Performances run Sept. 22-Oct. 27, with two matinee shows each Saturday.

Kids 3-8 with parent or guardian are invited to bring their toy instruments from home and march along with the Wildcat Marching Band. Event takes place at Trienens Hall, 2707 Ashland Ave., Evanston. Free parking is available in the Ryan Field west lot on Ashland Avenue north of Central Street.

Community event has cupcake decorating, Color My Career, Fun with Legos, a fire engine and fire fighter gear display and Maggie the Cow, where kids learn to milk a plastic cow. At the baseball field, kids can measure the speed of pitches during the need-for-speed activity and learn about Beep Ball. Plus, a pumpkin patch and straw maze.

Explore the life of a tree, discover what makes trees so special and learn how they supply food and shelter for a variety of wildlife, then plant another tree.

Giant Steps of Illinois hosts a USATF approved 5K run/walk for autism awareness. Supporters are also encouraged to create their own fundraising teams of at least five  runner/walkers with a fundraising goal, all of which will directly benefit Giant Steps.

A morning filled with nature exploration, nature-themed games and art creations. Please dress for the weather; class will be held outdoors. Bring a snack and a water bottle. Oct. 4, 5 or 8.

Take a harvest-moon hayride at a Naperville Park. Bring your food or fixings for s'mores to cook over the bonfire; hot chocolate and hot cider provided. Rides are at Knoch Knolls Park, 336 Knoch Knolls Road, Naperville (Sept. 30 and Oct. 27) and Seager Park, 1163 Plank Road, Naperville (Oct. 13 and 21).

Halloween Hayrides  | Naperville

Dress up in your favorite Halloween costume (parents included) and come to Knoch Knolls Park or Seager Park. Each registered child ages 1-12 who checks in with the hayride coordinator will receive a Halloween goodie bag filled with treats and prizes. Bring your own food to cook over the bonfire or bring the fixings for s'mores. Hot chocolate and apple juice provided. Registration required. Oct. 20, 21 and 27.

Enjoy an evening of scary stories that will send shivers up your spine. This is an outdoor event; dress warmly and bring blankets and cushions. Tickets are available online beginning Sept. 12. They also may be purchased at the Park District Administration Building or at the door on a cash-only, limited seating basis. No refunds.

Event includes pony rides, a petting zoo, horse drawn wagon rides, make and take crafts, riding demonstrations, pumpkins for sale, concessions, and arts and crafts vendors.