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Winter is finally here, and we’re ready to kick back, relax, and immerse ourselves in the season with our favourite people.  What better way to enjoy your holiday breaks and winter vacations than taking a trip to the finest Ski and Snowboarding Resorts in the Midwest!  Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, looking for something exhilarating or some good ol’ fashioned family friendly fun, these four fantastic winter destinations in Illinois and Wisconsin are sure to capture your attention.  Check it out! more Four Fabulous Family-Friendly Resorts in Wisconsin and Illinois for Winter Fun Chestnut Mountain Resort in Galena, Illinois If you’re looking for family-friendly fun, this 220 acre park is a stellar option!  Skiers and winter sports enthusiasts of all skill levels are welcome here. There are lots of opportunities to enjoy professional instruction to learn the basics in skiing or snowboarding, so you won’t miss out on a thing.  There are 19 different ski-slopes to choose from, which means plenty of excitement and adrenaline for the seasoned skiing enthusiast. Elite snowboarders will rejoice to see the Farside Terrain Park offers more than 25 rails and different snow features to test your skills and tricks.  Don’t have your own gear? No problem! There is an available rental shop as well as the fantastic Mountainside Outfitters, host to all the hottest gear and brands. Feeling hungry? Stop by the wonderful restaurant called The Summit for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner for a diverse menu with locally sourced options. Ski Snowstar Winter Sports Park in Andalusia, Illinois There’s more family fun to be had in Illinois with a 28-acre terrain park, 15 ski lanes, and 11 snowtubing hills!  You can select group or individual lessons and can opt in for a package that includes equipment rentals as well; if you’ve got time to spare, there are also some fantastic Bunny & Kids camps to learn “boot camp” style, with a max of 30 students per class. There are also four very affordable eateries on site, allowing you to refuel between excursions so you can recharge: The Lodge, Peak’s Tavern, Fireside Lounge, Snack Shack.  The ski slopes offer 15 trails across 28 acres and a 790 foot summit for exhilarating downhill skiing and snowboarding. The snowboarding terrain offers numerous opportunities to test your abilities with tubes, wall rides, jumps and more! Cascade Mountain in Portage, Wisconsin This family owned and operated park (since 1977!) sprawls across 175 acres!  There’s a 900 foot long snow-tubing shoot, plus 48 trails for skiing and snowboarding. While this mountain does offer lessons, the slopes are best suited to the intermediate to advanced snowsports enthusiast, as many of the trails are quite challenging to navigate. For youth skiers with some experience, the mountain offers a Junior Racing program available to ages 6 through 18 where they can level up their skills.  However, beginners and the snowsports averse will rejoice to find they won’t get left behind in the powder – The brand new Polar Park area offers opportunities for sledding, snow angels, snowball fights, and other winter fun (and it’s the only area of the park where sledding is allowed!)  You can even rent a ski-in/ski-out cabin for the day that comfortably seats and heats up to 8 people for a break with your very own firepit and personal storage, perfect for lunch breaks with pals. Granite Peak in Wausau, Wisconsin This park is situated at the second-highest point in the state of Wisconsin, and has been a winter family favorite since the 1930s!  The park covers more than 200 acres and offers 2 terrain parks, 1 learning park, 7 lifts, and infinite opportunities for fun in the snow. Choose from one of the 68 trails available to all different skill levels and find the perfect winter sports experience tailored just for you.  And you simply must try the absolutely impressive 10,000 square foot Sundance Chalet, a restaurant offering Live Music, an outdoor deck, two immense fireplaces, 16 Midwest craft beer options, specialty signature cocktails, and 6 fire pits.  Stop by the bar for a cocktail and appetizer, explore full menu service at Apres Ski, or grab a pizza and some pretzels at The Patio Pizza Shack. If that’s not enough excitement, you can swing on to the downtown area of Wausau and explore farm to table restaurants, local cafes, craft breweries, local shopping, and more. Other wonderful winter sports resorts of note in the Midwest: Perfect North Slopes in Lawrenceberg, Indiana Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville, Michigan Mount Bohemia Ski in Mohawk, Michigan Pine Mountain Ski Resort in Iron Mountain, Michigan

Whether you’re a fan of hot chocolate with marshmallows or you prefer it via Peppermint Mocha lattes, there’s no wrong way to celebrate hot cocoa day!   We’re celebrating with another great gift guide, and we’ve got to say – these have been a lot of fun to assemble for you this year!  Today’s gift guide is all about the best travel mugs on the market for commuters and travelers to keep your iced coffee as cold as the Arctic and your cocoa as hot as the fires of Mordor. You’ll also find a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and price points to match just about every gift giving budget from frugal to splurges. more The Commuter Cup by Corkcicle is cupholder friendly, has a non-slip bottom, swiveling spill resistant lid, is ceramic coated for insulation and protective barrier from the stainless steel interior, and keeps your drinks hot for 5 hours.  We also love that it comes available in a wide range of colors to suit everyone on your gifting list! This LL Bean Insulated XL Mug comes in 6 different colorways to match your rugged outdoor gear. We love the leak resistant press fit lid, and the fact that its easy to hold handle is elevated high enough for it to still fit in most vehicle cupholders. Plus, it conveniently keeps your drinks hot or cold for up to 7 hours. The Owala Coffee Tumbler is an all-year option that keeps cold beverages chilled for up to 24hrs and hot beverages insulated for up to 6hrs. It is cupholder friendly, has a stainless steel interior, leakproof slider lid and splash-resistant lid. It is readily available in multiple color options. The Zojirushi Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Mug comes in more than a dozen colors and three convenient size options (12oz, 16oz, 20oz). It comes with an impressive 5 year warranty on heat retention, and keeps your drinks warm up to 5 or 6 hours. It’s also quite affordable and accessible via Amazon. The BurnOut Temperature Regulating Mug comes in two colors and 16oz capacity, and was designed by Rocket Scientists (literally!)  This engineered mug perfectly cools your hot drinks down to a drinkable temperature and maintains that temperature.  It’s got a springloaded lock button so you can text in one hand and open your coffee in the other, talk about convenience! It’s a great mid-range price point option. The GO Heated Mug by SmrtMugg is a budget-friendly rechargeable heated coffee mug comes in 5 different colors, offers a magnetic charge cable, can hold about 13 ounces, and keeps your drink in the perfect temperature zone for up to 90 minutes. If you’re looking to splurge on yourself or a special someone, we think the Ember Travel Mug 2+ is going to be the perfect choice. You can set your preferred heat level, and the battery operated heating element will keep your drink perfectly warmed to your specifications. The Ember App even allows you to adjust and monitor your beverage and remotely adjust the temperature as you see fit. Constantly losing your mug at home or in the office? This mug has even got its own Apple Find My tracking capability, so you’ll always know where your beverage is! It can’t be microwaved and must be hand washed, but we think the convenient trade off of a perfect temp beverage all day every day is worthwhile.

