Gorton Center

<h3>Shredding the Silence on Menopause</h3>
A silent epidemic affects millions of American women, resulting in billions in lost wages, upended careers, family disruptions, and emotional chaos. “The (M) Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause” confronts the neglected menopause crisis, challenging societal and medical shortcomings, and advocating for a revolutionary approach to women’s health in America where she’s prepared for midlife.&nbsp;Don’t miss this special screening of The (M) Factor followed by an engaging panel discussion featuring three experts in the areas of gynecology, sexual wellness and menopause care.&nbsp;Film Run Time: 56:46 minutes

Local Event: The M Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause

Lake County

Lake Forest-Lake Bluff

Illinois

The M Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause

Shredding the Silence on Menopause
A silent epidemic affects millions of American women, resulting in billions in lost wages,...

A hands-on seasonal candle-making experience inspired by the colors, scents, and natural elements of autumn. Participants will explore multiple candle-making techniques while creating three distinct candles:
<ul><li>A foundational candle introducing the basics of candle making</li><li>A scented candle incorporating floral/botanical elements</li><li>A designer candle allowing participants to experiment with their own creative composition, style, and finishing details</li></ul>
Participants will leave with three finished creations while gaining hands-on experience with the candle-making process from preparation and pouring through scent, botanical embellishment, and creative design.
Ages 10+

Local Event: Autumn-Inspired Candle Making with Dandelion Gallery & Studio

Autumn-Inspired Candle Making with Dandelion...

A hands-on seasonal candle-making experience inspired by the colors, scents, and natural elements of autumn. Participants will...

Autumn-Inspired Candle Making with Dandelion Gallery & Studio

<h4>Strings Attached</h4>
Rendezvous Arts kicks off Season 7 with an audience favorite. But this time, we’re adding strings!
Our beloved Woodwind Octet returns—and it’s bigger than ever. Eleven musicians take the stage, bringing even more color, warmth, and energy. The program blends familiar favorites with something completely new.
And we mean completely new.
Local composer Scott Stevenson is creating a piece just for this ensemble. Nice Fresh will receive its world premiere at these performances. Rendezvous audiences will be among the first to hear this brand-new work, written specifically for the musicians onstage.
Next, the program takes a playful turn with Jonathan Dove’s Figures in the Garden. This lively serenade for wind octet draws inspiration from Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro. The program also gets up close and personal with intimate performances by horn trio and cello and bass duo.
Then comes a piece we’ve dreamed of bringing to Rendezvous for years: Antonín Dvořák’s Serenade for Winds in D Minor, Op. 44. It’s warm, lyrical, joyful, and full of personality. And with our expanded ensemble, it’s the perfect way to launch a new season.
A world premiere. Eleven musicians. Mozart reimagined. Dvořák at his most irresistible.
Strings attached? Absolutely.

Local Event: Rendezvous Arts: Strings Attached

Rendezvous Arts: Strings Attached

Strings Attached
Rendezvous Arts kicks off Season 7 with an audience favorite. But this time, we’re adding strings!
Our beloved...

Prompted Painting is back, but with a new theme!&nbsp;&nbsp;Art Impact Project’s instructor will walk you through all the steps to&nbsp;complete your own acrylic painting on canvas.&nbsp; But this isn’t your typical paint and sip, you’ll leave with your own&nbsp;original&nbsp;piece of art!&nbsp; All you need to bring is your imagination!
All supplies provided. &nbsp;Ages 11+
This class is free, but spaces are limited and participants must pre-register.&nbsp;
Celebrating their tenth anniversary, <a href="https://www.artimpactproject.org/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Art Impact Project</a> is a local 501c(3) with a mission of enhancing emotional wellness through creative expression.&nbsp; They partner with organizations such as schools, treatment facilities, libraries, and other community spaces throughout Lake County, to facilitate art programming with a focus on better mental health.&nbsp; Providing a supportive, small group setting, Art Impact Project guides participant step-by-step through the creative process so everyone can experience the benefits of art.
Want to take this class but can’t make this date? Check out our other Art Impact Classes on <a href="https://gortoncenter.org/event/art-impact-project-i-am-thankful-for-nov-10/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Tuesday, November 10</a> or <a href="https://gortoncenter.org/event/art-impact-project-snow-globe-dec-8/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Tuesday, December 8</a>!

Local Event: Art Impact Project: Prompted Painting

Art Impact Project: Prompted Painting

Prompted Painting is back, but with a new theme!  Art Impact Project’s instructor will walk you through all the steps...

