Gorton Center

Practice the art of gratitude by creating a thoughtful pen and watercolor project.&nbsp; This project will have you leaving the art room feeling refreshed and thankful for life’s treasures.
All supplies provided. &nbsp;Ages 11+
<img src="https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/I-am-Thankful-For-300x234.jpg" alt="I am Thankful For" srcset="https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/I-am-Thankful-For-300x234.jpg 300w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/I-am-Thankful-For-1024x798.jpg 1024w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/I-am-Thankful-For-768x598.jpg 768w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/I-am-Thankful-For-96x75.jpg 96w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/I-am-Thankful-For-960x750.jpg 960w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/I-am-Thankful-For-480x374.jpg 480w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/I-am-Thankful-For-800x623.jpg 800w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/I-am-Thankful-For-471x367.jpg 471w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/I-am-Thankful-For.jpg 1246w">
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 Class on <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: I Am Thankful For...

Lake County

Lake Forest-Lake Bluff

Illinois

Art Impact Project: I Am Thankful For...

Practice the art of gratitude by creating a thoughtful pen and watercolor project.  This project will have you leaving the art...

Turn reading time into crafting time with this fun wet felting workshop for kids! Young artists will transform colorful wool into felt, then create and decorate their own unique bookmark with beads and embellishments. Kids will explore fiber art while building creativity and fine motor skills. All materials are included!

Local Event: Felted Bookmark Workshop

Felted Bookmark Workshop

Turn reading time into crafting time with this fun wet felting workshop for kids! Young artists will transform colorful wool...

In Between the Pages, you’ll step into the world of handmade artist books, where words and images come together. Each month, create your own one-of-a-kind book using handmade papers, collage, drawing, painting, found materials and personal stories. Inspired by a new theme each month, you’ll explore simple bookmaking techniques and let your imagination lead the way. No writing or bookmaking experience required—just curiosity and a willingness to experiment.
<a href="https://www.instagram.com/joalidasmit/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Joalida Smit</a> is a Clinical Psychologist and Neuropsychologist who lived and worked in London (UK) and Cape Town (SA) for the past 20 years. She pivoted to full time artist during COVID and now runs an art studio at The Gorton Center working on large scale canvases. Currently she is exploring innovative ways to incorporate art in the psychology work of personal transformation.

Local Event: Between the Pages: Artist Book Workshop

Between the Pages: Artist Book Workshop

In Between the Pages, you’ll step into the world of handmade artist books, where words and images come together. Each month,...

This introductory workshop will guide participants through creating dimensional floral sculptures using air-dry clay while exploring shape, texture, botanical forms, and sculptural techniques. Participants will have the opportunity to personalize their flowers and create a finished piece that reflects their individual style.
Ages 10+

Local Event: Dry Clay Flower Sculpture with Dandelion Gallery & Studio

Dry Clay Flower Sculpture with Dandelion...

 This introductory workshop will guide participants through creating dimensional floral sculptures using air-dry clay while...

Dry Clay Flower Sculpture with Dandelion Gallery & Studio

<h3>Noiś Saxophone Quartet</h3>
Think you know what a saxophone quartet sounds like? Noiś is here to change your mind.
Musical America calls Chicago’s Noiś Saxophone Quartet “the American saxophone quartet du jour.” Now the quartet celebrates its 10th season by doing what it does best: taking four saxophones places you never expected them to go.
For its Rendezvous Arts debut, Noiś brings a bold and wide-ranging program. Arturo Márquez’s Danzón No. 5 and Paquito d’Rivera’s Wapango burst with rhythmic energy. An unexpected Schumann arrangement shows off a completely different side of the quartet.
Then Noiś turns to the music of today. Works by Sarah Kirkland Snider, Emma O’Halloran, Augusta Read Thomas, Shelley Washington, and Travis Laplante each bring a distinct voice. Noiś moves effortlessly from intimate and atmospheric to playful, explosive, and exhilarating.
Over the past decade, Noiś has premiered more than 120 new works. Along the way, the quartet has built a national reputation for redefining what four saxophones can do.
Now we get to experience them up close.
Four saxophones. Ten years together. One seriously unexpected hour of music.

