Arts & Entertainment
Will County, IL Holiday Fun: Free Crafts, Campfires and S'mores
Will County, IL – Families looking for affordable holiday activities this December will have several opportunities to enjoy free crafts, campfires, nature walks and seasonal celebrations as the Forest
By Tessa Morgan · 2026-11-09T18:41:02.066Z
Will County, IL – Families looking for affordable holiday activities this December will have several opportunities to enjoy free crafts, campfires, nature walks and seasonal celebrations as the Forest Preserve District of Will County prepares a lineup of winter events.
According to the Forest Preserve District, activities begin Tuesday, Dec. 1, with programs scheduled throughout the first week of December at nature centers and forest preserves across the county.
Free Holiday Activities for Families
One highlight is Caroling Campfire and So Much S'more , scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 5, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Hidden Oaks Nature Center in Bolingbrook.
Families can enjoy holiday singalongs every 30 minutes, roast hot dogs and s'mores, explore lantern lit woodland trails and create nature inspired decorations.
The event is free, open to all ages and requires no registration.
Another option is Winter Craft Weekend , taking place Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 5 6, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Four Rivers Environmental Education Center in Channahon.
Visitors can make winter themed crafts, enjoy hot cocoa and participate in an optional outdoor scavenger hunt.
More December Events
Additional activities include:
Dec. 1 31: The free 12 Days of December Trail Challenge encourages residents to walk or bike at least one mile on 12 separate days. Dec. 2 31: Mindful Puzzling at Hidden Oaks Nature Center in Bolingbrook offers relaxing activities for all ages. Dec. 3: Festive Flora at Isle a la Cache Museum in Romeoville explores holiday plants and decorations. Registration closes Dec. 1. Dec. 5: Forest Bathing in Romeoville offers a guided mindfulness walk for ages 16 and older. Registration closes Dec. 3. Dec. 6: Holiday Nature Crafts returns to Hidden Oaks Nature Center from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Most activities are free, although some require advance registration.
Residents can view the complete schedule and register for eligible programs at ReconnectWithNature.org .
With activities ranging from outdoor adventures to holiday crafts, the upcoming events offer families opportunities to celebrate the season without spending much money.