<h3>Peach Jam: A Night of Allman Brothers Magic</h3>
Get ready to turn it up and settle in for a night of legendary sound. Peach Jam brings the spirit of the Allman Brothers Band to Gorton on Friday, October 16 | 7:30 pm. And from the first note, you’ll feel the groove.
Peach Jam is a collective of some of the best musicians Chicago has to offer. Formed in 2022, the band celebrates the music of the iconic Allman Brothers Band with passion, precision and plenty of improvisation. In other words, this isn’t just a tribute show. It’s a full-on jam experience.
First, the sound. Then the energy. And finally the feeling that you’ve stepped straight into a classic night at the Fillmore East.
The band brings together members of Chicago favorites Cornmeal, Terrapin Flyer, Old Shoe, Helping Phriendly Orchestra and the Brooklyn Charmers. Together they create a cosmic gumbo of hot jams, tight grooves, soaring vocal harmonies and down-home blues. The result is rich, soulful and built to move a room.
Expect extended guitar solos and deep grooves. Expect the kind of musical chemistry that only happens when great players share a stage.
And of course, expect the classics. The songs that helped define Southern rock. The melodies that fans have loved for decades. Plus the improvisational spirit that made the Allman Brothers Band legendary in the first place.
So grab a friend. Or bring the whole crew. Either way, settle in and let the music take over.
As Peach Jam likes to say, “People can you feel it? Love is everywhere!” And on this night at Gorton, you just might feel it too.
Join us for an evening of unforgettable music, great company and timeless sound.

Local Event: Peach Jam

Peach Jam

Peach Jam: A Night of Allman Brothers Magic
Get ready to turn it up and settle in for a night of legendary sound. Peach Jam...

<h4>Gorton Center Fall Family Happy Hour</h4>
Start your Oktoberfest celebration with a fun family event at Gorton Center!
Join us outside the Oktoberfest tent for Fall Family Happy Hour, a festive outdoor gathering for all ages. Enjoy kid-friendly activities, fall crafts, and quality time with family and friends.
Each Family Happy Hour ticket includes:
<ul><li>Hot dog</li><li>Chips</li><li>Water or soda</li></ul>
Adults 21 and older can purchase beer separately.
Purchasing 4 or more tickets? Use code FallFamily for $10 off!
Our Children’s Learning Center team will lead hands-on fall crafts and seasonal activities. Kids can create, play, and celebrate the best of autumn in a fun and welcoming environment.
Family Happy Hour ends at 6:30 PM. Want to keep the celebration going? Adults 21+ can purchase a separate <a href="https://gortoncenter.org/event/oktoberfest-2026/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Oktoberfest</a> ticket and enjoy food, drinks, live entertainment, and more throughout the evening.
Bring the whole family to Gorton Center for a memorable fall evening filled with fun, community, and festive traditions.

Local Event: Fall Family Happy Hour

Fall Family Happy Hour

Gorton Center Fall Family Happy Hour
Start your Oktoberfest celebration with a fun family event at Gorton Center!
Join us...