Today’s gift guide is all about stocking stuffers and budget-friendly gifting, perfect for all you last minute shoppers who like to cut it close to shipping deadlines. We’ve got great pocket-friendly tools, humorous themed gifts, and all sorts of fun goodies. Check it out on today’s blog! more First up on this list is the Multi-Function Tool with 4-in-1 safety kit by Carever. Includes a screwdriver, window breaker, seatbelt cutter, airbag needle punch and tire gauge. Under $10 and currently listed to arrive before the Christmas deadline via Amazon Prime. The Bug Eraser from Stoner Car Care provides 10 erasable wipes for all automotive services with non-abrasive materials.  Just add a few ounces of water, squish to suds, and you’re good to go! Makes a great stocking stuffer and envelope gift with your road-trip or travel tickets! This combination autumn/winter beanie plus LED headlamp is perfect for all those folks who just can’t stay out of the garage no matter how cold it gets. Comes in your choice of colors and available single or a 2-pack for your gifting convenience. Currently listed to arrive before the Christmas Deadline via Amazon Prime for under $20. Available in 2 different colors/patterns and clocking in under $30, the ThxToms LED Flashlight Gloves are another great gift for the year-round car enthusiast. They’ll be able to work on their project cars no matter the weather or time of day, thanks to insulated gloves and integrated LED lighting. Set to arrive about 7 days before the Christmas Deadline per Amazon Prime and available for less than $30. This universal socket wrench tool and Magnetic Ratchet Screwdriver set is the perfect addition for the person who “has everything”. It’s a handy travel-friendly set that can be used at home, on the road, or even on track days! Available under $30 on Amazon Prime and expected to arrive before the Christmas deadline. Whether they’re for a Secret Santa or family stocking stuffers, these socks are a whimsical and goofy gift that’s sure to bring a smile to their face. Available for under $10 and expected to arrive before the Christmas deadline on Amazon, these “I don’t snore, I dream  I'm a race car” socks are just the thing! The ASTROAI pocket pressure gauge digitally reads your tire pressure on cars, trucks, bicycles and more. Comes with a backlit LED and digital screen and presta valve adaptor, and your choice of colors. Available on Amazon under $20. Grab a Car Wash Kit bundle featuring a microfiber mitt and wash rags along with fantastic car-safe soaps, rinses, waxes, and finishing sprays or specialty sets of car wipes: This one from Chemical Guys is under $50. This one from Armor All is under $60. This trio of cleaning wipes preserves and cleans both the interior and exterior and is available under $25. This one from NuFinish for under $30 with optional Polish + Scratch Remover set additional. Most set to arrive before the Christmas shipping deadlines. For the mechanic who can’t help themselves and has to hoard all those car parts “just in case”, we’ve got just the thing. This “Just One More Car Part” t-shirt is available for under $25 and expected to arrive via Amazon Prime before the Christmas shipping deadline. Comes in your choice of colors and sizes for all genders. This portable battery booster is a convenient, pocket sized portable jump start kit. It’s an indispensable part of any driver’s emergency car kit. Having this quick jumpstart tool can remove the headaches and hassles of a secondary vehicle to get you back on the road.  Not only can they recharge your vehicle battery, but they can also charge and power your mobile devices or tools as well, making them great for travel and commuting! Options like the NOCO Genius1 clock in under $50, and are expected to arrive via Amazon Prime ahead of the Christmas deadline.

