Candyland Ball, shopping, new art museum exhibit and more: 9 things to do in Freeport

Kathi Edwards

Updated February 8, 2024 at 7:37 AM·4 min read

This weekend offers opportunities for you to get out with friends or a special loved one for music, shopping, an art exhibit at the Freeport Art Museum or the Candyland Ball at the Masonic Temple.

Here are nine things to do in the Freeport area this weekend.

An Evening of Jazz

What: Enjoy an evening of wonderful from Freeport's Jazz Alliance group.

When: 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Feb. 9

Where: The Wagner House, 1 E. Spring St., Suite 4338, Freeport

For more: 815-232-4408

Candyland Ball

What: Dress up and enjoy an evening of royalty and dancing. Limited space; pre-registration required.

When: 6 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 9

Where: Freeport Masonic Temple, 305 W. Stephenson St., Freeport

Cost: $16; $15 for residents

For more: 815-235-6114

(hUe)PHORIA: The Joy of Color Exhibit Opening

What: Solo show for Rockford artist Ingrid Hyde opens Feb. 9 and runs through March 9. The extensive solo show reveals her love of vibrant color and her joy in the imaginative act of painting. Ingrid has an exuberant, surrealist, pop sensibility.

When: 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 9

Where: Freeport Art Museum, 121 N. Harlem Ave., Freeport

For more: 815-235-9755

Pink Saturday

What: This Valentine's Day themed event features Bead Jeweled by Audrey, customized self-care boxes you create, mocktails, cocktails, plus swag bags and in-store specials throughout the event.

When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10

Where: Flair Boutique, 14 E. Stephenson St., Freeport

For more: 815-275-4281

Cedarville Fire Dept. Drive-Up

What: Open for drive-up orders until sold out. Meals include smoked pulled pork, smoked baked beans, coleslaw and dinner roll.

When: 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 10

Where: Cedarville Fire Protection District, 245 N. Stephenson St., Cedarville

Cost: $10 per meal

For more: 815-563-4338

Paws to Read

What: Visit the library and read a story to one of the sweet pups from Therapy Dogs International.

When: 11 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 10

Where: Freeport Public Library, 100 E. Douglas St., Freeport

Cost: Free

For more: 815-233-3000

Valentines Pop-Up Shop

What: The pop-up features local businesses showcasing their products. Food will be available for purchase.

When: 12 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10

Where: Generations Brewing, 1330 S. Adams Ave., Freeport

For more: 815-616-5941

Third Annual the Langley Co. Galentine’s Day

What: This will be a fun girls day to celebrate your love for your besties with shopping and unique Valentines themed make-and-takes.

When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10

Where: The Exchange, 223 S. Chicago Ave., Freeport

For more: The Langley Co. Galentine's Day on Facebook

Comedy Night

What: Comedy night will feature Xavier Lamont, Ray Wisbrock and Dana Norris. VIP seats available for a small fee.

When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10

Where: Eilert’s, 1100 W. Galena Ave., Freeport

Cost: No cover

For more: 815-235-5105

Coming next week:

Monday Murders Book Club: The Ice Princess by Camilla Lackberg

What: Come discuss The Ice Princess. Everyone welcome for this book group. No registration.

When: 1 to 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 12

Where: Boardroom, Freeport Public Library, 100 E. Douglas St., Freeport

Cost: Free

For more: dludwig@freeportpubliclibrary.org

Make it Monday: Valentine’s Wreaths

What: Each month, the library makes a different project you can take home. This month the library will be making Valentine's Wreaths.

When: 3:30 to 5 p.m. Monday, Feb. 12

Where: Youth Program Room, Freeport Public Library, 100 E. Douglas St., Freeport

For more: 815-233-3000

Lectures in American History: Josh Bost

What: Josh Bost, an instructor of Sociology at Freeport High School, will examine how the growing attachment to the automobile in the 1950s influenced the design and development of suburban life. Bost will examine the interplay between these various forces that have played a role in how we live, work and travel on a daily basis. No registration required.

When: 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 15

Where: Meeting Room, Freeport Public Library, 100 E. Douglas St., Freeport