11.20.2025

Good morning, Naperville! Fun fact for you today. We’re fortunate to have three local public libraries available here in Naperville, the oldest of which is the Nichols Library, which opened in 1986. The original Nichols Library, however, was opened on September 22, 1898 at 110 S Washington St. That building still remains today as the Gia Mia restaurant.

In this week’s Niche…

• 99th percentile state ranking for district 203

• Holiday parade of lights

• Gratitude scavenger hunt

Here we go!

-Elrie & Carly

📰 The Digest

🍎 Naperville schools remain on top! District 203 was recently recognized at the top of the class in the recent 2025 Illinois report card. This district scored in the 99th percentile. Six elementary schools were recognized in the top tier with none of the remaining falling below the second “commendable tier”. A big shoutout to all of the educators making it happen. Thank you for all that you do!

🚲️ After extended review, the Naperville Park District has made public, a $55.2 Million budget proposal for the 2026 fiscal year. The resolution is expected to reflect a 5% increase from the year prior. The majority of the budget will be allocated to maintaining daily operations, while the remaining funds are slated to be applied to capital improvements and servicing previously issued debts.

📍Naper Now

🍞 Covid may be behind us, but sourdough? Not so fast! Far from a baked goods connoisseur myself, I’ve pondered baking bread at home more than once. If you’re in the same boat, here’s your chance to level up. The Wilton Sweet studio is hosting a Master Bread Baking Course. They’ll provide you with the tools and knowledge to bake fresh bread at home. This one is coming up tomorrow, so if you’re looking for a fun Friday morning activity, check it out here. - 11/21 @ 9am

🎄 Head to Downtown Naperville for the annual Rotary Club Holiday Parade of Lights. The parade travels through the heart of downtown, starting at Centennial Beach and ending at Naper School. - 11/28 @ 7pm

🎅 Enjoy music orchestrated light shows, decorations galore and a 28-foot Christmas tree at Christmas at Cantigny. This year, they’ve added two new theme nights; A Wickedly Popular Christmas, and Lights, Camera, Action! Each will feature unique light shows and sound tracks. Food, drinks and poinsettia’s available as well! - 11/28 - 1/4

Just make sure your referral confirms on their end, and you’re good to go!

🏙️ Around Town

📆 Interested in sharing an event with us? Submit it here! 

🎨 Kids Corner

Thanksgiving Crafts to Go @ Warrenville Public Library (11/24) All day

School’s out and creativity is in! Swing by and pick up a fun craft kit for your kiddos to take home and enjoy. Each kit comes with everything they need for a simple, hands-on project that’s perfect for a cozy afternoon. Adult supervision is recommended. One craft kit per child while supplies last — so come early and get crafting!

Mini Masterpieces @ 95th St Library (11/25) at 11am

Settle in with your little one for gentle stories, playful songs, and sensory fun. During this special session, you’ll get to make a one-of-a-kind handprint or footprint keepsake that’s perfect to treasure or gift to a loved one. A cozy, creative moment made just for babies under age 2.

Kids Gratitude Scavenger Hunt @ Home

Looking for an activity to keep the kiddos entertained during those extra days off from school? Here’s a fun gratitude scavenger hunt printable for your little ones to do around the house!

Letters to Santa Mailbox @ Main & Jefferson (11/24 - 12/18)

Bring your Kids to drop off holiday wish lists at Santa’s Mailbox at the corner of Main & Jefferson. Santa and his magic elves will send a personalized reply! Be sure to include your child’s name and return address.

🐶 Furry Friend of the Week

Meet Max 🐾 a spirited Australian Shepherd mix who wants all the love for himself. Energetic, smart, and loyal, he’s looking for an active home where he can shine. If you’re ready for a devoted companion, Max is waiting!

Interested in adopting Max (or seeing more adoptable pets)? Visit here to learn more.

🎶 What’s Happenin’

• 11/21 Music Bingo @ the Naperville Tasting Room 7pm

• 11/21 Symphony Orchestra Fall Concert @ Wentz Hall 7:30pm

• 11/21 Thirsty Boots Trio @ Quigley’s Irish Pub 9pm

• 11/22 Vital Signs @ Frankie’s Blue Room 7pm

• 11/22 70’s-80’s-90’s Rock with Mike and Joe Live @ The Piazza 7:30pm

• 11/22 Windy City’s Dueling Piano’s @ Spartan Ale House 8pm

• 11/22 Early 2000’s Emo & Pop-punk @ Lennon’s 8pm

• 11/23 Sitcom Thanksgiving Trivia @ Tapville Social 6pm

• 11/26 Black Wednesday with Alt 101 @ Potter's Place 8pm

🌤️ The Niche Forecast: Week at a Glance

• Friday: ☁️ Cloudy, high 51°

• Saturday: 🌥️ Partly cloudy, high 53°

• Sunday: ☀️ Sunny, high 57°

• Monday: ☁️ Cloudy, high 55°

• Tuesday: 🌧️ Showers, high 52°

• Wednesday: 🌥️ Mostly cloudy, high 39°

• Thursday: 🌥️ Mostly cloudy, high 31°

Thanks for reading the Naperville Niche today. If you enjoyed, please share it with a friend!