Are you still on the fence about what to get your gift list for the holidays? Well, we’ved scoured the internet for some more intentional gift giving ideas instead of the typical item in a box or gift bag. Today’s blog is all about giving your family and friends an experience to last a lifetime of memories!  Whether they dream of living life in the fast lane in a sleek sports car, wish they could become an expert in the culinary arts, or just want to get away from it all for a little R&R, we’ve got the perfect gift experience. Best of all, you needn’t go far to find it! All of the options on our list are right here in the midwest, some of them right here in our own backyard or a few hours drive at the furthest! more Gift an Experience in Wisconsin Give the charcuterie obsessed giftee an experience at Fromagination in Madison, WI. Book a public class from their events and workshop schedule, or request a private group lesson with friends by appointment. Learn about different types of cheeses, how to pair them with food and wine, how they’re made, and more. Book a ride-along experience for 3 laps in a spectacular supercar at the Milwaukee Mile Speedway! Participants can select from numerous cars including a Porsche, Corvette, Ferrari, Lamborghini, and more. It’ll be a once-in-a-lifetime thrill ride for any gearhead enthusiast! The Lamers Driving Experience is located in Neenah, WI and offers special events where drivers can take the track grouped by experience level and driving style. Have the chance to take your project car or street car into the race track and show ‘em what you’ve got! Request more info on their website. Get the adventure seeker in your life a unique experience of an e-bike tour!  You’ll drive on up to Door County til you reach Cave Point County Park in Wisconsin. Your tour guide will take you for a 2.5hr tour through the Cave Point Wilderness area to take in the scenic overlooks and cliffside views. Then they’ll bring you on a ride to one of the largest lakes in all of Door County, Clark Lake. It’s an exciting new way to see the places Gift an Experience in Illinois Take your family out for the afternoon and experience Chicago like never before. 360 Chicago offers panoramic views of Chicago and Lake Michigan from more than 1,000 feet above!  Enjoy a handcrafted cocktail at the Highest Bar in Chicago, engage in some thrills and chills with the TILT ride experience, and take in the sights around you as you explore the observation deck. Check the special events calendar and catch a special Sky Yoga or Cloudwalk Art Gallery experience! Bettie’s Chicago offers retro chic atmosphere and charming events and classes! Located in the River North area of Chicago, this whimsical location has a delightful selection of weekly baking classes, seasonal workshops, date night events, and more!  Plus, if you’re looking for allergen-friendly or dietary restriction friendly classes, there are gluten free and vegan options on their offerings, a rare occurrence to be celebrated!  You can even opt for a multi-day cooking class and learn basic baking and pastry techniques at these boot camps and intensives! Inject a little fun and excitement into your usual hiking routine with some fun furred friends. That’s right, Goat Trekking season passes are available at Hoof It in Galena. You’ll get a package of 12 different treks with one of their sweet goat pals and a bonfire experience for up to 4 people! Gift an Experience in Michigan Take a scenic ride around Motor City with Antique Touring Company in a charming antique car like a Studebaker, Packard, or Cadillac. You’ll get a 3hr private tour through the industrial district of Milwaukee Junction and learn about the Packard Plant, Ford Motor Company, specialty car companies, historic buildings, and become a scholar in automotive history.  Book your choice of car through their website. Gift the outdoor enthusiast a Kayak and Canoe trip with Crystal River Outfitters in Glen Arbor Michigan. Your trip will be around 2 to 3 hours long and take you just under 5 miles around Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. You’ll enjoy the views of the shoreline, the fresh air, and do some fantastic wildlife and bird watching as you paddle along. Try your hand at something a little old-school and traditional with a Letterpress Printing class at Signal Return Press and community center for art. Choose from a variety of classes like card making, print making, letterpress coasters, paper marbling, and more from independent creators and artists. Located in Detroit Michigan and open weekends. Let your creativity flow at Water Street Glassworks in Benton Harbor, Michigan. Attend a live demonstration with a seasoned professional metal worker or glass blowing artist, and then go ahead and try your own glass and metal arts class.  Craft unique decorations, stunning works of art and decor, and create memories to last a lifetime. Gift an Experience in Minnesota The Westin Edina Galleria in Edina, Minnesota offers an incredible selection of “Weekend Wonders” workshops and experiences. Book a family experience like a Ski Day, a curated Indoor Camping Experience, Private Bonfire and S’mores, or enjoy an adventurous day out Dog Sledding, Ice Climbing, and so much more. Lose yourself in serenity and spend a weekend resting and rejuvenating at the incredible Sisu and Loyly in Grand Marias, Minnesota. T his absolutely breathtaking lakeside spa offers a true Nordic experience with saunas, a cozy lounge, bonfire pit, and even a floating sauna experience along Devil Track Lake. Sign up for a yoga class, massage therapy session, winter wellness class, or other healing workshop or personal session at Ancient Traditions Healing in Grand Marais. Enjoy a day filled with earth-centered, integrative techniques designed to keep your mind centered, release your stresses, and craft a personalized healing experience as you put your body at ease.

Well, it’s certainly been quite the exciting year here at Classic Auto Group. We’re thankful for all of the friends we’ve made and new customers we’ve had the pleasure of helping find the perfect car!  It’s been a year of exciting events, heartwarming community care and donations, and we wouldn’t have had it any other way. We’re so excited to see what the next 12 months have in store for us, and can’t wait to ring in the New Year with all of you!  On today’s blog, we’re highlighting some wonderful local area celebrations in Lake County nearby for you and your favorite people to ring in 2025 together! Got an event to recommend to us? Leave us a comment on our social media to share your shindig! more 2025 New year art collage banner with halftone hands holding disco ball and cut out numbers. Trendy muted retro vector illustration. Let’s celebrate in style together, and usher in a brand new year full of possibilities, happiness, and boundless joy! First up on the list is hosted at the Lake County Fairgrounds and Events Center in Grayslake – The Radiance New Years Eve Featuring Rezz, Svdden Death, and more for an absolutely energetic concert with earth shaking music and stunning visuals. Happening Monday December 30th starting at 6PM and running into the early hours of Tuesday December 31st. Tuesday December 31st at 2PM and 10:30PM, come on out to the Marriot Theatre in Lincolnshire to enjoy Rockin’ New Year’s Eve with Nat Zegree and the Oh Boys. They’ll be performing a series of pop and classic rock hits to ring in the new year! For parents who want to ring in the new year with some peace and quiet after bed time can bring their kids to the December 31st early afternoon Noon Year’s Eve Party at the Waukegan Public Library for a kid-friendly daytime celebration! Kiddos will love participating in the activities, games, cheerful festive music, and their very own countdown to noon balloon drop! Tire out those kiddos with a follow up the Waukegan Noon Year’s Eve party with a late afternoon treat at the New Year’s Eve Family Party in Vernon Hills at the Vernon Hills Park District Sullivan Community Center from 4PM to 6:30PM! Ring in the new year with a special New Year’s Eve Dinner at the White Deer Run Golf Club in Vernon Hills on December 31st! Have an early New Year’s Eve celebration with special dishes at Singh’s Kitchen in Libertyville from 11AM to 10PM! American Place Casino of Waukegan is hosting a fantastic 2025 Oztacular New Year’s Eve Countdown Party! There will be live entertainment in the evening, special prizes, a midnight countdown, a chance to win up to $10,000, and so much more! Star the New Year off with an adrenaline rush at the Waukegan Municipal Beach for the 26th Annual Waukegan Polar Bear Plunge from 10AM to 11AM. You can preregister for $20 per polar plunger online or in person at the Field House Sports, Fitness and Aquatics Center. The first 400 participants receive a special commemorative tee! Check back later this month for even more fantastic and festive ideas for New Year’s Eve/Day Celebrations!

