Apr 25 Thursday
Best known as the star and executive producer of the hit series, THE CARBONARO EFFECT on truTV, Michael Carbonaro has also made frequent television appearances in shows such as Happily Divorced, 30 Rock, Grey’s Anatomy, and CSI Miami. A performing magician since his youth, Carbonaro went on to study experimental theater at New York University with aspirations of entertaining audiences through a variety of theatrical mediums, including hidden-camera magic, which he later showcased frequently on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.”
Following Carbonaro’s frequent late-night appearances, Michael launches his hit comedic series, “The Carbonaro Effect,” which has run for over 100 episodes on truTV and currently airs on Max and in syndication worldwide. In this series, Michael performs inventive tricks on unsuspecting members of the public who are unaware that he is a magician. Jaws drop when he causes a car to disappear from under a security guard’s nose or makes alien crabs transform into kittens in a science lab. Whether posing as a coffee shop barista, museum curator, or seemingly unremarkable store clerk in the REAL world, Carbonaro's illusions – along with his absurd, matter-of-fact explanations – leave REAL people bewildered and families at home laughing out loud.
In 2016 Michael embarked on his first theater tour with the widely acclaimed show “Michael Carbonaro Live!” and launched is current live show “Carbonaro: Lies on Stage” in 2021. Playing to over 200 thrilled audiences across the country, Michael continues to showcase his unmatched blend of humor and charisma along with inventive illusions which amaze audiences of all ages, cementing himself as one of the most dynamic entertainers of his generation.
Apr 26 Friday
Every spring, the invasive plant garlic mustard emerges across our local nature preserves in large numbers. If left unchecked, this weed can change soil chemistry, overtake the forest's understory, and diminish the beautiful display of native ephemeral wildflowers. With your help, the forest understory will be filled with a diverse mix of plants that provide food and shelter to abundant wildlife.
For this year’s effort, NICHES Land Trust will be hosting a series of garlic mustard pulling shifts at local nature preserves within a 10-50 minute drive of Lafayette. This is our organization's single biggest annual volunteer push; if we can manage to fill every volunteer shift it will provide over a thousand volunteer hours during a critically important stewardship window. Please check out our shift dates/locations and sign-up by clicking the link below.All volunteers who register for 2 or more pulling shifts before the end of March will receive this years 'War of the Weeds' T-shirt featuring our top secret garlic mustard pesto recipe on the back!
Sign up to Volunteer Here: https://bit.ly/2024waroftheweeds
Apr 27 Saturday
Apr 28 Sunday
May 03 Friday
May 04 Saturday
Only 1 hour from most suburbsCOME ALONG ON OUR KAYAK TOURS AT THE #1 STATE PARK IN THE MIDWEST REGION WITH 18 CANYONS AND TOWERING ST PETERS SANDSTONE BLUFFSEvery Saturday/Sunday and Holidays 9am, 10am, 11am, 12pm,1pm,2pmCOME WITH US & SEE WHAT HIKERS CAN’T SEE!Looking for an unforgettable adventure that combines the thrill of kayaking with the stunning natural beauty of Starved Rock? Look no further than our guided kayak tour! With expert guides to lead the way, you’ll paddle through pristine waters and marvel at breathtaking rock formations as you soak up the sights and sounds of one of Illinois’ most beloved state parks. Whether you’re a seasoned kayaker or a first-time paddler, this tour is an experience you won’t soon forget. So why wait? Book your spot now and get ready to discover the hidden gems of Starved Rock from a whole new perspective!This starved rock tour is not to be missed! Come see Towering St. Peter’s Sandstone Bluffs, soaring Bald Eagles, Pelicans and beautiful Lotus flowers. Our Tour guides will dazzle you with educational points about the area and entertaining tips. If you have been to this wonderful state park you know how beautiful it is. With its majestic St. Peters sandstone bluffs towering over the Illinois river to the canyons carved out deep along the shore line this state park has been consistently rated #1 in Illinois with over 3million visitors a year. For this kayak tour we will be kayaking for approx. 2 hours. The views from your kayak are amazing!Exploring Kayaking and Camping Adventures near ChicagoDiscover Premier Kayaking ExperiencesEmbark on an unforgettable kayaking adventure near Chicago with our high-quality single Perception Carolina 12ft & 14ft touring kayaks.Guided Kayak Tours for Enhanced ExplorationEnhance your kayaking experience with our guided kayak tours, available every Saturday, Sunday, and holidays. These tours offer comprehensive instruction and safety lessons before setting out on the water. Our knowledgeable guides lead small groups to explore the scenic beauty of Chicago’s sandy shores, ensuring a memorable adventure for all participants.Flexible Kayak RentalsFor those seeking independent exploration, kayak rentals are available seven days a week from May 1st to Labor Day. Weekends April, Sept and Oct. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, our fleet of kayaks caters to all skill levels, providing the perfect opportunity to discover the wonders of Chicago from a unique perspective.Immerse Yourself in Nature with CampingUnwind and recharge after your kayaking adventures with our waterfront camping options along the Illinois River, directly across from Starved Rock State Park. Choose from tent camping, pop-up camping, or tear-drop camping at our Starved Rock location, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding natural landscape.Seamless Integration of Kayaking and CampingExperience the perfect blend of outdoor activities by bringing your own kayak for use on the river. Our kayak-friendly campground ensures that campers can seamlessly transition from exploring the waterways to relaxing under the stars. Please note that all individuals launching from our locations must wear a PFD (life jacket).Accessible Day Trips for Non-CampersFor those interested in a day of kayaking without camping or renting equipment, our location offers convenient access with a $10 launch fee. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer to kayaking, our facilities provide everything you need for a memorable outdoor adventure near Chicago.