Events

Block Reference

notebook with drawing of plant

Nature Journaling Workshop

Hennepin Canal (Lock 9)
County: Bureau

Discover how to slow down, look closely, and connect more deeply with the natural world through the practice of nature journaling.  During these hands-on workshops, participants will learn…

strawberries and a jar of strawberry jam

Yes, You Can: Preserving Practice: Jams and Jellies

County: Stephenson

Making jams and jellies at home is a simple and rewarding way to preserve food. With just fruit, sugar, pectin, and a few essential kitchen tools, you can create flavorful spreads your family will…

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youth planting flowers
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Willy's Garden Week

County: Macon

Youth are invited to spend five days learning about plants, insects, and wildlife you might find in your own garden. Join the Master Gardeners in the Children's Auditorium at the Decatur Public…

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Overhead view of a world map at the center of a table, surrounded by a wide variety of international foods.
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Youth Cooking School

Waterloo Morning Session
County: Monroe

Calling all young chefs ages 9–14! Join us for an exciting, hands-on culinary experience designed to build confidence and skills in the kitchen.

Participants will learn:

Basic cooking and…
Overhead view of a world map at the center of a table, surrounded by a wide variety of international foods.
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Youth Cooking School

Waterloo Afternoon Session
County: Monroe

Calling all young chefs ages 9–14! Join us for an exciting, hands-on culinary experience designed to build confidence and skills in the kitchen.

Participants will learn:

Basic cooking and…

"Cultivating Care Garden" created with root vegetables.

Cultivating Care Food Donation Garden Stewardship Day 2

County: Williamson

Gain confidence in the garden. Visit with Illinois Extension staff or volunteers on select Monday evenings from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Cultivating Care Garden. Learn how to water, weed, and harvest…

Nature Explorers SPIN Club: Prophetstown

County: Carroll, Lee, Whiteside

Give your child the chance to unplug, explore, and connect with nature through our Nature Explorers SPIN Club! Designed for youth ages 8–18, this hands-on experience encourages curiosity,…

sissors and fabric

Cloverbud Fiber Fun Factory

County: Washington

Cloverbud Fiber Fun Factory is a creative, hands-on workshop designed just for Cloverbuds ages 5–7 (as of 9/1/25)! On June 2nd from 9–11 AM at the Washington County Extension Education Center,…

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Volunteer looks out of their binoculars in a field.
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Master Naturalist Volunteer Program

Summer Training 2026
Do you love spending time outdoors?  Do you enjoy sharing your passion for the natural world with those around you?  Would you like to help others connect with nature?  If you answered…

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child cooking
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Cooking 101

County: Jefferson

4‑H Cooking 101 is an introductory program designed for youth who are excited to learn their way around the kitchen! Participants will explore the basics of nutrition, food preparation skills, and…

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College of Agricultural, Consumer & Environmental Sciences Illinois Extension

101 Mumford Hall (MC-710)

1301 W. Gregory Dr.

Urbana, IL 61801

Email: extension@illinois.edu

EEO myExtension Staff Login