Welcome to another edition of Classic’s Automotive Terminology, Since buying a car isn't part of our daily or weekly lives, most people aren't familiar with all the terminology, and that’s where we come in! We help you learn the ins-and-outs of the industry lingo so you can navigate conversations with pro mechanics, automotive enthusiasts, and become an all-around more educated car owner. Today, we’re going to be talking about blind spots and the safety features in modern day cars that help us increase visibility while driving. more The Basics: What is a blind spot and blind spot detection Blind spot An area behind and to the side of a vehicle that is hard to see in either the side or rear view mirrors. Blind spot areas vary from vehicle to vehicle depending on make, model, size, and type. Blind spot detection An electronic system that warns you when there are other cars or motorcycles or objects in your blind spot, especially used when changing lanes, merging, or turning. Where are the potential blind spots in a vehicle? Certain elements of your vehicle’s interior construction may provide a structural component to create blind spot and skew visibility. This can include the A-Pillars, B-Pillars, C-Pillars, Roof Supports, Headrests, Infotainment screens, and overall body shape of the vehicle itself. Larger vehicles such as Trucks and SUVs are more often subject to blind spots than smaller cars like sedans. The mirrors offer views around and behind the vehicle but can sometimes be limited to a narrow field of vision in rear corners. A driver’s personal seating position may also affect accessibility and visibility, as well as limiting factors such as issues with peripheral vision or even the common issue of requiring prescription glasses or contact lenses for corrective vision. What technology or tools exist to mitigate blind spots while driving? If you’re driving a large truck or SUV, you may be able to add an additional mirror on each side of the hood or on top of your sideview mirrors. For smaller vehicles, you can add a little blind spot mirror stick-on to your side view mirrors. Additionally, you can purchase an extended length rear view mirror. You can also remove the center middle-seat head rest from any backseat or center row seating to help increase your field of vision. The addition of rear backup cameras, 360 degree cameras, and wide-angle side-view mirrors can significantly improve visibility and reduce accidents or damage from blindspots. Most modern automotive companies have now employed their own personalized systems of blind spot monitoring and lane keeping assistance. The onboard computer will use a series of cameras and LIDAR systems placed all around the vehicle to monitor for cars, motorcycles, pedestrians, and obstructions on the roadway. Your vehicle will then provide an audible and/or visual alert through the infotainment system or alarms to alert you to danger. In many vehicles, this system is always passively monitoring, but can become specifically activated by utilizing the turn signals. How do we use our vehicle’s mirrors to reduce the dangers of blind spots while on the road? We’ve all had a moment where we thought the coast was clear, only to realize while merging that a vehicle was in our blind spot!  Did you know that you can avoid incidences like this by properly adjusting your mirrors?  Let us break it down for you! This method was first documented in the early 1990s by George Platzer in a research paper published and presented to the Society of Automotive Engineers. Thanks to his efforts and research many automotive manufacturers have utilized his calculations to improve side mirrors, reduce blind spots, and help create a blind spot monitoring system. To properly adjust your driver’s side mirror, sit behind the wheel and place your head on the driver’s window.  Look at the mirror and adjust it so it faces outwards until you can see the adjacent lane on the road and only a small portion of the vehicle’s back end.  To properly adjust the passenger-side mirrors, lean to the right so that your head is just above the vehicle center console. Look into your right-side mirror and adjust it until you can only see part of your vehicle. To adjust your rearview mirror with the most accurate vision, ensure that you cannot see the vehicle’s ceiling, backseat, or any of your face. You should be able to see clearly centered through the back window. Remember to adjust your mirrors each time you get into your vehicle, especially after someone else has been behind the wheel. Even with properly adjusted mirrors, it’s always a good idea to employ the “SMOG” technique. This stands for Signal, Mirror, over the shoulder, and Go.  This means you should utilize your turn signals, pause and check the mirrors, and then double check by physically turning your head and body to look over into the space you’d like to move into. You can also then verify the path is clear by utilizing your vehicle’s on-board cameras and technology for an assist, and turn into the lane or merge.

