2.26.2026

Good morning, Naperville! We hope your week is off to an amazing start. In case you weren’t deeply tuned into the Winter Olympics, the US closed it out with 12 gold medals and 33 overall. If you need an even more positive boost, check out Alysa Liu’s gold medal free skate performance. Coming from those of us that can barely make it around the rink it’s safe to say she put in the work for that one!

In this week’s Niche…

• City council explores additional affordable housing

• St. Paddy's 5k

• Safe sitter training

Here we go!

-Elrie & Carly

📰 The Digest

☀️ In case you missed our Summer camp guide, you can check it out here. Things are filling up quickly. If you’re involved in a camp that we don’t have listed, feel free to reply to this email and let us know!

🏀 Naperville Central girls basketball completed the season sweep of Naperville North with a 51-41 regional championship win in a spirited crosstown clash. Behind standout performances from Trinity Jones and Erin Hackett, plus timely defense and clutch shooting, the Redhawks pulled away after a competitive first half. The victory sends Central on to face Waubonsie Valley in Tuesday night’s sectional semifinal at East Aurora.

🛣️ Chicagoland may be bringing a little bit of European energy to an intersection near you. Long mocked in pop culture like The Simpsons, roundabouts are steadily gaining traction across Chicago’s suburbs as a safer, more efficient alternative to traditional intersections. The Illinois Department of Transportation has helped build about 30 statewide since 2005, with more planned, citing benefits like reduced severe crashes, lower emissions, and improved traffic flow.

🏘️ The Naperville City Council recently discussed exploring additional affordable housing tools and strategies to boost housing options in the community, though no final decisions were made. Council members reviewed current initiatives, including an affordable housing catalog and Naperville’s compliance with state affordable housing requirements. They also directed staff to study potential approaches like inclusionary zoning and learn from neighboring suburbs’ experiences. While progress has been made, several officials emphasized that the need for more attainable housing remains a priority going forward.

Looking to put your business in front of local readers? We’d love to help—get in touch here! 

📍Naper Now

🤣 Actor, comedian, and all-around entertainer Martin Short takes the stage for Comedy for Cancer, an unforgettable evening of personal stories, sharp wit, and laugh-out-loud moments, all in support of The H Foundation and its mission to fund life-saving cancer research, hosted by ABC7 meteorologist Cheryl Scott.

🍽️ Step into a one-of-a-kind four-course dining experience… completely blindfolded. Without your sense of sight, every bite becomes a surprise as you discover familiar flavors in totally unexpected ways. This chef-curated menu is designed to spark curiosity, conversation, and a whole new appreciation for the culinary arts while Dining in the Dark. 2/27-2/28

🏃 The 17th Annual Sunrise Rotary St. Paddy’s Day 5K kicks off on Saturday, March 14th through Downtown Naperville, presented with support from the West Suburban Irish. The race welcomes runners and walkers of all paces and St. Patrick’s Day costumes are highly encouraged! Proceeds from this community favorite benefit local charities focused on food, housing, and mental health services for youth and families, with lead support from Gerald Subaru and Naperville Running Company.

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

Gourmet Giggles: Cooking Class for Teens @ Alive Center (2/27)

Calling young chefs for a hands-on cooking series for ages 11-18, held every second and fourth Friday at the Alive Center. Each class features a guest chef or baker, teaches practical kitchen skills, and lets participants create and take home their own culinary treats!

Terrarium Workshop @ The Growing Place (2/27)

Create a tiny world together at this hands-on mini terrarium workshop! Kids will design their own mason jar garden with plants, substrates, and adorable figurines, all guided step-by-step by friendly instructors. All materials are included. For ages 6–12 with an adult.

Chords for Kids Concert @ Wentz Concert Hall (2/28)

Chords for Kids is a concert designed for children with special needs and their families. It is a judgment-free concert where parents do not need to worry about traditional concert etiquette. “Wigglers Welcomed” is the motto. The music at the concert includes “YMCA,” “SpongeBob SquarePants,” and the “Chicken Dance.” Audience members are encouraged to sing and dance along with the music.

Safe Sitter Session @ Naperville Safety Town (2/28)

Enroll your child ages 11-15 in the Safe Sitter certification class that teaches kids essential childcare and safety skills, including how to respond in emergencies and care for younger children responsibility. It is a great option for parents who want their child to feel prepared and confident before babysitting.

Buttercream Succulents Workshop @ The Wilton Sweet Studio (2/28)

Brighten up winter with this hands-on buttercream class designed for ages 12–17! Participants will learn how to pipe realistic buttercream succulents, experiment with color blending and texture techniques, and create a mini desert garden cupcake display. Each teen will take home six beautifully decorated succulent-themed cupcakes to enjoy or share. A creative (and delicious) way to beat the winter blues!

🐶 Furry Friend of the Week

Meet Dale 🐾 He is a sweet, affectionate, and energetic boy with a goofy personality that’s guaranteed to make you smile. He loves being around people and is always ready for playtime, walks, or just hanging out with his favorite humans.

With his playful spirit and loving heart, Dale would thrive in an active home where he can share lots of fun (and a little silliness). If you’re looking for a loyal buddy who will bring joy and laughter into your days, Dale might be your perfect match.

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

🎶 What’s Happenin’

• 2/27 Music Bingo @ Noon Whistle Brewing 7pm

• 2/27 Funny Fridays @ Lennon’s 8:30pm

• 2/27 Killer Buzz @ Quigley’s Irish Pub 9pm

• 2/28 The Sociables @ Two Brothers Roundhouse 8pm

• 2/28 Peach Jam @ The Venue 8pm

• 3/1 Power and Beauty @ Wentz Hall 4pm

• 3/1 Tinsley Ellis @ The Venue 7pm

• 3/3 2000’s Trivia @ 64 Wine Bar & Kitchen 7pm

• 3/5 Rock & Roll Bingo @ Freedom Brothers Pizzeria 7pm

• 3/5 The Chancers @ Quigley’s Irish Pub 8pm

🌤️ The Niche Forecast: Week at a Glance

• Friday: 🌥️ Partly cloudy, high 61°

• Saturday: ☁️ Cloudy, high 38°

• Sunday: 🌥️ Partly cloudy, high 31°

• Monday: 🌥️ Partly cloudy, high 37°

• Tuesday: ☁️ Mostly cloudy, high 43°

• Wednesday: 🌥️ Partly cloudy, high 44°

• Thursday: 🌧️ Rain showers, high 52°

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