NCI ARTworks will host an opening reception at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12, for an exhibition featuring photographer Robert McCullough and watercolor artist Peter Jeziorski.

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Spring Valley celebrated the Christmas season with the Spring Valley Lighted Christmas Parade, the Christmas tree lighting at the Mini Park, and other activities on Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025.

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Fireworks were launched during the Christmas Fireworks Spectacular on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025 at the Bureau County Fairgrounds in Princeton. The fairgrounds also holds a Home for the Holiday Light Show. The show is a family drive-thru experience featuring light displays and a few special guests to greet you. The show is open Friday's and Saturday's generally runs from 5:00p.m. to 9:00p.m. and on Sunday's 5p.m.-8p.m. through Christmas Day.

Although we always have to be prepared for our safety, experts urge pet owners to take precautions for the furry members of their families, too.

Catch up on the week’s top Illinois Valley news in minutes for Nov. 30-Dec. 6. Hear the week’s 5 most popular stories, read aloud for you

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The Mendota Chamber hosted its annual " A Mendota Christmas" on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025. The event featured visits with Santa and the Grinch, free horse-drawn carriage rides, a Touch a Truck experience with police cars, fire trucks, and tractors, and kids’ crafts. The Mendota Lions Club provided free hot chocolate and hot dogs.

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The Peru Veterans Memorial Group held its 46th annual Pearl Harbor parade and memorial service on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025, at the South Shore Boat Club in Peru.

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The City of La Salle celebrated their annual Miracle on First Street on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025 downtown La Salle.

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The City of Princeton celebrated their "Night of Lights" event on Friday, Dec. 5, 2025. The event featured the Christmas tree lighting at Veterans Park a lighted Christmas parade down Main Street, Living Windows, a Candy Cane Hunt, and visits with Santa.