Winter is coming! With the official start of winter just around the corner, and temperatures already dipping low, it’s good to be prepared for the inevitable pending ice and snow. Today’s post is all about essential and clever snow/ice gear to help keep you safe on the road. more Plus, these are great gifts for just about anyone on your holiday list! Your coworkers will appreciate gear they can use to get the cars cleared to finally get home after a long day at work.  New drivers will feel anxiety relief knowing they can easily improve visibility for driving in inclement weather. Yes, even the car enthusiast who “has it all” will always appreciate an extra pair of ice scrapers/brushes and an emergency portable snow shovel. So let’s take a look at some of the hottest picks for snow and ice removal and safety gear for drivers. First up on the list is this convenient 9 inch aluminum snow shovel with adjustable aluminum handle from BirdRock. Available currently on sale for less than $35 at Lowes, this is a great option for the commuter or winter travel enthusiast. Stay prepared for any weather emergency with this roadside kit designed to combat all the elements. Available for under $100 via Blackwater Bay Mercantile and produced by AAA, the AAA Severe Weather Road Kit has all the essentials to keep you and your passengers safe and warm in inclement weather emergencies. Get out of a sticky situation like slush, ice, and mud with a bucket of Traction Magic from Ace Hardware for under $50! Made of volcanic rock and minerals this traction control agent allows your tires to find purchase in less than ideal road conditions. Plus, it’s pet safe and 100% natural, making it a great option for driveways and walkways, too! These foldable emergency tire traction pads will help give your wheels better grip with lightweight, easy to stow and carry convenience. They adjust in length and angle so you can adjust to whatever roadway you’re on. Traction grip aids and a special hexagonal honeycomb structure may help increase friction and traction. Plus, they’re made of durable materials and built to last for use again and again. The AutoSock helps keep your tires firmly planted on the roadway and provide firm traction and grip. No matter if you drive a car, truck, SUV or otherwise, the size can be customized to fit an impressive 98% of the tires on the market!  Enter your width, profile and diameter to find the perfect fit on their official site. The ZoneTech Tire Snow Chains provide all-season anti-skid protection for Cars, SUVs, and Pick-Up Trucks, and provide strong grip and aid in traction function on sand, mud, snow, ice, or other unexpected terrain.  They are constructed out of premium steel and aluminum alloy for superior strength and durability. A great budget friendly option under $50! This solar and kinetic energy powered defroster tool works with the sun’s energy for an eco-friendly tool to assist in frost, ice, and snow removal.  The built-in solar panels absorb the light while your car is parked and helps it emit warmth for fuel-free heating power. It even works on cloudy days!  It’ll make removing exterior wintry muck a breeze. Plus, it comes in four colors and is priced under $30! This convenient and clever heated ice scraper from Sharper Image plugs into the 12V DC outlet and features an extra long 11.5 foot cord and 17” extendable handle for convenience. It also has a built-in LED light for added help for night time snow removal. Of course, you can’t go wrong with a De-Icer spray like this option from RainX Brand with Quick Melting Action or this option from CRC Ice-Off Spray. This Winter Road Warrior Emergency Kit from Ten Below is a little pricey, but you can’t beat it for the value. It includes a heavy duty gear bag, reflective warnings, a folding snow shovel, hi-vis blanket and vest, tow rope with 6500lb capacity, flat tire fixer, jumper cables, and more. It’s under $150, and a great option considering it’s jampacked with literally everything you could need in a winter weather emergency minus the emergency professionals themselves!

Winter break is almost upon us, and we’re here with some suggestions on some great midwest getaways for a week or weekend trip. We bet you’ll recognize some of the destinations on this list as your favorite seaside towns and summertime hotspots, but rest assured the fun doesn’t stop just because the temps drop. There’s still plenty of fun to be had in the great outdoors and along those glistening shores, even if the weather is chilly and the snow is falling.  Check out our suggestions and book your stay to enjoy a winter escape from the city and suburbs!  These three fabulous destinations are a frosty paradise away from home, just waiting for you to embark on your next adventure. more Grand Marais, Minnesota - This lakeside town on the shore of Lake Superior transforms from summer haven to a stunning winter wonderland in the colder months.  You’ll find plenty of adventure and excitement to be had while chasing frozen waterfalls, winter hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing at the gorgeous state parks just a short drive away like Grand Portage State Park, Judge C.R. Magney State Park, Cascade River State Park, Gooseberry Falls State Park. Plus you can also stop by the shores of Lake Superior and look at the incredible ice stacks or go ice fishing. Silver Dollar City leans into the season’s festivities by hosting “An Old Time Christmas” with 6.5 million holiday lights, a Christmas in Midtown Light Spectacular, Rudolph’s HOlly Jolly Christmas Light Parade, and more.  The Promised Land Zoo offers an incredible “Let There Be Light” Drive-Thru Holiday Lights display. Just 30 minutes outside of the area is the Points Unknown group, offering unique and exciting Dog Sledding Experiences. Two Harbors, Minnesota - This picturesque area along the North Shore is a winter enthusiasts dream, with quaint and cozy lodgings and a peaceful snowscape. Take a tour through the coastal area and admire the glistening ice stacks along Brighton Beach.  Catch a spectacular sunrise over the snow-covered shores of Burlington Bay Beach. Don’t miss the Two Harbors Lighthouse, nestled on a rocky point in between Agate and Burlington Bays on the waters of Lake Superior.  Winter hiking, walking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing are popular pastimes for visitors in areas like Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, Jay Cooke State Park, Iona’s Beach Scientific and Natural Area, and Tettegouche State Park. It offers a much-needed respite from the busy suburban area and urban cityscape. Empire, Michigan - Located on the Northwest side of Lake Michigan, this area is home to some of the most beautiful views on all of Lake Michigan, and especially in Sleeping Bear Dunes State Park. While the park is an extremely popular Summer destination, it transforms into a peaceful, snow-blanketed natural area for some much needed calm, quiet reflection. This massive 72,000 acre park has a wide swathe of remote wilderness regions as well as well-groomed paths and trails, so no matter what your level of exploration and adventure, you’ll find something to light that spark!  The Dune Climb offers fantastic sledding and good ol’ fashioned fun for kids and families (goggles and helmets are recommended due to velocity!) There are also plenty of chances to enjoy winter hiking, nature photography, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing at places like Pierce Stocking Drive, Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, and Shauger Hill Trail. Of course there’s also plenty of fun for night owls, too, since the sun sets much earlier during winter, and affords you beautiful views of the night sky including the Northern Lights - best viewed around Good Harbor Beach or Glen Haven.  There’s even opportunities for anglers to get their kicks with some exciting ice-fishing for bluegill, bass, panfish, and more.