<h4>Gorton Center Oktoberfest 2026</h4>
<img src="https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Oktoberfest-2026-300x73.png" alt="Oktoberfest 2026" srcset="https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Oktoberfest-2026-300x73.png 300w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Oktoberfest-2026-1024x249.png 1024w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Oktoberfest-2026-768x187.png 768w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Oktoberfest-2026-150x36.png 150w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Oktoberfest-2026-480x117.png 480w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Oktoberfest-2026-800x194.png 800w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Oktoberfest-2026-600x146.png 600w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Oktoberfest-2026.png 1400w">
When the sun goes down, the tent transforms into Gorton Center’s signature Oktoberfest celebration for adults 21 and over.
<h5>Main Event Tickets — $75 per person (Special: $250.00 for a pack of 4 tickets)</h5>
Your ticket includes:
<ul><li>Food throughout the evening</li><li>Beer and beverages</li><li>Live entertainment</li><li>Access to Oktoberfest games and festivities, including Hammerschlagen</li></ul>
Guests attending the 21+ Main Event will receive a different colored wristband at check-in, identifying access to food and beverage service within the Oktoberfest tent.
<h5>What is Hammerschlagen?</h5>
<img src="https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/1660754497-oktoberfest-hammerschlagen-300x200.jpg" alt="3 people standing around a wood stump with nails in it. One person is hitting a nail into the stump, a woman wearing a german style dress is waiting for her turn while a third person is holding a beer" srcset="https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/1660754497-oktoberfest-hammerschlagen-300x200.jpg 300w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/1660754497-oktoberfest-hammerschlagen-768x512.jpg 768w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/1660754497-oktoberfest-hammerschlagen-113x75.jpg 113w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/1660754497-oktoberfest-hammerschlagen-480x320.jpg 480w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/1660754497-oktoberfest-hammerschlagen-800x533.jpg 800w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/1660754497-oktoberfest-hammerschlagen-551x367.jpg 551w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/1660754497-oktoberfest-hammerschlagen.jpg 975w">A classic Oktoberfest tradition, Hammerschlagen is a fun and competitive game where players take turns trying to hammer a nail into a wooden stump using the narrow end of the hammer. It’s easy to learn, exciting to watch, and always a crowd favorite. Hammerschlagen will be at the main event only.
Come for the food, stay for the music, challenge your friends at Hammerschlagen, and celebrate Oktoberfest with the Gorton community.
#GortonOktoberfest #OktoberfestLakeCounty
Interested in sponsoring or underwriting opportunities? This is more than just great visibility – it’s a meaningful way to support the arts and connect with an engaged, local audience. Contact <a href="mailto:annk@gortoncenter.org">Ann Kiesling</a> to learn more.
By purchasing a ticket and attending Oktoberfest, you acknowledge and accept the risks associated with participation in Gorton Center programs and release Gorton, the City of Lake Forest, and related parties from all claims.

Local Event: Oktoberfest. 2026

Oktoberfest. 2026

Gorton Center Oktoberfest 2026

When the sun goes down, the tent transforms into Gorton Center’s signature Oktoberfest...

Catch Ghostbusters on the big screen! When three professors start a ghost-catching business in New York City, they face a supernatural force threatening the city. Packed with comedy, adventure, iconic characters, and unforgettable music, this beloved classic is fun for all ages.

Local Event: Ghoulish Film Series: Ghostbusters

Ghoulish Film Series: Ghostbusters

Catch Ghostbusters on the big screen! When three professors start a ghost-catching business in New York City, they face a...

Experience Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining on the big screen. Jack Torrance and his family arrive at the isolated Overlook Hotel, where disturbing visions and sinister forces push Jack toward madness. Chilling and unforgettable, The Shining remains a horror classic.

Local Event: Ghoulish Film Series: The Shining

Ghoulish Film Series: The Shining

Experience Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining on the big screen. Jack Torrance and his family arrive at the isolated Overlook Hotel,...

Celebrate the season with a fun, hands-on painting class! Create your own autumn or Halloween-inspired 8″ x 10″ canvas using acrylic paints, brush techniques, and stencils. No experience is needed, and you’ll receive guidance while adding your own creative touches. Take home your finished seasonal masterpiece!

Local Event: Pumpkin Canvas in Acrylic/Mixed Media

Pumpkin Canvas in Acrylic/Mixed Media

Celebrate the season with a fun, hands-on painting class! Create your own autumn or Halloween-inspired 8″ x 10″ canvas using...

Join us for a fun-filled morning of autumn excitement- it’s Trunk or Treat! We’re bringing families together to celebrate the season with sweet treats, creative activities, and plenty of community fun.
Come dressed in your friendliest costumes and get ready for a treat-filled day! Decorate your trunk and bring some fun surprises! Kids and parents alike can join in the spirit of the season. Walk from trunk to trunk and explore cars decorated with colorful, creative themes. Collect goodies and share smiles along the way.
But that’s just the beginning. Try your hand at fall-themed games that bring out everyone’s playful side.
This event is designed for everyone. It’s safe, family-friendly, and welcoming to all ages. Whether you’re here for the games, the costumes, or just the treats, you’ll find something to enjoy.

Local Event: Trunk or Treat 

Trunk or Treat 

Join us for a fun-filled morning of autumn excitement- it’s Trunk or Treat! We’re bringing families together to celebrate the...

Join Gorton Center for a night of smart, dry, and quietly devastating stand-up comedy with Emily Catalano!&nbsp;A Los Angeles–based comedian, Emily made her late-night stand-up debut on CONAN and has steadily built a devoted following through viral clips that capture her unmistakable voice and perfectly unhurried delivery.
Emily’s comedy lives in the details. With a slow pace that invites you to lean in, she transforms everyday observations into sharp, unexpected punchlines that feel both deeply relatable and completely original. Her jokes don’t rush for laughs – they let the humor simmer, then surprise you when you least expect it. That thoughtful approach has earned her widespread attention, including recognition from Time Out LA, which named her a “Comic to Watch,” and praise from Vulture, who noted, “They hit especially hard because they surprise you twice.”