Local Event: Rendezvous Arts: Noiś Saxophone Quartet

Rendezvous Arts: Noiś Saxophone Quartet

Noiś Saxophone Quartet
Think you know what a saxophone quartet sounds like? Noiś is here to change your mind.
Musical America...

<h5>Reiki Accelerated Class 1 and 2</h5>
Discover the Healing Power of Reiki
Reiki is a Japanese energy healing practice that supports physical, emotional, and mental balance. It uses gentle touch to channel universal life energy into the body, helping to promote relaxation and reduce stress. The word&nbsp;Rei&nbsp;means “universal life,” and&nbsp;Ki&nbsp;means “energy,” so Reiki literally translates to&nbsp;Universal Life Force Energy.
This holistic practice is based on the belief that all living things are sustained by a vital life force. When this energy flows freely, the body can maintain health and balance. Through Reiki, practitioners aim to restore this flow, facilitating healing at physical, emotional, and spiritual levels.
Using the practitioner’s hands, Reiki energy is transferred to the recipient, calming the nervous system and enhancing overall well-being. Many find it to be a deeply soothing and grounding experience.
<h5>What You’ll Learn in Our Accelerated Reiki Class</h5>
Our&nbsp;Accelerated Reiki Class&nbsp;is open to everyone and includes both Reiki Level I and Level II certifications. In this course, participants will:
<ul><li>Learn the core Reiki symbols and their meanings</li><li>Receive clear, step-by-step instruction from an experienced teacher</li><li>Gain hands-on practice with energy work</li><li>Earn a Reiki II certificate upon completion</li></ul>
You’ll leave the class with the knowledge and confidence to practice Reiki on yourself, others, and even animals.
Meet Your Instructor: Melissa MacTaggart
Melissa MacTaggart is a certified Reiki Master Teacher who has trained in the Usui method—the oldest form of Reiki. She studied at Zaanti Reiki and Sat Nam Yoga in Chicago and founded Blossom and Bee Reiki in 2018.
Melissa has led Reiki workshops in both Los Angeles and Chicago. Her passion for energy healing began in her teenage years, sparking a lifelong journey into the mind-body connection. Today, she considers Reiki her most beloved modality because of its transformative, radiant power. Her mission is to help others discover peace and balance through energy work. Melissa’s mantra is, “Let’s move energy together.”

Local Event: Accelerated Reiki Levels I & II

Accelerated Reiki Levels I & II

Reiki Accelerated Class 1 and 2
Discover the Healing Power of Reiki
Reiki is a Japanese energy healing practice that supports...

<h5> Grab Your Boots and Get Ready to Line Dance!</h5>
Kick the dust off those boots. Pop on that cowboy hat. Slide into your favorite jeans. It’s time for line dancing!
Never tried it before? Perfect. Want to brush up on your moves? Even better. This class is built for beginners – and for anyone who just wants to have fun.
We’ll start slow. Easy steps. Clear breakdowns. No pressure, no partner, no problem. Just laughs, music, and movement.
Then, the real fun begins. We’ll groove through country classics. We’ll jam to high-energy pop hits. These are the dances you’ll see at weddings, parties, and dance halls all over. And now, you’ll know them too.
Come solo. Come with friends. Either way, you’ll walk out smiling, sweaty, and ready to show off your new moves.
So grab your boots, grab your crew, and let’s do some line dancing!
Lesley has been dancing her whole life. She’s been classically trained in Ballet and Jazz. She’s been teaching dance for 40 years. She currently works at <a href="https://www.lakeforesthfc.com/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Lake Forest Health and Fitness</a> and Life Time Fitness in Vernon Hills. Her super power is making everyone feel successful.&nbsp;

Local Event: Line It Up Line Dancing

Line It Up Line Dancing

 Grab Your Boots and Get Ready to Line Dance!
Kick the dust off those boots. Pop on that cowboy hat. Slide into your favorite...

Steve Martin and John Candy star in this hilarious holiday comedy about two unlikely travelers trying to make it home to Chicago for Thanksgiving. A series of mishaps turns their journey into an unforgettable cross-country adventure.