Tis the season to be jolly, merry, and spread cheer!  This month’s community calendar for the Lake County Illinois area is all about merriment and togetherness. You’ll find paint and sip classes, decoration events, and plenty of other opportunities to let loose and just enjoy life! Looking for some holiday lights displays? Check out our previous blog for Local Walk-Through and Drive-Thru Events for the holiday season. more Kicking things off is the delightful kid-friendly Holiday Nature Ornament Creations event for kids aged 6-12 at Bevier Center in Waukegan on December 4th. You’ll be crafting an ornament from found elements in nature to take with you, and hang on the tree or in your home. Advance registration required. Head over to the Chicago Botanic Garden on December 4th for an afternoon of delicious fun! The Cookie Decorating: Evergreen Winter class is a beginner level cookie decorating workshop with step-by-step instructions. You’ll learn how to work with icing bags, flood cookies with royal icing, and create layered designs among other skills. Historic Downtown Grayslake is hosting the Grayslake Village Center Holiday Shopping Night Out event on December 4th from 5PM to 8PM. There will be extended shopping hours at downtown retailers as well as special events, exciting raffles, seasonal treats, and more! On Thursday December 5th from 4PM to 8PM, enjoy Supper with Santa and a seasonal Holiday Craft Fair at the Cultural and Civic Center of Round Lake Beach! You and your family can enjoy a special Santa meet and greet with live reindeer and elves, a craft table for children, live christmas music, and a photo op!  Admission is $6. Join in the fun for First Friday Funnies at the Improv Playhouse in Libertyville on Friday December 6th starting at 8PM. Adults will have a blast at the Elf Invasion Pub Crawl in Downtown HIghwood at 28 Mile Vodka and Distillery in Highwood, running from 2PM to bar closing on Saturday December 7th. Tickets are $30 and pub crawl registration includes a commemorative elf cup, 5 raffle tickets, and more. Reserve a spot for a festive and authentic 3-course Victorian English High Tea celebration at the Libertyville Civic Center Foundation on December 7th from 11AM to 1PM. You’ll be treated to a selection of finger sandwiches, scones, pastries, and specialty teas along with a brief history of tea ceremonies and live musicians and entertainment! T he Arctic Frog Endurance Fun on December 7th starting at 7:30AM i s a great introduction to marathon events. You’ll run the trails and take in some gorgeous scenery and plenty of challenges as you make your way through the Independence Grove Forest Preserve in Libertyville. Romney Brown Candle Company is hosting “Lights Camera Candles Movie NIght” on December 7th from 3PM to 5PM. Join in the fun by creating a custom candle, enjoying some delicious pizza, and taking in a screening of holiday classic “Elf!”  Following that event on Saturday December 21st is “Home Alone” from 3PM to 5PM. As well as “Die Hard” on Friday December 27th from 6PM to 8:30PM. The Cookie and Cocoa Crawl on Saturday, December 7th, 11:30PM to 1PM, in Highland Park is a great family friendly event! You’ll have the chance to visit with Santa, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and collect different holiday themed cookies around town! Create a special keepsake for your family holiday tree at the Chicago Botanic Garden’s Tin Angel Ornament Workshop on Saturday December 7th in Glencoe. Dabble in the art of collage and mixed media and take home your very own work of art. The Joyful Gourmet of Libertyville is hosting Christmas Cookie Decorating at the Joyful Gourmet on December 8th from 1PM to 3PM. You’ll get to practice your piping skills and filling techniques, and leave with 6 gorgeous cookies you decorated yourself! Coffee and tea will be served. No experience required! On December 8th at the Dandelion Art Gallery in Waukegan, stop by from 12PM to 2PM and enjoy an afternoon of Holiday Gift Making. Come on down to the Jingle and Mingle as well at Loft 21 on December 12th in Lincolnshire for a Toy Drive and Holiday Party event! Enjoy food, festive music, dancing, sweets and fun. No admission required, but guests are encouraged to bring as many toys as possible to help kids have the best holiday experience. If you’re able, bicycles are also appreciated for older children who are not into toys or don’t believe in the magic of Santa. Raffles and auctions available. Food and sweets are complimentary! Cash bar. All residents of Fox Lake and Ingleside are welcome to attend the Children’s Holiday Party at the Lakefront Park Building on Sunday December 15th! There will be cookie decorating, holiday crafting and art, and a chance to visit with Santa! The Hawthorn Mall is hosting Santa Pet Nights December 7th and December 16th from 4PM to 7PM in Vernon Hills. Nightshade and Dark’s Pandemonium is hosting a Chunky Knit Blanket Workshop on Tuesday December 17th from 6PM to 10PM in Waukegan. Admission registration ranges from $64-$85, and pre-registration is required. Stop by for a fun evening of Holiday Crafts at the Waukegan Public Library in Waukegan on Friday December 20th from 4PM to 5PM. This family friendly event offers a variety of seasonal crafts with creative supplies. Check back later this month for a fun calendar of New Years Eve events from all around the county and surrounding areas.

Here are some helpful stress reducing tips for holiday travel! 🦃 Make sure to have a decent meal and hydrate before you hit the road. Having adequate protein and carbs before you head out can reduce stress and anger on the road, and help you focus and keep a clear head. 🦃 Give yourself extra time to allow for unexpected events! If your travel time is estimated at 30 minutes, add at least another 15 to 20 minutes to your planning to allow for delays or emergencies. more 🦃 Pack your vehicle the night before you depart, so there is less rushing to get things done in the morning before you head out. 🦃 Make sure all of your electronic devices are fully charged, and that you've packed additional portable battery banks and cables for your devices. 🦃 Download or create a calming playlist of songs to help you reduce driving stress, stay focused on the road, and boost your morale during frustrating traffic. 🦃 Opt to depart on your trip during quieter parts of the day by checking traffic predictions on your GPS apps such as Google Maps or Waze. 🦃 Go over the route and map before you hit the road so you're more familiar with the names of roads, highways, and byways you'll be taking. 🦃 Practice deep breathing exercises so you will be ready to use them when needed! If you're running into unexpected delays or extensive traffic, ask your passengers to remind you to take a few deep breaths to recenter yourself. 🦃 Fill up your tank the night before or morning before you're ready to hit the road, reducing your wait times at the pump and avoiding additional delays in your travel schedule. 🦃 If you're going to be making a lengthy trip, consider planning some time to take a leisurely walk or engage in an activity you find relaxing such as reading, completing a crossword puzzle, or playing a game. This will allow you a chance to destress and create a more relaxing, comfortable ride. 🦃 Decide beforehand with your co-pilot or passengers on when you'll be swapping off driving duties to reduce frustration and prevent driving errors from being overtired. Set an alarm to remind you that it's time to pull over and swap spots!