Local Event: Emily Catalano

Emily Catalano

Join Gorton Center for a night of smart, dry, and quietly devastating stand-up comedy with Emily Catalano! A Los Angeles–based...

Sing at Gorton brings people together through the joy of music. Each event invites you to sing along to songs you know and love in a fun, welcoming setting. No experience is needed and no auditions are required. Just bring your voice, enjoy the music, and experience the energy of singing together at Gorton!

Local Event: Sing at Gorton – Music from Wicked and Wizard of Oz

Sing at Gorton – Music from Wicked and Wizard...

Sing at Gorton brings people together through the joy of music. Each event invites you to sing along to songs you know and love...

Sing at Gorton – Music from Wicked and Wizard of Oz

<h3>A musical journey through America with Ketch Secor, public radio’s David Greene, and Old Crow Medicine Show, that humanizes all sides of America’s gun debate through the power of music, conversation, and finding common ground, directed by Doug Pray.</h3>Louder Than Guns brings together the frustrations and hopes of citizens who are asked to listen to one another and try to find common ground. Led by Ketch and David, these emotional and inspiring discussions, in barbeque joints, barbershops, church pews, gunstores, and concert halls, prove that localized, community-led discourse has the power to move the needle on gun reform in ways that today’s polarized media and politicians rarely achieve. Because most people in this country – gun owners and non-gun owners alike – want safer communities.&nbsp;
Join us immediately following the film for a special Q&amp;A with Ketch Secor of Old Crow Medicine Show, alongside former host of NPR Morning Edition and current host of the public radio show, “Left, Right &amp; Center” David Greene.

Local Event: Documentary Film and Q&A: Louder than Guns

Documentary Film and Q&A: Louder than Guns

A musical journey through America with Ketch Secor, public radio’s David Greene, and Old Crow Medicine Show, that humanizes all...

From the visionary director of 28 Days Later and Slumdog Millionaire comes 28 Years Later, a chilling new chapter in the acclaimed post-apocalyptic horror series. Nearly three decades have passed since the rage virus escaped from a biological weapons laboratory. In that time, survivors have adapted to a terrifying new reality. However, the danger is far from over.
Years after the original outbreak, small communities have found ways to survive. Some have created isolated pockets of safety, cut off from the horrors beyond their borders. Yet the infected still roam the landscape, and the world outside remains unpredictable.
When a young boy leaves the relative safety of his isolated island community, he enters a world unlike anything he has known. His journey takes him across a devastated landscape filled with danger, mystery, and unexpected discoveries. Along the way, he encounters other survivors and begins to uncover secrets about what happened after the outbreak.
Blending intense horror, gripping suspense, and emotional storytelling, 28 Years Later explores how people adapt when civilization collapses. It also asks what humanity looks like after decades of fear, isolation, and loss.

Local Event: Ghoulish Film Series: 28 Years Later

Ghoulish Film Series: 28 Years Later

From the visionary director of 28 Days Later and Slumdog Millionaire comes 28 Years Later, a chilling new chapter in the...

Transform an ordinary cigar box into a personalized memory keeper! Decorate your box with colorful paper, fabric, stencils, and creative details. No art experience is needed, and all supplies are included. Take home a unique box for storing photos, notes, jewelry, and special treasures.

Local Event: Personalized Memory Keeper

Personalized Memory Keeper

Transform an ordinary cigar box into a personalized memory keeper! Decorate your box with colorful paper, fabric, stencils, and...

Try your hand at embroidery in this beginner-friendly workshop! Learn essential stitches and create your own 6-inch Chicago skyline hoop with guidance from an experienced instructor. No experience is needed, and all materials are included. Leave with a handmade piece and a new creative skill!

Local Event: Embroider the Skyline

Embroider the Skyline

Try your hand at embroidery in this beginner-friendly workshop! Learn essential stitches and create your own 6-inch Chicago...