Local Event: Planes, Trains, and Automobiles

Planes, Trains, and Automobiles

Steve Martin and John Candy star in this hilarious holiday comedy about two unlikely travelers trying to make it home to...

Celebrate the holiday season with Home Alone, the beloved family comedy that has become a Christmas classic. Join us at Gorton Center for a special screening filled with holiday fun, unforgettable characters, and plenty of laughs.
When eight-year-old Kevin McCallister (Macaulay Culkin) accidentally gets left behind while his family travels to Paris for Christmas, he suddenly has the house to himself. At first, Kevin enjoys his unexpected freedom. He eats what he wants, watches movies, and makes his own rules. However, his holiday adventure takes a turn when two burglars target his home.
Determined to protect the house, Kevin creates a series of clever and hilarious booby traps. What follows is a comedy packed with memorable moments, slapstick humor, and plenty of holiday heart.
Directed by Chris Columbus and written by John Hughes, Home Alone also stars Joe Pesci, Daniel Stern, Catherine O’Hara, and John Heard. Since its release in 1990, the film has become a holiday favorite for generations.
Bring the family and experience Home Alone on the big screen at Gorton Center. Whether you know every trap by heart or you’re introducing a new generation to Kevin McCallister, this festive screening is a perfect way to celebrate the season together.

Local Event: Home Alone

Home Alone

Celebrate the holiday season with Home Alone, the beloved family comedy that has become a Christmas classic. Join us at Gorton...

Turn felt scraps into festive treasures! In this beginner-friendly needle felting workshop, create unique holiday ornaments using colorful wool, simple techniques, and your own creative style. Make several handmade decorations for your tree, gifts, wreaths, or home. All materials are included.

Local Event: Holiday Felt Ornaments

Holiday Felt Ornaments

Turn felt scraps into festive treasures! In this beginner-friendly needle felting workshop, create unique holiday ornaments...

Settle in for Palette &amp; Pours – a relaxed, adults-only painting class where creativity and connection come easy. In this coastal-inspired session, we’ll paint a lighthouse scene, capturing the glow, color and calm of the shoreline.
This isn’t your typical art class. It’s a chance to unwind, sip, and enjoy a creative night out. As you paint, you’ll ease into the rhythm of the brush, letting go of the day and enjoying the process as much as the finished piece.
Whether you’re new to painting or have some experience, you’ll feel right at home. Local artists Sandie Bacon and Lezlie Lenz guide you step by step, offering tips and encouragement while leaving room for your personal style.
By the end of the evening, you’ll head home with your own lighthouse painting – a peaceful reminder of a night well spent.

Local Event: Palette & Pours: Paint Your Pet

Palette & Pours: Paint Your Pet

Settle in for Palette & Pours – a relaxed, adults-only painting class where creativity and connection come easy. In this...

<h3>Festive Holiday Crafting</h3>
Get into the holiday spirit with a fun and creative morning of festive crafting! Make two beautiful handmade decorations to bring warmth and color to your home all season long.
Start by creating a charming wooden centerpiece for your holiday table. Fill it with fresh seasonal greens and add your own creative touches. The finished centerpiece holds a candle and makes a beautiful addition to your holiday décor. You can also give it as a thoughtful handmade gift.
Next, create a luxurious velvet chain garland in rich, vibrant colors. Choose a style that fits your holiday décor and add a festive touch to your mantel, staircase, doorway, or another favorite space.
This workshop offers a relaxed and creative way to celebrate the season. Follow along with easy guidance, enjoy time with fellow makers, and have fun bringing your ideas to life.
No experience is needed, and we provide all materials. Just bring your holiday spirit and creativity! Leave with two beautiful decorations you can enjoy throughout the winter.
Louise is an Irish textile designer with over 30 years of experience in the fabric world. A self-proclaimed textile guru, she loves creating, teaching, and sharing the creative process with others. Always learning and exploring new ideas, Louise is passionate about inspiring others to discover the joy of textiles and creativity.

Local Event: Holiday Crafting: Centerpiece and Velvet Garland

Holiday Crafting: Centerpiece and Velvet Garland

Festive Holiday Crafting
Get into the holiday spirit with a fun and creative morning of festive crafting! Make two beautiful...