For many, Thanksgiving marks the start of the official holiday season and the first of many family gatherings. Today, we’re sharing some fun holiday lights displays you can enjoy with your family starting this month and running through December and January.  You’ll experience absolutely enchanting lights displays, twinkling winter wonderlands, cozy Christmas villages, tree lighting ceremonies, and much more.  Some of the options on the list are walkable and others are drive-through, offering you flexibility and accessibility for all. more The Waukegan Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place at the Jack Benny Plaza at Clayton and Genesee Streets starting at 5PM. The Festival of Lights Holiday Market with a Mr and Mrs Claus Meet and Greet, Tree Lighting Ceremony, and holiday parade will be happening on Friday November 29th from 2PM to 7PM in Downtown Grayslake. Join in the fun with live music and entertainment, food vendors, crafts, games, and carriage rides for all to enjoy. The Libertyville Tree Lighting and Downtown Holiday Walk will be happening on Friday November 29th from 6:30PM to 9PM starting at Cook Memorial Park at Milwaukee Avenue.  Enjoy delightful festive music, caroling and songs, and more holiday themed entertainment. Plus, there’s rumors that Santa may make an appearance to help with the tree lighting!  Downtown area merchants are also offering extended holiday shopping hours and special dining deals for the season. The Fox Lake Festival of Lights will be coming to town at Millennium Park Fox Lake on Saturday November 30th from 3PM to 8PM. Enjoy the Kris Kringle Winter Market for some local holiday shopping at the Community Garden Green.  Welcome the holiday season with a parade and subsequent tree lighting ceremony and official opening of Santa’s Cottage. The Canadian Pacific Holiday Train will be arriving in Gurnee this year on December 3rd from 5PM to 7:30PM. For one night only, enjoy an evening of holiday magic and music as you’re serenaded by country music stars Tenille Towns and BRELAND, followed by a visit from Santa; tickets will go fast, so purchase today! The Lightscape at Chicago Botanic Garden has been underway since November 15th and will run through January 5th. This year’s event is a 1.3 mile trail with all new installations for the season.  Admission is by timed entry, but visitors can explore at their own pace and take in the sights at their leisure.  For adults 21 and over, there are a series of special nights dedicated to “Cocktails Under the Lights” with handcrafted drinks and cocktails to sip and enjoy as you stroll. The Time Warp Express Christmas Adventure is underway from November 22nd through December 30th at the Volo Museum.  This unique experience allows you to become a part of the festive story as you enter a magical realm adventure to help find Santa! The event begins with a cozy cup of cocoa, cookies, and a meeting with Santa before he’s mysteriously whisked away.  You’ll follow the clues through seasonal lights displays and a train ride or trolley on your way to find the big man himself and keep the spirit of Christmas alive and well! Vintage Holidays in Historic Downtown Long Grove officially opened on November 22nd and will be running through December  24th in Long Grove. Stores will be staying open later for holiday shopping and special events. Festive lights and window displays will decorate the town and businesses. There will also be photo ops and stations around town, and maybe even a chance to meet Santa on special days! Kringle’s Christmas Village is now open daily in Antioch and runs November 23rd through December 31st! Stroll through spirited seasonal displays and window decor and a vast indoor show room with holiday themed shadowboxes.  This year the event has also added a special Dickens Village for a little Christmas Carol nostalgia. After you’ve explored all of the unique displays, you can help select your favorite holiday tree in the Christmas Tree Decorating Contest from special community-decorated trees. Best of all, the event is free to attend! Snowland is officially underway at the Great Wolf Lodge Illinois in Gurnee from November 25th through January 5th. This annual holiday celebration invites guests to get cozy in a winter wonderland lodge filled to the brim with family-friendly festivities. Enjoy seasonal arts and crafts, play games like Snowland Bingo, or enjoy a Snowland Scavenger Hunt. There’s even a holiday Frosty Fest Family Dance Party for all to attend. Plus, we couldn’t forget the chance to meet Santa himself, too! The Annual Germann Family Holiday Lights Display Show opens December 1st through January 1st in Gurnee. This family home is turned into a festive lights display featuring musical synced lights displays, animated displays, and more. Plus, the Germann Family invites you to help them help the community by collecting food and donations for the Illinois Food Bank!  Bring your family and friends for the merriment, and share a generous donation of food to spread some holiday cheer to those who need it most. The Christmas Musical Light Shows are resuming festivities from December 1st through the 25th at the Antioch Bandshell in Antioch. There are two unique and festive displays synchronized to music you can catch on your car’s radio; the shows will alternate each day with one on even numbered dates and one on odd numbered dates so you can catch both at your leisure.  Admission is free for all to enjoy! The Christmas Luminary Hike event runs from December 13th through December 22nd at the Quentin Road Baptist Church of Lake Zurich. This spiritual hike through a luminary-lit forest trail will bring you right into the story of Bethlehem on the eve of Christmas while you meet townspeople, angels, and more and hear the religious story of Christmastime.

