Author: Fox Valley Magazine

Award-winning step dance troupe Step Afrika! will perform at the Hemmens Cultural Center on Friday, March 27 at 7:30pm. Step Afrika! blends percussive dance styles practiced by historically African American fraternities and sororities; traditional African dances; and an array of contemporary dance and art forms into a cohesive, compelling artistic experience. Performances are much more than dance shows; they integrate songs, storytelling, humor and audience participation. The blend of technique, agility, and pure energy makes each performance unique and leaves the audience with their hearts pounding. Step Afrika! promotes stepping as an educational tool for young people, focusing on teamwork,…

The electrifying East LA band Las Cafeteras will perform at The ECC Arts Center on Friday, March 27 at 7:30pm, offering a dynamic evening of music that crosses borders and genres. Called a “uniquely Angeleno mishmash of punk, hip-hop, beat music, cumbia, and rock” by the LA Times, Las Cafeteras remix roots music with a modern edge, blending traditional Son Jarocho, Afro-Mexican rhythms, folk, hip-hop, and socially conscious storytelling into a sound that is as infectious as it is inspiring. More than a band, Las Cafeteras are modern-day troubadours, using music as a bridge between cultures and generations with a…

Nearly a decade strong, Atlas Chicken Shack is approaching its 10-year anniversary in June 2026 — and it all started with a dream. Founder Lawrence Colburn set out with one simple goal: fry great chicken. The building came first, the dream came second, and what followed was a contemporary take on convenience food that blends food truck energy with the comfort of a standalone neighborhood staple. This isn’t your mama’s bucket of chicken. Atlas sources a specific premium tender, brines it fresh in-house, and breads each piece with care before frying to golden perfection. The result? Crispy, juicy chicken that’s…

Touché French Creole is a New Orleans inspired French Creole restaurant in Downtown Aurora, located at 6 North River Street in the historic Hobbs Building. As part of JH Hospitality Group, the menu focuses on French Creole cooking with bold seasoning, rich sauces, and classic techniques, served across shareable starters, entrees, and sides. Happy hour is offered before dinner service with a rotating selection of drinks and featured items. Dinner service follows with the full menu and a cocktail program that includes classic and spirit forward options. Weekend brunch is available with a dedicated brunch menu and brunch cocktails. Reservations…

RookiesRookies has long been the go-to neighborhood sports bar where fans gather for game day excitement, ice-cold drinks, and food that can keep up with the action. With wall-to-wall TVs, an energetic crowd, and a menu built for cheering, Rookies delivers the ultimate game-day atmosphere. Now, they’re raising the bar once again with the launch of a brand-new menu headlined by the bold and crave-worthy Big Mackin. Leading the charge is this stacked masterpiece featuring four juicy beef patties layered with melty cheese and a signature build that delivers bite after unforgettable bite. It’s over-the-top in the best way and…

Ivy Ford, singer, songwriter, musician and entertainer, will perform at The Venue in Aurora on Friday, March 20 at 8pm. Known as “The Blues Kitten,” Ivy Ford serves an experience of music to soothe your soul and fill your heart. Self-made, she is a multi-instrumentalist (guitar, bass, drums, piano) that is considered to be one of the current heavy hitters in the Chicago blues and music scene. In 2015 Ford started opening for Buddy Guy at his club ‘Legends’ and is a household name there and in other Chicago Blues clubs. She is known for her high energy guitar playing and showmanship onstage that gives…

Featured selections of Craft Beers created by local Fox Valley area brewing companies. Fortunate Day IPAA bright, fruit-forward IPA with refined balance and a crisp, modern finish. Fortunate Day is a fruit-driven IPA designed to showcase vibrant hop expression while maintaining balance and drinkability. The goal was a bright, aromatic beer that leans into juicy fruit character without sacrificing smoothness or structure. A Pilsner malt base provides a clean, refined backbone, allowing the hops to shine while contributing subtle notes of fresh bread and light sweetness. As the beer warms, the malt character broadens slightly, adding depth without becoming heavy.…

When it comes to hosting memorable events, VAI’s brings together award-winning food, thoughtful service, and versatile spaces designed to fit your vision. Proudly voted Best Italian Restaurant in Naperville by Naperville Magazine for five years in a row, VAI’s has become a trusted destination for celebrations of all kinds. At the heart of our private dining and catering program is our Private Dining Coordinator, Tara Tyson, who was also recognized in the Best of Naperville Awards as Best Event Planner. Tara works closely with every client, taking the time to understand the occasion and curate a menu that fits your…

Note: This is the latest in a weekly series from Anderson Humane spotlighting wonderful animals currently looking for a “forever home.” We encourage you to support Anderson Humane and it’s tireless efforts to care for our animal friends and place them in loving homes. For more information please visit https://ahconnects.org/. Meet Massimo, Our Happy Rottweiler Mix! This 7-month-old Rottweiler mix is a handsome, happy puppy looking for his forever home. He was surrendered due to financial hardships, but he’s full of love and joy to share! He enjoys both playtime and relaxing, making him the perfect mix of energy and calm.…

The Fox River Trolley Museum on South Elgin will be hosting the Bunny Burrow Express in search of fun, family and, of course, Easter eggs! On the three Saturday’s before Easter, the young and young at heart will partake on a wonderful ride to the Easter Bunny’s “secret burrow” in vintage antique real trolley cars, where there will be plenty of hidden eggs to find. All the little ones will receive a basket of their own to collect any magical eggs that are found. Tickets are $30 per person and can be purchased here. Trains run on the three Saturdays before…