December can feel like a whirlwind. Between shopping, decorating, gatherings, and endless to-do lists, it’s easy to lose sight of what makes the holiday season special. The Festive Season Reset workshop invites you to slow down, reset, and make more room for joy, peace, and connection.
Instead of creating another traditional holiday checklist, you’ll make a list with no shopping and no chores. This list focuses entirely on you. What brings you joy and helps you feel peaceful? What traditions make the season meaningful? Are there things you can do to bring more lightness and intention into your December?
Through guided reflection, you’ll discover simple ways to create a holiday season that feels fulfilling rather than overwhelming. You’ll identify the moments, experiences, and practices that help you feel present and connected.
Then, take time to recharge. Practice guided meditations designed to encourage serenity and restore your energy. Explore gentle energy work that can help settle your nervous system and bring a greater sense of calm. Give yourself permission to step away from the holiday rush and focus on how you want to feel this season.
You’ll leave feeling refreshed, peaceful, and ready to approach December with a new perspective. Carry that sense of calm into your celebrations, traditions, and everyday moments.
After all, the Christmas tree lights shouldn’t be the only things sparkling this holiday season!

Local Event: Festive Season Reset Workshop

Festive Season Reset Workshop

December can feel like a whirlwind. Between shopping, decorating, gatherings, and endless to-do lists, it’s easy to lose sight...

Come sing with us at this all-ages Holiday Classics sing led by Bill Vaananen. This special Sing at Gorton gathering brings people together through songs we know and love. And, just this month, we will meet on a Saturday afternoon.
First, we’ll warm up! Next, we will sing a selection of familiar holiday favorites.&nbsp; No experience is necessary, and there’s no future commitment – just a chance to share music in a welcoming, low-pressure setting.
The event runs about 45–60 minutes, followed by time to connect. And, this month, we are also going to try to offer an optional add-on time to go carol at a community organization following the SING.

Local Event: Sing at Gorton - Holiday Classics with Mr. V 

Sing at Gorton - Holiday Classics with Mr. V 

Come sing with us at this all-ages Holiday Classics sing led by Bill Vaananen. This special Sing at Gorton gathering brings...

<h3>A fresh take on holiday comedy.</h3>
The Second City returns to Gorton Center. And they’re bringing their Nut-Cracking Holiday Revue.
It’s festive. It’s playful. And it’s full of surprises.
<h3>First, the fun.</h3>
This lively show blends sketch comedy, improv, and music. As a result, every performance feels a little different.
You’ll see quick, clever scenes. You’ll hear original songs. And you’ll experience the kind of humor that feels both timely and familiar.
<h3>Then, the twist.</h3>
Because the holidays aren’t always picture-perfect.
They’re joyful. But they’re also busy. And sometimes overwhelming.
That’s where The Second City shines.
They take everyday holiday moments—family gatherings, shopping stress, travel plans—and turn them into something funny. And relatable.
<img src="https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Second-City-Holiday-Revue-300x73.png" alt="A collage of 3 images from the Second City's Nut Cracking Revue: The first image on the left has a group of 6 people with instruments and wearing Santa hats. They are seated on stools or standing together on stage. The next image features 3 women dressed as elves and singing with microphones and looking into the camera. The third and final image is of a a scene containing two men and two women. One of the women appears to be leaping in the air to catch remove one of the mens top hats. The other man and woman are standing in a doorway with looks of shock on their faces." srcset="https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Second-City-Holiday-Revue-300x73.png 300w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Second-City-Holiday-Revue-1024x249.png 1024w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Second-City-Holiday-Revue-768x187.png 768w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Second-City-Holiday-Revue-150x36.png 150w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Second-City-Holiday-Revue-480x117.png 480w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Second-City-Holiday-Revue-800x194.png 800w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Second-City-Holiday-Revue-600x146.png 600w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Second-City-Holiday-Revue.png 1400w">
<h3>What makes it special.</h3>
The Second City has been a leader in comedy for decades. In fact, many well-known performers got their start on its stages.
So, you can expect sharp writing. Strong performances. And confident, quick-thinking performers who know how to connect with an audience.
<h3>A night to enjoy together.</h3>
This is a great night out with friends. Or a fun date. Or simply a chance to take a break during a busy season.
So, start your evening with dinner nearby. Then, head to Gorton and settle in.
Laugh a little. Relax a little. And enjoy something different.
<h3>Join us.</h3>
The holidays go by quickly. So take a moment to enjoy them.
This show is a chance to do just that—with humor, energy, and a fresh perspective.
<hr>
Tickets are on sale now. Plan ahead and reserve your seats.
This show may contain content for mature audiences.

