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adult and child using cookie cutters with dough
Read article: The Power of Holiday Traditions and Rituals
The Power of Holiday Traditions and Rituals
Growing up, I had two distinctive impressions of pumpkin pie. Both of my grandmothers made homemade pies each year, but each was a different...
blocks with the words stressful and stressfree
Read article: Holiday stress: Tips for a healthier, happier season
Holiday stress: Tips for a healthier, happier season
Each year during the winter holidays, watching It’s a Wonderful Life by Frank Capra is a tradition for me. The holidays are a natural time...
Holiday piggy bank
Read article: Plan your holiday spending
Plan your holiday spending
The holiday season is often referred to as the “most wonderful time of the year.” Seeing beautiful decorations and fun seasonal activities can be...
individuals, couples, families, and friends ice skating at an outdoor ice rink
Read article: Deck the halls with healthy habits: Add physical activity to your holiday traditions
Deck the halls with healthy habits: Add physical activity to your holiday traditions
Across Illinois many of us recently saw the season’s first snow fall. While it can be tempting to hunker down as the evenings grow darker and colder...

News Releases

Make Memories That Last: Festive Ornament Workshops in December
The holidays are the perfect time to get creative—and what better way to do that than with a hands-on horticulture project? University of Illinois Extension invites you to join us for festive workshops designed to bring nature indoors and add a personal touch to your holiday décor....
Split photo - Smiling marshmallow snowman floating in mug of cocoa and group of older adults playing Jenga
Illinois Extension to Host Winter Wellness Miniseries
CATLIN, Ill - There are many joys that can be experienced in winter, from the holidays, snow, and festive events. However, even with the positivity of the holiday season, the stress of it all can be a bit too much to handle. Winter can also bring the chill temperatures and an increased need to...
Give Your Holiday Cocktails a Healthy Twist
Holiday cocktails are a festive treat, but they can also pack a surprising calorie punch. By making a few simple substitutions, you can enjoy your favorite drinks with far fewer calories:Instead of Sprite (148 calories), mix with club soda (0 calories): Calories...
Enjoy the Magic of Natural Christmas Trees This Holiday Season
The National Christmas Tree Association reports that approximately 25–30 million natural Christmas trees are sold in the United States each year, offering families a sustainable and festive way to celebrate the season. Unlike artificial trees made from petroleum-based plastics, natural Christmas...