Clean Up Churchill Park, Dive Into Reading, Get In Touch With Your Inner Pioneer

It's the weekend! Of course there's the usual fall things to do, like football—the Glenbard South Homecoming game is on Friday, by the way—and apple picking, if you don't mind traveling a bit.

But take a look at a few other opportunities to make the most of the next two days, right here in Glen Ellyn.

Saturday, Sept. 28

National Public Lands Day: This is a national event to improve and enhance public lands. Locally, adults and children are being asked to visit Churchill Park, 271 St. Charles Road, to lend a hand in removing non-native trees. For the younger kids, there will be a hike, scavenger hunt, story-telling and crafts. Be there at 9 a.m. sharp!

BookFest 2013: Headliners include New York Times best-selling author Ayana Mathis and children's author Matthew Cordell. But that's no even the half of it. Book signings, PitchFest and so much more at a variety of locations in Glen Ellyn. Click the link for all the details.

Sunday, Sept. 29

Tavern Day Celebration: The unofficial curator of all things strange about Glen Ellyn will present at Sunday's Tavern Day Celebration. "Uncle Jake" will tell spook tales at the pioneer-themed event, which will be held from 1 to 4:30 p.m. at Glen Ellyn History Center, 800 N. Main St. Marilyn Goodrich, an 85-year-old from Glen Ellyn, will bring dairy goats from her 11-acre property north of town. Also on hand for the first time will be Maggie the Electric Milking Cow. And kids can try pioneer chores or pioneer games and learn about stagecoach lines that once operated in the area.