Local Event: The Second City's Nut-Cracking Holiday Revue

The Second City's Nut-Cracking Holiday Revue

A fresh take on holiday comedy.
The Second City returns to Gorton Center. And they’re bringing their Nut-Cracking Holiday...

As we close out 2026, come create your&nbsp;own utopian “world” with this 2D drawing project.
How do you imagine your future world?&nbsp;&nbsp;How would you like to see the planet exist?&nbsp;&nbsp;What makes it your “perfect world?” &nbsp;Reflect on these questions and leave with a fun drawing!
All supplies provided. &nbsp;Ages 11+
<img src="https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/LewisSnowGlobe-237x300.jpeg" alt="LewisSnowGlobe" srcset="https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/LewisSnowGlobe-237x300.jpeg 237w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/LewisSnowGlobe-808x1024.jpeg 808w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/LewisSnowGlobe-768x973.jpeg 768w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/LewisSnowGlobe-1212x1536.jpeg 1212w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/LewisSnowGlobe-1616x2048.jpeg 1616w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/LewisSnowGlobe-59x75.jpeg 59w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/LewisSnowGlobe-480x608.jpeg 480w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/LewisSnowGlobe-800x1014.jpeg 800w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/LewisSnowGlobe-290x367.jpeg 290w, https://gortoncenter.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/LewisSnowGlobe-scaled.jpeg 2020w">
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.

Local Event: Art Impact Project: Snow Globe

Art Impact Project: Snow Globe

As we close out 2026, come create your own utopian “world” with this 2D drawing project.
How do you imagine your future...

Get into the holiday spirit with a fun and creative wet felting workshop! Children ages 9–12 will explore the colorful world of wool while learning the basics of wet felting. First, they’ll discover how soft wool fibers can be layered and shaped. Then, with a little water, soap, and hands-on creativity, they’ll transform the fibers into a festive accessory of their own.
Each child can choose to make a beautiful brooch or a colorful hair tie. Along the way, they’ll experiment with colors, textures, and designs to make their project truly unique. Plus, they’ll learn a new craft in a relaxed and encouraging setting.
At the end of the workshop, everyone will take home a one-of-a-kind handmade accessory. Wear it throughout the holiday season or wrap it up as a special Christmas gift for someone you love!
No previous felting experience is needed. All skill levels are welcome, and all materials are included. Just bring your creativity and get ready for some festive crafting fun!
Ages 9 – 12

Local Event: Christmas Wet Felting Workshop

Christmas Wet Felting Workshop

Get into the holiday spirit with a fun and creative wet felting workshop! Children ages 9–12 will explore the colorful world of...

A festive, holiday-inspired candle-making art social centered around creativity, connection, and the Season of Giving. Participants will explore candle-making and seasonal design while creating personalized candles inspired by the colors, scents, and spirit of the holiday season.
Ages 10+

Local Event: Candle Making Season of Giving with Dandelion Gallery & Studio

Candle Making Season of Giving with Dandelion...

A festive, holiday-inspired candle-making art social centered around creativity, connection, and the Season of Giving....