Today is thankful for my dog day, and we couldn't be happier about it! As you may already know, most of us here at Classic Auto Group are dog lovers (and we think cats are pretty great, too)! So today’s holiday gift guide is dedicated to our faithful furry friends, and all sorts of creature comforts they could want while traveling with us. more Whether you’re looking for gear to go camping in the woods, taking the sightseeing side roads, or just taking a weekend trip to grandma’s, your pet pals will be comfortable, cozy, and feeling like they’re in their home away from home. Let our gift guide help you find the perfect gift for your pet obsessed friends. From safety gear like seatbelts, harnesses for the car, and booster seats to camping tents, elevated beds, and everything in between, you’ll find it on today’s blog. Pet Vehicle Safety: Why pets should have restraints in the vehicle and how to keep them safe while on the road! While some states have already taken legal action to protect pet pals on the road and reduce distracted driving, others have left the choice up to handlers and pet parents. Here are some safety tips that you can abide by to keep your pet and passengers and other drivers safe! Don’t let your pets hang out the window while driving. Do restrain your pets using a harness, safety belt, crate/carrier, or shock absorber belt attachment to keep them stationary. (For example, a 60lb dog unrestrained in a vehicle traveling just 35MPH can become a 2,700lb projectile and will likely sustain fatal injuries) Don’t allow your pet to ride in your lap or on the seat next to you free-ranging. Do your best to keep your eyes on the road, and bring another passenger to monitor your pet while you’re driving Do travel with your pet’s vital medical information and vet number handy in case of emergency. Don’t pet or feed your dog while actively driving, and refrain from taking videos and photos as the driver; ask your passengers to do this for you! If your pet does not do well in a crate or carrier situation due to anxieties, we recommend a secondary safety seat-belt style method of securing your pet via a harness. Do not secure your pet’s neck collar or aversive collars to a safety mechanism as this may cause a choking hazard in an accident. You can opt for a bungee extension that attaches your leash to the seat, s uch as this one from Leash Boss; this dog seatbelt that clicks into your seatbelt system with adjustable length from DiFost at Walmart; this over the seatback dog safety belt that attaches to the harness made by Mosey; score a 2-pack deal of behind headrest and seatbelt tether with bungee shock absorber and leash/harness clip from Amazon. Ideally, you’ll want to restrain your pet with crash-tested harnesses such as the Ruffwear Load-Up Dog Harness or the Kurgo Car Safety Harness with Belt Tether Loop. If your dog is more gear-shy, you may wish to opt for a safety seat or booster seat for additional protection that feels more like their cozy comfortable bed and discourages free ranging and walking around.  Here are some great options to check out for different sizes of dogs: Petbobi Pet Reinforce Booster Seat with Leash Clip Funnyfuzzy Dog Car Seat for Medium-Large Dogs with Detachable Carrier Bed FrontPet Dog Quilted SUV Boot Car Protector bed The Frisco Dog Bucket Booster Seat in Regular or Large Size The Pet Gear Signature Pet Car Seat Carrier for Small Dogs and Cats The Sport Pet Dog and Cat Car Seat Crate Gunner Kennels for Travel and Car Ruffland Kennels for Home or Travel Keeping Your Pets Safe and Cozy at the Camp Site If co-sleeping with your canine in a small pop-up tent sounds a little cramped, we’ve got some fantastic options for your camping wishlist that will accommodate dogs and cats! These portable, stowable options for soft-sided carts, collapsible bowls, and comfortably ventilated crates will put your mind at ease. You and your pets can get some much needed R&R in your own spaces, enjoy your meals side by side on your own designated platewares, and have plenty of peace and serenity allowing you to enjoy your nature explorations. We love the Elite Field 3-Door Collapsible soft-sided dog crate currently available on Chewy. It comes in multiple colorways as well as a variety of sizes, and includes a sherpa bed pad at the bottom if you prefer to travel minimally.  Sizes range from XS to Large with plenty of breathability so your pet can sleep comfortably and you can monitor them safely. It also comes with a 2 year warranty for your peace of mind. The Go Pet Club Foldable soft crate comes in sizes Small to Large and offers a slightly less expensive option than the Elite Field, for those who are camping on a budget. Snag yours at PetSmart Your pet deserves to sleep in comfort just like you. If you’re not up for sharing your packable memory foam bed roll, consider an elevated pet bed like this one from PetMaker. It can alleviate contact with the hard ground, and provide much needed relief and comfort for aching joints at the end of a long hiking trip. One step up from the Go Pet is the Acadia Trail Navy Bolster Cot which allows for a little extra padding and comfort along with ventilated raised bedding. Pair with a cooling or warming blanket also from Acadia for a perfect fit. Best Travel Food Sets for Pets: Make Sure Your Pet Stays Fed and Hydrated on the Trails Instead of fussing with taking their favorite food and water bowls from home, consider getting a convenient, portable option for traveling!  Whether you’re feeding kibble or freeze dried or fresh, there are plenty of affordable, travel-friendly options to accommodate your pet’s mealtime. The Frisco Complete travel stainless steel feeder bowl is perfect for cats and dogs on the go and comes in your choice of three colors, and either a small or large size. Available on chewy right now for 20% off for a limited time. Both the Wilderdog Backpacking Bowl and the Ruffwear Bivy or Quencher Portable Nylon bowls make for a convenient, lightweight packable bowl for food and water. The Dexas Popware for Pets double bowl set offers elevated feeding with a portable, packable flat stowing option. Comes in four colors, too, via Chewy. This 6 piece dog travel bag set includes 2 food containers, a travel organizer, and 2 collapsible bowls along with a portable treat pouch! Comes in your choice of 3 colors and also has plenty of room to stow toys and chews. Convenient detachable strap option for portability. What are your favorite pet friendly camping essentials? What comfort items does your dog prefer for road trips and car rides? Let us know by chiming in on the comments of our social media! We’d love to hear from you, and your content might be featured in our upcoming future blogs.