Get ready for a kids rave your whole family will love! Designed for ages 3–10, this high-energy, family-friendly experience invites youngsters into a fun, welcoming space where they can move, play and shine.
From the moment you arrive, you’ll hear music your family already knows and loves! Remixes are inspired by favorite movie soundtracks with kid-friendly K-pop hits and upbeat pop anthems, so the energy stays lively, engaging and just right for younger dancers.
Once the music starts, kids can jump right in or ease into the fun at their own pace. Either way, little ravers will find their groove while building confidence, trying new moves and connecting with friends.
Have a favorite song? Submit requests ahead of time, and we’ll feature a limited number during the party to keep this kids rave fresh and exciting.
Costumes make it even more fun. Your child can dress as a favorite pop star or movie character – the brighter and more creative, the better. It’s all about self-expression and joyful moments.
Throughout the event, we keep things playful, inclusive and easy for families to enjoy together. No dance experience needed. Just bring your energy and your imagination.So, grab your crew and join us. Let’s make memories together!Save $10 when you purchase 4 tickets with code GOLDEN!
Brought to you by @thekawaiirave and VNK Entertainment.

Local Event: Golden: A K-Pop Kids Party!

Golden: A K-Pop Kids Party!

Get ready for a kids rave your whole family will love! Designed for ages 3–10, this high-energy, family-friendly experience...

What if you could become an animal? In Pixar’s wildly imaginative&nbsp;Hoppers, animal lover Mabel discovers a new technology that lets her “hop” her consciousness into a lifelike robotic beaver. As she ventures into the animal world, Mabel uncovers a surprising threat and must rally the creatures around her to save their home. Funny, inventive, and packed with adventure,&nbsp;Hoppers&nbsp;is a delightful big-screen treat for the whole family.
Rating:&nbsp;PG Runtime:&nbsp;1 hr 45 min Directed by:&nbsp;Daniel Chong Written by:&nbsp;Jesse Andrews Starring:&nbsp;Piper Curda, Bobby Moynihan, Jon Hamm, Meryl Streep, Kathy Najimy, Dave Franco

Local Event: Film: Hoppers 

Film: Hoppers 

What if you could become an animal? In Pixar’s wildly imaginative Hoppers, animal lover Mabel discovers a new technology that...

Cool, stylish, and unforgettable, Drive follows a quiet Hollywood stunt driver with a dangerous side job. By day, he performs daring stunts for the movies. By night, he works as a getaway driver.
Then, one job goes terribly wrong. Suddenly, he finds himself caught in a violent criminal underworld. As the danger grows, he risks everything to protect a neighbor he cares about.
Director Nicolas Winding Refn creates a gripping modern neo-noir filled with tension and atmosphere. Hypnotic visuals bring Los Angeles to life after dark. Meanwhile, pulse-pounding action keeps the story moving.
An unforgettable soundtrack adds even more energy and emotion. Blending romance, crime, suspense, and explosive action, Drive delivers a stylish thriller that stays with you long after the credits roll.
Rating:&nbsp;R Runtime:&nbsp;1 hr 40 min Directed by:&nbsp;Nicolas Winding Refn Written by:&nbsp;Hossein Amini Starring:&nbsp;Ryan Gosling, Carey Mulligan, Bryan Cranston, Albert Brooks, Ron Perlman, Oscar Isaac
We are especially grateful to the Sheffield Foundation for sponsoring this screening.

Local Event: Film: Drive 

Film: Drive 

Cool, stylish, and unforgettable, Drive follows a quiet Hollywood stunt driver with a dangerous side job. By day, he performs...

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Posting Activity

The M Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause

OCT

8

7:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Autumn-Inspired Candle Making with Dandelion Gallery & Studio

OCT

9

5:00 AM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Rendezvous Arts: Strings Attached

OCT

9

9:00 AM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Art Impact Project: Prompted Painting

OCT

13

6:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Peach Jam

OCT

16

7:30 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Fall Family Happy Hour

OCT

17

5:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Oktoberfest. 2026

OCT

17

6:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Ghoulish Film Series: Ghostbusters

OCT

18

3:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Ghoulish Film Series: The Shining

OCT

23

7:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Pumpkin Canvas in Acrylic/Mixed Media

OCT

24

10:00 AM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Trunk or Treat

OCT

24

10:00 AM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Emily Catalano

OCT

24

7:30 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Sing at Gorton – Music from Wicked and Wizard of Oz

OCT

27

7:00 AM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Documentary Film and Q&A: Louder than Guns

OCT

28

7:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Ghoulish Film Series: 28 Years Later

OCT

30

7:00 PM

Gorton Center, 400 E Illinois Rd, Lake Forest, IL

Personalized Memory Keeper