Candle Making Season of Giving with Dandelion Gallery & Studio

<h3>Jo Ann Daugherty Jazz Trio</h3>
The holidays deserve a little swing.
This December, Rendezvous Arts welcomes Jo Ann Daugherty and her trio for an evening of jazz that feels like exactly what we need at this time of year: warm, joyful, sophisticated, and just a little bit glamorous.
Jo Ann is one of those musicians who seems completely at home wherever there’s a piano. She has performed at the Chicago Jazz Festival, New York’s Dizzy’s Club and Smoke, the Havana Jazz Festival, and Jazz at Lincoln Center Shanghai. She has appeared at the Kennedy Center, performed for NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert with SIX The Musical, and conducted major touring productions including Jersey Boys, Motown: The Musical, and SIX.
But for Rendezvous, we get Jo Ann where we love her best: at the piano, leading an intimate jazz trio with Joshua Ramos on bass and Ryan Bennett on drums.
Expect an evening filled with beautiful melodies, irresistible grooves, plenty of personality, and a few seasonal surprises along the way. This is holiday music without the fuss, played by three extraordinary musicians who know how to make a room come alive.
Come settle in, raise a glass, and let Jo Ann and the trio put a little more joy into your December.
Good friends. Great jazz. Holiday spirit. We’ll take all three.
We are especially grateful to the Saints Foundation for their generous donation of a Steinway grand piano for our Chicago performance. Their support lets Jo Ann and the trio bring this program to life on an extraordinary instrument, and we couldn’t be more excited to share that experience with our audience.&nbsp;

Local Event: Rendezvous Arts: Jo Ann Daugherty Jazz Trio

Rendezvous Arts: Jo Ann Daugherty Jazz Trio

Jo Ann Daugherty Jazz Trio
The holidays deserve a little swing.
This December, Rendezvous Arts welcomes Jo Ann Daugherty and...

Make this holiday season extra merry with a workshop filled with creativity, laughter, and hands-on fun! In this festive class, kids ages 7–12 will dive into the joy of artmaking while creating their very own set of holiday treasures. Each child will design three handcrafted ornaments and a personalized gift tag. These projects are perfect for decorating a tree, adding charm to holiday décor, or gifting to someone special. Every piece will carry the warmth of their imagination and the pride of being made by hand.
During the workshop, children will explore a variety of artistic techniques. They’ll paint, cut, collage, and experiment with mixed media. They’ll also see inspiring examples of ornament styles and design ideas. These samples are meant to spark creativity, not limit it. With plenty of choices, every child will have the freedom to put their own unique spin on each project. The result is artwork that feels personal, meaningful, and one-of-a-kind.
This is a guided experience, but it is never rigid. Our instructor encourages play, exploration, and confidence-building. Kids are free to try new ideas, combine different materials, and express their individual style. Because all supplies are included, families don’t need to bring anything except energy and holiday cheer. And best of all, no prior art experience is necessary. Beginners are welcome, and every participant will leave with projects they can feel proud of.
Most importantly, the workshop isn’t just about the final ornaments – it’s about the joyful process of creating. Kids will share in the spirit of the season, make memories, and build keepsakes that will last for years. This holiday class is more than an art activity. It’s a chance to celebrate together, to embrace imagination, and to make the holidays shine a little brighter.
Ages 7 – 12

Local Event: Kids’ Art: Ornaments & Gift Tags

Kids’ Art: Ornaments & Gift Tags

Make this holiday season extra merry with a workshop filled with creativity, laughter, and hands-on fun! In this festive class,...

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Posting Activity

Art Impact Project: I Am Thankful For...

NOV

10

6:00 PM

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

Felted Bookmark Workshop

NOV

12

5:00 PM

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

Between the Pages: Artist Book Workshop

NOV

12

6:30 PM

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

Dry Clay Flower Sculpture with Dandelion Gallery & Studio

NOV

13

5:30 PM

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

Rendezvous Arts: Noiś Saxophone Quartet

NOV

13

7:00 PM

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

Accelerated Reiki Levels I & II

NOV

14

10:00 AM

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

Line It Up Line Dancing

NOV

20

7:00 PM

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

Planes, Trains, and Automobiles

NOV

23

7:00 PM

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

Home Alone

NOV

27

1:00 PM

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

Holiday Felt Ornaments

DEC

1

5:00 PM

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

Palette & Pours: Paint Your Pet

DEC

4

7:00 PM

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

Holiday Crafting: Centerpiece and Velvet Garland

DEC

5

9:00 AM

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

Festive Season Reset Workshop

DEC

5

10:00 AM

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

Sing at Gorton - Holiday Classics with Mr. V

DEC

5

2:00 PM

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

The Second City's Nut-Cracking Holiday Revue

DEC

5

7:30 PM

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

Art Impact Project: Snow Globe