edition, visitors can scoot around its new iceless skating rink (special skates provided). For details, visit VHParkDistrict.org. 

Saturday, January 10; 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free admission. Century Park Pavilion, 1400 Indianwood Dr., Vernon Hills.

3. Grayslake Area Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Skate in the Park

Winter takes center stage at Skate in the Park, a cold-weather tradition returning to Grayslake for its fourth year. The Gelatin Park event invites the community to gather outdoors and make a January afternoon memorable with professional figure skaters taking to the ice, offering graceful performances. Once the demonstrations wrap up, the rink opens to the public, welcoming skaters of all skill levels to lace up their own skates and join the fun. Off the ice, visitors can enjoy a crackling bonfire with hot chocolate and s’mores. The event is open to the public and offers a blend of entertainment, recreation and plenty of winter comforts. Heady to GrayslakeVillageCenter.com for further information.

Saturday, January 10; Noon- 3 p.m. Free admission. Gelatin Park, 250 Library Ln., Grayslake. 

4. Heller Hygge Winter Playdate at Heller Nature Center in Highland Park

At the Heller Nature Center, the season is celebrated not with bustle, but with warmth and quiet discovery. The Heller Hygge Winter PlayDate invites families to embrace the Scandinavian idea of hygge, which is defined as finding comfort and joy in simple moments shared. Guests can settle in with board games and puzzles, sip hot cocoa and create nature-inspired crafts. Outdoors, experience a self-guided hike through the grounds or spend time exploring the Wander Woods. Glowing campfires offer a cozy pause between activities, giving families a place to warm up and reconnect. For more information, visitors can go to PDHP.org.

Saturday, January 10; 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Pre-registration is requested. Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Rd., Highland Park.

5. Winterfest at Volo Bog

Explore the frozen Ingleside wetlands and quiet trails at Volo Bog State Natural Area, which serves as the backdrop for an afternoon of music, art and outdoor exploration. Live music sets the tone indoors, with nature-themed songs by headliner Wisconsin-native Tim Southwick Johnson and five other musician acts, performing family sing-alongs, traditional tracks and contemporary selections. Throughout the afternoon, organizers will announce photo contest winners, while visitors can compete in the youth, teen, adult or family Snow Sculpting Contest (awards at 3:55 p.m.). Besides the ongoing guided bog tours (eight tours between 11 a.m.-3 p.m.), guests can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and hiking. Volo Bog continues a tradition that brings people closer to nature — even in its coldest season. Visit FriendsofVoloBog.org for more information. 

Sunday, January 11; 11 a.m.-4 p.m. A suggested donation of $10 per adult supports the event; children are admitted free. Volo Bog State Natural Area, 28478 W. Brandenburg Rd., Ingleside.  

Click here to see more things to do this weekend January 9-11, 2026.