The Oglesby Knights of Columbus, 307 E. Florence St., will host a fish and shrimp fry from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5.

As Thanksgiving weekend kicks off the holiday season, chambers and downtown groups across the Illinois Valley are reminding shoppers to stay local and support small businesses while buying gifts for loved ones.

Ottawa Sunrise Rotary toy and book float returns for the 36th year in the Festival of Lights Parade at 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28.

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Take a look at some of the week’s best photos, captured by Illinois Valley photographers from Sunday, Nov. 9, to Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025.

Oglesby Elks Lodge #2360 members, after taking a tour of the new Illinois Valley Food Pantry facility in Peru, presented a check for $6,000 to Executive Director, Mary Jo Credi.

NCI ARTworks and Heritage Corridor Destinations will exhibit the work of several artists in Utica and then in Peru.

The Oglesby American Legion will hold its monthly steak fry from 5-9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20. 

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Local veterans were recognized at a ceremony at Serena High School on Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025, attended by community members.

The Oglesby Knights of Columbus, 307 E. Florence St., will host a fish and shrimp fry from 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14. Proceeds will benefit the Academy of St. Carlo Acutis.